Inverness, California sits along the edge of Tomales Bay and, honestly, it’s kind of a dream if you’re looking for a place to stay near the coast. There’s a mix of waterfront resorts, classic motels, and those quirky vacation cottages that make you want to stay forever. You get easy access to Point Reyes National Seashore and a bunch of other natural attractions.
Whether you want a basic motel or a tricked-out vacation home, Inverness covers the spread—from about $76 a night for the simplest digs up to $239 or more for something fancier. You’ll spot names like Tomales Bay Resort & Marina, Cottages at Point Reyes Seashore, and Motel Inverness, along with a ton of rentals with kitchens, wifi, balconies, and all that good stuff. It’s a solid launchpad for hikes, beach days, and maybe a little wildlife spotting if you’re lucky.
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Tomales Bay Resort & Marina
Tomales Bay Resort & Marina is the only place you’ll find right on Tomales Bay inside Point Reyes National Seashore. This waterfront property has a Cape Cod vibe that actually feels at home here.
You’ll get a range of room types at this family-owned resort, all with Wi-Fi. There’s a swimming pool and a boat launch marina, so if you’ve been dreaming about paddling or fishing, you’re set.
It’s a great spot to explore Point Reyes. Canoes and kayaks are available right there, and if you’re planning a wedding or a work retreat for some reason, they can host that too.
Tomales Bay Resort aims for warm hospitality, whether you’re escaping for a quiet weekend or showing the kids around. Being right on the bay means you can just wander outside and soak up the natural beauty without much effort.
Rating: 4.4 (306 reviews)
Location: 12938 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Inverness, CA 94937
Contact: (415) 669-1389
Website: Visit Website
Olema House at Point Reyes
Olema House is a peaceful retreat just an hour north of San Francisco. This hotel sits right at the edge of Point Reyes National Seashore—perfect if you want to get out and explore West Marin’s wild coast.
The place mixes urban style with a laid-back, bohemian vibe. The rooms are comfy and give you a quiet escape from city life. Private patios and the big lawn overlooking Olema Creek are guest favorites for unwinding.
Due West Tavern, right next door, dishes up fresh, local food. The attached Due West Market has all the picnic stuff you might need—sandwiches, salads, baked goods, you name it.
Throughout the year, Olema House hosts everything from live music under the redwoods to cozy fireside gatherings. Their “Love to the Locals” menu is worth checking out if you want coastal comfort food at a fair price.
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 sits along the rugged Northern California coast, about two hours from San Francisco. This oceanfront spot blends comfort with coastal style in a pretty secluded setting.
The resort has places that sleep 2-6 people. Ocean view rooms start at $399 a night, and non-view rooms begin at $199. Each space is designed to show off the coastline’s natural beauty.
Grab a bite at the Coastal Kitchen restaurant, which focuses on local, seasonal food from Marin and Sonoma. There’s also a General Store and Surf Shop for coffee, baked treats, and beach basics.
Here, you can hang out on the private beach, hike, or rent surfboards and wetsuits. The resort is also popular for weddings, company events, and family reunions.
Rating: 4.6 (1022 reviews)
Location: 1 Beach Ave, Dillon Beach, CA 94929
Contact: (707) 878-3030
Website: Visit Website
Lodge at Marconi
Lodge at Marconi is tucked away on Tomales Bay, just an hour north of San Francisco, and sits inside a 62-acre historic state park. It’s got a great mix of natural beauty and modern comfort.
There’s plenty to keep you busy here—hiking trails, volleyball and basketball courts, even horseshoe pits. Bird-watching and fishing in Tomales Bay are also favorites for visitors.
The lodge works well for special events, too. With fast WiFi, lots of parking, and dog-friendly rooms, it covers most basics. Their market and pantry are handy for picking up essentials without leaving the property.
If you want a getaway that feels both coastal and close to nature, Lodge at Marconi delivers a unique experience. The peaceful setting is great for relaxing or getting outdoors in West Marin.
Rating: 4.4 (101 reviews)
Location: 18500 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940
Contact: (415) 663-9020
Website: Visit Website
Limantour Lodge
Limantour Lodge is the only place to stay right inside Point Reyes National Seashore. This hostel offers simple dorm rooms and private rooms for folks who want a quiet retreat in the middle of nature.
The lodge keeps things practical and a bit rustic. There’s a guest kitchen for making your own meals, and the lounges are comfy for relaxing or chatting with other travelers.
Staying at Limantour Lodge puts you in a prime spot to explore the amazing scenery of Point Reyes. It’s a peaceful place to unplug and soak in the natural beauty of Northern California’s coast.
The outdoor patio is perfect for fresh air and quiet time. If you want luxury, look elsewhere—this is all about a genuine Point Reyes experience, not fancy extras.
Rating: 4.8 (196 reviews)
Location: 1390 Limantour Spit Rd, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Contact: (415) 663-8811
Website: Visit Website
Choosing the Right Accommodation in Inverness
Finding the right place to stay in Inverness depends on what you want and where you want to be. Your choice really does shape your Point Reyes experience.
Understanding the Different Types of Stays
Inverness has a few main styles of places to stay. Hotels give you comfort and things like daily housekeeping and a front desk. Prices usually start around $239 a night, at least from what I’ve seen lately.
Bed and Breakfasts add a personal touch—think home-cooked breakfasts and local tips from your hosts. They’re cozy in a way hotels just can’t quite match. Most Inverness B&Bs start at $151 a night.
Vacation rentals offer more space and privacy. These places have kitchens and living rooms, so they’re great for families or longer stays.
Location Considerations for Travelers
Where you stay in Inverness really changes your trip. Downtown puts you close to restaurants and shops, but these spots fill up fast in busy seasons.
Staying along Tomales Bay? You’ll get gorgeous water views and a peaceful vibe. Watching the morning fog drift across the bay from your window—honestly, it’s pretty magical.
If hiking and beaches are your focus, look for places on the west side of town. You’ll be closer to trailheads and the shore.
For summer and fall weekends, definitely book 3-4 months ahead. Winter’s quieter, with better rates, but keep in mind some restaurants cut back their hours.
What to Expect from Inverness Hospitality
Inverness offers unique lodging focused on scenery, comfort, and location. Most places give you views of Tomales Bay or Point Reyes, emphasizing peace and quiet over fancy resort perks.
Typical Amenities and Services
You’ll usually get comfy beds and decor that matches the area’s natural vibe. Many rentals and cottages have full kitchens—handy if you want to cook with local ingredients.
Fireplaces are common, giving you cozy warmth on foggy nights. Free WiFi is the norm, but don’t expect blazing speeds everywhere—it’s a rural area, after all.
Forget room service or big hotel restaurants. Instead, you’ll find thoughtful touches like:
- Guidebooks and hiking maps
- Bird-watching guides and binoculars
- Basic stuff for morning coffee or tea
- Tips for nearby restaurants and markets
Some places have saltwater pools, and others offer direct water access for kayaking or wildlife spotting.
Seasonal Trends and Availability
Summer and fall weekends draw the biggest crowds, especially around holidays. If you want your pick of places, it’s smart to book 3-6 months in advance during these busy stretches.
Winter’s a different story—more open rooms, cheaper prices, and honestly, a whole new vibe. Some spots do close for maintenance, though. You’ll find quieter trails, different wildlife, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to beat if you’re into that.
Midweek? Way easier to snag a room, and you might score a deal. Just about everywhere expects at least a two-night stay on weekends, so plan for that.
Weather shapes the whole experience, for better or worse:
- Summer: Foggy mornings that usually burn off, then sun in the afternoons
- Fall: Clear, warm days—arguably the best for wildlife watching
- Winter: Rainy, sometimes wild storms (could be a plus if you like drama)
- Spring: Wildflowers everywhere, but the weather can’t make up its mind
Most places are run by families, not big chains. They’ll often work with you on special requests if you ask ahead—worth a shot, right?
Tips for Booking Your Stay
Honestly, finding the right spot in Inverness takes a little planning, especially if you’re picky. Booking early and knowing what will keep your group happy can save a lot of hassle.
Best Times to Reserve
Summer and fall weekends? They book up fast—sometimes 3-6 months out. If you want to visit in July or August, think about reserving by January or February. Winter is less busy and you’ll see lower rates, sometimes with 20-30% discounts.
Mid-week stays (Monday-Thursday) are usually easier to snag last minute and can be cheaper. A lot of vacation rentals require at least two nights, and some bump it to three during busy months.
VRBO and Expedia add new listings all the time, so it’s worth checking back. Some places also offer deals for longer stays, especially if you’re coming in the off-season (November-March).
What to Consider for Families and Groups
Traveling with family or friends? Filters on booking sites can help you zero in on places that actually fit your needs. Here’s what I’d keep an eye out for:
- Pet policies: Plenty of Inverness rentals say yes to pets, though you’ll usually pay an extra fee ($25-50 per night, give or take).
- Number of bedrooms: If you’ve got a family, 2-3 bedroom cottages just make life easier.
- Kitchen access: A full kitchen can save you a small fortune compared to eating out every meal.
- Location: Waterfront spots look fantastic, but brace yourself—they tend to cost more.
Beach cottages like Dancing Coyote Beach Cottages seem to be a family favorite (4.6/5 stars, not too shabby). If you’re rolling in with a big group, you could book a few units at the same place—everyone gets some space but you’re still together.
One thing I sometimes forget: accessibility. If you’re traveling with older folks, check if there are stairs or uneven ground. A lot of the historic places have quirks that aren’t exactly friendly to everyone.
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
