For those who love to play outside, Marin is home to some outstanding hiking trails, breathtaking scenic views, fun water sport sites and fascinating area tours. There are countless activities to choose from for anyone looking to escape the city, or anyone just looking to enjoy California’s natural beauty. To help you get outside and explore, here are the best outdoor adventures to choose from, including the 2024 readers’ choice Best of the County winner, Seaplane Adventures (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County outdoor adventures, see below.
Our 2024 Arts & Entertainment category sponsor is Gene Hiller. View the rest of the Arts & Entertainment category here.
We’ve broken it down by region: Southern, Central and Northern Marin.
Southern | Western
Cruises on the bay with Red and White Fleet
San Francisco
Sightseeing tours, happy hours and private charters are all services that eager riders can experience on the breathtaking San Francisco Bay with the Red and White Fleet. Established in 1892, Red and White has been creating memories for over 130 years. Even with all that history, the business remains family-owned, independent and committed to serving Northern California in a sustainable way.
Pier 43 1/2, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco; 415.673.2900
Outdoor Adventure Club
San Francisco
Backpack in Point Reyes. Rock climb in Pinnacles National Park. Snowshoe in Yosemite. Outdoor Adventure Club organizes excursions of all kinds for residents from around the Bay Area. Dedicated to creating a community environment during their tours, this group prides itself on taking adventurers places they might not go on their own, learning new skills from welcoming guides.
San Francisco, 415.377.1195
Southern Marin
Seaplane Adventures
Mill Valley
Craving to see San Francisco from a new point of view? Look no further than Seaplane Adventures Air Tours. See major San Francisco sites, like the Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz to name a few, from an aerial perspective. Whether you are interested in a tour at sunset with a glass of champagne, views of the Northern California coast or exclusive views of the Golden Gate Bridge, a Seaplane Adventure can be your next adventure.
242 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley, 888.732.7526
Mountain Play
Mill Valley
The Mountain Play isn’t just a show — it’s an experience. Nowhere else makes performances more immersive than here, where audiences can sit on steps of carven stone or enjoy private dining in the intimacy of a shaded grove. This outdoor theater is perfect for bringing a picnic or grabbing a refreshing snow cone from the cafe, allowing you to enjoy your food at the same time as you take in the gorgeous views and the pre-show entertainment alike. The Mountain Play also has accommodations for those with disabilities.
Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre, Mill Valley, 415.383.1100
West Marin
Exploring Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes
Breathe in the salty air, enjoy breathtaking views and behold some amazing wildlife all in one exploratory trip to Point Reyes National Seashore. Whether you want to hike, kayak or see animals like elk, elephant seals or whales, Point Reyes National Seashore is a magnificent representation of Northern California’s beauty.
Ranch Tour at Marin Coast Ranch
Tomales
About an hour and a half north of San Francisco and just two miles from Tomales Bay, Marin Coast Ranch provides a beautiful location to reconnect with nature and learn more about the importance of environmentally friendly ranch practices. Participate in one of the many events at the ranch, including hikes or the ranch picnic experience.
900 Cerini Rd, Tomales, 707.878.2181
Best of the County Arts & Entertainment Sponsor
Gene Hiller
Gene Hiller Menswear has been providing American gentlemen with the very best clothing from brands like Canali and Brioni since 1953. Gene Hiller is also its own menswear brand designed in house and manufactured in Montreal, Italy and Spain. Owners Tom Gangitano and Wayne Kaleck share more about their storied business.
What’s unique about your business?
Our business is a community business that extends all around the world. We are not only fashion consultants for our clients, but also their personal concierge service. From securing private drivers for airport transfers, booking hotel stays, making reservations — we do it all.
Another element of our success is the longevity of our knowledgeable sales staff, which includes our world renowned tailor shop with Maestro Franco Aulicino.
What you love about living in Marin?
Marin is a very beautiful place — its temperate climate, amazing views and diverse communities — it’s no wonder we all love to live and work here.
Gene Hiller | Sausalito, CA | 415.332.3636 | genehiller.com
