Explore The Hidden Town Of Bolinas
Audubon Canyon Ranch
4900 Shoreline Highway 1
Stinson Beach, CA 94970
(415) 868-9244
www.egret.org
Audubon Canyon Ranch is a preserve for the protection of colonies of great egrets and great blue herons. It's located right outside of Bolinas, but feels like you are miles away from any sort of city. Take a hike up to the viewing station, and if you are lucky you can see the birds nesting in the tops of the trees. The views are spectacular, as you look out at the ocean and Bolinas Lagoon. The "public season" at Martin Griffin Preserve is mid-March to mid-July, but what are other opportunities for people to visit and volunteer throughout the year.
48 Wharf Road
P.O. Box 450
Bolinas, CA 94924
(415) 868-0330
www.bolinasmuseum.org
The Bolinas Museum is a five gallery museum filled with work from local artists, whose work reflects Coastal Marin and spirit of Bolinas. The museum also sheds light on why Bolinas is such a secretive town. See if you can spot one of the many famous missing Bolinas street signs on display.
Bolinas Beach
There is no shortage of beautiful California shoreline here. Situated right across from the send of Stinson Beach, its huge cliffs and painted seawalls are a perfect spot to spend the afternoon. Bolinas Beach is dog and surfer friendly.
Big Dog Surf Camp
(415) 518-3805
http://www.bigdogsurfcamp.com
Not a surfer yet? No problem, bro. Take a class from the fine folks at Big Dog Surf Camp. They offer surf lessons for ages five and up, and all levels of experience are welcome. Boards and wetsuits are provided. All you need to do is be ready to hit the waves and have a good time.
Bobo's Burritos
Food cart, usually near the beach
For a filling pick me up, search out the Bobo Burrito food cart (usually located by the beach or in the parking lot of 2 Mile Surf Shop at 22 Brighton Road). It's the first licensed food cart in West Marin County, and Bolinas locals/owners, Max and Colleen offer up cheap and delicious eats.
Liam's Fave: the Veggie Burrito (created for all the Deadheads in the community) with yams and mustard greens. (It's a little spicy, but so is Bolinas.)
Bobolisious Smoothie Lounge
6 Wharf Road
Bolinas, CA 94924
Organic smoothies, local art, and a grandmother's coffee cake recipe make Bobolicious Smoothie Lounge a worthwhile stop in Bolinas. With a nod to the Beatles, try the Strawberry Fields smoothie.
Coast Cafe
46 Wharf Road
Bolinas, CA 94924
(415) 868-2298
www.bolinascafe.com
If you are looking for a great lunch or dinner in town, check out The Coast Café. It happens to be Bolinas' only sit-down restaurant. They offer up excellent local and organic food and drinks, highlighting the fresh produce and seafood found around the area. Watch the boats carrying fresh fish come into the marina and straight to your plate.
Smiley's Saloon & Hotel
41 Wharf Road
Bolinas, CA 94924
(415) 868-1311
www.smileyssaloon.com/home
Wind down your day with a drink or two at what is said to be the oldest operating bar in California. Smiley's has been open since 1851, and it's still a favorite local hangout. If you happen to have a little too much fun at Smiley's, or want to extend you stay in Bolinas, they also offer six hotel rooms for under $100. They're rustic, with no TV or phones, but they do the trick.
Gospel Flat Farm Stand
Located on the left hand side of Olema-Bolinas road on your way into town.
(415) 868-9310
On the way in or out of Bolinas keep an eye out for this unique farm stand. Its owners don't only run the stand, but farm all the organic produce sold there. What makes this stand so special, is that its open 24 hours a day and payment runs on the honor system. Simply pick your produce, and slip the money into the box.
Blue Heron Inn
11 Wharf Rd
Bolinas, CA 94924
(415) 868-1102
Two rooms upstairs this bright B&B is right in the heart of town.
VRBO- Bolinas Vacation Rental
www.vrbo.com
If you want to stay a weekend in Bolinas and explore the surrounding area, why not stay in that ocean-front home you've always dreamed of? This ultimate beach-house getaway sleeps 10, has a pool, hot tub, chef's kitchen and is mere steps away from Pacific Ocean. Aside from the great views, the house was once owned by the lead singer of Jefferson Airplane, Grace Slick. It's a truly unique way to experience this California surf town.
Ready for your next adventure? Head over to Eye on the Bay's Travel & Outdoors and discover the best of the Bay.
