Nestled in Marin County, Novato has this great mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm—perfect if you’re after an authentic Northern California experience. The city blends natural beauty with family-friendly activities, so whether you’re an active explorer or just want a relaxed getaway, you’ll find your groove here. Hiking trails, arts centers, historic sites, and parks are all within easy reach, so you can enjoy the best of Marin County without fighting the crowds in more touristy spots.
Check out the scenic trails at Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve for sweeping valley views, or dive into local culture at the Novato Arts Center at Hamilton Field. Old Town Novato is full of local shops and restaurants—really, it’s the heart of the community. Novato makes a convenient base for Marin County adventures, but honestly, it’s got plenty of unique attractions of its own.
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Getting to Novato and Around
Novato’s central location in Marin County makes it a solid base for exploring the Bay Area. With several transportation options and easy highway access, getting here and around isn’t complicated.
Location and Maps
Novato sits in northern Marin County, about 30 miles north of San Francisco, right along Highway 101. The city is tucked between Marin’s rolling hills and the wetlands of San Pablo Bay.
You can grab detailed maps at the Visitor Center or just pull them up on the city’s website. Navigation apps do a good job guiding you to Novato’s main spots.
The city’s got a few neighborhoods worth checking out—Downtown Novato, Hamilton, and Ignacio. Each has its quirks and its own set of things to see.
Transportation Options
Getting to Novato is pretty straightforward. If you’re flying, San Francisco International (SFO) and Oakland International (OAK) are both about an hour’s drive away.
Public transportation options include:
- SMART Train: Stops at Novato San Marin (770 Redwood Blvd) and Novato Hamilton (10 Main Gate Road)
- Marin Transit and Golden Gate Transit buses
- Ferry service from nearby Larkspur Landing
Once you’re in town, getting around is easy enough:
- Rental cars (honestly, the best bet for flexibility)
- Local buses
- Uber and Lyft
- Biking—Novato Creek Trail is a nice option
You can reach most attractions by bus, but having a car really opens up your options.
Day Trips to San Francisco and Bay Area
Novato’s location is great for day trips around the Bay Area. San Francisco is just a 30-45 minute drive south on Highway 101—traffic can be a pain, though. If you want to skip parking headaches, try the SMART train to Larkspur, then take the ferry into the city.
Some favorite day trips from Novato:
- San Francisco: See the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz—classic stuff
- Wine Country: Napa and Sonoma valleys are just 30 minutes north
- Point Reyes National Seashore: About 45 minutes west—unreal coastal views
- Muir Woods: 30 minutes south for those ancient redwoods
If you can, plan your trips on weekdays—weekend traffic is rough, especially to the popular spots. Most places are within an hour’s drive, so Novato works well as your Bay Area home base.
Where to Stay in Novato
Novato’s got a solid range of places to stay, from big-name hotels to quirky local options, so you’ll find something for every budget and style.
Lodging Options
Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn is one of the most popular hotels around. The rooms are comfy, and you’re close to both Novato attractions and the rest of Marin County.
Courtyard Marriott Novato gives you dependable accommodations with business-friendly perks. It’s a solid pick if you just want a reliable place to crash.
Inn Marin & Suites (part of the Ascend Hotel Collection) has a boutique vibe but keeps things professional. A lot of travelers like its unique character—definitely feels different from your standard chain.
If you’re watching your wallet, Americas Best Value Inn and Days Inn Novato are affordable choices that still offer basic comforts.
Residence Inn works well for longer stays. You get a kitchen and some extra space, which is handy for business trips or family vacations.
Camping and Outdoor Stays
Love camping? The natural areas around Novato make it easy. Stafford Lake Park has camping spots with fishing access and classic rolling hill views.
Olompali State Historic Park, just north of town, has limited camping by reservation. It’s a cool mix of history and nature—worth a look if you want something different.
Point Reyes National Seashore’s campgrounds aren’t in Novato itself, but they’re close enough for day trips into town. You’ll get a real wild California experience out there.
China Camp State Park, a short drive away, has campsites with bay views and plenty of hiking. It’s a good spot if you want to stay rustic but still be near Novato.
RV folks can head to Novato RV Park. They’ve got hookups and the basics for motorhome travelers.
Click here for our guide to accommodations in Novato.
Outdoor Activities and Nature Experiences
Novato is packed with open spaces. Whether you’re into hiking, lakeside relaxing, or coastal adventures, there’s a lot to explore.
Hiking Trails and Scenic Routes
Indian Tree Open Space Preserve is a local favorite for hiking. The trails wind through oak woodlands and reward you with Bay Area views.
Olompali State Historic Park covers 700 acres of natural beauty. You’ll find hiking paths that mix nature with bits of history, including Native American sites and remnants of early California ranches.
Rush Creek Open Space Preserve is great if you want a flatter, easier hike. The wetlands attract lots of birds, so bring binoculars if you’re into wildlife.
If you’re up for a drive, Highway 37 along the north edge of San Pablo Bay gives you awesome wetland views and connects you to other nature spots.
Stafford Lake Recreation
Stafford Lake Park has 139 acres of outdoor fun centered on a reservoir. The disc golf course here is no joke—18 holes across some pretty wild terrain.
If you like fishing, you can try for bass, bluegill, or catfish in the lake. Don’t forget your California fishing license.
The park’s picnic areas have BBQ pits and shade, so they’re great for family gatherings or just hanging out by the water.
Mountain bikers should check out Stafford Lake Bike Park. There are trails with jumps and features for all skill levels, plus occasional events and competitions.
Beaches and Rugged Cliffs
Novato isn’t right on the coast, but you’re only a short drive from some stellar beaches. Point Reyes National Seashore is about 30 minutes west—tons of untouched shoreline.
Dillon Beach is an easy option for a beach day. It’s sandy, family-friendly, and they even let dogs run around.
The Marin Headlands have dramatic cliffs and hiking trails with jaw-dropping ocean views. The drive along Highway 1 is worth it for the scenery alone.
Rodeo Beach is unique—it’s got colored pebbles instead of sand. It’s usually less crowded and offers good surfing for the more experienced crowd.
Parks and Natural Attractions Near Novato
Novato is a great jumping-off point for exploring Northern California’s natural wonders. A short drive gets you to ancient redwoods, dramatic coastlines, and peaceful bay waters full of wildlife.
Muir Woods and Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is about 30 minutes south of Novato. You’ll walk among ancient coastal redwoods—some over 250 feet tall and 800 years old.
Reservations are required. Make sure you book parking or a shuttle ahead of time. Early mornings are quieter if you want to beat the crowds.
The main trail is a 2-mile loop on boardwalks and paved paths, so it’s doable for most folks. If you want more of a workout, connect to the Ben Johnson or Dipsea trails into Mount Tamalpais State Park.
The forest stays cool year-round—there’s often morning fog, so bring layers even in summer. The visitor center has some interesting exhibits on redwood ecology and conservation.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore covers 71,000 acres about 30 minutes west of Novato. The peninsula has everything from windswept beaches to forested ridges.
Don’t miss:
- Lighthouse Point: Climb 308 steps for epic ocean views
- Drakes Beach: Wide, sandy, and usually less windy
- Tule Elk Reserve: Spot the restored elk herd
- Earthquake Trail: Short path along the San Andreas Fault
Whale watching is best January through April, when gray whales migrate. Elephant seals gather on beaches in winter for breeding season.
Bear Valley Visitor Center has maps and the latest trail info. Some trails need advance planning, especially if you’re thinking about overnight trips to remote beaches.
Tomales Bay Exploration
Tomales Bay, a long, narrow inlet north of Point Reyes, sits just 25 minutes from Novato and offers peaceful water activities. The bay’s protected waters are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
In the town of Marshall, a handful of outfitters rent gear and run guided tours. In summer, you can join bioluminescent night kayaking trips—tiny organisms light up the water with a blue glow when your paddle stirs them up. It’s a little surreal, honestly.
The bay’s famous for its oysters. At spots like Hog Island Oyster Company, you can slurp them fresh and picnic right by the water. It’s hard to beat that view.
Birdwatchers, bring your binoculars—especially in winter. Herons, egrets, and brown pelicans hang out along the shoreline, and you never know what else might show up.
Wine Tasting and Tours
Novato puts you within easy reach of some world-class wine country. Whether you like small, family-run vineyards or big estates, there’s something for every wine lover around here.
Sonoma Wine Country
Sonoma Valley offers a more laid-back wine tasting vibe than its glitzy neighbor. From Novato, you can hop on small-group tours that wind through back roads to friendly, less crowded wineries. It’s a good way to skip the tourist crush.
Companies like All Day Wine Tours and Sonoma Sterling Limousines take care of the driving and usually stop at three wineries, with lunch included. You get to relax and take in the rolling hills between stops.
The Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley is a fun twist—it’s basically a cable car on wheels. You’ll cruise between wineries and get a dose of local scenery along the way.
If you want something more personal, try smaller places like Mantra Wines. Many Sonoma wineries focus on sustainable and organic practices, which is always nice to see.
Exploring Napa Valley
Napa Valley, just a short drive from Novato, is packed with some of America’s most prestigious wineries. It’s famous for Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, if that’s your thing.
If you can, go on a weekday to dodge the weekend crowds. Most wineries now ask for reservations, so definitely call ahead—don’t just show up and hope for the best.
Honestly, hiring a driver or joining a tour makes the day a lot more enjoyable. Several Novato-based companies can set up transportation and custom itineraries so you don’t have to stress about the details.
Tasting fees in Napa usually run $25-50 per person, though some upscale places charge more. Sometimes they’ll waive the fee if you buy a bottle or two.
Pressed for time? Trek Winery in Novato is a solid backup. It’s not a vineyard, but the wine’s good and they sometimes host concerts—worth a stop if you’re nearby.
Arts, Culture, and History
Novato has a surprisingly rich mix of artistic experiences and historic sites. You can wander through galleries, check out local artists, or dig into the stories of early California settlers. There’s a creative energy here that you might not expect from a small city.
Art Museum Visits
The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art is Novato’s go-to spot for art lovers. It’s tucked into the old Hamilton Field, inside a renovated military building with a lot of character.
Exhibits rotate several times a year, so there’s usually something new on display. Admission is free, which is a nice touch if you’re just curious or want to pop in for a quick look.
You can wander the main gallery and sometimes peek into artists’ studios—it’s cool to catch someone mid-project. The museum shop has unique, handcrafted items that make for great gifts or souvenirs.
Check their calendar for artist talks and workshops—they happen pretty regularly and are worth dropping by if you’re in town.
Historic Sites and Local Heritage
Novato’s roots go way back—Miwok Native Americans set up villages here around 1300, at the base of Mount Burdell. You can explore this heritage at a few well-kept sites.
The Novato History Museum, set in an old postmaster’s house from 1850, displays photos, artifacts, and documents showing how the area grew. You’ll see pieces from ranching days and the military era that shaped the city.
Nearby, the Hamilton Field History Museum keeps the story of the former air force base alive. There are military uniforms, memorabilia, and exhibits about daily life on the base.
Just north of town, Olompali State Historic Park lets you visit the site of a Coast Miwok village and see the remains of the first Spanish land grant north of San Francisco Bay. It’s a peaceful spot with a lot of history underfoot.
Shopping and Markets in Novato
Shopping in Novato ranges from big outdoor centers to quirky local boutiques. You’ll find major chains, but also plenty of one-off shops that really show off the area’s creative side.
Outdoor Shopping Centers
Vintage Oaks Shopping Center is a local favorite, sitting just off Highway 101 at Rowland Boulevard. It’s a good spot for bargain hunting, with a mix of stores for just about any shopping list. Pretty easy to get to from most of town, too.
Target and Nordstrom Rack anchor the center, so you’ve got reliable choices for clothes, home goods, and basics. The layout makes it simple to bounce between stores without too much walking.
Other outdoor centers in Novato offer open-air shopping, which is really pleasant when the weather’s nice (and it usually is). A lot of these places have cafes or restaurants, so you can grab a bite when you need a break.
Local Shops and Boutiques
Downtown Novato’s shopping district has a cozy, small-town vibe, filled with unique shops you won’t see in big malls. It’s super walkable—just wander and see what you find.
The Downtown Novato Farmer’s Market is a great place for fresh produce and handmade goods. You get to chat with local vendors and soak up the friendly, community feel.
If you’re hunting for something special, check out the vintage shops and specialty jewelers. The Corinna Kaufman Seaweed Art Gallery is a fun stop for art inspired by the coast—definitely not your average souvenir.
Boutiques across town give you that personal touch. Owners often live locally and love sharing stories about their products or recommending other places to check out. It’s a nice way to get the inside scoop on Novato.
Golf and Recreation
Novato’s got some solid golf options for all skill levels. Two main courses stand out, both set against Marin County’s beautiful landscape.
Stone Tree Golf Club is the top pick for many. The course is well-kept, with lush greens and great views—locals say it’s one of the best public courses around.
Indian Valley Golf Club gives you another 18-hole public course, a bit more laid-back but still surrounded by gorgeous scenery. It’s a good choice if you want something a little more accessible.
If you’re planning to play, it’s smart to book tee times ahead, especially on weekends or during busy travel months. Both courses welcome visitors all year.
Not into golf? Novato has plenty of hiking trails and parks for enjoying the outdoors. The weather’s usually mild, so you can get outside pretty much any time—though spring and fall are especially comfortable for a round of golf.
It’s easy to pair your golf outing with a wine tasting or a nice meal, since everything’s pretty close together. Makes for a full day out, honestly.
Exploring Nearby Towns
Novato’s great, but the nearby Marin County towns each have their own personality and attractions. They’re all close—perfect for quick day trips if you want to mix things up.
San Rafael
San Rafael, Marin County’s oldest city, is just 10 miles south of Novato. Downtown features the beautiful Mission San Rafael Arcángel, founded in 1817, and you can take guided tours of the historic grounds.
Fourth Street is the main drag for shopping and dining, plus there’s a farmers market every Thursday (April-September). Art Works Downtown is a lively spot with galleries, studios, and shops—always something going on there.
If you love the outdoors, China Camp State Park has hiking trails with bay views and a preserved old Chinese fishing village. The Marin Civic Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, stands out for its unique architecture—worth a look, even if you’re not an architecture buff.
Mill Valley
Mill Valley sits at the foot of Mount Tamalpais and has a cozy, upscale feel. It’s an artistic town, surrounded by redwoods and a lively downtown scene.
The Mill Valley Depot Plaza is the heart of town, with cafes, boutiques, and the famous Sweetwater Music Hall. Old Mill Park nearby is a peaceful spot, home to the historic Old Mill building from 1834.
If you’re up for adventure, Muir Woods National Monument is just minutes away—those towering redwoods never get old. The Dipsea Trail, which starts here, is America’s oldest trail race route and offers tough hiking with killer views.
The Mill Valley Film Festival (October) draws movie fans from all over, and the local food scene covers everything from casual bites to fancy dinners. There’s a lot to explore for such a small place.
Iconic Landmarks and Scenic Drives
Novato’s location in Marin County makes it a great jumping-off point for some of California’s most iconic sights and scenic drives. You don’t have to go far to find natural wonders or engineering feats that make you stop and stare.
Golden Gate Bridge Excursions
The Golden Gate Bridge is only about 30 minutes south of Novato. It’s not just a way into San Francisco—the bridge itself is an experience.
For fewer crowds, go on a weekday morning. North Vista Point is the spot for those classic bridge-and-city photos. Don’t forget a jacket; the wind and fog can catch you off guard, even in summer.
Walking or biking across the 1.7-mile span lets you really take in the views and appreciate the scale of the thing. The Welcome Center has interesting exhibits about how they built it—always blows my mind.
If you’re into photography, aim for sunrise or the hour before sunset for the best light. The bridge never really gets old, no matter how many times you see it.
Road Trips Through Marin County
Marin County’s full of scenic drives that really show off California’s wild mix of landscapes, and you can get to all of them pretty easily from Novato.
If you’re up for a longer outing, the Marin Coastal Route heads west on Novato Boulevard all the way to Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s about a 45-minute drive, winding through rolling hills and past old dairy farms before you hit those epic coastal views. The Point Reyes Lighthouse is worth a stop—especially if you’re hoping to spot some whales between December and April. Not a bad way to spend a morning, honestly. Whale watching isn’t guaranteed, but when it happens, it’s pretty special.
If you don’t want to be in the car quite so long, Lucas Valley Road is a nice alternative. It’s a 15-mile stretch, maybe half an hour, with plenty of twists and turns through redwoods and lush valleys. You’ll pass close by Skywalker Ranch—no, you can’t go in, but it’s still fun to know you’re near.
Or maybe try Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. This road links Novato to western Marin spots like Samuel P. Taylor State Park, where you’ll find towering redwoods and those quiet little creeks that always make you want to stay longer.
Don’t forget to bring snacks, and maybe double-check your gas tank before you go. Some of those rural stretches? Not a lot of places to stop if you run low.
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