Tiburon is an undeniably beautiful coastal town that boasts unobstructed views of the Bay and the San Francisco skyline. If it’s not already, it certainly needs to be on your post-shelter-in-place day trip bucket list. Read on to find out why!
While it exudes a quaint, seaside charm for those that want to relax and unwind with a glass of wine in hand, it also offers miles of rugged terrain for lovers of outdoor activity whether you’re a runner, hiker or biker.
Alternatively, those that prefer to be on the water have plenty of adventurous options whether it be paddle boarding, kayaking or sailing. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Mt. Tamalpais, Tiburon is a literal treasure trove of iconic viewpoints, each unique in its own right.
It’s a luxurious destination sans pretention. One drive through the hills (seriously take a drive) and you’ll quickly realize that only the uber-rich are living here. That said it’s a laid back place, perfect for escaping the city’s hustle and bustle for a weekend.
If you’re coming from San Francisco, the best way to get to Tiburon is either via car over the Golden Gate Bridge or via ferry which offers one of the most gorgeous ferry rides in the country!
Book your stay at The Lodge at Tiburon which is conveniently located just a few minutes from the water and nearby to Tiburon’s “Ark Row” and its boutiques, galleries, cafes and waterfront restaurants. Cozy, rustic rooms with private balconies make this an ideal resting place.
Not to mention its gastropub restaurant, Tiburon Tavern, offers delicious New American cuisine that utilizes local ingredients that can be found in the areas numerous farms and gardens.
Guests can start their day with breakfast dishes that include the Tavern Buttermilk Pancakes, French Toast or Waffles; Tavern Rancheros; Salmon Toast and more morning favorites. And for dinner a seat under the stars for some top notch fireside dining and creative cocktails from the bar. Entrées include Pomegranate Braised Short Ribs; Pacific Salmon; and New York Steak Frites.
A nice thing about Tiburon is that you don’t need to go out of your way to get ridiculous views. Wildflower-covered rolling hills; calm, sparkling harbors; massive envy-inducing homes; and plenty of manicured, waterfront paths make this town ideal to explore by bike or on foot.
Grab a cup of coffee from the nearby Caffe Acri and walk along Paradise Drive which gives you the SF skyline, Angel Island and the Golden Gate Bridge on one pathway. Extend your walk to the adjacent Shoreline Park to explore Elephant Rock or the Railroad Museum.
For the ultimate Instagram shot, hike up to Hippie Tree which has an enormous, climbable Eucalyptus tree from which hangs the perfect rope swing. The background is none other than the Golden Gate Bridge and SF skyline. St. Hilary’s Open Space Preserve is the place for a picnic. Surrounded by expansive vistas and wildflowers, there are several trails and ample space to immerse yourself in nature.
My top adventure for Tiburon guests is an afternoon on the water on the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry with Captain Maggie McDonogh! As the owner and fourth generation captain of the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry, she knows more about the SF Bay than anyone around.
Book a Bay Cruise which ranges from their famous Sunset Cruise, Whale Watching & Wildlife Cruise, Fireworks Cruise, Golden Gate Bridge & Alcatraz Bay Cruise and more. You’ll learn more about the Bay, Angel Island, the wildlife, Alcatraz and Bay history than in any class room!
And as if this needs to be said, the views are unreal. If you’ve ever wanted to cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge alongside whales and porpoises; into Pier 39 to get up-close-and-personal with the seals; see views of the Bay that can only be done by boat; and so much more, this is how you do it.
When it comes to food, there are plenty of options. Start your day at Rustic Café, the café made famous by its crackers, with a flakey pastry, homemade granola or egg special. Another can’t miss spot is Sam’s Anchor Café, a recently renovated Bay Area institution since 1920 known for its fresh seafood and classics like Dungeness crab, lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell. Swing by on a sunny day for a seafood platter and a spritz or tiki drink out on their famous deck.
Another local favorite is the low key Lola’s Taqueria which serves authentic Mexican food. What to order at this no-frills Mexican spot? The chicken mole made with 15 spices; Lola’s fried sopes; and the traditional albondigas soup.
For stuffing your picnic baskets, you can’t go wrong at Woodlands Market, a local grocer that features gourmet California cheeses, meats and nuts; a great selection of artisanal goodies; to-go food and salads; baked treats and more. Plus, plenty of wine options!
In sum, Tiburon is a Bay Area gem, a place whose Main Street feels akin to Downtown Disney. That’s how charming and storybook-like this place is.
