Dillon Beach is about 90 minutes north of San Francisco, tucked away in western Marin County. This low-key coastal village is a welcome break from city life—wide sandy beaches, ocean views that just keep going, and a vibe that feels like vintage California. Here, you can sunbathe, build sandcastles, surf, or just soak up the charm of a small town that hasn’t changed much in decades.
Founded in 1858 by George Dillon, the community blends natural beauty with a bit of quirky local character. The beach itself stretches for miles, so even on busy weekends, you’ll have space to spread out. Dillon Beach keeps a laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for day trips or a full weekend escape.
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It’s just 4 miles off Highway 1—easy to get to, but not so obvious that it gets overrun. The village offers basic amenities but still feels like a real small town. Whether you’re chasing waves, building sandcastles with the kids, or just want to catch a killer sunset, Dillon Beach delivers that classic Northern California coastal experience—minus the crowds.
Getting to Dillon Beach
Dillon Beach sits at Marin County’s far northwest edge, about an hour’s drive from San Francisco. Getting there takes a little planning, especially if you’re not driving.
Driving Directions and Parking
From San Francisco, hop on Highway 101 North to Petaluma, then follow D Street/Bodega Avenue west to Valley Ford Road. Keep going to Highway 1 north through Tomales. Turn west on Dillon Beach Road and follow it about 5 miles until you hit the coast.
Coming from the East Bay? Take I-580 west to Highway 101 North, then follow the same route. It’s usually 1.5 hours from San Francisco or Oakland, but, you know, traffic.
Parking in the private beach lot costs $10 per car. There’s some free street parking in the village, but it fills up fast on weekends and holidays. If you want to skip the parking fee, get there early—otherwise, just budget for it.
Public Transportation Options
Public transit to Dillon Beach is, well, sparse. Marin Transit runs a Dillon Beach/Tomales shuttle, but only on Wednesdays. It’s curb-to-curb service connecting Dillon Beach, Tomales, and Petaluma.
If you want to try it:
- Reserve your ride ahead of time
- Plan for a Wednesday trip
- If you’re coming from farther away, connect in Petaluma
Staying somewhere in West Marin? Taxis or rideshares might work, but don’t count on them always being around. Some local tours from Petaluma offer day trips, too.
If you’re starting in San Francisco, take Golden Gate Transit to Petaluma, then catch the Wednesday shuttle for the last stretch to Dillon Beach.
History and Overview of Dillon Beach
Dillon Beach has a history going back to the mid-1800s, with roots deep in California’s early coastal days. This small town sits where Tomales Bay meets the Pacific.
Local Heritage
George Dillon gave his name to the area after settling here in 1858. By 1888, he’d built a hotel from first-growth redwood, laying the groundwork for what’s now Dillon Beach Resort. The hotel was an early draw for tourists who wanted to see Marin’s wild coastline.
Today, the beach has both public access and a private resort area. That split has shaped how the place feels and develops. Dillon Beach still stands apart from California’s overbuilt coast, keeping its old-school character.
The town sits right at the junction of Tomales Bay and the Pacific—an unusual spot that’s definitely shaped its story.
Community and Culture
Dillon Beach still feels like a “hidden gem” on the California coast. The community is small, tight-knit, and manages to balance its own traditions with the steady trickle of visitors.
There’s a unique mix of natural beauty and local flavor here—if you’re after an authentic coastal experience, this is the place. It’s about 90 minutes north of San Francisco and feels a world away.
People call Dillon Beach a “vintage California beach village,” and honestly, that’s not just marketing. The community takes pride in keeping things simple and real.
Life moves slower here. Most days revolve around beach walks, surfing, and catching those sunsets over the Pacific. The locals love their spot in Far West Marin and it shows.
Top Attractions and Activities
Dillon Beach is all about outdoor adventures and low-key relaxation along Marin’s dramatic coastline. The wide sandy beach is the main draw, but there’s plenty nearby to explore.
Beach Adventures
Surfing’s a big deal here thanks to steady waves. Both beginners and old pros find something to like, and you can bring your own board or check with local shops for rentals.
At low tide, tidepooling is a must. The rocky spots fill with sea stars, anemones, and crabs. Just wear shoes with grip—the rocks get slick.
Beach walks? Endless. Collect shells, spot shorebirds, or just let the ocean breeze clear your head. The beach goes on for more than a mile, so you won’t run out of room.
Fishing is decent here, especially if you’re after surf perch or the occasional striped bass. You’ll need a California fishing license—don’t skip that part.
Picnicking and Scenic Spots
There are some pretty sweet picnic spots with killer views. The main beach area has a few tables, but they go fast on sunny weekends. Bring a blanket just in case.
Tomales Bay State Park, just up the road, offers more sheltered picnic tables under the trees—nice if the wind picks up.
If you’re into photography, check out the hilltop areas above Dillon Beach. Sunsets here are unreal, with the light bouncing off Tomales Bay.
Birdwatchers, bring your binoculars. Over 160 species have been spotted here—pelicans, cormorants, all sorts of shorebirds. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.
Outdoor Recreation
Dillon Beach keeps things interesting outdoors all year. You can get out on the water or hit the trails for some great views.
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Kayaking and Water Sports
The beach and nearby Tomales Bay are awesome for water sports. Surfing and boogie boarding are popular, and locals offer lessons if you’re new or want to find the best spots for the day’s tides.
Kayaking is especially nice over in Tomales Bay, where the water’s calmer and the paddling is peaceful. Several rental shops offer gear and guided tours—some even focus on wildlife spotting. Seals, birds, maybe a bat ray if you’re lucky.
Stand-up paddleboarding has caught on, too. Early mornings are usually the smoothest for paddling.
Fishing’s solid year-round. Locals go for rockfish, lingcod, and sometimes salmon, depending on the season.
Hiking and Nature Walks
The trails near Dillon Beach show off NorCal’s coastal scenery at its best. Point Reyes National Seashore is close by, with over 150 miles of trails through forests, beaches, and open grasslands.
Tomales Point Trail is a favorite—9.5 miles round-trip, with chances to see tule elk and some of the best ocean views around.
If you want something easier, several shorter trails near Dillon Beach wander along the bluffs. These are perfect for a quick morning walk, especially when the fog rolls in and turns everything dramatic.
Tomales Bay State Park has gentler trails through the woods, good for families. The 2-mile Johnstone Trail leads to quiet beaches and picnic areas.
Birders, keep those binoculars handy. Shorebirds and raptors are around most of the year.
Places to Stay in Dillon Beach
Dillon Beach has a handful of places to stay—from cozy cabins to roomy beach houses for groups or families.
Cabins and Cottages
Dillon Beach Resort is probably the most popular spot. They’ve got comfy cottages and tiny homes right by the water, with modern touches like flat-screen TVs and updated kitchens.
Most of the cottages have ocean views and easy beach access. Prices start around $350 a night, though it depends on season and size. The historic setting gives the place some extra charm.
If you want something simpler, check out the accommodations near Lawsons Landing. These cabins are more basic, focused on location over luxury. They book up fast in summer, so plan ahead if you want to snag one.
Vacation Rentals and Beach Houses
Need more space or privacy? There are plenty of vacation rentals and beach houses all over Dillon Beach. Options range from modest homes to big oceanfront places for families or groups.
Most houses have full kitchens, several bedrooms, and decks with ocean views. Prices vary a lot—smaller spots start at $200-300 a night.
Vacation rental sites list a ton of choices. The best ones are closest to the beach and have direct ocean views. If you want to visit during summer or a holiday, book months ahead.
Most rentals want a 2-3 night minimum, and weekly rates are usually a better deal if you’re staying longer.
Dining and Local Cuisine
For such a small town, Dillon Beach has a surprisingly solid food scene. You’ll find fresh seafood, casual bites, and some local flavors that really fit the Marin farm-to-table vibe.
Local Restaurants and Cafés
The food options punch above their weight here. If you’re up for a short drive, nearby Marshall is home to Hog Island Oyster Company—some of the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste, pulled right from Tomales Bay.
Nick’s Cove, also in Marshall, is a longtime favorite for waterfront dining and killer bay views. The menu leans coastal, with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The vibe is rustic-chic—good for a casual lunch or a special dinner.
If you’re craving baked goods, Wild Flour Bread in Freestone is worth the drive. They bake sourdoughs and pastries in a wood-fired oven. The scones and sticky buns? Unreal.
Coastal Kitchen
Dillon Beach Coastal Kitchen is the main restaurant in town, right at Dillon Beach Resort. The menu changes with the seasons and focuses on fresh, local ingredients.
Seafood is the star—fish tacos and clam chowder get a lot of love from both locals and visitors. The wine list features Sonoma and Napa bottles that pair well with the food.
The dining room has big ocean views, and if the weather’s nice, you can eat outside and take in the salty air. It’s a popular spot, so reservations are smart—especially on summer weekends or holidays.
Soft Serve and Snacks
If you’re after quick bites or treats, Dillon Beach has a few easy options. The Dillon Beach General Store is the main spot—it’s got the basics, plus ready-made sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Handy for tossing together a beach picnic without much fuss.
Locals rave about the store’s soft serve ice cream. On sunny afternoons, it’s not unusual to see folks wandering the beach with cones in hand. They stick to the classics—vanilla and chocolate—but sometimes mix things up with special flavors.
Beer fans, take note: you’ll find a rotating lineup of craft brews from Northern California breweries in the fridge. They also keep a small but well-chosen selection of Sonoma County wines.
If you’re up early, the store’s coffee bar serves solid drip coffee and espresso drinks. Grab one for the patio or take it down to the sand and catch the sunrise.
Dog-Friendly Experiences
Dillon Beach is one of Marin County’s most dog-friendly spots. Dogs can run off-leash on the sand while their owners soak up the coastal views.
Pet-Friendly Lodging
Traveling with your pup? Dillon Beach Resort makes it pretty easy. Their cabins and cottages let you bring dogs with just a few rules and a possible pet fee.
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Most cottages have fenced areas so dogs can hang out outside safely. You’ll get water bowls, waste bags, and treats when you check in.
Let staff know about your dog’s size and breed when you book, just to be sure you get the right setup. Some cottages even have direct paths to the beach—perfect for those early walks.
Outdoor Activities with Dogs
The beach is the main draw for dogs here, with a big stretch of sand for running and fetch—just make sure your dog listens to voice commands if you go off-leash. There’s plenty of room for exploring and playing. Nearby trails connect to the beach too.
If you’re checking out tide pools, keep your dog leashed to protect the critters.
A lot of local restaurants with patios are happy to have dogs. The Dillon Beach Coastal Kitchen, for example, has a dog-friendly spot outside and offers water bowls.
Don’t forget to pack:
- Extra towels for sandy paws
- Portable water bowls
- Waste bags
- A long leash for spots that require it
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
Dillon Beach works well as a launchpad for exploring the northern side of Marin County. Within an hour’s drive, you’ll find small towns, nature spots, and some fun surprises—cheese, wildlife, you name it.
Exploring Tomales and Petaluma
Ten minutes away, Tomales gives you a taste of rural coastal life. The William Tell House, Marin’s oldest saloon and hotel (since 1877), sits right in the middle of town. Tomales Bakery is a must for fresh bread and pastries.
Petaluma, about half an hour east, mixes old-school charm with modern flair. Downtown is packed with Victorian-era buildings, boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants.
History buffs might want to check out the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum. The river running through town adds a nice touch, and you’ll find riverfront dining and the occasional boat tour.
Breweries like Lagunitas Brewing Company offer tours and tastings if you’re into craft beer. On weekends, the Petaluma Farmers Market is full of local produce and artisanal eats.
Toluma Farms and Double 8 Dairy
Fifteen minutes from Dillon Beach, Toluma Farms in Tomales raises goats and sheep for their Tomales Farmstead Creamery cheeses. If you’re curious, book a tour to meet the animals and see how they do sustainable farming.
Try their Teleeka (a blend of sheep, goat, and cow milk) or Liwa (goat cheese). The farm store does tastings and sells fresh cheese from Thursday to Sunday.
Double 8 Dairy, based in Valley Ford, focuses on water buffalo milk products—especially their gelato and yogurt. Their small herd grazes on organic pastures, and the gelato comes in flavors like strawberry balsamic or honey lavender.
You’ll find Double 8 at local farmers’ markets, or you can set up a visit. Both farms show just how much this area values sustainable agriculture and really good food.
Point Reyes National Seashore Highlights
About 30 minutes south, Point Reyes National Seashore sprawls over 71,000 acres of protected coastline and wild land. Start at the Bear Valley Visitor Center for maps and advice.
The famous Point Reyes Lighthouse sits at the end of 308 steps, but the ocean views are worth it—unless the fog rolls in, which it often does.
At Tomales Point, you might spot tule elk herds along a 4.7-mile trail with sweeping views of the Pacific and Tomales Bay. Spring brings wildflowers to the coastal bluffs.
Drake’s Beach has dramatic white cliffs and a wide stretch of sand for beachcombing. The Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center has info on Sir Francis Drake’s landing.
If you’re into wildlife, head to Chimney Rock from December to March to watch elephant seals. Whale watching peaks January through April, when gray whales pass by the headlands.
Shopping and Essentials
Dillon Beach makes shopping easy, whether you’re after basics or something special to bring home. The vibe is practical but charming, and you’ll see a focus on local goods.
General Store
The Dillon Beach General Store is the go-to for groceries, snacks, and everyday items. It’s inside the Dillon Beach Resort and stays pretty well stocked.
You’ll find high-quality food—think fancy cheeses, local salamis, and all the makings for s’mores. The drink selection is surprisingly solid, with local wines, craft beers, and some top-shelf liquor that shows off Marin’s foodie side.
They also carry beach gear, sunscreen, and those little things you might’ve forgotten. Store hours usually match up with beach traffic, but it’s smart to check ahead just in case.
Local Artisan Products
Looking for something unique? Dillon Beach and the nearby communities have plenty of locally made goods. Two Silos Mercantile, which gets great reviews, highlights handcrafted items from local makers.
You might come across:
- Jewelry inspired by the coast
- Honey and preserves from Marin farms
- Soaps and candles made with real ingredients
- Beachy art and photography
- Handwoven throws and pillows
A lot of the merchandise changes with the seasons, so you never really know what you’ll find next time. Buying here supports small businesses and celebrates the area’s natural beauty.
For more shopping, you could head to Tomales or Point Reyes Station—both have extra boutiques and specialty stores.
Travel Tips and Best Times to Visit
Timing your trip to Dillon Beach can really shape your experience. The weather and crowds shift throughout the year, and that impacts everything from your budget to what you’ll do.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May) brings mild weather—usually 55-65°F—and is great for hiking or just hanging out on the beach. Plus, you might spot whales offshore.
Summer (June-August) is the busiest. Days are warmest (65-75°F) and the skies are usually clear. It does get crowded, especially on weekends, so book your place early.
Fall (September-November) is a sweet spot: nice weather, fewer people, and the ocean’s still warm enough for a dip. Hiking trails are quieter, too.
Winter (December-February) is the slow season. It’s cooler (45-55°F), but storm watching can be dramatic, and you’ll score the lowest lodging rates.
If you can swing a weekday visit, do it. Showing up early helps with parking and gives you more time to enjoy the beach.
What to Pack for Dillon Beach
Layered clothing—trust me, you’ll need it no matter the season. Mornings can be foggy and chilly, even in July, and weather flips on a dime at the coast.
Beach essentials:
- Sunscreen (clouds won’t save you)
- Blanket and comfy chairs
- Windbreaker or a light jacket
- Hat, sunglasses—whatever keeps the glare down
- Water bottles and snacks (because local food options can be limited)
For comfort and safety:
- Sturdy shoes for exploring or tide pooling
- Binoculars if you’re into spotting wildlife
- Flashlight, especially if you’re hanging around for sunset
- Some cash—lots of small businesses here still don’t take cards
Swimming? Grab a wetsuit, unless you’re one of those brave souls who doesn’t mind 58-degree water. Winter trips call for rain gear and extra layers. And honestly, a thermos of something hot makes those brisk beach walks way better.
Oh, and bring a reusable bag for shopping in West Marin—plastic bags are basically extinct in Marin County.
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