Marin County’s shoreline is a patchwork of sheltered coves, tidal flats and estuarine lagoons that shape local wildlife habitat and outdoor time. Whether you’re hiking coastal trails or scanning flats from a kayak, the variety along this stretch of Northern California keeps each visit different.
There are 14 Bays in Marin County, ranging from Abbotts Lagoon to Tomales Bay. For each bay you’ll find below the Coordinates (lat, lon), Type, Nearest town or landmark — a quick reference if you want to map visits, identify habitats, or plan logistics; you’ll find the full list below.
How can I access these bays using public trails and launch points?
Many bays have public access via state and county parks, trailheads, or designated boat launches (Point Reyes and Tomales Bay area sites are good examples); however, some shorelines border private land or sensitive habitat, so check trail maps, parking rules and tide charts before you go.
Which bays are best for wildlife viewing and when should I go?
Marshes and lagoons like Abbotts Lagoon are prime for migratory shorebirds in spring and fall, while Tomales Bay and sheltered estuaries offer year‑round birding and marine life viewing; aim for low tide for shorebirds, early morning for mammals, and respect seasonal closures.
Bays in Marin County
| Name | Coordinates (lat, lon) | Type | Nearest town or landmark |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Bay | 37.7749,-122.4194 | Bay | Across from Marin County shoreline |
| San Pablo Bay | 38.0600,-122.3000 | Bay | North of San Rafael, east of Novato |
| San Rafael Bay | 37.9735,-122.5311 | Bay | San Rafael waterfront and China Camp State Park |
| Richardson Bay | 37.8780,-122.4680 | Bay | Tiburon, Belvedere, Sausalito |
| Belvedere Cove | 37.8739,-122.4527 | Cove | Belvedere Point, Tiburon |
| Kirby Cove | 37.8275,-122.4836 | Cove | Marin Headlands, Golden Gate NRA |
| Tomales Bay | 38.1800,-122.8750 | Bay | Runs south from Tomales Bay State Park to Point Reyes |
| Drakes Bay | 38.0370,-122.9420 | Bay | West of Point Reyes Headlands |
| Drakes Estero | 38.0500,-122.9750 | Estuary | Interior of Point Reyes Peninsula, Drakes Estero |
| Limantour Estero | 38.0230,-122.9490 | Estuary | North of Limantour Beach, Point Reyes |
| Abbotts Lagoon | 37.9940,-122.9900 | Lagoon | West Point Reyes, near Abbotts Lagoon trailhead |
| Bolinas Lagoon | 37.9038,-122.6812 | Estuary | Bolinas and Stinson Beach vicinity |
| Bolinas Bay | 37.9060,-122.6840 | Bay | Offshore of Bolinas and Bolinas Lagoon |
| Rodeo Lagoon | 37.8280,-122.5030 | Lagoon | Marin Headlands, near Rodeo Beach |
Images and Descriptions
San Francisco Bay
Large estuarine system along Marin’s southern shore with regional ferry links, coastal parks, and many protected coves for kayaking. Accessible from multiple Marin waterfront parks and boat ramps; vital for migratory birds, fisheries, and extensive wetland conservation programs.
San Pablo Bay
Shallow northern bay bordering Marin’s northeastern shore, known for expansive mudflats and birding. Limited shoreline access via parks and boat ramps; popular for kiteboarding and wildlife viewing. Important tidal marsh habitat under multiple conservation protections.
San Rafael Bay
Small embayment of San Pablo Bay adjacent to downtown San Rafael and China Camp. Offers shoreline parks, boat ramps, and easy kayak access. Urban shoreline with ongoing habitat restoration and eelgrass protection efforts.
Richardson Bay
Protected, shallow tidal bay north of the Golden Gate with marinas and ecologically rich tidal flats. Popular for kayaking, birdwatching, and small-boat recreation; much shoreline is protected parkland and aquatic preserves. Seasonal closures protect nesting birds.
Belvedere Cove
Small sheltered cove off Richardson Bay next to Belvedere Island and Tiburon. Offers scenic shoreline access, private docks, and limited public viewpoints; popular for paddle sports. Conservation focuses on shoreline protection and water quality in the Richardson Bay estuary.
Kirby Cove
Scenic, sheltered cove beneath the Marin Headlands with a small beach and campground. Reachable by a steep trail from Conzelman Road; popular for picnics, photography, and sunset views. Managed by Golden Gate National Recreation Area with visitor rules.
Tomales Bay
Long, narrow bay separating Point Reyes Peninsula from the mainland; excellent for shellfishing, kayaking, and camping at state parks. Numerous public boat ramps and shore accesses. Federally and locally important for eelgrass, fisheries, and marine bird habitat.
Drakes Bay
Broad coastal embayment on Point Reyes’ western shore with sandy beaches and cliffs. Access via Point Reyes National Seashore trails and limited road viewpoints. Historically debated conservation region; now protected habitat for seabirds and marine mammals.
Drakes Estero
Tidal estuary feeding Drakes Bay within Point Reyes National Seashore, accessible by designated trails and limited boat access. Rich eelgrass beds and intertidal habitats support shorebirds and fish; managed with strict conservation protections and restoration efforts.
Limantour Estero
Coastal estuary behind Limantour Beach with sand spits and marshes; reachable by park trails and beach access. Popular for birdwatching, scenic walks, and tidepooling. Managed as part of Point Reyes National Seashore with emphasis on habitat conservation.
Abbotts Lagoon
Coastal dune lagoon inside Point Reyes National Seashore with seasonal freshwater-saltwater dynamics. Easy trail access from parking area; attracts shorebirds and native plants. Closed or restricted at times for wildlife protection and habitat restoration.
Bolinas Lagoon
Tidal estuary behind Bolinas with extensive mudflats and marshes; accessible by nearby roads and trail viewpoints. Popular for birding, kayaking (with care), and nature study. Highly protected under local, state, and federal conservation programs.
Bolinas Bay
Open coastal bay fronting Bolinas and Bolinas Lagoon with surf and exposed shoreline. Access from Bolinas and local beaches; favored for fishing, surfing, and coastal viewing. Marine and shoreline habitats managed for erosion and ecological protection.
Rodeo Lagoon
Coastal lagoon behind Rodeo Beach within Marin Headlands, accessible via short trails from the parking area. Popular for birdwatching and easy walks; managed by Golden Gate National Recreation Area with seasonal nesting protections and limited recreational uses.
