As Highway 1 curves up the coast northward, it leads to the largest beach in Marin County, Stinson Beach. This three-mile beach attracts visitors from all over the Bay Area, especially in the sunny months of September and October.

This lively beach offers plenty of activity including volleyball, fishing, surfing and picnic areas. Unless you want to be shark bait, swimming is not recommended. Even though this beach has plenty of room, dogs are not allowed. For summer munchies, there is a seasonal snack bar near the parking lot. The parking is free and the lot is large, but when the sun shines, the lot can fill up fast. Across the street from the beach there are various restaurants to tame the appetite.

The town of Stinson which runs parallel to the beach, is a laid-back community with surf shops galore. So kick-back and enjoy this slower pace of life, it is a nice change from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco.

Attractions
Great place to relax, beach-community atmosphere.

Deterrents
Dangerous swimming conditions due to rip currents and recent shark attack.

Closest Amenities
Pretty much everything you need is in the town of Stinson, right across the street.

Getting There
•Take 101 north from San Francisco through Sausalito to the Highway One/Stinson Beach exit.
•Follow HWY 1 (a.k.a Shoreline Highway) approximately 12 miles and you'll hit Stinson Beach.
•Park wherever you can grab a spot.
•A Golden Gate Transit Bus can also get you to Stinson.