Tucked away in Marin County, San Anselmo is a perfect small-town escape just minutes from San Francisco. The town blends outdoor adventure with a downtown vibe that locals genuinely love. San Anselmo’s unique creek-side setting, rich history, and tight-knit community make it a great day trip for Bay Area folks who want something a little different.
When you get here, you’ll find legendary mountain biking and hiking trails showing off Marin County’s natural beauty. Downtown is full of quirky shops and restaurants where you could easily lose track of time. Imagination Park, with its dinosaur, Indiana Jones, and Yoda sculptures, is a fun, offbeat surprise that says a lot about the town’s creative streak.
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The mild climate makes San Anselmo pleasant all year. You can spend hours exploring landmarks like the American Legion Log Cabin or Robson-Harrington Park. The slower pace is a breath of fresh air compared to the bustle of nearby Bay Area cities—ideal if you want a taste of genuine California small-town charm without driving for hours.
Getting to San Anselmo
Getting to San Anselmo is straightforward. This charming town sits in Marin County and connects easily to the rest of the Bay Area.
Proximity to San Francisco
San Anselmo is about 15 miles north of San Francisco. Depending on traffic, the drive usually takes between 25 and 35 minutes.
If you’re flying in, you’ve got options. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 27 miles south. Oakland International (OAK) is about 26 miles southeast. Santa Rosa Airport is another pick if you’re coming from the north.
Rental cars are easy to find at all these airports. Services like Turo are also around San Francisco, so grabbing a car for your San Anselmo trip isn’t a hassle.
Public Transit and Rideshare Options
Marin Transit runs buses to San Anselmo, connecting it to other Marin towns and the wider Bay Area transit network.
From San Francisco, you can hop on Golden Gate Transit, then transfer to Marin Transit buses that go straight to San Anselmo.
Uber and Lyft both operate throughout the Bay Area, so you can use them to get to San Anselmo from nearby cities or the airport.
If you’re into cycling, several bike routes lead into town. Marin County is famously bike-friendly, with dedicated paths linking communities like San Anselmo.
Parking and Accessibility
You’ll find plenty of public parking in the downtown area. Street parking lines the main roads and side streets.
The central hub has time-limited spots, which are handy for quick trips to shops and restaurants. Most parking is free, though they do enforce time limits.
If mobility is a concern, downtown is pretty flat and walkable. Most sidewalks have curb cuts and are wheelchair accessible.
Parking can get tight during big events or peak tourist seasons. It’s smart to arrive early or use public transit if you’re visiting when things get busy.
Best Times to Visit and Local Events
San Anselmo’s pleasant Mediterranean climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit. The town throws some memorable events that really show off its small-town energy and community spirit.
Annual Festivals
Country Fair Day takes over downtown every June, with food stalls, craft vendors, and live music. Locals and visitors all pile in for this annual favorite.
The San Anselmo Art & Wine Festival pops up in late summer, featuring local wines, craft beers, and art from around the Bay. You’ll spot unique handmade goods—perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
Halloween brings “Trick or Treat on the Avenue,” where businesses open their doors for costumed kids to trick-or-treat safely in broad daylight.
December’s “Holiday Lighting Ceremony” kicks off winter with carolers, hot chocolate, and the glow of downtown decorations.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May) is mild—think 60s and 70s—and everything blooms. Second Friday Art Walks start up, with local artists showing their work in downtown shops from 5-8pm.
Summer (June-August) delivers warm, dry days for hiking or outdoor dining. Weekend farmers’ markets overflow with Marin County produce and artisanal treats.
Fall (September-November) brings comfy temps and golden hills. It’s a great time to browse antique shops without the summer crowds.
Winter (December-February) is mild but sometimes rainy. Downtown looks especially charming with holiday lights, and local restaurants offer cozy, intimate dining.
Downtown San Anselmo
Downtown San Anselmo has a lovely mix of small-town warmth and modern convenience. Walk the historic streets and you’ll spot one-of-a-kind shops, inviting cafés, and local restaurants in restored old buildings.
Charming Shops and Boutiques
The shopping here is genuinely fun. Independent bookstores have well-chosen collections and staff who love to talk books. Antique shops are packed with finds from all sorts of eras—collectors and decorators will be in heaven.
Fashion boutiques offer styles you won’t find at big chains. Owners often handpick their inventory, so it feels personal and unique.
Home décor stores blend local artisan goods with global pieces. It’s easy to find a special gift or just something to treat yourself.
Art galleries rotate Bay Area artists through their spaces. Opening nights are a good excuse to meet the artists and mingle with locals.
Cafés and Local Eats
The food scene downtown is surprisingly strong for a small town. Coffee shops roast their own beans and double as neighborhood hangouts. Many cafés use ingredients from nearby farms, which is just so Marin.
Lunch could be anything from a quick sandwich to a sit-down meal with Italian or California twists. A lot of places change their menus with the seasons, depending on what’s fresh.
Bakeries crank out breads and pastries that honestly rival what you’d get in big cities. If you’re downtown in the morning, you’ll probably catch the scent of something delicious baking.
Wine bars pour local bottles (and some from farther afield), making them a solid spot to unwind after exploring.
Imagination Park
Right in the middle of downtown, Imagination Park is a quirky little spot. Bronze statues of Indiana Jones and Yoda nod to George Lucas, who lives nearby.
Kids climb on the dinosaur statue and hit the playground while parents relax. The shady green space is perfect for a coffee break or picnic lunch.
Benches scattered around the park let you enjoy your food under big old trees. The park sometimes hosts community events like summer concerts and holiday gatherings.
Imagination Park really captures San Anselmo’s creative, family-friendly vibe. Since it’s so central, you can’t miss it while wandering downtown.
Top Outdoor Activities and Parks
San Anselmo gives you plenty of natural spaces to soak up California’s outdoors. The parks and trails are ideal for hiking, picnicking, and just getting a little lost in nature.
Best Parks in Town
Imagination Park is small but memorable, with those Indiana Jones and Yoda statues donated by George Lucas. It’s a quick stop and a great photo op.
Memorial Park is the main community hangout. You’ll find tennis courts, playgrounds, and open fields for group activities. In summer, it’s a hub for events and gatherings.
Robson-Harrington Park has lovely gardens and some cool historic architecture. The 9-acre grounds around the Robson-Harrington House are perfect for picnics or a stroll among the flowers and trees.
Walking and Hiking Trails
The town links up with Marin County’s famous mountain biking and hiking trails. These wind through rolling hills and give you sweeping Ross Valley views—locals are pretty proud of them.
Sorich Ranch Park is 13.5 acres of wild meadows, woods, and rocky outcrops. The hiking here is peaceful, and from the higher spots, you get great valley views.
If you want a tougher hike, nearby trails connect to bigger networks. Most are shared by hikers and mountain bikers, so there’s something for everyone.
Trail difficulty varies, so both casual walkers and serious trekkers can find a good fit. Paths are usually well-kept and show off Marin’s diverse scenery.
Local Food Scene in San Anselmo
The food in San Anselmo is a real treat, ranging from upscale spots to low-key gems. The town’s restaurants reflect its beautiful setting and love for fresh, local ingredients.
Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Fresh, locally-sourced food is the rule here. Madcap is a standout, famous for creative dishes and seasonal produce.
The Lodge feels cozy and serves up farm-fresh plates that celebrate Marin County’s bounty. Menus change often, depending on what’s in season.
Valenti & Co brings Northern Italian flavors with a focus on local sourcing. Their wine bar is a great complement to the meal.
For something more casual, Barefoot Cafe serves hearty breakfasts and lunches with quality ingredients. La Gastronomia puts a California spin on Italian classics.
Craving international? Baan Thai Cuisine dishes up authentic Thai, and Taqueria Mi Pueblo is a solid spot for Mexican favorites.
Wineries and Breweries
San Anselmo might not be a wine destination itself, but you’re only a quick drive from some excellent Marin County wine experiences. Nearby towns have tasting rooms pouring both local vintages and imports from Sonoma and Napa.
If you’re into beer, the area has plenty of craft breweries showing off unique local flavors. Many of San Anselmo’s restaurants feature California wines on their menus—some of them are pretty passionate about supporting small producers.
Tamalpie, famous for its pizza, also pours a thoughtful selection of local beers and wines. Their patio, with fire pits, is a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy a drink or two.
When you’re dining out, don’t hesitate to ask your server for local beverage tips. Lots of places in town love highlighting regional drinks.
Accommodations and Lodging Options
San Anselmo has several comfortable places to stay while you explore this charming Marin County spot. You’ll find cozy options with easy access to local attractions, San Francisco, and wine country—pretty convenient if you ask me.
Boutique Hotels
San Anselmo’s location puts you close to a handful of boutique hotels. The town itself doesn’t have a ton, but nearby options offer comfy rooms with some local flavor.
The Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn, just a short drive away, has modern rooms and handy amenities. It works well as a home base for both San Anselmo and the rest of Marin County.
Marin Lodge and Marin Suites Hotel are other nearby choices, each with different perks and price points. Most are about 10-15 minutes from downtown San Anselmo.
Free parking and WiFi are standard at most places. Some even have pools or on-site restaurants, which is always a bonus.
Bed and Breakfasts
If you want something more personal, several bed and breakfasts in and around San Anselmo offer cozy accommodations with that special touch. Many are in historic homes with a lot of character.
Local B&Bs usually serve up homemade breakfasts with fresh, local ingredients. The hosts tend to be longtime locals who love sharing tips about the best restaurants, shops, and lesser-known spots.
Rooms range from Victorian-style to more modern. Most B&Bs have common spaces for relaxing, reading, or chatting with fellow travelers.
Prices generally run $150-$250 per night, depending on the season and amenities. Book ahead, especially in summer or during big local events.
Click here for our guide to accommodations in San Anselmo.
Exploring Marin County Adventures
San Anselmo makes a great base for exploring Marin County’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. The area blends gorgeous landscapes, small-town charm, and plenty of recreation.
Nearby Towns: Fairfax and Tiburon
Just to the west, Fairfax has a strong bohemian vibe. You’ll spot great coffee shops like Barefoot Café and live music at Peri’s Bar showcasing local musicians.
Fairfax is home to the Mountain Biking Hall of Fame, which celebrates the sport that kicked off on Mount Tamalpais back in the 1970s. On Wednesdays from April to September, the town hosts a farmers market with fresh produce and artisan foods.
Head east to Tiburon for an upscale waterfront scene and amazing Bay views. Main Street has boutiques and waterfront restaurants like Sam’s Anchor Cafe, where you can eat fresh seafood right on the dock.
Catch the Angel Island Ferry from Tiburon for hiking and a dose of California history, plus sweeping views of San Francisco.
Mountain Biking Experiences
Marin County gave birth to mountain biking, and the trails here suit all levels. Camp Tamarancho in Fairfax has a technical 7-mile single-track loop—just grab a $5 day pass from a local bike shop.
Beginners might prefer the fire roads at China Camp State Park. They’re gentler, with beautiful bay views, and the park has 11 miles of trails winding through oak woods and along the shore.
Sunshine Bicycle Center in Fairfax rents bikes and can suggest routes based on your skills. Full-suspension bikes start at $75 a day.
The annual Dirt Fondo event (usually in May) attracts riders from all over California to sample Marin’s legendary trails with guided rides for every ability.
Day Trips and Iconic Landmarks
San Anselmo is a handy launch point for exploring Marin County’s natural wonders and landmarks. Not far away, you’ll find ancient redwoods, dramatic coastlines, and historic sites that really show off Northern California’s wild side.
Mount Tamalpais Excursions
Mount Tamalpais (“Mt. Tam” if you want to sound like a local) rises 2,571 feet above Marin and offers some of the Bay Area’s best hiking. There are more than 50 miles of trails, so you’re covered whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker.
If you’re just starting out, try the 2-mile Verna Dunshee Trail around East Peak. It’s an easy loop with 360-degree views of the Bay and Pacific.
For more of a challenge, the 7-mile Matt Davis-Steep Ravine loop winds through redwoods, along streams, and out to jaw-dropping coastal vistas.
The Gravity Car Barn Museum features the old railway that once carried visitors up the mountain—quirky but worth a peek.
Don’t forget a jacket or extra layers. Even in summer, fog can roll in fast and drop the temperature before you know it.
Visiting Point Reyes
Point Reyes National Seashore, just 30 miles from San Anselmo, offers wild coastlines, forests, and all kinds of wildlife. It’s a stunning peninsula—windy, rugged, and full of surprises.
The historic Point Reyes Lighthouse sits on a rocky bluff. You’ll need to go down (and back up!) 308 steps to reach it. Double-check the schedule—it’s only open Thursday through Monday.
Wildlife highlights include:
- Winter/spring: Gray whale migration
- Year-round: Tule elk herds at Tomales Point
- Spring: Wildflower blooms
Drakes Beach is a sheltered spot for a picnic, with dramatic white cliffs as a backdrop. For a longer trek, the 9.5-mile Tomales Point Trail offers elk sightings and sweeping coastal views.
Stop by the Bear Valley Visitor Center for maps and advice from rangers before heading out.
Golden Gate Bridge Views
From San Anselmo, you can reach some of Marin County’s best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints in about 20 minutes.
Battery Spencer in the Marin Headlands delivers that classic postcard shot—bridge, city skyline, the works. It’s a former military post, now just a fantastic overlook.
Kirby Cove is quieter and frames the bridge perfectly, especially at sunset. If you want to snag a picnic spot, reserve ahead during peak times.
Hawk Hill gives you wide-open views of the whole bay and is a top spot for watching raptors in fall. From up there, you see the bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the city.
Weekdays or early mornings are your best bet if you want to dodge crowds and parking headaches.
Discovering Tomales Bay
Tomales Bay, a long, narrow inlet shaped by the San Andreas Fault, sits just half an hour from San Anselmo. It’s known for oyster farms and kayaking—definitely worth the trip.
At Hog Island Oyster Company, you can tour the farm, learn about sustainable shellfish, and slurp up fresh oysters. Make a reservation if you’re coming in summer—it gets packed.
Rent a kayak in Point Reyes Station to paddle the bay’s calm waters. Evening bioluminescence tours (May-November) are a real treat—the water glows with every stroke. It’s kind of magical, honestly.
Hearts Desire Beach on the east side is a sheltered spot for swimming and picnicking, perfect for families. The water’s usually warmer than the open ocean, which is a nice change.
If you’re into birdwatching, the wetlands at the south end of the bay host over 150 species, especially during spring and fall migrations.
Travel Tips and Responsible Tourism
Visiting San Anselmo? A few thoughtful choices go a long way in keeping Marin County beautiful. These tips help you enjoy your trip while treading lightly on the natural environment and local community.
Sustainable Practices for Nature Lovers
San Anselmo’s spot along the creek and its proximity to open space mean visitors need to be a bit mindful. Before heading out, check trail conditions or fire danger online or by phone—things can change quickly.
Stick to marked trails when hiking to protect native plants. The Bay Area’s ecosystems are delicate and don’t bounce back easily from off-trail traffic.
Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. Most San Anselmo businesses are on board with zero-waste and will refill your bottle if you ask.
Try biking or using public transit to get around. San Anselmo is bike-friendly, and fewer cars mean cleaner air for everyone.
Whatever you pack in, pack it out. Leaving no trace keeps the parks and open spaces as gorgeous for the next folks as they were for you.
Cultural Etiquette
San Anselmo really thrives on community spirit and hometown pride. Popping into the quirky little shops instead of the big chain stores helps keep that vibe alive—and honestly, it just feels good to support local folks.
When you park, try to be mindful of the narrow streets. Locals definitely notice and appreciate visitors who don’t block driveways or make things tricky for residents.
Try to keep things quiet, especially after dark. People here value the town’s calm, and you’ll fit right in if you do too.
If you want to snap photos of people or someone’s home, it’s best to ask first. San Anselmo’s full of charming scenes, but respecting privacy goes a long way.
Maybe take a little time to wander through the San Anselmo Historical Museum. Getting a sense of the town’s backstory makes the place feel richer—and might spark a good conversation or two with locals.
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