Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Stinson Beach Stinson Beach offers a peaceful rhythm with its gentle surf, winding trails, and small-town warmth. The town is surrounded by natural wonders including Mount Tamalpais, Muir Woods, and Point Reyes National Seashore. With its combination of ocean breezes and forested backdrops, it feels both wild and welcoming. It’s a place where simplicity and scenery rule. Top areas to stay at in Stinson Beach Downtown Stinson Beach This central area includes cafes, local shops, galleries, and direct access to the beach. Vacation rentals here offer the convenience of walkability with the comfort of charming beach bungalows and cozy apartments. Visitors can easily reach the sand, enjoy a coffee, and explore local boutiques. Seadrift Community A private gated neighborhood on a scenic spit of land, Seadrift offers luxury beachfront homes and peaceful lagoon-front properties. Rentals include spacious family houses with decks, private beach access, and striking views. It’s ideal for extended family gatherings or upscale escapes. This area combines exclusivity with natural splendor. Panoramic Highway / Mount Tamalpais Hillside Just above town, this area offers breathtaking views of the ocean and forest from hillside homes and secluded cabins. Guests staying here enjoy peace, privacy, and close access to trailheads. Rentals include modern glass-walled homes and rustic lodges. Willow Camp Area On the north end of town, this quieter stretch includes beachfront homes and surf cottages within walking distance to the dunes and hiking paths. Rentals offer casual comfort and easy beach access. It’s a good fit for couples or solo travelers looking to unplug. The area feels tucked away but is still close to town. Calles and Calle del Mar Area These charming residential streets just back from the beach offer a mix of classic coastal homes and updated vacation rentals. Guests staying here are close to the beach without the bustle of downtown. Properties often have outdoor showers, patios, and gardens. Must-visit places and attractions in Stinson Beach Stinson Beach The town’s namesake beach stretches for nearly three miles, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beach walks. Lifeguards are present seasonally, and facilities are well-maintained. The beach draws surfers, sandcastle builders, and sunset watchers alike. Mount Tamalpais State Park Towering above the town, Mount Tam offers miles of trails, panoramic views, and varied terrain. Visitors can hike or bike through redwood groves and coastal overlooks. The Matt Davis and Dipsea trails are popular options nearby. Muir Woods National Monument Just a 30-minute drive away, Muir Woods offers towering redwoods and peaceful boardwalks through ancient groves. It’s an iconic destination perfect for a morning trip before returning to the beach. The cool shade and hushed atmosphere feel almost sacred. Advance reservations for parking are recommended. Point Reyes National Seashore A short drive north, this expansive protected area offers beaches, lighthouse views, and wildlife like tule elk and elephant seals. Visitors can explore tidepools, hike rugged coastal trails, or tour the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse. It’s a must for those wanting more nature and solitude. The beauty here is both raw and unforgettable. Dipsea Trail This iconic trail starts in Mill Valley and ends at Stinson Beach, winding through forest, hills, and ocean views. It’s challenging but deeply rewarding for experienced hikers. The annual Dipsea Race draws runners from around the world. Even a short section offers stunning scenery. Bolinas Lagoon and Audubon Center Adjacent to town, this coastal estuary is home to birds, seals, and other wildlife. Visitors can birdwatch, kayak, or walk along the marshy shores. The Audubon Center offers exhibits and nature programming. Red Rock Beach A hidden clothing-optional beach accessible via a steep trail just south of town. The views are spectacular, and the atmosphere is relaxed and naturist-friendly. Not for everyone, but memorable for those who venture down. The location offers a unique and wild coastal experience. Local Galleries and Cafes Stinson Beach may be small, but it has a few standout art galleries and delightful local cafes. Places like the Stinson Beach Gallery showcase regional artists and nature-inspired works. Cafes offer everything from fresh pastries to beachside brunches. Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Stinson Beach Bolinas, California Just a few miles north, Bolinas is an eclectic coastal village with a fiercely local spirit and uncrowded beaches. The town is known for its bohemian vibe and organic markets. It’s a unique and artsy contrast to Stinson. Stay in a vacation rental in Bolinas that reflects the rustic charm and creative soul of the coast. Mill Valley, California About 40 minutes inland, Mill Valley is nestled in redwoods with access to Mount Tamalpais and Muir Woods. Visitors can enjoy upscale dining, boutique shopping, and forested trails. It’s a scenic and cultured base near the coast. Spend a few nights in a house in Mill Valley tucked between tall trees and trailheads. Sausalito, California Located along the bay just before the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito offers sweeping views of San Francisco, art studios, and waterfront restaurants. It’s perfect for those who want both charm and convenience. A refined urban complement to Stinson’s quiet coast. Book an apartment in Sausalito with terrace views of the bay and city skyline. Inverness, California Situated within Point Reyes, Inverness offers access to Tomales Bay and forested hills. It’s a serene getaway for kayaking, hiking, or enjoying local oysters. Inverness is quiet, scenic, and deeply restful. Choose a cabin in Inverness where tall pines and foggy mornings set the pace. Fairfax, California Just under an hour from Stinson Beach, Fairfax is a laid-back town with live music, cycling trails, and access to open space preserves. The town’s creative, outdoorsy vibe pairs well with coastal adventures. It’s a refreshing inland option after time by the sea. Relax in an airbnb in Fairfax where wooded hills and local culture create a perfect balance. Explore captivating coastlines and natural wonders throughout North America This locale offers not just stunning vistas but also inspires a journey through other mesmerizing coastal retreats. Experience the idyllic shores of Lake Michigan with Saugatuck stays, where art galleries and oval peach farms punctuate your visit. Meanwhile, airbnb Panama City Beach invites travelers to the Gulf of Mexico, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and scenic state parks. For a cross-border adventure, consider vacation rentals in Crystal Beach on Ontario's lakeside, an area famed for its relaxing beachfront and picturesque sunsets. In harmony with the natural wonders surrounding this destination, embark on explorations that reveal North America's diverse landscapes. Discover the coastal beauty of Oregon with an airbnb in Coos Bay, where rugged cliffs and enchanting forests provide a dramatic backdrop to your escape. Immerse yourself in the vast prairies and national historic sites through rentals in North Dakota, a state steeped in Native American history. Alternatively, seek the serene ambiance and mountain trails at airbnb Wrightwood in California, perfect for both adventurous hikes and peaceful retreats.