Sausalito

Kirby Cove

Highlights: Nestled at the foot of the headlands west of the Golden Gate Bridge, this beach boasts beautiful views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific coast. The steep one-mile trail to the cove begins at the parking area and descends through Monterey pine, cypress and blue gum eucalyptus. It is located at Battery Kirby, a historic military site in use from 1898 to 1934. Though nudity has been banned, be aware that some still sunbathe here in the buff. Fog is prevalent May through September. Overnight camping is available, but bring earplugs — the foghorns can be loud.

Parking: Parking available to the left above Battery Spencer on Conzelman Road.

Dogs: Not permitted

Facilities: Picnic tables, four overnight camping sites and one day-use picnic site (all reached via hiking on steep access road), restrooms, fire rings, food storage lockers, grills

Food: None

Directions: Take the Sausalito exit off Highway 101, drive up into the Marin Headlands on Conzelman Road. To the left, take the long walk down the winding dirt road (through the metal gate) leading to the beach.

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Rodeo Beach/Fort Cronkhite

Highlights: This dark pebble beach is at the westernmost edge of the Marin Headlands. Sit near Rodeo Lagoon or head farther west to Rodeo Cove, where part of the beach is sheltered from the wind by cliffs. It is a popular spot for surfing, sunbathing and picnicking.

Parking: Large parking lot available right beside the beach

Dogs: Not permitted under voice control on the ocean side

Facilities: Restrooms, water fountains, barbecue pits, picnic tables, outdoor showers

Food: None

Directions: From Highway 101, take the Sausalito exit and follow signs for Marin Headlands and the beach.

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Schoonmaker Beach

Highlights: Nestled in the heart of Schoonmaker Marina, this white-sand beach is kid- and water-sport friendly. The shallow, calm water makes it a favorite for families with young children; it’s also a launching point for kayakers and paddleboarders.

Parking: Free parking in very few public spots; otherwise, find legal parking in the close-by lots

Dogs: Not permitted

Facilities: Sea Trek (kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals), water fountain, restrooms

Food: Le Garage (French bistro)

Directions: Head south on Bridgeway. Hook left on Marinship Way and take a right on Liberty Ship Way. Follow it to the end.

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Tennessee Cove

Highlights: This dark-sand beach is one of the most popular in Marin for hiking. Walk two miles on the fire road to the beach or veer right into the hills above Tennessee Valley. The cove at the end of the fire road is surrounded by towering cliffs, and during low tide it may be possible to reach another small sandy beach. The shipwreck of the SS Tennessee, for which the area was named, lies underwater just offshore.

Parking: Free gravel parking lot available at trailhead

Dogs: Not permitted

Facilities: Restrooms in parking lot

Food: None

Directions: From Highway 101, take the Highway One exit. Follow Highway One west and turn left on Tennessee Valley Road. Follow until the end to the gravel parking lot.

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