Tomales Bay
There are some stunning gems just waiting to be explored around the San Francisco Bay Area. We had a two day campervan trip to better explore the Marin county area and we were not disappointed. The ambiance, crisp air, and nature is waiting just a short distance from the multitudes of people and buildings in the San Francisco area. I highly recommend visiting this area, whether camping or not! Here is what we got to do:
Day 1
Stop 1: Johnny’s Doughnuts, San Rafael
Leave early and head to Johnny’s Doughnuts in San Rafael (this is not my first time here, so I knew it would be a great way to start the trip and brighten my friend’s day)
This is important. Do not overlook this. They are amazing! They serve Equator Coffees. The two founders of Equator Coffees started the company in their garage. According to their website they are on a mission to be “a high-impact coffee company focused on quality, sustainability and social responsibility.”
And the donuts. Guys. I am not a donut person… But exceptions must be made for brilliance. For the first time I got their specialty. It’s called a “crodough” and it came to me HOT AND FRESH. Like , almost too hot to eat. The Baristas were excited to share it with us to see what we thought. Well, A croissant filled with a traditional French style pastry creme, fried, finished off with a cinnamon and sugar dusting has to be good... It results in a crodough with a delicately brittle outer layer with a slight crisp to it, reminiscent of a churro. It really seduces your taste buds when you bite through to the fluffy and soft interior with the delicately sweet creme.
As much as you may want to stay, it’s time to be on your way. Proceed to drive through the overgrown beach country and view the eerie signature decay of the piers and beach houses that have succumbed to the brackish water and elements that they once tried to tame.
Stop 2: Tomales point trail - A historic ranch that is now an elk preserve teeming with cow and bull Tule Elk on a stunning back drop.
A lot of folks would think that a campervan belongs in the Sierra Mountains or the Mojave Desert, but lately I have been exploring the coastline and the rewards are phenomenal. The Hwy 1 Coastline is full of magnificent treasure troves, seemingly untouched by the multitudes that live mere miles away. One of these treasures is Tomales Bay, beautiful in it’s own unique way whether there is rain, fog, or shine. At roughly a mile wide and 15 miles long, the narrow inlet of the Pacific Ocean in Marin County is home to native Tule Elk. A magnificent creature that used to graze the plains of California, now endangered with a very limited home range. They mostly reside in protected areas such as the Tomales Point Elk Reserve. You are welcome to visit the Elk year round while walking to Tomales Point. A peninsula surrounded by the steady beat of the ocean waves on the cliffs. Though the elk should not be approached, they are usually very close to the trail, making for amazing pictures or gazing. It isn’t a difficult trail, but perhaps a bit long so you can always turn back early.
As you hike and crest your first hill you will be greeted by the roar of the waves hitting the cliffs. Welcomed by a scene you may have thought was exclusive to Hollywood production, you will see the beautiful blue-green waves creating a steady roar as the relentless sea bashes the cliffs of the unyielding earth. It creates a pleasant ambient noise that is comfortable, but loud enough to drown out the sound of your own footsteps. After a few miles, the path is no longer maintained, resulting in a soft moss padded ground that you have the pleasure of bouncing on until you reach the final vista at Tomales Point.
Stop 3: Hog Island Oyster Co. in Marshall, CA (THEY SERVE OTHER FOOD TOO - JUST GO!)
It’s mid afternoon and there is a hidden gem just across the bay that will satisfy your hunger. You would think you can swim to it (This is likely untrue). Although it’s only a mile or so across the bay, you are forced to just make the gorgeous 25 mile drive instead. If you’re like me, you may be tempted to make a stop at all the other cool looking places along the way but if you can wait you will be in for a treat. The 4.5 stars and over 980 Yelp reviews don’t do the place justice. First off, you’re watching sailboats and wildlife whether you’re eating inside or out. Next, it’s FARM TO TABLE, but this farm is IN THE OCEAN. The owners are actually marine biologists who started farming oysters in the area in 1983, they have now grown to be “one of the world’s premier producers of sustainable shellfish.” They have ambiance, they have a cool story, they have sustainability. However, food and service are the most important things right? Right. Well the food is fresh and crafted whether you are getting raw oysters or a more seasonal dish chosen by the chef. Whether it is seafood or not, it will be delish. So go ahead and order and be at ease while eating their fresh made sourdough and sipping a professionally crafted cocktail.
To wrap up the night, we drove up towards Dillon and found a safe place to sleep out of the way.
Day 2
Stop 1: Dillon Beach
Stayed put, cooked some breakfast on the beach and stayed to catch some rays! Enough said, just lay down a blanket and chill. Or take a dip. Or play sand games? I mean, do whatever you want!
Stop 2: Lagunitas Brewery
We decided to make a short trek to Lagunitas brewery and have some fun. We reserved the brewery tour and got to see the operation and hear stories about the early days of Lagunitas. Like when they were busted by undercover cops during a party and shut down. The beer is good and the tasting tour gave me ample opportunity to make up tasting notes and aromatic descriptions that I will happily spare you from.
Stop 3: AMF Boulevard Lanes
We took an uber to go bowling at AMF Boulevard lanes until we were just too tired to keep going. We went back to our little slice of heaven, ate some snacks, watched some movies, and slept through the night before heading back home to Livermore.
Look, we had a great time on our campervan trip in the SF Bay Area. The trip cost about $700 for 2 with the van rental, food, and gas. For us it was worth every penny!
Author: Isaiah Davis
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