Tomales Bay draws people in with its rugged coastline and a surprisingly wide range of lodging options. Whether you’re after a rustic cabin or a bit of luxury, you’ll find places that get you close to the natural beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore. Staying near Tomales Bay is the only way to get that waterfront lodging experience in the Point Reyes area—think beaches, kayaking, and catching glimpses of marine wildlife right outside your door.
Planning a trip here? The area has properties with a cozy, local vibe. Some sit right on the water, others nestle into nearby towns like Inverness. Many have on-site dining and little perks that make it easy to settle in and soak up this mellow stretch of the California coast.
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Tomales Bay Resort & Marina
Tomales Bay Resort & Marina sits right on the bay, tucked inside Point Reyes National Seashore Park. This Cape Cod-style hotel is the only one perched directly on Tomales Bay, so it’s a rare find.
You get a choice of rooms with Wi-Fi, plus there’s a swimming pool for guests. You can launch your own boat from their marina or grab a canoe or kayak to get out on the water. It’s a solid base for both quiet escapes and outdoor adventures.
The resort is family-owned, and they really do try to make your stay special with warm hospitality. They host conferences and weddings, too. With the bay right there, you’re never far from the wild beauty of Point Reyes.
After a day of hiking or wildlife spotting, this is a pretty relaxing spot to land.
Rating: 4.4 (306 reviews)
Location: 12938 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Inverness, CA 94937
Contact: (415) 669-1389
Website: Visit Website
Lodge at Marconi
Lodge at Marconi sits on 62 acres of old state parkland, peering out over Tomales Bay. It’s about an hour from San Francisco, but it feels much farther away.
The place mixes modern comfort with a coastal twist. You get high-speed WiFi, self-parking, and dog-friendly rooms. Their little market and pantry come in handy for snacks or basics.
If you’re into the outdoors, the location is pretty great. There are hiking trails, spots for volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, and plenty of bird-watching. Fishing and cycling are also popular here.
The lodge also doubles as an event venue for weddings, retreats, and other gatherings that want a peaceful, scenic backdrop.
Rating: 4.4 (101 reviews)
Location: 18500 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940
Contact: (415) 663-9020
Website: Visit Website
Nick’s Cove
Nick’s Cove is that rare coastal retreat where a fishing lodge vibe meets upscale dining. It’s right on Tomales Bay and doubles as a seafood restaurant and a place to stay.
Their cozy cottages let you stretch your visit past dinner. You get a comfortable spot to launch your Tomales Bay or Point Reyes adventures.
The restaurant gets a lot of love. Travel + Leisure put it on their 2023 “It List” of Best New Hotels, and it won Sunset Magazine’s Best Coastal Retreat the same year. SF Magazine called it one of the Bay Area’s seven best seafood restaurants in 2024.
The setting is just gorgeous—waterfront views, fresh seafood, and a rustic-yet-polished feel that nails the California coast mood.
Rating: 4.3 (1539 reviews)
Location: 23240 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940
Contact: (415) 663-1033
Website: Visit Website
The Inn at the Tides
The Inn at the Tides sits on the Sonoma Coast, about an hour north of San Francisco. Guest lodges have a rustic elegance and bay views, all tucked into the natural landscape near the Tides Wharf pier.
You’ve got two restaurant choices. The Tides Wharf Restaurant—yes, the one from Hitchcock’s “The Birds”—serves up meals with killer views. The Bay View Restaurant is more casual, with big windows, redwood touches, and fireplaces.
Amenities include a heated pool, whirlpool spa, sauna, and a small exercise room. There’s also a fish market, gift shop, and a snack bar if you want something to go.
The inn puts you close to state beaches, hiking, wine country, golf, fishing, and the towering Armstrong Redwoods. It’s a bit of everything, honestly.
Rating: 4.3 (630 reviews)
Location: 800 Bay Hwy, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Contact: (707) 875-2751
Website: Visit Website
The Lodge at Bodega Bay
The Lodge at Bodega Bay sits on a bluff with a sweeping view of the rugged Sonoma Coast. It’s racked up some serious accolades, snagging the #1 spot for both Northern California and the entire world in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Not bad, right?
Rooms and suites feel comfy and inviting—think balconies, ocean views, fireplaces. If you’re after extra space, the Captain’s Quarters gives you a roomy living area, a private deck, and some pretty nice perks. Honestly, it’s a great spot to launch your Sonoma Coast adventures.
Drakes restaurant serves up local flavors, and the lodge mixes things up with packages like the Vineyard Voyage, which gets you to Freeman Winery for wine tasting, or the Cab or Pinot Package for those who take their wine seriously.
Nearby, you’ve got easy access to Spud Point Crab Co., Sonoma Coast Vineyards, and plenty of beaches and parks. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, riding horses, or hitting the golf course, there’s a lot to explore along the coast.
Rating: 4.6 (900 reviews)
Location: 103 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Contact: (707) 875-3525
Website: Visit Website
Bodega Harbor Inn
Bodega Harbor Inn feels like a peaceful hideaway in the fishing village of Bodega Bay. The place sits right on the bluffs, so you get those classic views of the harbor and headlands.
It’s about 1.5 hours from San Francisco and 2 hours from Sacramento—close enough for a quick escape from city life. You can pick between cozy inn rooms or vacation homes, depending on how much space you want. Every option looks out over either the harbor or gardens, and free Wi-Fi comes with the deal, so you can still check your email (or just brag on social media).
Staying here puts you in the middle of old town Bodega, with local attractions and dining just a stroll away. The rooms are simple and comfortable, making a nice home base for exploring the coast.
Rating: 4.4 (417 reviews)
Location: 1345 Bodega Ave, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Contact: (707) 875-3594
Website: Visit Website
Dillon Beach Resort
Dillon Beach Resort is tucked away on the wild Northern California coast, about two hours north of San Francisco. This oceanfront escape mixes comfort and casual coastal style in a spot that feels pretty private.
They’ve got a range of places to stay—smaller rooms for two start at $199 per night, and bigger spaces for groups (up to six) run from $629 to $1,050 a night. Most rooms give you a view of the Pacific, which is half the fun.
The Coastal Kitchen restaurant focuses on local, seasonal dishes from Marin and Sonoma. There’s also a General Store and Surf Shop for beach gear, coffee, baked treats, and ice cream. They’re open every day from 8am to 7pm.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard or wetsuit and hit the waves. The resort also hosts weddings, company get-togethers, and family reunions in event spaces with ocean views.
Rating: 4.6 (1022 reviews)
Location: 1 Beach Ave, Dillon Beach, CA 94929
Contact: (707) 878-3030
Website: Visit Website
Choosing the Right Hotel Near Tomales Bay
Picking a hotel near Tomales Bay isn’t just about comfort—it’s about where you want to be and what you want to do. Your choice really shapes your trip.
Factors to Consider for Your Stay
Price always matters, but it’s not everything. The Lodge at Bodega Bay goes big on luxury and views, while smaller inns are easier on the wallet. Check out what room types are available—waterfront spots cost more but the views can be worth it.
Don’t forget about timing. Summer and fall weekends fill up fast, especially at Tomales Bay Resort (the only true waterfront hotel around). If you want to visit then, booking 2-3 months ahead is honestly a must.
Look for amenities you actually care about. Some places throw in breakfast, others might offer kayak rentals or nature walks. If you need strong Wi-Fi, double-check before you book—rural internet can be hit or miss out here.
Accessibility to Local Attractions
Location can make or break your trip. Hotels in Inverness put you right next to Tomales Bay State Park and all its hiking trails, so you can explore beaches and forests without much driving.
If Point Reyes National Seashore is on your list, Tomales Bay Resort gets you close to the lighthouse and Chimney Rock. Want to eat your way through oyster farms and seafood spots? Look for hotels in Marshall or near Hog Island Oyster Co.—the Inn at the Tides is a good bet for water views and food.
Prefer to hang out in small towns like Point Reyes Station for shopping and dining? Staying in Petaluma means more restaurants and sometimes better rates, but you’ll have to drive a bit more.
Travel Tips for Visiting Tomales Bay
If you’re planning a Tomales Bay trip, timing and how you’ll get around matter a lot. Weather and seasonal events can totally change your experience.
Best Times to Visit
Most people agree Tomales Bay shines from May through October—mild weather, less fog, and plenty to do outdoors. Summer (June-August) brings warm days (65-75°F), perfect for kayaking and the beach, but it’s also the busiest and priciest time.
Fall (September-October) is a sweet spot: awesome weather, thinner crowds, and peak oyster season if you’re into seafood. Honestly, it’s hard to beat.
Winter (November-January) has the lowest hotel rates. Sure, you’ll get some rain, but you might like the quiet walks and dramatic storms rolling over the bay.
Spring is all about wildflowers in the hills and great hiking weather. If you’re after color and less bustle, it’s a solid choice.
Transportation and Parking
Getting to Tomales Bay? Honestly, you’ll need a car—public transit just doesn’t cut it out here. From San Francisco, hop on Highway 101 north, then follow the signs to Point Reyes Station. With no traffic, you’re looking at about an hour and a half on the road.
Parking tips:
- Show up early if you want a spot at busy places like Point Reyes Station or Nick’s Cove.
- Weekdays are way less hectic for parking.
- Stash your valuables out of sight—no need to invite trouble.
Most parking lots by the trails ask for a day-use fee, usually $8-10. Having some cash on hand will save you a headache.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent bikes in Point Reyes Station and skip the parking scramble altogether, especially when the area’s packed.
Cell service? Pretty unreliable out here. Download your maps before you leave, or just go old-school and bring a paper map.
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Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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