Marin County, just north of San Francisco, is a haven for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. It’s just across the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge and is only about a 30-minute drive from Berkeley. A recent visit from my mom gave us the perfect opportunity to embark on a day trip to Marin, and today, I’ll take you through our adventure. Marin is a place best explored with a car, so if you don’t have one, I’d recommend grabbing a friend with one or renting. Our day was filled with mouthwatering meals, breathtaking natural beauty and cherished moments thanks to a friend from Marin who gave me some awesome recommendations. Let’s dive into the highlights of our day in Marin!

Breakfast at M.H. Bread and Butter

Our day began with a trip to M.H. Bread and Butter, a delightful bakery and café that promises a fantastic start to your Marin adventure. I can’t emphasize enough how incredible their avocado toast is — it’s truly heavenly. Accompany it with the best chai latte I’ve ever tasted, and you have a breakfast for champions. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff only added to the charm of this local gem — there was even live music! It is located in such a cute town I felt like I was in “Gilmore Girls.”

Exploring nature

Marin County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and our day was no exception. We headed to Point Bonita, a coastal treasure that offers hiking trails that lead down to the beach and to a mesmerizing lighthouse perched on the cliffs. The views were nothing short of awe-inspiring and the refreshing ocean breeze was just what we needed. If you’re up for more nature exploration, I’ve also been to Cronkite last year, which is right next to Point Bonita, and is perfect for a leisurely walk and connecting with the beauty of the outdoors.

Dinner at Hook Fish

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Hook Fish, a place I’d visited twice before, and for good reason. The restaurant boasts an amazing ambiance with beautiful outdoor seating adorned with twinkling lights. It’s also dog-friendly, so there were lots of cute dogs around. The menu features a delectable array of fresh seafood options — perfect for anyone craving the flavors of the ocean. We got a poke plate, fish tacos and crab cakes that were to die for! 

Marin offers a unique blend of nature and amazing restaurants that make it a perfect day trip destination. If you’re in need of an escape from Berkeley for the day, this is the place to go!