By Megan Eileen McDonough

 

Yes, summer is over, but before you know it, winter will be in full swing! Truth be told, fall is one of the best seasons to visit Marin County because the weather is slightly cooler and the crowds are a little smaller. Whether you’re eager to indulge in your favorite desserts or looking to get your heart pumping with a nature hike, these events won’t disappoint.

 

OUTDOORS

Full Moon Kayaking 

If your trip coincides with the full moon on November 8th, you’re in for a special treat. Blue Waters Kayaking is leading a special full-moon kayaking tour for a three-hour paddle. Just because you’ll be kayaking at night doesn’t mean you won’t see any wildlife. In fact, there’s the potential for some major spotting. Keep an eye out for all sorts of animals. With a visit to Hog Island, it is common to see harbor seals, bat-rays, leopard sharks, osprey, river otters, and sea lions! The area around Hog Island is rich in wildlife and scenic beauty. This is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset, moon, and stars!

 

Autumn Walking Tours

Coastal Walkers introduce visitors and locals alike to the dramatic wild north coast of San Francisco, Marin, and the Golden Gate. Their expertly guided, half-day walking tours are infused with California history. Try a less crowded weekday walk from Sausalito to Kirby Cove for a picture-perfect view of the Golden Gate Bridge from a beachhead. Or, explore secret groves of redwood trees at the base of Mt. Tamalpais. All tours are led by native San Franciscan Ben Davidson, who has the insider's track and insight not found in guide books or online.

If looking for something a bit more wild, join Point Reyes Safari on a custom wildlife safari to find, watch and photograph bobcats, coyotes, badgers, grey fox, the famous tule elk, elephant seals, raptors, owls, shorebirds, and whales as well as some of the most beautiful California coast the state has to offer.  Wild is Waiting!

 

Public Walk-About Tour of McEvoy Ranch

If you’re eager to take an inside look at McEvoy Ranch, fall is the perfect time to plan a visit. Learn about the McEvoy family’s history, how they keep an eco-friendly business up and running, and the unique process of extracting oil; an effort that yields their award-winning olive oil. Best of all, there’s a tasting at the end. Select from a weekend morning tour (reservations required) or a private walkabout tour by appointment only. Also not to be missed are seasonal events and workshops - which is an added bonus! Looking ahead to the winter holiday is a possible Wreath Making class too.

 

FOOD

Oyster Lover’s Tour

If tasting wine is not your thing, you might experiment with some fresh oysters. Throughout the fall—Mondays and Fridays to be exact—Food and Farm Tours run a popular oyster-themed experience. During the three and one half-hour excursion, you’ll be immersed in the world of Tomales Bay oysters to taste different varieties and preparations, learn to shuck, and dive deep into the local history of oyster production while taking in the views of our pristine coastline.

 

Cheese Lover's Tasting Experience

If you’re a fan of the farm-to-fork food trend, we have the tour for you! 
Each day, delicious, seasonal offerings from the Fork Kitchen’s Tasting Experience will be available for purchase. This is a culinary and educational venue for an afternoon of cheesy goodness! A menu of the day’s offerings will be provided at your table. Options may include locally produced charcuterie, specialty cheeses, unique Grilled Cheeses, ooey-gooey Mac & Cheese, and YES - their world-famous, house-made Ice Cream Sandwiches!

 

CULTURE

Marin’s Outdoor Antique Market

On the hunt for buried treasure? Have a go at Marin’s Outdoor Antique Market, which comes alive every second Sunday of the month, now through December 8th. Grab a crepe on the go, listen to live French music and shop the stalls. Each month there are all sorts of items to sift through—from vintage clothing and one-of-a-kind collectibles to repurposed furnishings and retro decor. Whether you go home with a new treasure or not, the market is the perfect place to enjoy all the culture and local history Marin has to offer.

 

Marin Arts & Crafts Show

Marin Arts & Crafts Show presents the primary components of artisan handcraft. Celebrating the handcraft of design, it brings together the traditional techniques, natural colors and sustainable materials that give design its remarkable strength. Exhibitors are carefully curated and chosen for their handcraft skills and rejection of mass-produced products. The products include textiles, stained glass, furniture, ceramics, metalwork, jewelry, recovered architectural objects, repurposed wood and iron, clothing, artifacts, estate finds, photography, paintings and sculpture.

Over 200 artisan exhibits at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall and inspired by the Arts & Crafts movement, the show brings focus to handcraft in all forms. Browse the vibrant showcasing of handcrafted wares, fine art, jewelry, ceramics, and specialty foods. Enjoy complimentary wine tastings, take part in painting workshops, and so much more at the Marin Arts & Crafts Show. All weekend on Friday, Saturday and Sunday on November 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

 

Looking to celebrate Thanksgiving 2024 in Marin? There are several dining establishments hosting sit-down meals and orders to-go and we will keep yu updated.
 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website or Facebook page.