Thinking about staying in Bolinas, California? This little coastal town has a handful of hotels and plenty of vacation rentals if you want to soak up the scenery. You’ll find everything from old-school spots like Smiley’s Schooner Saloon & Hotel to quirky private homes on Vrbo and Airbnb—honestly, there’s no shortage of choices.
Bolinas offers more than 500 vacation rental properties, so it’s easy to find a spot that feels like home. Whether you’re after hotel perks or the extra space of a house, you’ll find options for most budgets and travel vibes. The range goes from simple rooms to entire homes, all set up for exploring this mellow stretch of California coast.
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Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Smiley’s Saloon, Hotel & Kitchen
Smiley’s Saloon, Hotel & Kitchen might just be the oldest saloon still running on the West Coast—it’s been around since 1851. After a big restoration in 2020, it kept its historic charm but feels fresh and welcoming.
There are six simple rooms here, no TVs, so it’s a real break from the usual grind. You can walk to the beach, grab a drink at the bar, or wander into their on-site restaurant—it’s all close by.
The kitchen serves up coastal cantina fare with a mix of Mexican flavors and local West Marin ingredients. Honestly, the menu works whether you’re sipping mezcal at the bar or taking something back to your room.
Live music is a big deal here. Smiley’s regularly hosts performances with local and touring artists, and the cozy venue makes for memorable nights you won’t get at some giant concert hall.
Rating: 4.6 (247 reviews)
Location: 41 Wharf Rd, Bolinas, CA 94924
Contact: (415) 868-1311
Website: Visit Website
Olema House at Point Reyes
Olema House sits about an hour north of San Francisco, right on the edge of Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s got this mix of city polish and countryside warmth—pretty much perfect if you want to jump into West Marin’s wild coastline but still have a cozy spot to come back to.
This place is a solid launchpad for outdoor stuff. Hiking, biking, kayaking, birdwatching—take your pick. Or honestly, just chill out on your patio and watch Olema Creek drift by the big lawn.
Right next door, the Due West Tavern serves up local eats and drinks in a cool old 1865 building. If you’re in the mood for a picnic, hit up the Due West Market for sandwiches and snacks before you head out exploring.
Perks include free breakfast and Wi-Fi, plus a few fun extras like live music under the redwoods and fireside hangouts. They run a “Love to the Locals” weeknight dinner special—comfort food and wine for $29.95, which is honestly a pretty sweet deal in this area.
Rating: 4.5 (283 reviews)
Location: 10021 Coastal Highway #1, Olema, CA 94950
Contact: (415) 663-9000
Website: Visit Website
Dillon Beach Resort
Dillon Beach Resort is a laid-back coastal spot with historic buildings and private beach access. You’re right by the ocean, and the vibe is relaxed, with a nod to the past but plenty of modern touches.
Rooms come with private bathrooms and kitchenettes—super handy if you want to keep things simple. WiFi is free everywhere, so you won’t be totally off the grid unless you want to be. Some rooms have really nice views of the dunes and water.
The on-site restaurant covers lunch and dinner, and they’re good about dietary stuff—vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, whatever you need. After eating, you can hang out by the outdoor fireplace. It’s a nice way to wrap up a beach day.
There’s plenty to do: beach walks, hiking, or just sitting outside and soaking in the scenery. Free parking makes it easy to check out the rest of West Marin or head over to Point Reyes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Rating: 4.3 (11 reviews)
Location: 25 Park Ave, Dillon Beach, CA 94929
Contact: (415) 609-4041
Website: Visit Website
Lodge at Marconi
The Lodge at Marconi is a mellow retreat not far from Bolinas, tucked inside a historic building. It’s got a bit of that rustic vibe, but with all the basics covered—think microwaves, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi, so you’re comfortable but not fussed over.
What’s cool about this place? It’s kind of a gateway to all the outdoor fun in Marin. You can hit the trails, find a beach, or just use it as a home base for day trips to Bolinas and other little towns along the coast.
The atmosphere here is low-key, so it’s easy to unwind after a day out. If you want to bounce between the coast and inland Marin without a lot of hassle, the location works out nicely.
Rating: 4.6 (324 reviews)
Location: 1735 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 578-2827
Website: Visit Website
Bodega Bay Inn
The Bodega Coast Inn & Suites is a straightforward spot on the Sonoma Coast—no frills, just comfortable rooms with balconies or patios so you can actually enjoy the sea air. It’s quiet and easygoing, which is honestly what you want after a day out exploring.
You get free Wi-Fi and a simple continental breakfast, so mornings are painless. The place isn’t fancy, but it does the job—clean, comfortable, and well-priced for the area.
The hotel also hosts events and weddings, so don’t be surprised if you see a celebration or two. It’s right on Coast Highway 1, which means you can branch out and check out Bodega Bay or even use it as a base for exploring the wider region. Sure, it’s not in Bolinas, but it’s a decent option if you’re open to a little drive.
Rating: 4 (336 reviews)
Location: 521 Coast Highway #1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Contact: (619) 658-0104
Website: Visit Website
Local Neighborhoods Near Bolinas
Bolinas is surrounded by several unique little towns and neighborhoods, each with its own personality. If you’re looking for places to stay outside the main village, you’ve got options.
Overview of Nearby Communities
Stinson Beach, just south of Bolinas across the lagoon, is a bit more built up. There are more places to stay and a beach that draws a crowd in summer. Vacation rentals here run from beachfront cottages to hillside homes with killer ocean views.
Point Reyes Station, about 15 minutes northeast, is a small gateway town for Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s got a handful of B&Bs, inns, and rentals, plus some cool galleries, shops, and food spots.
Olema is tiny and quieter, but it’s right near the park entrances—super convenient if you want to get an early start on hiking or exploring.
Inverness hugs the west shore of Tomales Bay. It’s woodsy and peaceful, with rentals tucked into the trees and bay views that are pretty hard to beat.
Mill Valley and Muir Woods are farther south (about 30-40 minutes), but you’ll find more hotels there and it’s an easy jump to San Francisco—still doable for day trips to Bolinas if you don’t mind the drive.
Travel Tips for Booking Hotels and Vacation Rentals
Getting the right spot in Bolinas takes a little planning. It’s a small coastal town, so choices are limited, but if you book ahead, you’ll find some gems.
Best Times to Reserve Accommodations
If you’re aiming for summer (June through August), try to lock in your place 3-4 months ahead—especially for weekends. Things fill up fast once the weather warms up. Winter is quieter; you can usually book a month or two out and still get a good spot.
Holiday weekends? Plan way ahead—like six months or more. Most vacation rentals want at least a 2-3 night stay, especially in peak season.
For better rates, go mid-week or visit during spring or fall (April-May or September-October). You’ll get nice weather, fewer crowds, and maybe even a deal or two.
Set up price alerts on sites like KAYAK or Expedia—sometimes you catch a break. Expect to pay anywhere from $147 a night for something basic to $300+ if you want something fancier or right on the water.
What to Look for in Property Amenities
Pick a rental with heating—Bolinas evenings get chilly, even when it’s technically summer. Ocean-facing spots usually toss in outdoor decks or patios, and honestly, soaking up that coastal view never gets old.
It’s worth checking if you’ll get:
- Kitchen access (cooking at home beats eating out every meal)
- Parking (Bolinas doesn’t exactly overflow with spaces)
- Wi-Fi reliability (some areas just don’t get good signal, no matter what anyone says)
- Beach access (some places are steps from the sand, others… not so much)
- Laundry facilities (a must if you’re staying more than a weekend, in my book)
Think hard about location. Rentals right by Bolinas Beach are super convenient but can get a bit noisy. Go further inland and you’ll probably find more peace and privacy.
Most Bolinas rentals have their own quirks and charm, but don’t expect a fancy hotel vibe. If you absolutely need something—like a ramp for accessibility or solid air conditioning—ask the host before you book. Better safe than sorry, right?
Location Insights for Bolinas Stays
Where you stay in Bolinas can really shape your trip. The town’s geography and limited transport options mean you’ll want to plan ahead, especially since Bolinas is a bit of a hidden spot in Marin County.
Proximity to Bolinas Beach and Lagoon
Bolinas has two main draws: the beach and the lagoon. If you book a place near Bolinas Beach, you’ll have quick access to surfing, beach walks, and those killer sunsets. These spots usually cost a bit more, but honestly, waking up to the sound of waves is hard to beat.
On the other hand, properties by Bolinas Lagoon feel quieter—great for birdwatching or kayaking. They tend to be more private, tucked into nature.
Most rentals are within a 10-15 minute walk of the beach or lagoon. If you stay downtown, you’re close to the handful of shops and restaurants, but still not far from the water.
Transportation and Accessibility
Bolinas isn’t marked from Highway 1—on purpose, really—so it can be tricky to find. That’s part of the appeal, but it does mean you’ll need to plan. Nearly everyone drives in, since public transit is pretty much nonexistent.
It’s about 30 miles north of San Francisco, and the drive is beautiful but winding—figure on an hour, maybe a bit longer if traffic or weather isn’t on your side.
Once you’re in town, you can walk to most places from central accommodations. Some rentals even have bikes for guests, which is a fun way to see the area.
Parking can be a headache, especially on summer weekends or holidays. If your place doesn’t have its own parking, it’s smart to ask the host for tips before you arrive.
Local Highlights and Experiences
Bolinas has a mix of wild nature and small-town quirkiness. You get outdoor adventures, but also some surprisingly good local food and a laid-back, creative vibe.
Dining and Grocery Options
The Coast Cafe serves up fresh seafood and California classics with a view of the ocean. It’s a favorite, and their daily specials often use whatever’s in season from local farms. Most plates run $15-25.
Bolinas People’s Store is small but has a solid selection of organics and basics. If you’re into coffee, Commonweal Garden Cafe does organic brews and homemade pastries in a garden setting.
For something quick, Bolinas Market makes good sandwiches—perfect for a beach picnic.
If you’re up for a short drive (15-20 minutes), Stinson Beach and Point Reyes have more dining options. Just a heads up: most Bolinas restaurants close early, usually around 8pm, so plan your meals accordingly.
Outdoor Activities Nearby
Bolinas Beach has gentle waves—great for beginner surfers. You can grab a board from the local surf shop for about $25-40 a day, which feels fair enough for a few hours on the water.
Bolinas Lagoon is a real treat if you’re into bird watching. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for herons, egrets, and whatever migratory shorebirds happen to be passing through. Early morning is usually your best bet, though sometimes you’ll get lucky later in the day.
If you’re itching to hike, you’ve got a few solid options:
- Palomarin Trail (4.5 miles): This one takes you to Bass Lake and Alamere Falls. It’s not too tough, but bring some water.
- Bolinas Ridge Trail (10.5 miles): Expect mountain views and wildflowers if you catch it in spring. It’s a bit of a trek, but worth it.
- Agate Beach County Park: Perfect for poking around tide pools and wandering the shoreline. Great place to kill an hour or two.
Kayaking on the lagoon gets pretty popular when the tides cooperate. Some local outfitters offer guided tours (usually $65-95), or you can just rent a kayak for about $40 for a half-day and do your own thing. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.
And hey, if you’re up for a little drive, Point Reyes National Seashore is just north. Tons of trails, wildlife, and some historic spots if you’re into that sort of thing. Honestly, it’s worth a day trip.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
