Muir Beach is a Marin County treasure that’s just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Rugged coastal bluffs surround the tranquil, dog-friendly cove, beach and lagoon, and views here are gorgeous – especially on clear days.
Pups can stay at several hotels set within a 30-minute drive (or a little longer on weekends, when more travelers explore this spectacular corner of California).
Muir Beach is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. On the beach, dogs must be either leashed or under reliable voice control. That means they are within eyesight and earshot, and they respond immediately to commands when called. (And don’t forget to watch the waves, as there are no lifeguards on the beach.) Pups must stay leashed when walking on the Muir Beach Coastal Trail and multi-use Kaashi Way.
A 450-foot pedestrian bridge connects the parking area to the beach, and the adjacent lagoon and riparian area serve as vital habitats for coho salmon and red-legged frogs. Migrating monarch butterflies often fly here in the fall, and monarchs sometimes winter in the surrounding Monterey pines. Nature trails extend from the main beach area.
From Muir Beach, it’s six curvy miles to Mill Valley. The Mill Valley Inn is walkable to downtown restaurants and shopping. A stay includes an evening wine reception and complimentary breakfast in the Sun Terrace Lounge. Down the road, the Acqua Hotel accommodates furry friends in well-appointed rooms along the bay.
Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa is an upscale, dog-friendly overnight option to the south, in the center of Sausalito. Many rooms overlook Richardson Bay. Closer to the Golden Gate Bridge’s north tower, Cavallo Point Lodge occupies a former military post with sprawling lawns and San Francisco skyline views.
