Want somewhat escape that feels worlds away—however nonetheless completely doable in a weekend? Let me introduce you to one in every of my favourite Northern California locations: Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore. It’s not removed from my home, so I’ve spent many afternoons and days exploring the realm—and I nonetheless discover new issues to like each time I’m going.
The realm stretches from Inverness to Bolinas, and has somewhat little bit of all the pieces—seashores, wild elk, cute little cities, unbelievable hikes, and a few significantly scrumptious seafood. This information will assist you to profit from 48-hours in Level Reyes. I’ve packed it with my favourite issues to do: the place to eat, what to see, and even a couple of “don’t miss this!” detours, so you can also make the proper itinerary.
➞ Should you’re quick on time, take a look at my itinerary for the good day journey to Level Reyes, California.
The place to Keep
Nick’s Cove
Should you’re into cozy, rustic attraction with a waterfront view, Nick’s Cove is your home. Their lovely cottages sit proper on the sting of Tomales Bay and their scrumptious restaurant is simply steps away.
Olema Home at Level Reyes
Olema Home is a boutique inn tucked into the little city of Olema, and each one in every of its 24 rooms is uniquely adorned—suppose a mixture of Americana attraction meets fashionable stylish. The grounds are stunning, with backyard paths, lawns, and comfortable Adirondack chairs good for sipping a glass of wine after a day of exploring.
And so they’ve acquired an on-site restaurant, Due West, plus a cute little market subsequent door if you wish to refill on snacks in your subsequent hike.
Windsong Visitor Yurt
Should you on the lookout for a singular bucket record expertise, then take a look at the Windsong Visitor Yurt simply exterior Level Reyes Station. This fancy rounded tent is equal components cozy, peaceable, and somewhat bit magical. Tucked down a quiet nation street, this rustic-meets-modern retreat provides wildlife views (like deer and jack rabbits!), starlit soaks within the outside scorching tub, and a breakfast basket delivered by the sweetest hosts.
What to Do in Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
Kayak Tomales Bay
Should you like being on the water, then kayaking in Tomales Bay is the journey to place on the prime of your record. Through the day, you’ll paddle previous rugged shoreline, peaceable coves, and possibly spot seals or seabirds. However should you’re feeling somewhat extra daring, go at evening—that’s when the bioluminescence within the water create the final word gentle present.
For leases or guided excursions (which I extremely suggest), take a look at Blue Waters Kayaking or Tomales Bay Expeditions.
Mead Tasting at Heidrun Meadery
Heidrun Meadery is a kind of charming spots the place a fast cease can simply flip into a complete afternoon. This flower-filled meadery serves up honey-based glowing wine (aka mead—wine’s quirky, scrumptious cousin) in a laid-back setting with picnic tables and winery views.
Sip a glass or pattern a flight, and should you’re there on a Saturday, don’t miss the behind-the-scenes tour.
Go to the Level Reyes Lighthouse
Okay, lighthouse lovers—this one’s for you. The Level Reyes Lighthouse is perched on a cliff at what appears like the sting of the earth. On a transparent day, the views are out-of-this-world, however honest warning, Level Reyes is thought for its fog and wind—examine the climate earlier than heading out!
The trail to the primary overlook is a brief stroll, however should you’re up for it, descend the 313 stairs to the lighthouse itself. (Yup, that additionally means 313 again up—your calves will really feel it, however the views are value each step.)
➞ Try my Instagram Reel for the Level Reyes Lighthouse:
➞ Tip: Should you go to the lighthouse, then make a pitstop on the best way to the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Inverness. This towering cover of cypress bushes appears to be like straight out of a fairytale!
Discover Downtown Level Reyes Station
Downtown Level Reyes Station is tiny however stuffed with attraction. Cease by Toby’s Feed Barn, a cool mixture of farm retailer, espresso store, and native artwork house. Then head to Cowgirl Barn Store for the cheese of your desires (plus crackers, jams, and picnic-perfect snacks).
For somewhat buying repair, pop into Vita Collage—I needed all the pieces in there, from handmade jewellery to boho house decor.
Go for a Hike
With over 150 miles of trails, it’d be a disgrace to not hike in Level Reyes. However, it’s additionally comprehensible should you don’t wish to waste a full day of you weekend mountaineering.
Listed below are a couple of of my favourite trails which can be all below 3 miles:
- Kehoe Seaside Path (1.8 miles round-trip): A flat, scenic stroll by way of wildflowers and marshland that ends at a large, usually empty seashore.
- Chimney Rock Path (1.75 miles round-trip): Simply 5 minutes from the Level Reyes Lighthouse, this quick and beautiful hike is very nice in spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom and elephant seals lounge under.
- Earthquake Path (0.6 miles): A fast, simple loop with informative indicators concerning the San Andreas Fault and the 1906 earthquake.
Considered one of my favourite methods to spend a day? Selecting up a sandwich and a few native cheese from Cowgirl Creamery’s Barn Store, then heading to Kehoe Seaside for a laid-back picnic hike. It’s simple and delightful!
Go Wine Tasting
Mead isn’t the one sip-worthy factor round right here. Should you’re extra into wine (like me), you’re in luck. Native faves embody Level Reyes Vineyards, Sonoma Coast Vineyards, and Moreover Wines—all with nice pours and lovely views.
Cheese Tasting at Level Reyes Farmstead
Calling all cheese lovers (aka me), Level Reyes Farmstead provides cheese tastings from spring by way of September the place you’ll sit all the way down to a curated board loaded with native cheeses and seasonal bites. The Quinta is my private favourite—smooth, creamy, and ideal with a glass of wine.
Their on-site kitchen, The Fork, additionally serves up some yummy consolation meals—like their Mac and Cheese. And when you have room, seize one in every of their house-made ice cream sandwiches.
➞ Need much more superior actions? Try my full publish: Greatest Issues to Do in Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
Greatest Locations to Eat
Hog Island Oyster Farm
Hog Island sits proper on the sting of Tomales Bay, serving up a number of the freshest oysters you’ll in all probability ever slurp. Their “oysters of the day” (mine have been the Hog Island Sweetwaters) are at all times a protected wager, however please don’t skip the grilled oysters with chipotle bourbon butter.
All the things—from the bread to the cheese—is regionally sourced, and the bayside seating? Completely dreamy for a sunny lunch.
➞ Tip: Thursdays are walk-in solely and method much less crowded. Every other day? You’ll wish to make a reservation.
Nick’s Cove
Nick’s Cove restaurant is a vibe—like if a comfy old-school roadhouse met fashionable coastal cool. It’s been round perpetually, and not too long ago, “Prime Chef Masters” winner Chris Cosentino sprinkled his magic on the menu. You’ll discover New England-inspired seafood dishes (his roots are in Rhode Island), like cioppino and fish & chips—but in addition enjoyable surprises like “Fries with Eyes” (yep, entire fried smelt—and yep, they’re good).
Cafe Reyes
Good day, wood-fired pizza yummyness! Cafe Reyes is cozy, rustic, and stuffed with small-town attraction. Their wood-fired pizzas have cute native names (just like the Miwok, which we liked—it had salami, olives, and gooey mozzarella), and you may completely add oysters or a recent mozzarella salad on the aspect should you’re feeling fancy.
The barn-like vibe and stacks of firewood simply add to the attraction, and if the solar’s out? Seize a desk on the patio.
Facet Avenue Kitchen
If consolation meals and farm-to-table cooking had a child, it could be Facet Avenue Kitchen. Hidden on—you guessed it—somewhat aspect road in Level Reyes Station, this spot is all about soul-warming meals made with native love. Their rotisserie hen? Juicy and filled with taste. The mac & cheese and crispy Brussels sprouts are additionally scrumptious.
In addition they do sandwiches (attempt the rotisserie tri-tip with wild arugula!) and recent, wholesome bowls should you’re within the temper for one thing lighter.
Brickmaiden Breads
This tiny, tucked-away bakery is a neighborhood secret and smells like heaven as quickly as you stroll up. I normally seize a ginger scone (completely spicy!) and might’t resist snagging a loaf of their seeded levain to convey house. Their little backyard seating space is peaceable and charming—good for sipping espresso, nibbling on pastry, and pretending you’re in a European backyard.
➞ Need much more scrumptious locations to eat in Level Reyes? Try my full foodie information right here: Greatest Level Reyes Eating places and watch my Level Reyes Eating places video:
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Guide Your Flight
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Guide Some Enjoyable Excursions!
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*Lastly, examine journey.state.gov for visa necessities and security info.
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