🏄🏻♂️ Bolinas, California
Northern California has a ton of great areas to explore, the list is never ending. I had first been to Bolinas with my family about 8 years ago, and have been back many times since. This quaint, artsy fishing village is off the beaten path, and the residents there like it that way. If you are up by Stinson Beach, I highly recommend making a pit stop at this adorable little town, full of fresh produce, eucalyptus groves and amazing views.
Time to go:
June through October is the best time to visit.
Transportation:
Rent a car and drive. The drive is so beautiful, but not for the faint of heart, it is VERY curvy, so don’t drive too fast!
TIP:
Sometimes you can find local kids selling shave-ice on the streets in the summer, and they are well worth the $3.
eat —
Gospel Flat Farm Stand:
On your way into the town of Bolinas, there is an adorable organic farm stand that is run off the honor system, you pay for what you take. Get your fresh, inexpensive produce as well as some gorgeous flowers.
Peoples Store:
This little organic shop, has all sorts of tinctures, tonics and other healthy treats!
Bolinas Super Market:
For your more generic needs, this market has your more common grocery items, with a small town feel.
Coast Cafe:
There are not a ton of places to eat in Bolinas, but this one never disappoints!
Smiley’s Saloon:
This bar has been around since 1851, and has been a local watering hole since then.
Bovida:
This is your local smoothie and acai bowl spot. If you are craving something healthy & refreshing, this cafe hits the spot.
stay —
The Grand Hotel: $$
Expect creaky floors, vintage linens and lots of history. They also have a shop in the lobby.
Eleven: $$
Another quaint B&B with two rooms and a restaurant. Go for the pizza and the buffalo milk soft serve.
shop —
Bolinas Free Box:
A tiny shack, where everything is free. You heard it, you can take whatever you like for NOTHING. The hope is that you will eventually pay it forward, by dropping off things you don’t need anymore. After all, one mans trash is another mans treasure.
Bolinas Book Exchange:
A honor system book exchange where you take what you like and leave what you owe!
Bolinas Hardware Mercantile:
An eclectic hardware store with lots of quirky gifts.
see —
Bolinas Beach:
A great public beach that has lots of surfers. TIP: Get there early to avoid parking issues and crowds.
Agate Beach:
This beach is down by the cliffs and has some amazing tidal pools and marine animals.
Bolinas Gallery:
This gallery is always worth checking out. They have always had really interesting exhibits when I have been.
Hike to Bass Lake:
This hike is one of my favorites. Bass lake is beautiful and has a swing so you can take a refreshing dip. It is about 5 miles round trip.
Alamere Falls:
If you are looking for a more substantial hike, I would go to Alamere falls. This hike is about 13 miles round trip, and lands you at a gorgeous waterfall.