Credit: Brandi Korte via Flickr

We’ve been saving this one. Reason #100 why we love where we live is the Golden Gate Bridge. The elegant structure has graced our landscape for nearly 75 years (with the anniversary in 2012), yet remains to this day an awe-inspiring work of art and engineering.

With its soaring towers, 4,200-foot long suspension span, striking, distinctive red color, and licorice-like cables, our Golden Gate appears magical. Add to that its setting against the backdrop of the skyline of San Francisco, the royal blue ocean and bay, and the green rolling hills of the Marin headlands, and it’s no wonder it’s famous the world over and draws thousands of visitors every year.

But that’s just our view as drivers, pedestrians, and admirers from afar. We wanted to learn what it’s like for those who experience the bridge in a different way – by actually working on it. We were fortunate enough to be able to connect with Tim Hanson, a Marin resident and one of the handful of people who care for the bridge on a daily basis. Here’s our conversation:

Credit: Brandi Korte via Flickr

Tim, what does your work involve?

I run a paint crew and we are currently working at the north end on the structure beneath the roadway. This entails rigging and setting up the sand blasting equipment in a contained area, doing a full removal of the existing paint and applying fresh primer and top coat.

What is it like to be one of the few who work on the bridge?

I feel privileged to work on this great structure and to have such a spectacular view from ‘my office’ but don’t get me wrong, it’s hard work taking care of the bridge and we are constantly battling wind, fog, cold and moisture.

Can you share a fact that not many people know? Or correct a misconception?

Credit: John K. Steddin

It’s a common misconception that we start painting at one end of the bridge, get to the end and start over. Crews are sent to work on specific areas which have the greatest need. Some areas need more paint than others because of corrosion; the weather patterns come in and corrode some areas faster than others.

What is the most fascinating aspect of the bridge for you?

The ever changing scenery and atmosphere: weather patterns, the ships, whales, sail boats and, of course, all the interesting people from all over the world.

Though for some the Golden Gate has probably become just a routine means of getting from point A to point B, for many of us in the North Bay it never ceases to be a magnificent, living masterpiece – and the most wonderful sign that one is home.

A special thank you to Tim and Nancy Hanson for their contributions.

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Though we’re surrounded by water in the North Bay, falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves, the lap of the bay on the shore, or the flow of a rushing creek is not something many of us often get to experience – unless you’re among the few who have discovered the many wonderful camping options available in Marin, Sonoma and Napa.

Yes, with the recession came an increase in popularity – and necessity – of the stay-cation, and camping close to home is an ideal option, especially when you consider the amazing sites that our North Bay offers.

Credit: Emily Hoyer via Flickr

Steep Ravine in Marin is considered by many to offer the most stunning location. Located on a bluff above Stinson Beach, the rustic cabins (no running water, electricity, or curtains) and tent sites have spectacular views of the coast and sunsets.

In Sonoma County, Doran Park and Westside Park, both in Bodega Bay, are ideal for those who like to fish for their dinner and then enjoy a stroll on the beach.

Those who prefer the more predictable and warmer weather of inland sites head to Bothe – Napa Valley State Park, just north of St Helena. Campsites are located near redwoods and along a creek, and on sunny slopes – and even offer hot showers.

Whether your budget calls for a stay-cation, or you’ve just mustered the nerve to graduate from “camping” in your cozy backyard to the great outdoors-close-to-home, it’s hard to beat the North Bay for sleeping under the stars.

Resources:

Credit: Emily Hoyer via Flickr

Marin County 

• Angel Island 
• Marin Headlands 
• Samuel P. Taylor 
• China Camp 
• Mt Tam 
• Marin County Parks and Open Space

Sonoma County

Napa

• Skyline Wilderness
• Statewide Camping
• California State Parks Camping Page

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Still pondering what to do this Memorial Day weekend? With three free days to frolic, it’s a great chance to explore some local activities you may have yet to experience. Here are our top picks for how to enjoy this long weekend close to home:

1. Watch a musical atop Mt Tam

2. Make friends with a pinniped

3. Spot a Peregrine Falcon

4. Cycle out to West Marin and enjoy a well-deserved sticky bun in Point Reyes

5. Enjoy a brew with a million dollar view

Fort Cronkhite Photo taken by John Weiss

6. Spend time with Snoopy and the Gang

7. Take a scenic drive along the Sonoma Coast

8. Enjoy the company of friends over a round of golf

9. Observe life on the square

10. Spend a day at Fort Cronkhite

11. Head out in search of falls

12. Saddle up

13. Go treasure hunting

14. Feel the wind in your sails

15. Swing like Tarzan, drink like Dionysus

Looking for more ideas? Check out our list of 100 Reasons Why We Love Where We Live.

Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Elk, gray whales, elephant seals, bobcat, deer. No, we’re not describing wildlife from the latest issue of National Geographic. These fantastic specimens can be found in the best “back yard” anyone could ask for: Point Reyes.

Elk near McClures Beach	A Pt. Reyes Icon

This spectacular area in the northwest corner of Marin offers such an amazing variety of activities and adventures – some of which we’ve mentioned in previous posts. In addition to viewing precious wildlife in its natural habitat, we’re also able to hike, bike or ride horseback on miles of stunning trails, camp on a secluded beach, or paddle a kayak or canoe on enchanting Tomales Bay.

We can go from exploring a light house above the crashing waves to pretending we’re part of a Coast Miwok tribe going about our day in the recreation of a Miwok village; and just a short walk from the village we can experience an earthquake trail and get an up-close view of the notorious San Andreas fault.

Add to the list privileged peeks at local artists’ studios and scenic dairy farms, charming blink-of-an-eye towns, and the possibility to discover a Fungus Fair.

The Pine Cone Diner in Pt. Reyes Station	Limantour Beach

We’re willing to bet that there are few places in the world that can match a day of adventure in Point Reyes.

(All photos credit: Vicens Vila)

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Photo by: Marcel Marchon

In the middle of San Francisco Bay, just a mere 10-minute ferry ride from Tiburon, sits Angel Island State Park, a wonderful natural resource offering recreation and adventure, spectacular views, scenic beauty and a rich history.

The Island’s beauty is captivating and enhanced further by the beauty that surrounds it: 360-degree views of the entire San Francisco Bay, including the San Francisco skyline, Marin County, Mt. Tam, the East Bay and all five Bay Area bridges. The best way to enjoy the views is from the top of Mt. Livermore, the Island’s highest peak. Starting at Ayala Cove, where the ferry disembarks, you have a few options for climbing the 781 feet to the top of Mt. Livermore, as the island is navigated by 13 miles of foot trails and fire roads. While it may sound daunting, the trek to the top only takes about 2.5 hours and the diverse terrain leads you through shaded woody areas and along coastal trails that let you take in the panoramic views. You also may encounter deer and other wildlife along the way. About halfway up, depending on your route, there’s a nice bench where you can rehydrate and look across the bay at Tiburon, Belvedere, Sausalito and the Golden Gate. Once you reach your destination, there are several picnic benches where you can enjoy lunch or a snack before working your way back down. But don’t leave before going to the platform on the top and spinning in a circle to take it all in.

Of course there are many other ways to enjoy the Island’s 740 acres. You can walk or bike the perimeter, take a tram or Segway tour, rent a kayak and glide around the Island, picnic, or beachcomb the secluded and sheltered shores. Not to mention, in an only-in-California way, just relaxing at the oyster bar with live music. How many state parks can boast that? And for those who don’t want to leave at the end of the day, there are nine campsites available for overnights. 

Photo by M@

Because of its strategic location, Angel Island has seen many inhabitants and visitors over the years, from Coastal Miwok Indians to Chinese Immigrants to World War II POWs, making it a popular destination for history buffs and school fieldtrips. Several tours highlight the history of the island and the stories behind the historical sites, including the United States Immigration Station.

What a treat to have one of California’s most beautiful parks just a ferry ride away.

To learn more about Angel Island, check out their blog, flickr gallery and Facebook page.

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Joan Baez performing at the Kidzstock Music Festival in Fairfax, June 19, 2010 Photo by Colleen Proppe

Decades ago, people recalled a larger-than-life personality – none other than Janis Joplin – playing acoustic guitar for nursery school-aged children. Or so the legend goes. Many longtime residents of the North Bay have their favorite music “celeb” encounter stories. Whether experienced firsthand, heard from a friend of a friend, or urban legend, hundreds of locals have stories about running into Carlos Santana, Sammy Hagar, James Hetfield or Huey Lewis at the neighborhood hardwood store, market or coffee shop. Others recount sightings of Grace Slick, Van Morrison, David Grisman, Tom Waits or Jerry Garcia, all legends that have walked amongst us here in the North Bay. 

You may not think of the North Bay as being a hotbed for great music acts or the artists behind them. Of course there are wonderful venues like 142 Throckmorton, George’s and 19 Broadway that give us the opportunity to enjoy the local music vibe without crossing a bridge. But a close examination shows there is a rich music history ingrained in the fabric of the area: the Grateful Dead, Journey, Jefferson Airplane and Starship, Steve Miller, Bonnie Raitt and many others have contributed to the musical culture in Marin. Otis Redding is said to have written “Sitting On the Dock of the Bay” while renting a houseboat in Sausalito in 1967; concert promoter Bill Graham resided in Corte Madera and hosted guests like Eric Clapton and Jim Morrison. Other musical luminaries such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Dave Mathews Band, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder and Prince have come from around the world as visitors or temporary residents to record or mix music at one of Marin’s many recording studios, including The Plant Studios in Sausalito and Tarpan Studios in San Rafael. San Rafael is also home to Metallica’s studio, HQ, where they recorded pieces of their latest album Death Magnetic, as well as the Grateful Dead’s legendary Front Street studio, Club Le Front, which was made famous by the album Shakedown Street.

All of which begs the question, “How did all of these famous musicians find their way to the North Bay?”

The Marin History Museum Music Center in downtown San Rafael soon hopes to provide the answer. A project that has been in the works for several years (the museum was projected to open in fall, 2010, but the date has been delayed), this state-of-the-art music exhibition, performance and educational space will explore and pay tribute to the county’s musical heritage. The overarching theme of the museum is “Marin as an inspirational place,” and as Chief Curator Dawn Laurant told the Marin Independent Journal, “We’re looking at what drew musicians here, why so many made Marin their home…Why they saw it as a place to write, record and play their music.”

The Music Center will kick off with the long-anticipated Marin Rocks as the inaugural exhibit and will proceed to offer a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, workshops, film screenings, special presentations, and live shows.

We’ve opined many times that Marin is truly a beautiful place. The number and variety of artists who have made it their home and found inspiration within are a testament to that.

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In a previous post we wrote about how one can choose weather a la carte in the North Bay, given all the micro-climates that exist in our communities. The same could also be said for architectural styles. Touring through Marin and Sonoma neighborhoods is like perusing the pages of an Architecture 101 textbook.

One can find cozy, formerly summer-only cottages, charming, detailed Victorians, and classic California Craftsmans. Single-level ranch homes fill many hillsides, Modernist Eichlers extend through whole blocks, and ultra-contemporary masterpieces call for your attention with their sleek lines and walls of glass. Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes are found close to the water or seemingly tucked away in “secret” neighborhoods. Beach homes dot the coastline, including those found in and around Sea Ranch, with their own unique design meant to blend harmoniously with weather and topography. Not to mention the most unique type of homes, the floating homes found in the Sausalito harbor.

But the choices don’t stop there. Our North Bay geography means many of these styles are available on a variety of property settings, from ocean front or bay front, to high on a bluff; from nestled on the mountainside or in a redwood forest, to bordering a lush golf course or vineyard.

Eclectic – describes our homes, our neighborhoods, our weather and us. And it’s another reason why we love where we live.

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The San Francisco Bay is considered by many to be the best place in the world to sail. Our place on the map has made for a rich maritime history, and each year the sailing season opens with much pomp and circumstance during the annual Opening Day on the Bay, with the traditional blessing of the fleet and boat parade. It is truly a sight to see hundreds of boats take to the water that day with their colorful sails and energetic crews.

There are several yacht clubs in the North Bay, including Belvedere’s San Francisco Yacht Club, the oldest yacht club in North America west of the Mississippi, Tiburon’s Corinthian Yacht Club, San Rafael’s Marin Yacht Club, the Presidio Yacht Club, the Inverness Yacht Club and the Sausalito Yacht Club. These organizations offer scenic harbors, social events, and organized races, including one that we are proud to help sponsor, the annual Leukemia Cup Regatta. While a relatively new addition to our Bay, this race is held in the fall and is now ranked as the top fundraising Leukemia Cup nationwide. In 2010, the San Francisco Yacht Club, for the fourth year in a row, was the top fundraising club in the US for all Leukemia Cup Regattas. This is a true testament to the dedication of the local sailing community.

Our own Bill Smith at the helm of his boat

It’s no wonder that the most prestigious event in all of sailing will come to our waters in 2013. The 34th America’s Cup will draw the top sailors and yacht designers from around the world to the city of San Francisco and surrounding areas and will provide a general uptick of interest in the sport. (The Cup is said to provide the third largest economic impact in sport to its host countries, behind the Olympics and soccer’s World Cup.) This is a tremendous honor for San Francisco, which will be the first US host city since 1995, and will bring the Bay Area to the forefront of a national stage.

To stay up to date on all things Sailing in Marin, visit the appropriately named blog maintained by Marin Independent Journal sailing columnist Michelle Slade who keeps tabs on news, racing results and other stories from yacht clubs around the bay.

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Below is a snapshot from the shop of the king of strings … our local, all instruments with strings, repair shop … imagine all the guitars, banjos, mandolins and ukuleles that John and Judy have brought back to life at Amazing Grace. P.S. John self-published a ‘world of music meets New York’ novel …. an entertaining read.

I hope a few of you … neighbors … write to San Anselmo in support of George Lucas’ plans …. To continue the beautification of that formerly derelict strip on the Miracle Mile by moving Amazing Grace into the to-be-renovated adjoining building … please?

This photo was shot late on a dark and stormy night at John and Judy’s annual party/string jam … stormy it was … buckets …. puddles … And even while I was tempted by the perfect night shoot scenario… imagine this … 4th Street, Berkeley bedecked in blazing multi-colored lights … a chance to be there, shooting the street amid the storm, at night without cars, with crisp reflections dancing from the puddles right into my lens ….

But the winds were gusting, registering a real howl and yours truly, having just told of my Vietnam ‘hot cross buns’ adventure, knew I needed to let Reason overcome that edgy picture, asking myself, why push the limits, Mr. artist man …. The pristine streets of San Anselmo are safe enough … but the Richardson Bay Bridge in my little convertible in high winds …. Let the storms continue …. I’ll catch the next wave.

And if you love where you live, salute the town Council serving us … write in support of all things good and great … enough …

Now, after an email to London where the branches are loaded with snow and a five mile trip takes four hours … now I’m off to set a fire in the fireplace at 12 Barber and greet potential buyers (come on Ken, write that offer! … a holiday joy for your dear buyers in So Cal …) …

Happy Holidays!

Posted by:  Tom Verkozen

Let’s face it, there are probably very few people who actually enjoy the morning drive to work. You haven’t had your first cup of coffee yet. There’s traffic clogging the road. The radio is filled with drivel. But here in the North Bay, that pain subsides a bit if you take the time to look up and pay attention to your surroundings.

Work in the City? Sure, the $6 bridge toll to cross the Golden Gate is a hard pill to swallow ($5 with a Fast Pass!) – but few sights are more iconic and spectacular than the Golden Gate Bridge, an internationally known landmark, and acclaimed as one of the world’s most beautiful bridges. Tremendous towers, sweeping cables, an impressive span, and a red hue that glows in sunlight, the Golden Gate Bridge is a treasure for the senses. And what’s more, the Bridge seems to act as a frame for the view that surrounds it: crashing waves of the ocean and Bay, rolling hills of the Marin Headlands, the bright white San Francisco skyline, rugged Angel Island. Basking in the sun, cooling in the fog, glowing under a sunset, or illuminated against the night sky, the Golden Gate Bridge is a stunning treat.

Another way for our city commuters to start the 9 to 5 is by Ferry – with locations in Larkspur, Sausalito, Tiburon and Vallejo serving the North Bay. Before the Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937, ferries were the only way for residents and tourists to cross the Bay. Nearly 75 years later, ferries remain a practical and popular form of transportation. And if you take a moment to look up from your phone or iPad, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the Bay – seagulls flying overhead, dolphins frolicking, and fellow boaters navigating. You’ll pass by beautiful waterfront homes, take in the imposing Alcatraz and land at the San Francisco Ferry Building Marketplace, located along the Embarcadero. Recognizable by the 245-foot-tall clock tower modeled after the 12th century bell tower in the Seville Cathedral in Spain, the Marketplace is a gem in and of itself with its delicious restaurants, and unique stores and food purveyors. 

If you commute within the North Bay, the sights found off the 101 and 37 aren’t too shabby either. Richardson Bay, Mt. Tam, peaceful grazing cows, lush rolling hills, acres of colorful vineyards – all the things that add to the scenic beauty and the list of reasons why we love where we live.

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Dipsea Trail Sign Photo by Kristie Wells

Dipsea Race Photo by K Gam

Dipsea Trail towards Stinson Beach Photo by Miguel Vieira

Marin Headlands. Tennessee Valley. Muir Beach. Ring Mountain. Baltimore Canyon. Muir Woods. Bootjack. Pantoll. Rock Spring. East Peak. Phoenix Lake. Deer Park. Bon Tempe. Lake Lagunitas. Samuel P. Taylor. China Camp. Big Rock Ridge. Indian Valley. Mt. Burdell. Olompali. Bear Valley. Audubon Canyon.

With over 600 miles of trails and plenty of open space, Marin County is home to one of the finest urban park systems in the world. We’ve talked extensively about things to do outdoors as we’ve gone through our list of why we love where we live: surfing, cycling, golfing, and all the ways to get up and go. We’ve also mentioned some of our favorite recreation areas: Ring Mountain, Muir Woods, and Spring Lake.

But one of the things that we love the most is that if you’re looking for an easy, economical way to exercise, relieve stress, or simply enjoy some fresh air, all it takes is a pair of good running shoes (and no surprise, the North Bay has plenty of places to find those, too – check out Marin Running Company in San Anselmo).

In fact, the North Bay has long been home to a very active running culture. The annual Dipsea Race is the oldest cross-country trail running event – our fellow centenarian will celebrate its 101st run in 2011 – also making it one of the oldest foot races of any kind in the United States. Known for its difficulty and scenic beauty, the race takes off from downtown Mill Valley, goes up three flights of stairs as tall as a fifty-story building, and winds its way up and over majestic Mt. Tam along trails named “Dynamite,” “Cardiac,” “Swoop,” and “Insult Hill,” before culminating at Stinson Beach. However, despite the foreboding names, the Dipsea trail is a favorite amongst hikers and runners year-round and is also the location of the Double Dipsea and the Quad Dipsea races (yep, there and back four times, or 28.4 miles).

There are many other organized races throughout the North Bay. Whether looking for a 5K, 10K, half or full marathons, you can pretty much pin a number on your shirt on any given weekend. Check out active.com and do a search for upcoming races nearby. This is a great resource for runners – and fitness fans in general.

In addition to races, the local running subculture meets in organized clubs, such as the Tamalpa Runners Club whose Saturday morning runs commencing at the Mountain Home Inn are open to non-members – just show up ready to tackle 7-10 miles in those good shoes of yours.

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Playground at Mill Valley Middle School

As we wind down to the last twenty reasons, we recognize our list wouldn’t be complete without playgrounds. For some of us here, a favorite weekend activity is to head out and explore the parks and playgrounds outside of our own ‘hood. 

The North Bay has dozens of scenic playgrounds from which to choose; they come in all shapes and sizes, and appeal to tots and big kids alike. Some are out in the open, others are sneakily tucked away; some enjoy full sun, others a canopy of leaves, or both. Some have creeks for wading, sand for digging and scrunching between fingers and toes, swings for soaring, slides that run wide and slow, or steep and narrow. Some have acres of grass, others just a patch here and there; there are rock walls and rope structures for climbing, tall poles for sliding and spinning, picnic tables, tennis courts, and even barbecues.

Southview Park, Sausalito  Credit: Vicens Vila

In Marin, it seems almost every park has some unique feature that makes it appealing, whether it’s the multi-million-dollar view of the City and the bay found at tiny Southview Park in Sausalito, the rock climbing wall found at Town Park in Corte Madera, the enchanting atmosphere and welcoming shade found at Dolliver Park (aka “Dark” Park) in Larkspur, or the original Gravity Train car kids can climb on from the old crooked Mount Tamalpais railroad found at Old Mill Park in Mill Valley.

In Sonoma County, the remodeled playground at Ragle Ranch Regional Park in Sebastopol has received rave reviews, and Howarth Park in eastern Santa Rosa could practically be called an amusement park with all it has to offer. There’s a climbing wall play area that also includes a fingerpark where kids can race toy cars; a Land of Imagination Playground with several different areas that depict a significant era of Santa Rosa history and offer a variety of activities and ways to play; not to mention the seasonal rides and attractions (open from February through October) such as the pony rides, mini train rides, the carousel, the animal farm, and the lake for fishing and boating. 

Playground at Park School, Mill Valley

We’re so fortunate that most every town has at least one, if not two or three, beautiful sites dedicated just for kids to play and discover, and where moms and dads can take a break to enjoy a book, a coffee, a grown-up conversation, or just the joy of watching the kids without any effort required.

For more details on where to play in Marin, visit Marin Playgrounds, also a book. (Click on the images shown to see more photos.)

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Photo by: Vicens Vila

‘Tis the Season. As fall slips into winter and the holidays arrive, our days and weeks are filled with fanciful cooking, baking and decorating, festive parties, candle lighting, tree trimming, and celebrations with family and friends. And that’s just what happens around the house; our North Bay communities also offer a multitude of fun ways to enjoy this special time of year.

Mill Valley and San Rafael bring snow adventures to their downtown, Santa arrives in Petaluma by tugboat as part of a twinkling boat parade, with other parades gliding along the water in Sausalito and San Rafael; a tour of holiday-decorated homes delights in Kentfield and Ross, and the Nutcracker dances back into our hearts. There’s also ice skating in Tiburon, Gingerbread house-making at museums in Sausalito and Santa Rosa, horse-drawn carriage tours of the holiday lights in Novato, and of course the many tree lighting ceremonies, crafts fairs, teddy bear teas and breakfasts with Santa.

The holidays are also a time to focus on giving back and helping others. The North Bay is home to several affluent communities, yet there are many residents in need. We are fortunate to have a number of social services available, as well as the generous donations of time, money and resources from our community members. A sampling of the many ways in which you can donate time or goods this holiday season include: canned goods for the Marin Food Bank; Halo for the holidays to support Homeward Bound’s Fresh Starts Culinary Academy; Holiday Gifts of Love for the Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership of Marin; Holiday Giving Trees for COTS; Gift basket deliveries for the Marin AIDS Project; and backpacks filled with warm clothing for MarinLink’s Warm Wishes program.

Giving, receiving, sharing. It’s what this time of year is all about.

Holiday Events around the Bay Area 

Ways to Help Those in Need during the Holidays

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Photo by Jeff Archer

The Point Bonita and Point Reyes Lighthouses are fascinating icons on our North Bay coast. The combination of their rich history, the intrigue of what daily life entailed for the light keepers, and the rugged natural beauty of the sites make them local treasures worthy of exploration.

The Point Bonita Lighthouse, completed in 1855, was the third lighthouse on the West Coast. Located in the Marin Headlands, it is still an active lighthouse. The National Park Service provides access to visitors, though currently the light house itself is not accessible due to the temporary closure of the suspension bridge. If you’ve crossed that bridge in the last couple years, you’ll understand why: the trip across the narrow structure with the extreme drop to the water below made it more of a thrill seeker’s trek than just a way of gaining entrance to the lighthouse. However, the tunnel that leads to the suspension bridge/lighthouse is open and the view is worth the hike.

Photo by Jen Maiser

A bit farther up the coast is the Point Reyes Lighthouse, which was built in 1870 and retired from service in 1975. Point Reyes is known as the windiest place on the Pacific Coast and is the second foggiest place on the North American continent. For more than a hundred years, the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse warned mariners of danger. Now functioning with an automated light, the lighthouse is a museum owned by the National Park Service. Historic photographs allow you to learn about the light keepers’ lives and the shipwrecks that took place just off the coast. You can also get up close to the craftsmanship and beauty of the lighthouse. The tours of the lantern room and the evening lighting programs that are held certain times of year are especially cool.

The Point Reyes Light first shone on December 1, 1870. Can you name a movie that was filmed there during its 140 year history?

Living along the North Bay coast has so many wonderful benefits. Getting a peek into the world of our lighthouses is one of them.

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Being an avid sports fan. To truly understand it, you have to be one yourself. A love of sports is as irrational and personal as romantic love, or a passion for a favorite food or color. And in the same way that shared passions often bring people together, being a sports fan often leads to an instant connection and even close friendships. Whatever brings on that connection – whether its similar childhood memories of parents passing down their love of a sport, being caught up in a team’s current winning season, or just wanting to feel a tie to your broader community and the city the team represents – people are uniquely bonded to and by sports. Sports take you away from your own real life drama and replace it with the drama of the game, the epic, the event.

Here in the North Bay, we are fortunate to have several top sports franchises to choose from when looking for this break from everyday life or a sense of camaraderie. In fact, the San Francisco Bay Area is one of just 13 cities in the United States that can boast having teams from four major professional sports – football, baseball, basketball and hockey.

For the most American of sports, we have the 2010 World Champion San Francisco Giants and the Oakland A’s, who have four world championship titles in their own right. For football fans, there’s the Oakland Raiders and the San Francisco 49ers, not to mention the nearby collegiate teams of Cal and Stanford. But it doesn’t stop with just baseball and football. There’s also the Golden State Warriors (NBA), the San Jose Sharks (NHL), the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) and Infineon Raceway, which currently hosts the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and IndyCar Series races.

For decades these professional sports teams have given North Bay residents something to cheer for. Many second and third-generation natives can fondly recall tales of growing up with their father talking about the great Willie Mays, or their mother bundling them in scarves and jackets to attend a game at the ‘Stick. Many of us remember the joy of the glory days of Joe Montana wearing red and gold, the shock of watching the World Series shake in ’89, and the pride of welcoming a brand new stadium to the shores of the revitalized Embarcadero in 2000.

For those newer to the area, it was hard to miss when “Giants fever” took over during the 2010 MLB post-season. We bet there were more than a few converted fans who will grow up to tell their kids about the day a “Freak” named Tim Lincecum pitched eight nearly flawless innings towards a world championship victory. And when the victory parade rolled down Market Street, over one million people from near and far came to cheer on their home team.

While most of these teams play across the Bay or down the peninsula, attending a game in person is easy, and sometimes, the journey can be half the fun. There’s ferry service from Larkspur and Vallejo that goes directly to AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, and the 49ers offer shuttle service aboard luxurious motor coaches to get you to Candlestick Park. But chances are, on any given Sunday, you can head to a nearby bar or restaurant with a television, settle in to watch the local broadcast – and make instant friends. Because few things bring strangers together the way sports do. And no matter what, sports will always be there because if this wasn’t the season for victory, there’s always next year.

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The fact that Marin residents, even in this economy, approved a $49 parcel tax this year to help fund our local libraries speaks volumes. (Pun definitely intended.) With 12 community libraries in Marin alone, and numerous thriving independent booksellers in the North Bay, there’s no doubt we love our books.

In Reason #51 we wrote about our innovative art house theaters. Also very innovative are two of our most popular booksellers: Book Passage and Copperfield’s.

Book Passage, Corte Madera Photo Credit: CWC Marin

Even with competition from two super-chains in Marin, Book Passage in Corte Madera (and also in the ferry building in SF) is the destination for many local bookworms. Started by Elaine Petrocelli in 1976 in a 900-square-foot retail location in Larkspur, Book Passage has expanded into a beloved community hub for readers, writers, and students alike: In addition to the wide variety of books they carry, there are immensely popular author events, writing and language classes, book clubs, and highly-respected annual conferences.

Farther north, Copperfield’s Books has an equally passionate following. Launched in downtown Sebastopol in 1981 by Barney Brown and Paul Jaffe, Copperfield’s now has eight locations in Sonoma and Napa Counties and offers a vast selection of new, used and even rare books. Locals enjoy the comfortable store surroundings, book clubs and many author events held each year.

Book Passage and Copperfield’s may have the big names, but we’re also spoiled with over a dozen other independent booksellers in the North Bay, each with its charm, warm personalized service and strong dedication to providing wonderful books to local readers of all ages.

Is it because we love books so much that we have such great independent booksellers in the North Bay? Or is it the great independent booksellers that make us love books? Either way, we all win.

North Bay Independent Booksellers

First Street Books 850 College Ave.,Kentfield

Book Passage 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera

Copperfield’s Books 1330 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga

Copperfield’s Books 2316 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa

Copperfield’s Books 104 Matheson St., Healdsburg

Copperfield’s Books 140 Kentucky St., Petaluma

Copperfield’s Books 3900-A Bel Aire Plaza, Napa

Copperfield’s Used and Rare Books 176 N. Main St.,

Copperfield’s Books 138 N. Main St., Sebastopol

Depot Bookstore & Cafe 87 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley

Flying Oliver Books 215 Caledonia St., Sausalito

Habitat Books 205 Second St., Sausalito

Levin & Co. 306 Center St., Healdsburg

North Light Books & Cafe 550 E. Cotati Ave., Cotati

Pages Books on the Green 920 McClelland Drive, Windsor

Point Reyes Books 11315 State Route 1, Point Reyes Station

Readers’ Books 130 E. Napa St., Sonoma

River House Books 1234 Adams St., St. Helena

River Reader 16355 Main St., Guerneville

Stinson Beach Books 3455 Shoreline Hwy., Stinson Beach

Treehorn Books 625 Fourth St., Santa Rosa

Whyte’s Booksmith 615 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo

Source: Northern California Independent Booksellers Association

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You may think you have to travel to the Sierras or Yosemite to find impressive waterfalls – one of nature’s more tranquil and mesmerizing sights. However, the Bay Area has about 25 waterfalls and some of the best are located here in Marin County.

Depending on the time of year and amount of rainfall, these falls can vary from a trickle to a torrent, surrounded by either verdant greenery or newly blossomed wildflowers. The site of mushrooms and ferns in the winter and fall months, chirping birds and flowers in the spring, shade from the summer heat…no matter the climate or season, a journey to the falls is always a treat.

Cataract Falls. Photo by Sathish J

Dawn Falls. Photo by Vicens Vila

Alamere Falls. Photo by Brandon Levinger

One of the more hidden gems is Carson Falls in Fairfax. Either a 3-mile trip, out and back (or an extended 7.4 mile loop, if you wish), Carson Falls is tucked away in a small canyon in the Mt. Tamalpais Marin Municipal Water District and consists of four falls, the largest at its base measuring 35-40 feet. There are no signs marking the falls or trailhead, but if you can find your way, the hike will reward you with an incredible view of the north flank of Mt. Tam, a peek at Alpine Lake and sightings of red-tailed hawks soaring about.  

Also hidden away in Fairfax is Cascade Falls, which is smaller in scale and situated along San Anselmo Creek. The short, pretty hike makes this a popular destination, though these falls are best viewed during the rainy season when the grotto truly comes alive.

There’s another Cascade Falls in Marin, located in Mill Valley in the area behind Old Mill Park. Mill Valley’s Cascade Falls are by far the easiest to get to and there’s a nice bench you can perch on to watch the water flow. Though, like the Fairfax version, they only tower at about 20 feet.

Another easy-to-reach cascade is Dawn Falls in downtown Larkspur. Located in lush Baltimore Canyon, Dawn Falls can be reached by a short mostly-level walk under the Redwoods from the trailhead that starts at the end of Piedmont Road. About 20 feet high and active in late winter and early spring, Dawn Falls and its surroundings make you feel as though you’re miles away from civilization.

Slightly more imposing is Cataract Falls, which can be accessed via trailheads either in Fairfax (near Alpine Lake) or Mt. Tam’s Laurel Dell trail on Ridgecrest Road (by way of Mill Valley and Panoramic Highway). Cataract Falls is made up of seven cascades which flow along Cataract Creek, and the area is ensconced in Redwood Trees, big leaf maples, and Douglas fir.

The most impressive falls in Marin are Alamere Falls, and as such, they also take the most determination to reach, requiring a moderate 8.4-mile round-trip hike along the Coast Trail from Palomarin Trailhead near Bolinas at the southern end of Point Reyes National Seashore. The trail first takes you along the coast where you’ll tower over the ocean and encounter breathtaking views. On clear days, you can even see out to the Farallons. The trail then dips inland where you’ll pass by Bass Lake and a ridge overlooking Pelican Lake – both gorgeous detours. The end of the hike takes you back out towards the coast; you’ll know you’re near your destination when you see a caution sign for the falls (the final portion of the trail is unmaintained and a bit rocky with poison oak a real nuisance). However, those who are undeterred continue on to one of our area’s most majestic sights – Alamere Falls, which from the brink, flows 40 feet over a cliff in a whitewater shower cascading directly into the ocean and literally slicing green plant life into the otherwise rocky terrain. This is one of only two falls in California that spills directly into the ocean.

The next time you need to get away, but time and budget are limited, try heading out in search of our falls. They make for awesome treasure at the end of the trail.

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Open space is one of the many reasons we love living in the North Bay, as we noted in Reason #13. Many of us are spoiled by the fact that we can walk out our door and find the beauty and serenity of open space within walking distance. For those who live in East Corte Madera and Tiburon, Ring Mountain and Old St Hilary’s Open Space Preserve are the neighborhood destinations for open space, and they are truly magical.

Ring Mountain Stones  Image by Wayne Hsieh	Near Old Saint Hilary’s Image by: Colleen Proppe	View of SF from Ring Mountain Image by: Guenter Waibel

Bay View from Ring Mountain  Image by: Vicens Vila		Ring Mountain with Spring Wildflowers Image by: Vicens Vila	San Rafael Bridge from Ring Mountain Image by: Vicens Vila

Ring Mountain Trail  Image by: Vicens Vila

The vast expanse (367 acres) of gentle rolling hills and soft grasses make Ring Mountain a paradise for children eager to run around and search for lizards, bugs and even rare plants. The panoramic view of Marin, San Francisco, and the East Bay from the top of the mountain is stunning and mesmerizing, and changes often depending on the weather and time of day. It’s a view we never tire of.

Old St Hilary’s Open Space Preserve, a total of 122 acres at the south end of the Tiburon peninsula, is also made up of gentle rolling hills and magnificent sweeping views. The southernmost point puts you above Keil Cove, a scenic spot that is tucked down below and is normally difficult to see; the vantage point also makes Angel Island seem like a stone’s throw away. To the west is a unique view of charming Old Saint Hilary’s church, beautiful hillside homes, Tiburon, Belvedere Island, and the Golden Gate.

 If you haven’t explored these open space areas, we encourage you to grab your camera and go. You’ll discover yet another reason why we love where we live.

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Live in the North Bay? Chances are you appreciate the outdoors and an active lifestyle – or at least the possibility of leading an active lifestyle when hectic schedules permit. A quick scan of our Reasons shows there are lots of wonderful ways to get your heart pumping and your mind revitalized. We’ve expounded on hiking, surfing (Reason #7), kayaking (Reason #1), golfing (Reason #36) and cycling (Reason #16, #17); but there’s also sailing, windsurfing, running, tennis and even bocce ball. And that’s just part of the list.

For those who want something more structured, there are co-ed soccer and softball teams, excursions organized through REI, and classes in yoga, Pilates, dance, water aerobics, tai chi, martial arts, and more.

Prefer a gym or fitness center? The options run the gamut from cozy, independent neighborhood sites, to specialized centers (ever try the Bar Method, Dailey Method, or Crossfit?) to national chains, to the upscale you-name-it-we’ve-got-it Bay Club in Corte Madera.

With so many active adults, it’s no wonder that North Bay kids enjoy just as many options, with access to some of the best coaches and facilities around. Little league, pee-wee football, soccer, karate, swimming, gymnastics. Most every town has recreation departments and community centers – as well as private leagues and classes – for getting your young ones ready for a lifetime of good health, and maybe even the pros. Yes, North Bay-bred athletes have been to the Tour de France, the Olympics and also on professional teams.

It’s undeniable that the North Bay is paradise for those who love recreation. For many, all it takes is opening one’s door.

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Photo taken by John Weiss

Marin and Sonoma counties, bordered on the west by the gorgeous Northern California coastline, offer no end to options for beachcombing, wave-watching and coastal hiking. (Remember Reason #19: Doran Beach). One of our favorite coastal areas in Marin is Fort Cronkhite, located in the Marin Headlands. This breathtaking bit of coast is wrought in history and beauty and is a rich habitat for native birds, butterflies, animal life (bobcats/deer/coyote), flora and miles of open space.

Rodeo Lagoon and Rodeo Beach are the natural showstoppers of the area. The pebbly Rodeo Beach offers picnic areas, surfing, excellent wind for kite flying, and trailheads for the nearby bluffs which offer exceptional views. While on the beach, reach down and run your fingers through the sand, which is made up of jasper, carnelian, black agate and jade. The beautiful green and dark-red pebbles come from pillow basalts and chert (sedimentary rock), adding to the natural beauty.

Photo taken by John Weiss

Past use of the Headlands as a former World War II Military post (the first line of defense for San Francisco) is the reason behind the unique wood-frame architecture found throughout the area. Barracks #1059, located at Fort Cronkhite, is the only restored mobilization barrack in the west, complete with furnishings that demonstrate its former use during World War II, the Korean War and the 1960s. History buffs can take a History Walk to learn more about the area’s military past. Other former inhabitants include the Coast Miwok Indians, Spanish vaqueros and Portuguese ranchers. Today, the area is the epicenter for park activities, with access to the beach, the lighthouse and the barrack’s new residents, the Marine Mammal Center, which we talked about in Reason #5, the Headlands Center for the Arts, the Marin Headlands Visitor Center, and other nonprofit organizations.

For a personal account of what makes Fort Cronkhite so special, check out what our fellow Guide Me Home 2 Marin blogger had to say in this post.

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Photo by Dave Schumaker

For many, including us, just living near the Pacific Ocean can be reason enough to love where you live. The beauty of the sparkling blue rolling waves and the soothing sounds of the surf arriving on shore are among nature’s priceless joys. What’s more, our particular stretch of the Pacific is especially fascinating as it is home to the Farallon Islands and the extremely rich marine environment that surrounds them.

Just 28 miles from the coast, the waters and jagged rocks that make up the Farallons, a national wildlife refuge recognized as the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, are inhabited by seals, sea lions, gulls, and other animals, and are also the playground of such open ocean wildlife as whales, sharks, porpoises, dolphins, sea turtles, and jellyfish.

Witnessing firsthand how these creatures behave in the wild is an unforgettable experience. The Islands are closed off to the public, and humans in general with the exception of research scientists and land managers, however there are many day and weekend tours that take the adventurous out to view the marine life and learn about their ecosystem. For those who seek a true thrill, fall (September –November) provides the ultimate experience – cage diving among the great white sharks attracted to the area, before their long migration, to feed on elephant seals. Another seasonal attraction comes mid-May through November when you can spot a variety of whales and marine life on a whale-watching expedition. Year-round, boat rentals, yacht charters, eco tours, and cruises are also available. If you prefer to avoid sea-sickness and fees, you can visit the Farallons anytime via the California Academy of Sciences webcam.

As the local saying goes, on a clear day you can see the Farallons. However, few have ever been or know just what priceless treasures are found there. This hidden habitat is one more reason why we love where we live.

To learn more: www.farallones.org

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Though once a landscape dotted with summer cottages, bungalows and ranch-style houses, now the North Bay offers just about any style of home. While California Craftsman, Mediterranean and Modern designs are extremely popular, many other styles make up our neighborhoods as well. A visit to Petaluma yields beautiful old Victorians, while a stop in Sausalito offers one of our most unique architectural styles: floating homes. 

Rocking back and forth on the gentle Sausalito waters, moored to wooden docks, you’ll find everything from a converted tugboat to an 1889 North Pacific Railway Pullman car to a pirate ship to luxury abodes to artists’ hideaways, whose inhabitants – writers, painters, retirees, families and singles – enjoy a laid back lifestyle, close-knit community and breathtaking views of Mt. Tam, Belvedere, Tiburon, the San Francisco skyline and the ever-changing Bay.

Floating homes are an option for more affordable housing in Marin, but it’s the lifestyle and community spirit that attracts most dwellers. Neighbors know one another well, help out when needed and celebrate life on the dock with Friday night gatherings, impromptu “dock-alert” cocktail parties and other social events, including a Floating Homes Tour. Held once a year in September, the tour is a unique opportunity to see first-hand these most unusual homes, with residents opening their doors for a visit and insight into what it’s like to live on the Bay.

Sprawling residences, dramatic lofts, cozy cottages just for two, and hundreds of possibilities that afford a water view – the North Bay provides an eclectic array of places to call home.

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Photo taken by Bruno Furnari

As we mentioned in a previous post (Reason #26), there’s a rich movie culture in the North Bay. In addition to the numerous film festivals, movies-in-the-park events, and movie-making businesses, Marin County alone is home to two independent, non-profit art house theaters: the Smith Rafael Film Center and the Lark Theater. 

Photo taken by Eddie Dickey

The Lark Theater, also a historic art deco landmark, has done a tremendous job, on a non-profit budget, of providing us with an amazing array of film experiences and really has become a community cultural center. Located in the heart of downtown Larkspur, the Lark offers such innovative programs as: Live at the Met (Opera from the Met in HD), National Theatre London (London’s most acclaimed theater via satellite feed), Sunday Salon (“Brunch, Movie and a Chat”), Family Films, a Youth Film Festival, CinéMama (special screenings of current films for moms, dads, and other caregivers with newborns/infants in tow), and Sports on Screen.

Few communities are willing and able to support this caliber of programming. The North Bay is fortunate to have such a thriving movie scene, one with options for all styles, tastes and ages – from the large multi-plex showing the latest blockbuster to the smaller art houses showing lesser-known gems.

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Photo Credit: Ricardo Alcalá

Photo Credit: Darren Kumasawa

Photo Credit: Vicens Vila

Another example of a world-class destination found in our own backyard is Muir Woods. Described by John Muir as “the best tree-lover’s monument that could possibly be found in all the forests of the world,” Muir Woods is, indeed, a place worthy of admiration but one that often gets forgotten by us locals – unless we have out-of-town visitors to entertain or school-age children in need of a chaperone for the annual school field trip.

When was the last time you visited the centuries-old redwoods? Strained your neck to try and view the tops of the trees hundreds of feet up? Strolled under the lush green canopy and relished the crisp, damp air?

And how much do we locals know of the history behind the stunning national monument found so close to home?

We learned, for example, that in the late 1800s, a 70-foot statue modeled after the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu) was erected in an area of the forest later to be known as the Bohemian Grove.

That in 1905, Congressman William Kent (son of Albert Kent, namesake of Kentfield) and his wife, Elizabeth Thacher Kent, bought 611 acres of redwood forest along Redwood Creek for $45,000. To protect the redwoods, Kent then donated 295 acres to the federal government, and requested the area be named after John Muir, the renowned conservationist .

That 1908 was the year President Theodore Roosevelt signed the Proclamation that made the land donated by Kent a National Monument. Roosevelt proposed changing the name of the land to the Kent Monument, but Kent graciously declined and insisted it be named after Muir. (To read correspondence among the three men, click here.)

Still another treasure in our backyard, just a bit farther north from Muir Woods, is the Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve just outside Guerneville.

As with our spectacular coastline, rolling hills, scenic bay, and wine country riches, our majestic redwoods are another reason why we love where we live.

For more details and information about Muir Woods, visit the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and the National Park Service.

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Scenic Overlook

Marin Civic Center Skylight Photo taken by Chris Willis

Marin Civic Center Roof Photo taken by Leef Smith

While not everyone finds Jury Duty a treat, it’s a bit more appealing when you get to go to the fantastic Marin County Civic Center to pay your civic duty. A national- and state-designated historic landmark designed by internationally acclaimed US architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Civic Center is an amazing monument to his vision of blending the indoor and outdoor worlds with organic architecture. (One example: the long horizontal buildings are meant to link the “crowns” of the three surrounding hills; the distinctive bright blue roof blends into the sky.)

While most people don’t go to the Civic Center to linger, there is actually a lot to see and do there – not to mention just simply admiring the building inside and out. Each month, on the third floor and in the lobby of the administration building, the Marin Arts Council exhibits works by a variety of local artists; and the Civic Center library, built under an 80-foot diameter dome, offers all the amenities of other branch libraries, and in particular is a wonderful resource for those interested in California history (especially the history and culture of Marin County) and Frank Lloyd Wright himself. A little-known way to appreciate the exterior of the structure is by visiting the Scenic Overlook, located outside the Board of Supervisors’ Chambers. To access the overlook from outside the building, follow the path that leads to a rooftop area. From there you have a fine view of the unique roofline and an up-close view of the spire; you can also see out to San Pablo Bay and Santa Venetia as well.

Also of note, the Civic Center was used in the George Lucas sci-fi movieTHX-1138 in 1969 and Gattaca in 1997. Both movies used this building of distinctive architecture, built in the late ‘50s/early 60s, to represent the future.
 
To learn more about the Civic Center, there are docent-led tours of the facility every Wednesday at 10:30 am. You can also travel through a virtual tour online: Introduction and First Floor Orientation.

For architecture buffs, San Rafael boasts another example of modern works through the work of Joseph Eichler and his “Eichler-style” homes. 

Eager for more historic landmarks? Here’s a list of historic sites in Marin County.

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With so many reasons to love the North Bay, it’s hard to imagine ever wanting to get away. That said, one of the things that is so appealing about where we live is that when you do want to head out of town for a long weekend, it’s as easy as hopping in the car and in a matter of hours reaching some of the country’s top destinations. The obvious choices (and rightfully so, as they offer world-class appeal and amenities) are Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and Monterey. But with an area as rich in history and natural beauty as ours, there are dozens of equally fun and enjoyable alternatives for every taste and mood.

Lake Tahoe

Watersports – Have a boat or jet ski that’s gathering dust in the garage as you wait for the weather to heat up? Head to the Sacramento River Delta, Lake Berryessa or Lake Sonoma where
you’re almost guaranteed to find sun and warmer temperatures. For even more of an adventure, try river rafting on the American River for some true whitewater excitement.

The Mountains – Again, Lake Tahoe and Yosemite are ideal destinations, but don’t forget about majestic Mt. Shasta and its surroundings where you’ll find stunning places for hiking, biking and swimming. Of Mt. Shasta, President Roosevelt said: “I consider the evening twilight on Mt. Shasta one of the grandest sights I have ever witnessed.”

Fun in the Sun – Still looking to spend time on the beach? Watch how the surf pros get it done at Mavericks in Half Moon Bay, or cruise down to Santa Cruz and visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Additional southern attractions include the Mystery Spot and Big Basin Redwoods State Park. If you’ve got the luxury of time on your hands, head farther south to Santa Barbara and enjoy white sandy beaches, warm weather and some 50 public parks.

Virginia City Photo taken by Reno Tahoe

A Bit of History – To step back in time to the old Wild West, you can visit Old Sacramento located along the scenic Sacramento river (check out the Heritage Celebration Labor Day Weekend), Placerville or Truckee. There is also the Old West boomtown Virginia City where you can brave a shot of whiskey at the Bucket of Blood saloon, tour the Ponderosa Mine, go on a stagecoach ride or hop on the Virginia/Truckee Railroad. If it’s fortune you seek, there’s panning for gold at Sutter’s Mill in Gold Rush Country. Hearst Castle, a national historic monument located in San Simeon, also makes for a fascinating trip. Kids in the group might want to explore the spooky Winchester Mystery House in San Jose.

Northern Coast – Hug the coast and stop by the hamlets of Sea Ranch, Gualala, Eureka, Fort Bragg (ever ridden the Skunk Train?) and Mendocino. Check into a quaint Bed and Breakfast and explore these classic small towns.

Hearst Castle Photo taken by Peter Nijenhuis

These are just a few of the amazing attractions located in close proximity to our North Bay home. We recommend visitcalifornia.com and AAA for additional resources for your trip planning.

Do you have a favorite place you like to escape to for the weekend?

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The North Bay is known for being a food lover’s heaven – with world-class dining options in Marin and Sonoma counties including Michelin star recipients French Laundry in Yountville (the only three-star), Cyrus in Healdsburg, The Restaurant at Meadowood in St. Helena, and Murray Circle in Sausalito, just to name a few of the crème-de-la-crème. The North Bay also offers some of the most amazing scenery in the world – golden rolling hills and mountains, the sparkling bay and priceless San Francisco cityscapes. So it’s no surprise that there are also several dining options that bridge delicious cuisine with one-of-a-kind views. Whether celebrating an anniversary, birthday or milestone, it’s not difficult to find a place that will satisfy all your senses.

Once the site of US army barracks, Cavallo Point at Fort Baker is now a complete resort facility located at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, offering captivating views of the Bridge, the bay and the San Francisco skyline. The restaurant at Cavallo Point, Murray Circle, also just happens to be one of Northern California’s top dining destinations – and the proud recipient of a Michelin-star rating. The dining room is elegant and inviting with large, paned windows looking out over the water. Outside, there’s porch seating for a more intimate view of the Golden Gate. You can also visit Farley’s Bar at Cavallo Point if you prefer to enjoy just a glass of wine or a cocktail while you drink in the view.

The town of Sausalito has several other restaurants which boast views, just head to Bridgeway for a sampling. Our other Sausalito favorite, however, is Le Garage, which is tucked off the main drag. Serving fabulous French bistro-style fare, Le Garage opens to an outdoor patio which overlooks the harbor. Who knew eating in a garage could be such an appealing experience?

Like Sausalito, Tiburon’s waterfront location serves up stunning vistas. Strolling along Main Street in downtown Tiburon you can choose from Guaymas, Caprice, Servino, and Sam’s Anchor Café, a local institution. Each of these restaurants overlooks Raccoon Straits and beyond to Angel Island and San Francisco.

For a more secluded, rustic feel, visit the Mountain Home Inn atop Mt. Tamalpais. This mountain lodge is described as a “bird’s nest” and boasts a large view deck where you can sit amongst the Redwoods. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offering full bar service, you can pop in before or after a hike or make a dinner reservation for a quiet romantic evening.

For more fine dining options in the North Bay, check out the San Francisco Chronicle’s annual list of Top 100 Restaurants.

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Bon Tempe Lake

Bon Tempe Lake Close Up

Alpine Lake

Phoenix Lake

Living in Marin means one can easily enjoy the benefits of the stunning Pacific Coast to the west and the vast San Francisco bay to the east. But did you know that Marin is also home to at least 21 lakes?

Many of us know about the big ones. Bon Tempe Lake, located near Fairfax, is for some the most beautiful, with its royal blue water and golden hillsides dotted with lush green trees. Fishing, and hiking and biking around Bon Tempe are very popular. Just adjacent to Bon Tempe is Lake Lagunitas, favored by many for picnics, and its shady, more level grade. Alpine Lake is also a popular destination in the Fairfax area. Phoenix Lake, in the hills above Ross, is another favorite, as is sunny Stafford Lake in Novato.

Further exploration of the county, however, reveals many more scenic lakes. For example, in the area called Double Point just north of Bolinas, you’ll find Bass Lake, Pelican Lake and Crystal Lake. Bass Lake is the only lake in Marin (that we know of) that allows swimming – it even has a rope swing. Two other lakes in this area are Ocean Lake and Wildcat Lake.

Farther out, towards Point Reyes you’ll find the Soulajule Reservoir and the Nicasio Reservoir.

Though often requiring a hike of some sort, the sapphire and emerald lakes of Marin County offer a peaceful alternative to the beach and the bay and are well worth the effort.

Have you been to some of these lesser known lakes? Please share your opinion of them.

Marin County Lakes: 

Hagmaier Pond South (Bolinas area)
Abbotts Lagoon (Drakes Bay area)  
Kent Lake (Bolinas area) 
Bass Lake (Double Point area, just north of Bolinas)
Crystal Lake (Double Point area)
Mill Pond (Double Point area)
Ocean Lake (Double Point area)
Pelican Lake (Double Point area)
Wildcat Lake (Double Point area)
Alpine Lake (Fairfax area)
Bon Tempe Lake (Fairfax area)
Lake Lagunitas (Fairfax area)
Nicasio Reservoir (Inverness area)
Scottsdale Pond (Novato area)
Stafford Lake (Novato area)
Big Lagoon (Point Bonita area)
Rodeo Lagoon (Point Bonita area)
Soulajule Reservoir (Point Reyes NE area)
Arroyo Sausal Reservoir (Point Reyes NE area)

Credit for all photos: Vicens Vilà 

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The spectacular natural beauty of the North Bay offers artists endless opportunities for inspiration. It’s no wonder, then, that we are home to so many wonderful art festivals, and this time of year brings about three of our favorites: the Tiburon Art Festival, the Sausalito Art Festival and the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival. These three southern Marin events are close in proximity, but each offers its own unique take on the art festival scene.

The Tiburon Art Festival occurs first in the lineup and takes place this weekend, August 28 and 29. Located right in downtown Tiburon on Historic Ark Row, it features jury-selected artists in categories from painting, sculpture and glass to photography and mixed media. In fact, our own Tom Benoit from the San Rafael office is a past exhibitor and is featured in the 2010 event. Downtown Tiburon’s charm, classic wooden buildings and straight-on San Francisco and Bay views add to the appeal. View images from the 2009 Festival here.

In Marin County, Labor Day is synonymous with Sausalito thanks to the Sausalito Art Festival, a perennial event for 58 years. Now the event attracts fine artists from all over the US and abroad and features over 20,000 museum-quality original works. But there’s no need to tiptoe around this museum: in fact, the festival is as much about the art as it is the entertainment, and a large pavilion hosts acts from longstanding favorites. The 2010 performers include Jefferson Starship, the Bangles and Modern English. Read why fellow blogger Rick Smith prefers to stay in town for this Labor Day weekend event.

Like the Sausalito Art Festival, the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival, September 25 and 26, has been around for over 50 years and finishes off a spectacular festival season in Marin. A very family-friendly event, the Fall Arts Festival takes place in Historic Old Mill Park under the shade of the Redwood Trees and also includes entertainment by Bay Area performers and even an area for craft activities.

These three festivals, with their unique flavors, are such wonderful ways to experience and appreciate the rich, vibrant artistic community that has long made its home in the North Bay.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

I love living in Marin and taking advantage of the warm Ross Valley sun and enjoying all the festivals that summer brings to our beautiful county.

I enjoy each and every festival, as each offers a different special venue and flavor to the county, but my favorite remains Labor Day weekend’s Sausalito Art Festival, as it combines the best and widest art offerings with live music, marking the near end of the summer.

Photo taken by Lloyd Doppler

The Sausalito Art Festival runs Labor Day weekend, Saturday, September 4, through Monday, September 6, from10am – 6:00pm (5:00pm on Monday). General admission is $20.00 a day, or $30.00 for all three days of the venue. There are discounted tickets for Seniors and Juniors available as well, and children under 6 are free. Music plays almost all day on three different stages and the seats at the “main stage” fill up early for the big name artists. If you want to see the most popular bands, you may want to do the art walk early in the day and then claim your favorite spot for the balance of the day.

Last year there were over 1,200 artists from around the country competing in 270 exibition spots, in all types of categories. You will see booths for watercolors, oil, sculptures, jewelry, metalwork, stained glass, oils and just about anything else you can dream of. Prices of the art range from just a few dollars to thousands of dollars for paintings from top artists. The variety and the talent are amazing!

The Music Venue on the Stella Artois Main Stage:

Saturday

12:15 – 1:45 pm Modern English kicks off the lineup. You may remember one of their top singles I Melt With You “(Let’s stop the world) I’ll stop the world and melt with you.”

2:30 – 3:45 pm The Fixx. A couple of my favorites are One Thing Leads to Another and Saved by Zero.

4:30 – 6:00 pm The Bangles wind up the afternoon with two of my favorites, Manic Monday and Walk like an Egyptian.

Sunday

Noon – 1:30 pm Pablo Cruise. A favorite San Francisco based band with the hit Whatcha Gonna Do – “Whatcha gonna do when she says goodbye?”

2:15 – 3:45 pm The Tubes. Playing their hits including, Talk to You Later.

4:40 – 6:00 pm Dave Mason. The legendary guitarist and vocalist who has appeared with such greats such as Traffic, Jimi Hendrix, and the Rolling Stones.

Monday

Noon – 1:00pm Sons of Champlin

1:45 – 3:15 pm Mavis Staples

3:45 – 5:00pm The Jefferson Starship

Who else to wind up such a terrific festival than the legendary Jefferson Starship, whose roots go back with Paul Kanter and Grace Slick of the Jefferson Airplane.

If that’s not enough, there is also the “Artist Stage,” which will be offering non stop live local bands and entertainment as well.

What’s great is if you are visiting from San Francisco, you can use the Blue and Gold ferry from Fisherman’s wharf directly to the Art Festival.

The food pavilion, although County Fair style food, has a menu for everyone. And if you want fine dining, you can always walk through Sausalito to find a multitude of awesome restaurants and wine. Bikes get free valet parking at the Festival, but parking for cars ranges from $20 on site to $10 if you want to take one of the air-conditioned shuttle buses from downtown Sausalito. Of course you can always enjoy one of the great hotels in Sausalito and enjoy all three days!

So why go out of town and hassle with all the heavy holiday traffic when the best place to be is in your own back yard – Marin County!

Posted by:  Rick Smith

Photo taken by Andrei Taranchenko

Whether commuting for work or traveling for pleasure, San Francisco is easily accessible from Marin via the convenient Ferry system. With ports in Tiburon, Larkspur and Sausalito, getting to and from the city is quite simple, making many area attractions just a boat ride away.

As part of Reason #31, we talked about enjoying a ferry sunset cruise on the Bay. Now here are some daytime activities, including Angel Island, Alcatraz and downtown San Francisco – in fact, you can even take a ferry to a San Francisco Giants game. And when a little someone known as Paul McCartney played AT&T Park earlier this summer, special ferry service was added. How’s that for public transportation?

Alcatraz: Known for once harboring some of the world’s most notorious criminals, Alcatraz is now a national park and one of San Francisco’s finest tourist attractions. A trip to Alcatraz can give you a wonderful history lesson, as well as an unbeatable view of San Francisco. On a nice day, be sure to plan enough time for your trip to walk the grounds, which are exquisite when the flowers are in bloom. You can even take the Hornblower Hybrid, the nation’s first hybrid ferry.

Angel Island: Angel Island State Park is a wonderful natural resource rich with history. There are several ways to enjoy the island, including tram tours, beachcombing, listening to live music at the oyster bar and picnicking. If you’re looking for a more active adventure, you can navigate one of the islands many trails all the way to the top of Mt. Livermore (the highest peak). From there you’ll be presented with 360 degree views of the Bay, where on most days, you can count all five Bay Area bridges.

Downtown San Francisco: San Francisco is a world-class city, so there’s no end to things to do – restaurants, museums, shopping and attractions. If you’re looking for delicious food, you don’t need to venture any further into the City than the Ferry Building Marketplace. Here you can find everything from artisan cheese to fresh local fish to homemade chocolates. There are food stands as well as restaurants, so whether your appetite is large or small, you’ll leave satisfied.

San Francisco Giants Game / AT&T Park: Between bridge fare, parking and traffic, getting from Marin to 24 Willie Mays Plaza (the home of the San Francisco Giants) can be a hassle. However, with the ferry it’s a little bit easier because the Larkspur Ferry goes straight to the ballpark and direct service is available for all games except weekday day games. Now, can you smell the garlic fries? 

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Golf is a sport that both the skilled and the novice can enjoy, as so much is about having a way to relax, unwind, socialize and relieve stress – all while enjoying nature in a beautiful environment. Which is why golf courses cover some of the most exquisite landscapes in the world, and Marin is no exception. With eight courses within our county lines, there are plenty of places to sneak away for a round of golf and a break from our busy schedules.   

Much like our cities, Marin County golf courses are varied and all have a unique character. McInnis Park Golf Center in San Rafael is perfect for beginners and those looking to work on their short game. Tucked away in San Rafael and abutting a marsh on San Pablo Bay, it’s not uncommon to encounter pelicans, geese and red-tail hawks along the course. In Mill Valley, the Mill Valley Golf Course is a local institution, having been in place since 1919. Unlike the marsh setting of McGinnis, this course is characterized by majestic redwoods, which make for a more difficult game. However, Mill Valley provides a gorgeous backdrop and you’ll be rewarded with scenic views from atop the second and fourth tees, as well as a view of Mt. Tam from the fourth green. Out in West Marin along Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Geronimo Golf Course is a local favorite. The ridge location offers two faces to the course: the front nine is a sprawling terrain made up of straight, flat holes, while the back nine is hilly and wooded. Accolades for this course include acknowledgement as “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest, “#1 Golf Course in Marin County” by both the Pacific Sun and the San Francisco Chronicle and “Best Golf Course in the North Bay” by the North Bay Bohemian. 

Other courses in Marin include Peacock Gap Golf and Country Club, Indian Valley Golf Club, StoneTree Golf Club and the private clubs Marin Country Club and Meadow Club.

For young golfers looking to get started in the sport – or hone their skills – there are plenty of youth programs and activities throughout Marin. For kids aged 5-17, there’s the Mill Valley Junior Golf Club, with many benefits including discounted green fees, an introductory golf education and etiquette course, tournaments and free clinics. During the summer months there are several camp programs for kids starting as young as pre-K. If the whole family wants to get involved, San Geronimo has year-round family events like Sunday Family Supper. And for those who just want to play around, you can always visit the family fun center at McGinnis, an elaborate 18-hole miniature golf course, complete with water hazards, gardens and artist designed obstacles, all of which blend naturally into the hillside.

Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Photo taken by Matt Biddulph

The North Bay’s idyllic location on the Pacific Coast surrounded by water, means we are treated to some truly spectacular sunsets. There are many ways to enjoy the colorful sky – a drive to the top of Mt. Tam, a perch in the Marin Headlands, or a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge all provide amazing vantage points.

But one of our favorite ways to experience a California sunset is the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry Sunset Cruise – which Marin Magazine touted as Marin’s best-kept secret in their 2010 Editors’ Choice issue.

Get a group of family and friends together, or just a special someone, grab a blanket, picnic dinner, and take in the amazing sights as you glide past Tiburon, Belvedere, and Angel Island with stunning views of Sausalito, San Francisco and the Golden Gate. The cruises run Friday and Saturday nights through October so there’s still time to book a trip for a memorable evening on the Bay.

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Though few people actually utter the “TGIF!” exclamation so popular in the 80s, it doesn’t mean we don’t all think it. Fridays always bring the welcome wind down of the work week and the eager anticipation of weekend activities and relaxation. Par for the course, Marin and Sonoma offer wonderful ways to let the celebration begin. Here are a few of our favorites.

Friday Nights on Main – Tiburon

This is a lively community block party on charming Main Street in Old Town Tiburon. You’ll find live music, dancing, delicious options for dinner and can even get in some shopping.

Dates: Friday nights through August 14. Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Jazz & Blues by the Bay – Sausalito

Free jazz concerts are held in downtown Sausalito at Gabrielson Park (Anchor Street and Bridgeway), with Angel Island, San Francisco and the Bay glowing in the light of sunset. Mark Rushford from our Mill Valley office describes it best. Check out his post.

Dates: Friday nights through August 27. Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Pacheco Plaza Summer Music Series – Novato

If the fog rolls in on your plan to show off your tan, head to the recently remodeled Pacheco Plaza in Novato. No need for your fleece here; and they’ve got a great music line-up, with even some headliners for the kids.

Dates: Through September 3. Time: 6:30pm

Friday Night Fusion Concert Series – The Village in Corte Madera 

Free music and the chance to try some new wines: Sonoma County Vintners will present a special wine tasting each week for $15 per person which includes a local artisan cheese plate from Preferred Sonoma Caterers. And perhaps the best part, a portion of all proceeds from the concert series will be donated to Image for Success, a local non-profit.

Date: August 6 – October 22. Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

And in Santa Rosa …

Summer Nights | Railroad Square

This popular event adds art and wine tasting to the live music and al fresco dining in Historic Railroad Square. A free event; tickets and age restriction are for wine tasting only.

Date: The first Friday of the month through Sept 3. Time: 6:00pm – 9:00 pm

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Commuting to San Francisco, chauffeuring the kids to games and practice sessions, trying to prepare daily organic meals from scratch, staying up to date on the latest in social media and technology…between real jobs and day jobs, families and social lives, folks in Marin are busy. Schedules and appointments fill iPhone and Blackberry calendars. Fortunately, when it’s time to unwind or just unplug, there are many options here in the North Bay.

For the ultimate in mindful living, there’s Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre. Tucked away on 400-acres in San Geronimo Valley, Spirit Rock is dedicated to the Buddha’s teachings in the vipassana tradition and programs range from individual classes to weeklong retreats. Renowned for its courses and programs, Spirit Rock has drawn the likes of the Dalai Lama, Alice Walker and Vietnamese leader Thich Nhat Hahn who have all taught or spoken there over the years. You may even run into Giants pitching ace Tim Lincecum.

Spirit Rock Meditation Center Photo by everydaybalance	Spirit Rock Meditation Hall Photo by everydaybalance

 If you’re interested in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition of Buddhism, there’s Green Gulch Farm Zen Center, located near Muir Beach. Green Gulch inhabits over one-hundred acres and offers meditation retreats and zen studies, as well as tea gatherings and classes on the Way of Tea in the Green Gulch tea house, built in the traditional Japanese style, and hands-on work experience and instruction in organic farming and gardening.

If you don’t have a full day or week to dedicate but still want to sneak away for an hour or so of inner-peace, Marin has several yoga studios. Some of our favorites include Yoga Toes in Pt. Reyes Station, Yoga Works in Larkspur and Mill Valley, The Yoga Garden in San Anselmo, and Yoga Center of Marin in Corte Madera.

After releasing toxins through yoga, you can further cleanse your body with tea. As taught at Green Gulch, tea offers many benefits in healing and spirituality; even the ceremony of preparing, serving and enjoying tea can have benefits. In addition to the many tea and coffee shops, we are actually home to local purveyors Mighty Leaf and Republic of Tea, as well as Tea Fountain in Mill Valley. Our picks: Mighty Leaf Vanilla Bean, Republic of Tea Mango Ceylon and Tea Fountain Coconut Cream. 

Green Gulch Farm Zen Center Photo by Günter Waibel

Not surprisingly, because this is Marin and we’re early adopters of social media, almost all of these tea and yoga businesses can be found on Facebook and Twitter.

If you prefer less structure and no fees, remember where you live: just head out the door and enjoy a secluded hike on Mt. Tam amongst the Redwoods, find a viewpoint on a bluff overlooking the ocean, relish the bay views from any bench in Tiburon or Sausalito, or simply let the sand massage your feet as you stroll on the beach. Breathe in the fresh air and relax.

Namasté.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

High-end boutiques, al fresco dining, yoga classes – just another typical day for many a pup in the North Bay. Hard to believe, but it’s true: the Bay Area has an amazing variety of offerings for our four-legged friends.

Here in Marin, Fifi can find a pet wash, top-quality accessories, toys, and supplies at Woodlands Pet Food and Treats located in Mill Valley and Greenbrae. Family-owned and operated, Woodlands also offers classes in first aid and CPR for your pet.

Marin is also home to a new policy that allows Fifi to join her owner at restaurants with outdoor dining areas – as long as the area can be accessed from the outside. (No showing off her newest crystal collar while trotting through the dining room.)

For a change of pace from the routine run at the local dog park, Fifi can try a doggie yoga class, where, no surprise, one of the key movements is downward dog.

To keep her mind challenged, Fifi can attend any number of classes offered by the Marin and Sonoma Humane Societies. Classes such as: Woofs & Whinnies, Agility Distance Handling, and a Flyball Class. They even have a disaster preparedness class for dogs.

And at the end of the day, when she just wants to unwind with friends, Fifi can log on to Dogbook.

Fancy boutiques, fine dining, doggie day cares, dog walkers, dog parks, dog classes – it seems there’s no end to the services the North Bay offers our four-legged friends.

Other resources:

Dogfriendly.com North Bay guide that lists accommodations, attractions, beaches, restaurants, etc. that are dog friendly.

Pet bereavement workshops

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Photo taken by Marilyn Maciel

In 1915, the Hub Theatre opened in Mill Valley and served as a cultural center for the growing small town by featuring silent movies and live vaudeville acts. Since then, the building has taken on a few different forms – including Saturday Nite Movies (the precursor to the Mill Valley Film Festival) – before a revitalization in the early 2000s that gave birth to the 142 Throckmorton Theatre. The nonprofit theater that exists today is beautiful and plays homage to its predecessor with the mission of creating a hub in the center of downtown Mill Valley that promotes the arts as well as a sense of community.

A cornerstone of the theatre for the past five years has been Tuesday Night Comedy: Mark Pitta and Friends. Since launching it has become a staple, drawing people into the historic and intimate theatre each week. The show is a true treat because you never know what you’re going to get. A showcase for up-and-coming comedians, as well as established headliners, the set list goes unannounced and the evening’s mixed bag entertainment can take the form of stand-up, Improv or even musical numbers. It’s a well-known fact that locals Robin Williams and Dana Carvey stop by from time to time – as well as other comedic luminaries such as Richard Lewis, Arj Barker, Hal Sparks, and Kevin Nealon. If you’ve never been, this local gem is worth checking out. In fact, you can stop by Tuesday Night Comedy tonight – doors open at 7:00PM – and you just may be greeted by a surprise guest.

Read what fellow GuideMeHome blogger Andy Gellepis had to say in his post Tuesday Night Comedy in Mill Valley

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

As we mentioned, San Francisco and all the cultural amenities it has to offer are just a quick trip across the bridge. The City offers everything you would expect to find in a leading metropolis. That said, you don’t really have to make the trip across the Bay to celebrate the arts: there are plenty of options right here in the North Bay that even draw folks from SF to our side of the bridge.

One such draw is the Marin Shakespeare Company, a local institution bringing the drama, poetry, tragedy and comedy of Shakespeare to Marin each summer through an enchanting festival under the stars. Three programs are on the schedule this summer. We can’t wait for The Taming of the Shrew which opens July 24 and is set to a Pirates of the Caribbean theme. Check out this sneak peak of the costumes and you’ll see why we’re excited.

The Marin Theatre Company (MTC), (the Bay Area’s “premiere mid-sized theater and the leading professional theater in the North Bay”), is doing something brand new this season: collaborating with Magic Theatre and American Conservatory Theatre for a Bay Area-wide production of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s trilogy, The Brother/Sister Plays. The first installment, In the Red and Brown Water, runs at MTC starting September 14 and opens their 2010-2011 season.

If your interest lies in the performing arts, both the Marin Center and the Marin JCC put on compelling programs featuring performers from all over the world. The upcoming lineup at the Marin Center in San Rafael includes the Peking Acrobats, Pilobolus Dance Company (remember their incredible shape-shifting interpretations of the top-nominated films at the 2007 Academy Awards?), the Russian National Ballet Theatre, and even Bill Cosby who will grace the stage this February. Over at the JCC, also in San Rafael, the performing arts program includes an amazing annual lineup of world-class musicians, actors, humorists, writers and more, with some events held outside under the stars. Performances range from classical and world music to cabaret and even author conversations.

Farther north, the non-profit Wells Fargo Center for the Arts is the Sonoma County destination for world-class performances in music, dance, theater, and comedy, with many shows geared for little ones.

With a variety of high quality performing arts programs and inviting and accessible venues, Marin and Sonoma County provide patrons of the arts an eclectic and thriving cultural scene.

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Trail leading to the Tourist Club, photo taken by Jennifer Yin

Tucked away on Mt. Tam and overlooking Muir Woods is The Tourist Club, a beautiful Bavarian-style lodge and the perfect place to stop and relax during a long hike. Upon arriving at the club your senses are transformed and you can imagine yourself on a mountaintop in the Alps, stopping at the local inn, complete with lounge decks, picnic tables, a bar, board games, and stunning views. Of course, there is also a wonderful selection of Bavarian and Belgian brews to quench your thirst. You can grab a pint and take it out on the deck where you’ll be surrounded by amazing scenery and tranquility.

Several hiking trails lead to the club. Our favorite route is to start in downtown Mill Valley and take the Dipsea Trail to the Sun Trail. It’s about 45 minutes uphill, but you’ll be treated to beautiful vistas along the way and you can’t beat the fresh air. The Sun Trail then meanders along the hillside before arriving at the club.

Overlook Deck at the Tourist Club, photo taken by Jennifer Yin

Now, before you throw on your hiking shoes and run out the door, you should know that the Tourist Club is actually a members-only club and the San Francisco branch of the worldwide Nature Friends organization. Founded in 1912 by German and Austrian immigrants, the Tourist Club was built by the founders themselves in the style of the old country and is the result of their desire to create a retreat outside of the City where they could enjoy and appreciate nature. The club still enjoys a communal culture and current members volunteer to staff it and participate in work days to maintain the facilities.

Though it is private, the club is open to the public during certain weekend hours (check their calendar before venturing out), as well as during three special Fests held in May (Maifest), July (Sommerfest) and October (Kinderfest). These Fests honor the clubs Alpine heritage and feature authentic German music, food, beer and dancing. Space is limited, so be sure to arrive early to get tickets, as they are only sold at the door.

The US doesn’t have a backpacking culture the way other parts of the world do, but if it did, the Tourist Club would personify that culture. It’s also just great fun to have a little piece of Bavaria right here on our own mountaintop.

Fest time at the Tourist Club, photo taken by Matthew Hickey	Tourist Club,  photo taken by Peter Butler

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One of the many benefits of living in the North Bay is our close proximity to San Francisco: just a quick car, bike or ferry ride leads us to a world-class cultural center with a multitude of first-rate theatres, performing arts centers, and museums. The museums in particular boast amazing line-ups: you can soak up Impressionist masterpieces on loan from the Musée d’Orsay at the DeYoung, try your hand at Haitian tooled metal sculpture, fly through our solar system, journey via art from India to Japan, navigate through a rain forest, sculpt and film your own clay animation and marvel at the works of Paul Klee.

Not only are our museums diverse, but so are the ways in which to experience them. For example, who has ever heard of a museum willing to host a sleepover? That’s exactly what the California Academy of Sciences does. Or you can turn a normal museum visit into a special date night or outing with friends by taking advantage of NightLife at the Academy of Sciences or Friday Night Soirées at the de Young, complete with DJ booths, live music, specialty drinks and entertainment.

Photo taken by Kevin Krejci

Photo taken by Chris Willis

In addition to special events, many SF museums offer discount pricing, such as half-price admission Thursday evenings, free admission the first Tuesday of each month at SFMOMA, and Free First Sundays at the Asian Art museum. As a special treat, this weekend you can visit six of San Francisco’s best museums for free as part of Target Arts & Wonder Free Family Event, July 16-18. Participating museums include: the de Young, the Asian Art Museum, SFMOMA, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, the Museum of the Africa Diaspora, Zeum and the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival.   

San Francisco’s rich arts and culture scene is one more reason why we love calling this area home.

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Good people, good food …. in a community market place. This is just sooo family … my sister ran a food cooperative in San Francisco …. in the late ’70s … my cousin Albert Stauss of Marshall.

(remember the Poet’s Loft … my favorite house ever … designed by Igor Sazevich, built for Mark Linenthal and Frances Jaffer … you probably know someone who visited and stayed the night with us … remember the oyster nets I had hanging, filled with Hog Island oysters, ready for any late night visitor who brought a chilled Chablis or Chardonay … remember the drunken herring fisherman who rammed the house with his boat … ah, the memories)

Albert has one of the pre-eminent dairies on the west coast …

and NOW …. local gals make good (and who knows guys maybe more in the mix as we go along) … in the shire of San Anselmo …. high quality, organic, local food … a Marin Organic member … The company is called Pomegranate … their byline … Making Organic Affordable their website www.pommarket.com.

Come on, y’all, let’s go organic and easy. Check out their catalog of products and join. You’ll be glad you did. And if you need a home near-by, I’m easy as well …. contact me!

Posted by:  Tom Verkozen

Please humor us: with the Tour de France now taking place and the local cycling events coming up, we couldn’t pass up this second post on cycling. As we mentioned, cycling is a large part of the culture in Marin County and the North Bay. West Marin, in particular, offers cyclists unlimited trails and routes to enjoy. Whether a leisurely ride or something more ambitious, there’s a trail for everyone. One of our favorite routes is to take off from Fairfax and head to Pt. Reyes via Nicasio. You’ll get to take in rolling hills, fresh air and a variety of wildlife along the way. And if you need more of an incentive, go early and hit Bovine Bakery in time for their freshly baked morning buns, a deliciously decadent sticky bun. Their chocolate croissants are also to die for. A favorite hangout amongst cyclists, you’ll have to arrive early to enjoy your treat. And if you’d like a longer ride back to work off your sweets, from Pt. Reyes Station head out along Tomales Bay towards Marshall Wall before circling back home.

What’s your favorite spot for a mid- or post-ride treat? And do you have a favorite route or trail?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Photo taken by Shayne Kaye

Marin County, arguably the birthplace of mountain biking, is a cyclist’s paradise. Whether climbing up Mt. Tam, weaving through the winding roads of West Marin, or cruising down one of the many bike paths, there are many ways for bikers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the beautiful terrain.

The ideal geography for cycling – both road and mountain biking – and the scenic beauty has given rise to a niche group of passionate cyclists in Marin. On any given day you can spot riders huddled at coffee shops clad head-to-toe in full colorful regalia, swapping stories about their morning journey.

Not surprisingly, there are several organizations that promote the sport in a variety of ways, such as the Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC) which works tirelessly to promote safe bicycling for transportation and recreation. You’ll often find the MCBC at many public events providing free bicycle parking. If you have an old bike to get rid of or need some new parts, you can visit one of the local bike swaps or many bike shops.

12th Annual San Rafael Twilight Criterium

For those who want to take part in the action, the Marin Century is coming up later this summer on August 7. Unlike the Twilight Criterium, the Century is an endurance race taking you through 100 miles of Marin’s finest scenery. Put on by the MCBC, this event also offers other shorter, albeit still lengthy, endurance races.

These are just some of our favorite reasons to live – and ride – in Marin. What are yours?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Photo taken by Näystin

Given the very long list of accolades the Bay Area Discovery Museum has received, it’s a safe bet that many of you are already familiar with this amazing indoor/outdoor children’s museum located in Sausalito, just near the north base of the Golden Gate Bridge. The only children’s museum in the U.S. to be located in a national park, the Bay Area Discovery Museum allows children from 6 months to 8 years to explore, pretend, create, learn, and experiment – while climbing, banging, pounding, fishing, digging, and splashing. And when everyone is ready for a rest, there are performances to enjoy and cultural festivals to experience. So the Discovery Museum is another reason we love living in the North Bay. Heck, where else can you learn how an astronaut goes potty in space?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Two Words: Open Space

For many of us, one of the most appealing aspects – and selling points – of living in the North Bay is the sheer amount of open space that surrounds us. (The number of real estate ads that boast a property is “adjacent to open space,” or “backs to open space” or “is steps from open space” is a testament to that.) However, it’s not just the lack of structures that make the North Bay so special, it’s the spectacular beauty of the varied landscapes, from the smooth rolling hills to the lush forests to the serene bay views to the majestic coastline. What’s more is the ability to enjoy all this beauty in such a variety of ways: hiking, biking, riding (horses, motorcycles, scooters), sailing, gliding, and even driving.

No wonder so many compare living in The North Bay to living in a National Park.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy our open space?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

As American as the Fourth of July, Jazz is close to the hearts of many in the Bay Area, and thanks to the number of local venues and festivals that feature the eclectic genre, one never has to go hungry.

Though the coming Independence holiday may not make one think of Afro-Cuban rhythms, gospel, or classical jazz standards, thanks to the Fillmore Jazz Festival in San Francisco, it does. The Fillmore Jazz Festival is the largest free jazz festival on the West Coast and draws over 90,000 people over the Independence Day weekend to Fillmore Street in San Francisco, making it as much a part of the Fourth of July the past twenty-five years as fireworks over Crissy Field. Though the festival began in the mid-80s, the history of jazz in the area dates back to the World War II era when jazz clubs along Fillmore Street played host to the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and Billie Holliday. The festival pays tribute to its roots and history and has become one of the most anticipated festivals in San Francisco each year. We also love this year’s poster art which was created by local favorite Michael Schawb out of San Anselmo.

If the new toll has you hesitant to travel across the bridge, then just head to the Marin County Fair where the famed Preservation Hall Jazz Band performs twice on the Fourth. For another option for listening to jazz this weekend, and every Friday through August 27, check out Jazz and Blues By The Bay at Gabrielson Park in Sausalito. Also, many restaurants, including the Sand Dollar in Stinson Beach, offer nightly jazz.  

Do you have a favorite spot to listen to jazz in Marin?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

The natural beauty in Marin is undeniable – and a huge part of why we love living here. So it’s no wonder Marin is home to so many talented artists – in fact, West Marin and towns such as Bolinas, Mill Valley, Fairfax and Sausalito are known for their thriving artist communities. Art stores, first-class galleries and shows such as the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival, Sausalito Arts Festival, Marin Arts Open Studios and the Marin Art Festival are popular annual showcases. And throughout the year, many towns, including Mill Valley and San Rafael, host Art Walks where businesses, stores and galleries open their doors to display local art.

One special event that showcases the beauty of Marin above all is Marin/Scapes. This fine art show brings together the work of over 60 artists at a charming winery in the heart of Marin. Always held at the beginning of July at the Escalle Winery in Larkspur, the Marin/Scapes show and sale benefits Buckelew programs that provide assistance to individuals with mental illness to live, work, learn, and participate fully in their communities.

Whatever your medium, Marin County offers plenty of inspiration, from the bay vistas to the towering redwoods to the eclectic townsfolk. Are you an artist? Where do you like to find inspiration?

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Surfer: Rocky Vannucci, manager Frank Howard Allen San Rafael

If you’ve never surfed before and are looking for lessons, you can check out Bolinas Surf Lessons. If you need to suit up, visit Proof Lab in Mill Valley, Fat Kat in Fairfax or Live Water Surf Shop in Stinson Beach.

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Most tourists and residents alike enjoy going to Pier 39 to see the California see lions sunbathe and bark – so much so that it has become one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions. Native to the California coast, the sea lions are a fixture in our waters. One fun way to learn more about them – and other marine mammals such as harbor seals and fur seals, is to visit The Marine Mammal Center (TMMC). This unique rescue/research facility is located at Fort Cronkhite and is open to visitors daily. At TMMC, you can take a guided tour and visit their facility to get up close and learn firsthand about marine life. You can also watch volunteers and staff in action by dropping into the veterinary research hospital. This time of year, June to October, you will mostly see California sea lions with some northern elephant seals.  

Current events in the Gulf have reminded us just how precious our wildlife is; this is a valuable organization that we’re proud to have nestled here in the Marin Headlands.

TMMC on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1566829010
TMMC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/TMMC 

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

The Mountain Play is a wonderful local tradition that brings world-class theatre to the top of Mt. Tam each year, attracting nearly 4,000 patrons per show from all around the Bay Area and beyond. With the venue perched high on a mountain, this is a great way to experience theatre and is unlike anything else around. Ride the bus up, enjoy a homemade picnic and then hike the seven miles back to downtown Mill Valley for the ultimate experience. You can read about one writer’s day atop the mountain in this great San Francisco Chronicle piece. Established in 1913, the Mountain Play is a can’t-miss event each summer.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors