As another year closes in Marin County, nature isn’t taking a break. Dramatic winter skies, powerful tides, and wandering wildlife are just getting started.
December’s final days and January’s first weeks bring a wild, unpredictable window into the seasonal rhythms of our coast, creeks, and forests. Folks in San Rafael, Mill Valley, Novato, and beyond can expect winter to settle in with plenty of surprises across West Marin and the Bay shoreline.
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Celestial Events Signal a Powerful Start to January
Most meteor showers have wrapped up for the year, but stargazers in Fairfax, Corte Madera, and Sausalito still have something to look forward to. The Quadrantids meteor shower peaks on January 3, with quick and often bright bursts streaking across the night.
This year, the show lines up with a full moon happening that same evening. Not bad timing if you’re into sky watching.
The “Hard Moon” and Supermoon Tides
January’s full moon, called the Hard Moon by the Dakota people, marks a time when winter’s at its roughest. This one’s also a supermoon, so it’ll look bigger and brighter than usual as it swings closer to Earth.
Along Marin’s coast—from Stinson Beach to Bolinas—the supermoon will push up especially high morning tides, sometimes reaching six to seven feet. If you’re in low-lying spots near Tiburon, Belvedere, or Point Reyes Station, it’s worth paying attention to the tides before heading out for a beach walk or any waterfront plans.
Whales and Seals Define Winter Along the Marin Coast
Winter’s a prime time for marine wildlife watching in Marin County. Locals and visitors flock to ocean overlooks and sandy beaches, hoping for a glimpse of something remarkable.
Gray Whale Migration in Full Swing
Gray whales are deep into their long winter migration, gliding past the Marin Headlands, Muir Beach, and Point Reyes National Seashore. These huge mammals head south toward their breeding grounds, so December and January are the best months for sightings from coastal trails.
On New Year’s Day, park roads and trails stay open, and you’ll spot red-vested winter wildlife docents on local beaches. They’re there to answer questions and help folks spot whales—always a bonus.
Elephant Seals Haul Out Locally
Northern elephant seals are showing up too, hauling out on Marin beaches to rest and breed. If you’re exploring near Drake’s Beach or Chimney Rock, you might run into these impressive animals.
Just remember to keep a respectful distance. They’re big, and honestly, they need the space.
Rainy Season Brings Life Back to Marin’s Creeks
Seasonal rains are waking up inland ecosystems from Novato to Woodacre. These wet weeks create perfect conditions for fish and amphibians to start moving again.
Salmon and Steelhead Return to Lagunitas Creek
Rainy season flows bring back coho salmon and steelhead trout in Tomales Bay. These fish wait for heavy rains before swimming upstream into their home waters of Lagunitas Creek to spawn.
Once they arrive, they build rock nests called redds, where eggs settle in and the next generation gets its start.
Newts on the Move: Watch Your Step
California newts are on the move too. You’ll spot their reddish-brown backs and bright orange bellies as they migrate from upland spots to their natal ponds to lay eggs.
Because newts cross roads and trails during this season, hikers in places like Lucas Valley, Samuel P. Taylor State Park, and Marinwood should watch their step. It’s a small thing, but it helps protect these little travelers.
Celebrate the New Year Outdoors
Park roads and trails stay open on New Year’s Day, so Marin County feels wide open for adventure. You’ll find plenty of ways to experience these seasonal wonders up close.
Maybe you’ll watch whales near Sausalito. Or wander along creeks in San Anselmo.
Some folks might just want a winter hike near Novato. Nature doesn’t really slow down for winter—it’s alive with activity, even now.
Here is the source article for this story: Nature Notebook, December 30, 2025
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