One of the many perks of San Francisco living is the vast amount of stuff to do just outside the city's borders. Drive a couple hours in any direction (sans into the ocean) and you could be skiing down fresh powder or splashing around one of the many beaches lining the state. The options are endless. There's so much to do, that we thought it best to clue you into some lesser known destinations. This week we're looking at Tomales Bay in Marin County.
Tomales Bay has several quaint towns sprinkled around it, including Inverness, Olema, and Point Reyes Station. There's plenty to do in and around the area, but let's start with the very basics: where to eat and stay. Your options are plentiful, and include a plethora of bed & breakfasts. Our pick, however, is the very charming Nick's Cove and Cottages. There are twelve cottages to choose from, and five are waterfront. Each cottage's exterior and interior are unique, though all have a rustic charm aesthetic that pairs well with the modern amenities and luxury finishes you'll find throughout. While we visit Nick's Cove often, we were lucky enough to be comped a night at the Innkeeper's Cottage once. It's is a 710 square foot cottage with a private patio. It's heated by a wood burning stove and has a spacious bathroom with a soaking tub. Other favorites include the Big Rock Waterfront Cottage and the Fly Fisherman's Cottage. Rates vary and reservations fill up quickly, so do book ahead of time if you're planning a stay.
In addition to the well-appointed cottages, the property also has a restaurant and lounge called Nick's Cove and Oyster Bar. If you're feeling fancy, order the tasting menu from chef Austin Perkins. If more casual and intimate dining is what you require, we recommend ordering a combination of the sides and shares (like the dungeness crab mac and cheese) and heading out to the warming hut at the end of Nick's Cove's pier. Be sure to phone in your cocktail order as well. Inside the warming hut is a giant table, a piano, a wood burning stove, and enough sea life decor to make you think you're on set of a Wes Anderson movie.
Where else to eat: Sir and Star at The Olema, Tomales Bay Oyster Company, Saltwater, Perry's Delicatessen
What to do: Book a tour of Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station; bioluminescence kayaking tours; horseback riding through the wilderness with Five Brooks Stables; visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse, which is the foggiest lighthouse in the entire U.S.
Don't miss: The many secluded beaches, including Heart's Desire and Kehoe Beach.
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