While Southern Marin and Central Marin are known for having a close proximity to San Francisco and perhaps more densely populated cities, West Marin is where home buyers go if they’re looking for a picturesque setting that defines the northern California landscape. Most communities in West Marin lie somewhere along Highway 1, while also being almost completely surrounded by the massive 71,028-acre Point Reyes National Seashore park reserve. Communities within the West Marin region include the following: Point Reyes Station, Olema, Stinson Beach, Bolinas, Tomales, Dillon Beach, Marshall, Inverness. For more information about each, continue reading below:
A historic little community that initially got its start from a railroad that ran through the area up until the 1930s, Point Reyes still maintains that early 20th century charm even today. And even despite having a population of just a few hundred people, downtown Point Reyes Station still has a thriving commercial district that consists of a hardware store, several eateries, a bank, a grocery store, and even a few locally owned shops and boutiques.
Positioned almost right in the center of the Point Reyes National Seashore wildlife area, Olema feels like a pretty remote Marin County community, even though it’s conveniently located alongside Highway 1. With little more than a few inns and bed and breakfast establishments, living in Olema really is all about the outdoors and the scenic natural landscape that completely surrounds this one-of-a-kind NoCal town.
A small Marin County town that’s mostly defined by its long beachfront that seemingly stretches on forever, it shouldn’t take long to find the appeal and desirability behind wanting to call Stinson Beach home. Most properties here overlook the gorgeous beachfront, and because Stinson Beach also sits right next to Mt. Tamalpais State Park, it’s perfect for those who enjoy both being up in the mountains as well as spending a relaxing afternoon at the beach.
A coastal community that might actually be the most picturesque in all of Marin County, living in Bolinas is an absolute delight. A walk through downtown Bolinas feels like you’ve traveled back in time and the homes here, which can sometimes be quite pricey, are well worth the premium you’ll likely have to pay to become a part of this exceptional waterfront community.
Located immediately east of Dillion Beach, Tomales is a small community that’s about as far north as it gets for Marin County. Like most West Marin towns, Tomales sits right alongside Highway 1, but aside from the local high school, the town hall, and a few small eateries, Tomales it little more than a tiny residential community with quaint houses and a quiet small town vibe.
Because of its far northwest location, not many people call Dillon Beach home. But its beach and district countryside setting truly makes for a magnificent place to live, and many will say it’s one of the best spots in all of California for wind surfing and other water-related actives.
Located on the western shores of Tomales Bay, the city of Inverness is known most for its fishing and boating, but because it’s also situated right next to Tomales Bay State Park, locals also enjoy some of the best hiking and mountain biking around.
