Muir Beach - all beaches

The Tennessee Valley Trail is a great way to experience nature and the beach simultaneously. The trail is approximately 1.75 miles long and is definitely worth the trek. Beach enthusiasts will appreciate the various types of beach sections and the surrounding rocks, including small and coarse sand and stones. It's a stunning spot to spend the day, and during low tide, you can explore the areas behind the massive rocks. There is also a pond nearby where you can see ducks and geese. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail. There are two ways to get to the beach: one involves climbing a hill, while the other is the Lower Spur trail, which is only open seasonally due to winter closures and high pond water. After walking a half-mile, you will reach a fork in the path. The left trail is flat, while the right-hand trail has a wooden fence and offers fantastic views. If you prefer not to climb, follow the Lower Spur trail, which is easy and flat. However, the final stretch of the trail is steep and rough, so be prepared to carry a stroller if you bring one. Vault toilets are available at the parking lot and near the beach. The parking lot is partially open on weekends due to renovations and fills up quickly. You may need to park elsewhere and walk up to the trailhead, so factor that into your trail length. Additionally, there are trails that lead to Rodeo Beach, which is about a three-mile hike.

This stunning beach is a paradise for dog owners and nature enthusiasts alike! With its serene ambiance, it's the perfect spot to unwind, take a leisurely stroll along the shore or marvel at the breathtaking sunset. The waves are typically calm and soothing, making it an ideal location to soak up some sun and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. During the weekdays, the beach is relatively peaceful, but it can get crowded on weekends, especially during the early hours, so be mindful of traffic and limited parking. Additionally, restrooms are available on-site for your convenience.

This beach is a true gem that's worth a repeat visit. The stunning shoreline is a sight to behold, and there are even fire pits for those who want to cozy up by the flames. Just remember to bring your own firewood, as there isn't any available on site. The walk from the parking lot to the beach is a mere .2 miles, which is hardly a trek at all (unless you're a sloth). All in all, this beach is a must-see for anyone who loves natural beauty and a good fire.

This beach is the ultimate destination to unwind and bask in the glory of the setting sun. It boasts a charming hiking trail that is perfect for those who love to explore. Moreover, the beach is an ideal spot for novice surfers, thanks to its low tides. Its beauty is unparalleled and can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Bolinas, CA is a charming and intriguing small town that can be a bit difficult to locate, but once you arrive, you'll feel like you've entered a completely different world. The town has a unique blend of a hippie vibe and an old-fashioned small town atmosphere, and the locals are incredibly friendly. The beach is exceptionally clean and surprisingly warm, and the town is filled with art shops and various art displays throughout. Bolinas is especially fascinating due to its location on the San Andreas fault and its proximity to Japan. It's located across from Stinson Beach and is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing, artistic, and chic town to explore.

We absolutely adored this beach! It was stunning and not overly crowded. There were only a few other people there apart from us. The sand is not actually black, but when wet it appears to be due to its dark color. It's a 0.2 mile walk down to the beach and coming back up to the car is quite a challenge with all the steps! But I highly recommend it! It's so gorgeous! I'm only 4'11 and some of the steps were a bit difficult for me, but my husband helped me out when they were too steep. There is a vault toilet in the parking lot and someone was kind enough to put an air freshener. There aren't many parking spaces, but I noticed people parking on the side of the road. This beach is truly beautiful and should not be missed!