THE FULLEST Guide to Marin
This THE FULLEST City Guide comes from Jennifer Cohen Bogan, founder of Bluejay Electric Bikes. Jennifer is a local of Marin County, a magical place located just north of San Francisco, across the Golden Gate Bridge. Marin is famous for its natural beauty as well as its protected beaches, giant redwoods, and quaint towns — read, there are a lot of distinctly-California places to eat and shop.
Obviously, as the founder of a biking company, Jennifer loves Marin’s active lifestyle and access to nature. You’ll find not only her local foodie picks, best boutiques, and stays, but also some of the best biking and hiking trails.
Check it out below and to help you get around the city on our favorite bikes ever, Bluejay Electric Bicycles is offering 10% off, free shipping, and bike assembly! Use code NIKKI10 at checkout. (This is a combined savings of $600!)
Stay
Cavallo Point
Between the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, Cavallo Point feels like a world away, yet it’s only minutes from San Francisco and Marin’s towns. The historic hotel has a commitment to environmental sustainability, which we share at Bluejay. I also love the restaurant — and of course the biking trails!
Nick’s Cove
We’re so lucky that we can enjoy the protected, seaside nature of West Marin. If you stay in the cottages at Nick’s Cove on Tomales Bay, you can experience that serene vibe (and fresh oysters).
Eleven Wharf Road
This gem of a restaurant, in the heart of Bolinas, has two beautiful guest rooms. It’s perfect for any lover of natural wine and beach sunsets (so, basically everyone!).
Eat
Woodlands Markets
I love riding my bike to this family-run market in Kentfield. They focus on natural and sustainable products and supporting local suppliers. The deli and produce section are great options if you’re planning a picnic, the florist is my go-to, and they even now have a soft serve ice cream machine.
Equator Coffee
Equator Coffee is an institution in Marin, and I am so inspired by founders Brooke and Helen who started it all from a Marin County garage in 1995. The coffee is delicious and sustainably sourced, and it’s also a popular place for cyclists to refuel. I love the whole vibe, including the Bengal Tiger mascot which symbolizes grace, power, and something that needs to be preserved.
Marshall Store
Pacific oysters fresh from the ocean while enjoying the beautiful view of Tomales Bay? Yes, please. You can choose from raw, grilled, or smoked oysters — the BBQ oysters with house-made sauce and garlic bread are my favorite. Or, if your kids aren’t oyster fans, they can enjoy sandwiches made on fresh bread from their bakery.
MH Bread + Butter
This San Anselmo cafe has a passion for artisan bread and pastry making, and I am thankful for that. They source organic ingredients from local farms and vendors, giving customers a chance to sample the best of Marin. It’s one of my favorite places to grab a bite after a walk or bike ride with friends (and then I can justify ordering the open-faced cheese toast, which is my weakness!).
San Rafeal Famer’s Market
Every Sunday from 8 am to 1 pm, you can enjoy seasonal harvests of California farms and ranches, or dig into delicious prepared foods from the area. It’s so much more than a basic farmer’s market, bringing together almost 200 local farmers and ranchers, specialty food purveyors, and artisans selling handmade textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.
Cucina
There’s something special about a neighborhood restaurant. At Cucina, you’ll always find the local game on at the bar, delicious wood-fire pizzas, or other Southern Italian specialities on your plate.
Shop
The Workroom
Created by an experienced interior design duo, the Workroom Shoppe curates textiles and home decor in a classic Californian style. Check it out in Mill Valley.
Hero Shop
Bay Area native and former Vogue editor, Emily Holt, opened Hero Shop’s first location in 2016 in San Francisco, bringing innovative designers to the Bay Area. In 2019, Hero Store brought their flagship to the Marin Country Mart in Larkspur, where you can now find a carefully edited collection of clothing, jewelry, shoes, bags, and more.
Saffron + Poe
California cool meets international inspiration at this artisanal home goods shop in Mill Valley. Founded by two interior designers who love to travel, Saffron + Poe sells ethical handcrafted homewares — including furniture, rugs, and textiles — from artisans all over the world.
Michele Holmes Studio
Started by “The Eyebrow Whisperer” of San Francisco, this beauty studio will upgrade your brows and lashes. The shop is also filled with Michelle’s selection of beauty and wellness products.
Hudson Grace
If you love to entertain, check out Hudson Grace at the Marin Country Mart. You’ll find essentials like dinnerware, glassware, and candles that are both beautiful and practical.
Longway California
Longway sustainably produces clothing in California and Peru. Their San Anselmo flagship space features their comfortably stylish clothing and coffee shop, as well as other ethical artists and designers. It’s the quintessential Marin wardrobe.
Visit
Bluejay Electric Bicycles
After living in large cities (LA, NYC, and San Francisco) for two decades, my husband and I wanted to put down roots somewhere we could breathe in fresh air and spend time outdoors with our children — and we found the perfect place in Marin. It also inspired us to create Bluejay Electric Bicycles. Visit us at the beginning of your stay and rent one of beautiful and high-quality e-bikes. Then you can get around Marin’s biking paths and neighborhoods easily and quickly — and all while staying connected to nature.
Bluejay Electric Bicycles is offering 10% off, free shipping, and bike assembly! Use code NIKKI10 at checkout.
Muir Woods
This iconic collection of old growth redwoods has been a National Monument since 1908. The scenic hiking trails and awe-inspiring nature will force you to slow down and reflect.
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Have a little one with you? The Bay Area Discovery Museum features exhibits and programs for children six months of age to 8-years-old. Added bonus: it’s located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge on 7.5 acres of National Park land in Sausalito.
Marin Headlands / Golden Gate Bridge
See the iconic Golden Gate and San Francisco from a new perspective. From atop dramatic cliffs of oceanic rock, you’ll see the fog roll in and out.
Blackie’s Pasture
Walk or bike along the shore and enjoy beautiful water views. Stop for a picnic and don’t miss the statue of the horse who used to roam the pasture.
Stinson Beach
This laid back beach is an icon of Marin. You can hike, picnic, surf, or just breathe in the fresh air alongside locals.
Sausalito Boardwalk
You’ll feel transported to a seaside European village as you explore Sausalito’s promenade. The dramatic views of San Francisco, however, will remind you that you’re in Northern California.