By Megan Eileen McDonough

 

Marin County has no shortage of jaw-dropping views, but we’ve rounded up five of our favorites. Whether you’re visiting Marin for the first time or the 10th, these Insta-worthy lookout points won’t disappoint. Plan your day around one of these views or be adventurous and cross all five off your travel bucket list. 

 

Marin Headlands

When it comes to iconic spots, it’s hard to beat the view of the Marin Headlands. It’s the southernmost part of Marin and, as such, offers views of northern San Francisco including the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge and colorful homes in the distance. By day the view is pretty spectacular, and night is just as serene. In fact, on the clearest of nights, you can see all the tiny lights of San Francisco. For different perspectives, first, drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and then continue to the Headlands for an aerial view. 

 

Bolinas-Fairfax Ridge

Easily one of Marin’s best views, the Bolinas-Fairfax Ridge is the perfect place to sit back, relax and simply enjoy the scenery. To get there, drive up to Mount Tamalpais and turn left at Ridge Crest Road. Along the way, you’ll see green grass and rolling hills. The winding road is all part of the journey, so snap some photos en route. After parking, walk a few minutes until you start seeing views of the ocean. Sunset is especially stunning, whether viewing it from Bolinas or while enjoying a picnic on nearby Stinson Beach.  

 

Chimney Rock

Point Reyes is full of picture-perfect vistas, including Chimney Rock. In short, it’s a giant cliff that juts out into the middle of the ocean, making you feel like there’s nothing but you and the water below. While you might feel slightly out of breath, the views of the bar and ocean are well worth the trek. Keep an eye out for elephant seals, as they’re sometimes swimming about. 

 

Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve

Located at the top of the Tiburon Peninsula, this is one view you’re not going to want to miss. Make sure to pay close attention to the small details, especially since the preserve features some very unusual natural landscapes, all due to dramatic earth movements. Rocks such as blue and green schist, together with abundant serpentine, create soils that are toxic to most plant life. Plant communities that are able to survive this harsh environment, however, thrive in the absence of competition. 

 

Tennessee Valley

An offshoot of the Marin Headlands and located in Mill Valley, Tennessee Valley is home to all sorts of wildlife: deer, coyotes, bobcats, and birds. There are several trails to choose from, including a handful of more challenging ones that lead to the hills above Tennessee Valley. From the top, you’ll see cascading cliffs, the crashing waves on the beaches below and vegetation throughout. For a beach view, complete with wildlife and unspoiled nature, take a hike leading to Tennessee Cove. 

 

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