Kids’ birthday parties are an event. No matter what, you’re going to need to get that perfect toy, and you’re going to want something that’ll last and bring joy to your child — or to your new niece or nephew! The 2024 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is Five Little Monkeys (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Toy Store picks see below.
Our 2024 Shopping category sponsor is Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine. View the rest of the shopping category here.
We’ve broken it down by region: Southern, Central, and Northern Marin.
Southern | Central | Northern
Southern Marin
Games People Play
Sausalito
Part of the Sausalito Ferry Company, this hidden gem amidst the boutiques of Sausalito features a full collection of childrens’ toys, books, and arts and crafts. If you need to keep your child occupied for a while, try one of their many different puzzles or nanoblock building sets. Their plushie selection cannot be beat, with options such as Jellycats and original Beanie Babies. The store can get a little crowded, so if you want to really take your time and linger, consider going on a weekday. Hours are Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
695 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 415.332.4151
Central Marin
A Child’s Delight
Corte Madera
We have to recommend Child’s Delight for, well, everything. Books? Hundreds of ’em. Arts and crafts? Got them in spades. Novelty lava lamps? Yep, those too. If you have multiple kids, are on a tighter budget, or need Christmas stocking stuffers for all your nieces and nephews, Child’s Delight is the one-stop-shop for all your needs. Hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
1600 Redwood Hwy, Corte Madera, 415.945.9221
Fairfax Variety
Fairfax
Eclectic and whimsical, this store offers a glimpse into a more classic and old-timey toy shop. Take your first step through the doors to smell warm, old wood and let your eyes feast upon the display of novelties that can be found within. Fairfax Variety has been dazzling kids for generations now and it holds a special place in many people’s hearts. Hours are Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
61 Broadway, Fairfax, 415.457.2580
Toy Crazy
Larkspur
Photo Courtesy of Toy Crazy.
Located in Marin Country Mart, Toy Crazy provides high-quality specialty toys with an educational flair. The staff are used to parents coming in with their kids, so while you are encouraged to not let your kids knock over a display stand, you can give your kid one of the special miniature shopping carts and keep them distracted while you make your purchases. They boast an impressive selection of baby toys as well as things for kids a bit older. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m – 6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
2211 Larkspur Landing Cir, Larkspur, 415.925.1775
Northern Marin
Five Little Monkeys
Novato
Photo Courtesy of Five Little Monkeys.
Boasting a reputation as one of the best toy stores in Marin, they provide helpful staff, classic toys, and even gift wrapping service if it’s the night before Christmas and you need something fast. Despite the brightly colored advertising, don’t be fooled into thinking that the store is only for ages 10 and below, as it offers some games that are sure to be fun for a slightly higher age range as well. If your kid is sick at home, don’t worry, for they have a large online catalog and offer free shipping. Hours are Sunday through Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
852 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.898.4411
Best of the County Sponsor Shopping
Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine
Belle Marin is the creation of Dr. Faye Jamali, a physician who is committed to providing you with the highest level of treatments and care possible. Dr. Jamali’s self-described style — “minimalism with a touch of luxury” — is at the heart of every treatment. Her goal is to deliver superb results without complicated recovery times and cumbersome surgical risks.
Dr. Jamali has proudly called Mill Valley home for 15 years since moving from San Francisco. Belle Marin, founded in 2018, reflects her commitment to serving her local community with exceptional care and services.
At Belle Marin, we cherish and prioritize every individual who walks through our doors. Our commitment extends to embracing diverse journeys in personal aesthetics, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or stepping into the world of treatments for the first time. We approach each patient with open arms and without judgment, meeting them exactly where they are.
Mill Valley, CA | 415.887.8718 | bellemarin.com
