The Scenic Route

The long way is sometimes the best way. This route takes you South through the scenic Olema Valley, and (incidentally) right along the San Andreas Fault!

1. From Petaluma take "D" Street west-it turns into the Point Reyes-Petaluma Road. Follow the signs to Point Reyes.
   From Novato, take Novato Blvd. to the Point Reyes-Petaluma Road. Follow the signs to Point Reyes.
   From San Rafael, take 4th street to Fairfax, take Sir Francis Drake Blvd. west until it ends in Olema
2. Go South on Hwy 1 for 13 to 15 miles until you reach Stinson Beach.
3. Turn right at the only Stop sign in town.
4. You'll see the Parkside Snack Bar and Cafe at the end of the street. After all that nature, you'll be hungry.

(Map Courtesy of the National Park Service)

'The Coast Way' and 'Over The Hill'

Curves and swerves won't rattle your nerves? Going to Muir Woods? Want a couple of great view spots? These routes have all that and more. Its debatable which route is shorter or less curvy, but whether you're coming from San Rafael or San Francisco, they're the shortest distance to Stinson Beach.

1. Take Hwy 101 to the Stinson Beach/Hwy 1 Exit.
2. Follow the signs through Tam Valley on Hwy 1 North.
3. To go Over the Hill, turn right onto Panoramic Highway when the road forks about 2 miles from the stop light in Tam Valley. This will take you over Mt. Tamalpais and down into Stinson Beach.
   To go The Coast Way, stay on Hwy 1 and don't turn where those other people turned. Stay on this road as it meets and winds it's way along the coast.
4. After around 8 miles you're in Stinson Beach.
5. Turn left at the only stop sign in town.
6. You'll see the Parkside Snack Bar and Cafe at the end of the street. Don't worry, you'll be hungry after your stomach settles down.