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California’s Marin County: A Golden State Goldmine for the Avid Traveler

Kuzey

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The Golden State was ranked as the “second-best state to visit” in the country (right after New York), a survey from BookRetrats revealed. With attractions that range from iconic locations like the Hollywood sign to Napa’s valley wine tours, a visit to lesser-visited areas can make for an equally fantastic travel experience — especially for those who crave a by-the-sea adventure. Marin County is just one idyllic part of California to explore, whether you choose to stay in Sausalito or venture beyond the Marin Headlands for a healthy dose of sunshine and picture-perfect views.




aerial view of Tiburon and Sausalito in Marin County
Take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the scenic overlooks along Highway 1 in Marin County.



A vibrant experience by the bay




For those in search of one of California’s hidden gem destinations, Sausalito certainly fits the bill. According to Lonely Planet, the city is situated on a harbor, and is renowned for its vibrant houseboats that can be found in the bay, views of nearby San Francisco and Angel Island, and an abundance of charm.



In addition to the houseboats and the views, the Sausalito Boardwalk boasts a variety of shops and restaurants for those who crave a day out.



To round off the weekend, the Point Bonita Lighthouse is one of the best locations to catch a unique view. The California State Parks website notes that the lighthouse was first lit back in 1855, and is the only lighthouse in the country that is accessible via a suspension bridge.



Located just north of San Francisco, Sausalito is the perfect place for those who wish to explore Marin County and beyond, especially since the cities are so accessible to one another. The Golden Gate Ferry, for instance, takes about 30 minutes from San Francisco to Sausalito.



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For travelers who find themselves in the area longer than a day, hotels in Sausalito provide the ideal opportunity to relax and prepare for more exploration the next day. Options range from the historic charm of Cavallo Point Lodge to The Inn Above Tide, each which offer spectacular views and a convenient location to further tourist attractions for the next day.



Whether you choose to stay in Sausalito or venture on to nearby San Francisco (or vice versa), a hotel stay booked in advance can provide the chance for more adventure and a stress-free stay in Sausalito.



Countless natural wonders to explore




For travelers who wish to spend time in California’s natural landscape, the Marin Headlands present the perfect solution. SFGate highlights the many attractions of the Marin Headlands, as the location is a goldmine for outdoor recreation from hiking to camping and biking, not to mention the many beaches to be found throughout the area.



The Marin Headlands are a particularly fantastic destination for those who enjoy travel photography, or who simply want to take in a spectacular view. According to the National Park Service, the Marin Headlands feature “dramatic cliffs of ocean rock,” in addition to stunning views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.



aerial view of houses in Sausalito Marin County during the night
Stroll through the charming streets of Sausalito, known for its waterfront views, art galleries, and cozy cafes.



Point Reyes is another destination for travelers who wish to further indulge in the natural landscapes that Marin County has to offer.



The National Park Service highlights the various attractions that can be discovered at the Point Reyes National Seashore. In addition to the historic Point Reyes lighthouse, the headlands and park beaches serve as an ideal location to view the annual migration of gray whales (this is noted, however, to be best experienced January through April).



Point Reyes safaris are another option for those who wish to further experience the wildlife of the area — according to the Visit Marin County Convention & Visitors Bureau, such tours are ideal for small groups of one to three people. As the county is home to a plethora of wildlife (including birds, mountain lions, black-tailed deer, coyotes, and bobcats), travelers are sure to walk away with a memorable experience.



Marin County is the perfect destination for those headed to California this summer, especially when the goal is to discover locations beyond typical tourist hot-spots like Los Angeles. From Sausalito’s boardwalk to hiking in the Marin Headlands or an exploration of history and nature at Point Reyes, Marin County has a plethora of destinations to explore.



Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission for any purchases made through the links. Your trust is important to us, and we ensure that all products or services we recommend meet or exceed our editorial standards.


The post California’s Marin County: A Golden State Goldmine for the Avid Traveler appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.
 
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