The Tiburon International Film Festival brings global cinema to Marin County every April. Since 2001, it’s been a hub for independent feature and short films from all over. It’s more than just a movie event—it’s a cultural bridge, connecting Tiburon, San Francisco, and the Marin community through film.
Screenings happen at 1680 Tiburon Blvd in Tiburon, a waterfront town that’s honestly a gem. Besides the films, you’ll want to check out the local restaurants or maybe get out on the water for some sailing or kayaking. It’s a great spot to soak in Marin’s natural beauty between movies.
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The 2025 festival is happening now, so if you’re thinking about it, there’s no better time to dive into this cinematic celebration. You’ll catch films you probably won’t see at big commercial theaters, and the vibe is intimate—plenty of chances to chat with filmmakers or fellow movie buffs, all in one of California’s prettiest settings.
Overview of Tiburon International Film Festival
This festival has become a staple in Marin County, known for spotlighting independent films from every corner of the globe. The goal? To encourage cultural understanding through film, all set against Tiburon’s waterfront backdrop.
Festival History and Mission
The festival kicked off with a straightforward idea: use film to open minds to the world’s cultures. Ever since, it’s stuck to that, giving international filmmakers a space to share their stories.
Tiburon celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2021—two decades of bringing global cinema to this little peninsula town just across the bay from San Francisco. It’s hard to beat the scenery for a film festival, honestly.
What sets this festival apart? It’s all about independence and diversity. While bigger festivals might chase the blockbusters, Tiburon leans into authentic storytelling that breaks boundaries and connects people with experiences from around the world.
Key Highlights and Event Features
Expect a lineup that runs the gamut: features, shorts, documentaries, comedies, experimental films—stuff you won’t catch at your local megaplex.
Most screenings happen at local venues like Tiburon’s cultural center, and a lot of them include Q&As with the filmmakers. It’s a rare chance to hear straight from the creative minds behind the work.
Other festival features usually include:
- Panel discussions with industry pros
- Networking events for filmmakers and fans
- Spotlights on select countries or themes
- Award ceremonies for standout films
The small-town setting means you’re more likely to bump into a director at a coffee shop than at a red carpet.
Festival Dates and Location
The festival usually takes place in November—2021’s ran from November 12-18, and odds are the next one will be on a similar schedule.
Main venue’s at 1680 Tiburon Boulevard, Tiburon, CA 94920. It’s central, and you can get there pretty easily from Marin or San Francisco, either by ferry or car.
During the festival, Tiburon turns into a cultural hub for a week. When you’re not at a screening, stroll the shops or grab a bite with a view of the bay.
For up-to-date info, call (415) 381-4123 or check the festival website. Some screenings pack out fast, so planning ahead helps.
Planning Your Visit to Marin County
Marin County’s got that unbeatable combo: gorgeous bay views and easy access to San Francisco. A little planning goes a long way, letting you enjoy both the festival and everything else the area offers.
How to Get to Tiburon
Tiburon sits on a peninsula in southern Marin, about 16 miles north of San Francisco. Getting there isn’t hard:
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From San Francisco:
- Ferry: The scenic route—about 30 minutes from the Ferry Building
- Golden Gate Bridge: Drive north on Highway 101, then take Tiburon Blvd
- Bus: Golden Gate Transit runs routes from the city to Tiburon
From SFO:
- Rental car: About 45 minutes via Highway 101
- Airport shuttle: Direct rides available
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft cover the whole Bay Area
If you’re flying in, SFO or Oakland International are your best bets, then just pick your route to Tiburon.
Accommodation Options
Lodging in Tiburon is limited but cozy—rooms go fast when the festival’s on:
In Tiburon:
- The Lodge at Tiburon: Walkable to venues
- Waters Edge Hotel: Right on the water, great views
- Private rentals: Plenty of Airbnb and VRBO options
Nearby:
- Sausalito (10 min): Casa Madrona, Hotel Sausalito
- Corte Madera (15 min): Marin Suites Hotel, Best Western
- Mill Valley (20 min): Holiday Inn Express, Mountain Home Inn
Book at least 3-4 months in advance. Most people try to stay in Tiburon itself to skip late-night transportation hassles.
Dining Around Tiburon
Tiburon’s food scene is surprisingly varied for a small town—think casual cafés to fancier spots, all with killer water views.
Near the festival:
- Sam’s Anchor Café: Classic seafood, right on the water
- Salt & Pepper: Laid-back, good for a quick bite
- Tiburon Tavern: Farm-to-table inside The Lodge
- Luna Blu: Italian favorites, harbor views
For breakfast:
- Caffè Acri: Local go-to for coffee and pastries
- New Morning Café: Fast sandwiches and breakfast
Many places run festival specials, but if you want a table at a waterfront spot, book ahead—weekends get slammed.
On a budget? Downtown Tiburon has more casual options, or you could just pick up picnic supplies at Woodlands Market.
Navigating Transportation in the Bay Area
Getting around during the festival isn’t too tough if you plan a bit.
In Tiburon:
- Walking: The town’s small; most venues are walkable
- Bike rentals: Grab one near the ferry for a spin around the peninsula
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are easy
Exploring Marin:
- Rental car: Best if you want to see more than just Tiburon
- Marin Transit: Buses connect Tiburon to Mill Valley, Sausalito, and Corte Madera
- Ferry: Runs between Tiburon, Angel Island, and San Francisco
Parking in Tiburon can be tight during the festival, so public lots near Main Street are your friend. If you’re close enough, just walk.
There’s also a free Tiburon shuttle during peak times, making it easy to hop between venues.
Exploring Attractions Near the Festival
Tiburon and Marin County have a lot to offer—nature, history, and some genuinely cool spots to check out between movies.
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Outdoor Activities and Nature
Mount Tamalpais is Marin’s crown jewel, with hiking trails and insane views of the Bay Area. On clear days, you can see forever.
Muir Woods National Monument is just a short drive—massive coastal redwoods and a peaceful, misty vibe that’s a nice break from the festival buzz.
Angel Island State Park is an easy ferry ride from Tiburon. Hike the loop trail for 360° views of the Golden Gate, San Francisco, and the Marin Headlands.
For something low-key, the Bay Trail runs along Tiburon’s shoreline—perfect for a stroll while you watch the boats.
Museums and Cultural Experiences
The Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum tells Tiburon’s story in a restored 1900s building. It’s a quick stop, but worth it if you’re into local history.
China Cabin sits right on the waterfront—a Victorian salon from the 1866 steamship “China,” now a National Historic Landmark. The woodwork’s gorgeous.
Art galleries to check out:
- Desta Gallery (downtown Tiburon)
- Art Works Downtown (San Rafael)
- Marin Museum of Contemporary Art (Novato)
The Tiburon Heritage & Arts Commission often puts on special exhibitions during the festival, so keep an eye out for those.
Scenic Drives and Landmarks
The Golden Gate Bridge is just 20 minutes away, and honestly, you can’t visit without snapping a few photos from the vista points.
Conzelman Road in the Marin Headlands offers dramatic views as you wind up the hill. Don’t miss the Battery Spencer overlook for that classic postcard shot.
Point Reyes National Seashore is about an hour north, with wild cliffs, hidden beaches, and a historic lighthouse. If you’re around January to April, it’s prime whale-watching season.
The Panoramic Highway cuts through Mount Tam and connects to Muir Woods Road—a twisty, scenic drive with amazing views.
Film Culture and Entertainment in Marin County
Marin County’s not just about Tiburon’s festival—film and arts run deep here, and there’s plenty going on all year.
Other Notable Film Festivals
The Mill Valley Film Festival is probably the county’s biggest cinema event, landing every October. It draws filmmakers and fans from everywhere, with a lineup of indie films, documentaries, and world cinema.
The Marin County International Festival of Short Film & Video is another highlight, happening during the Marin County Fair. Films run daily in the Showcase Theater—everything from animation to docs.
With so many festivals, Marin’s a solid destination for film lovers, no matter when you visit.
Local Arts and Theater Scene
The Mountain Play at Mount Tamalpais is a treat—outdoor theater in a stone amphitheater with sweeping Bay views each spring.
In San Rafael, the Rafael Film Center screens classics and indie releases in a beautifully restored, vintage theater.
Mill Valley’s Throckmorton Theatre hosts live shows, comedy, and film events—super cozy, and a real community spot.
You’ll also find smaller venues all over Marin, each bringing something unique to the local arts scene.
Wine Country and Culinary Experiences
Marin sits right next to Sonoma’s wine country, so food and wine just sort of go hand in hand with any film festival trip. A bunch of restaurants in Tiburon and the surrounding towns put together farm-to-table menus that highlight what’s fresh and local.
Tiburon has wine tasting rooms pouring samples from vineyards just up the road. Honestly, it’s super easy to plan a quick day trip and check out wineries north of Marin.
There’s a big focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients around here. Plenty of places offer outdoor seating, so you can soak up the coastal air with your meal—kind of a must, right?
If you’re into local produce or just want to snack your way through the day, Marin’s farmers markets are a good bet. The Thursday evening market in downtown San Rafael gets especially lively during summer.
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Angelico Concert Hall
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Point Reyes Lighthouse
Ross Valley Players
Sausalito Center For The Arts
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