Marin County serves up shopping that blends luxury names with a down-to-earth local vibe. Open-air spots like The Village at Corte Madera (think Nordstrom and Apple) sit alongside quirky boutiques all over Central Marin. There’s a little something for everyone—whether you’re after big brands or hoping to stumble on a one-off gem you just won’t find anywhere else in the Bay Area.
If you’re visiting, don’t just stick to the big shopping centers. The Marin Country Mart near the Larkspur Ferry Terminal and the farmers’ markets both feature local makers and fresh produce. Towns like San Anselmo and Fairfax have antique shops, art galleries, and craft stores where you’ll come across handmade gifts and unique home finds.
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Shopping in Marin often means wandering through beautiful outdoor spaces. The weather’s usually mild, so open-air browsing works all year. It’s easy to combine a little retail therapy with a good meal—plenty of restaurants have patios with views of Mount Tamalpais or the bay. Not a bad way to spend a day, honestly.
Overview of Marin County Shopping
Marin County covers a lot of ground, shopping-wise, from farmers’ markets to upscale boutiques. You’ll run into independent shops, art galleries, and specialty stores tucked into the county’s scenic neighborhoods.
Why Shop in Marin County?
Marin’s shopping scene stands out for its focus on quality and individuality. Instead of endless rows of chain stores, you get one-of-a-kind boutiques and local businesses that actually care about what they sell.
Many shops stock things you just won’t spot anywhere else—handcrafted goods, original artwork, and specialty items from local makers. Quite a few boutiques lean into sustainability and eco-friendly products, which fits the county’s environmental mindset.
Shopping here feels personal. Store owners usually know their stuff and love to talk about it. Sometimes you’ll even meet the artists or craftspeople themselves.
And honestly, the settings help too. Plenty of stores sit in charming old buildings or open-air plazas with views of Mount Tam or the water. It’s a nice change from the usual mall experience.
Types of Shopping Experiences
There’s a real mix of shopping adventures in Marin. Marin Country Mart in Larkspur brings together independent boutiques in an outdoor spot with restaurants and weekend happenings. It’s a good pick for a relaxed day out.
Farmers’ markets—especially the one in San Rafael—offer fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. They run throughout the year and really show off Marin’s agricultural roots.
Downtowns like Novato, San Rafael, and San Anselmo have their own flair. San Anselmo leans into antiques, while San Rafael’s got a broader mix. You’ll find boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries in each spot.
Art shopping’s worth a mention, too. Places like Art Works Downtown let you buy straight from local artists. These venues often blend studios, galleries, and shops all in one.
Need something for the house? Specialty stores around the county offer everything from handmade furniture to funky accessories.
Popular Shopping Districts in Marin County
Marin’s shopping scenes run the gamut from high-end malls to cozy downtown strips. Each district has its own personality and a mix of stores that cater to different tastes.
Corte Madera and Its Shopping Appeal
Corte Madera claims the title of Marin’s shopping hotspot, thanks to two big centers. The Village at Corte Madera lines up luxury names like Nordstrom and Restoration Hardware in an outdoor space with fountains and greenery. It feels pretty upscale but still relaxed.
Right across Highway 101, Town Center Corte Madera delivers a more laid-back vibe with stores like REI and Container Store. Both centers sit close together, so you can easily hit both in one go.
Parking’s easy, and there are plenty of places to eat if you need a break. Grab a sandwich at Boudin or sit down for a meal at Pacific Catch—it’s all right there.
San Rafael Downtown Shops
Downtown San Rafael mixes historic charm with up-to-date shops along Fourth Street. Instead of big chains, you’ll find indie boutiques, specialty stores, and family-run businesses.
There are quirky shops like Bananas At Large (for music lovers) and Rileystreet Art Supply (for creative types). The area’s got a real mix, with international markets and specialty food spots in the lineup.
The San Rafael Farmers Market pops up on Thursdays and Sundays, adding more local flavor. Strolling Fourth Street is pleasant, with leafy sidewalks and plenty of cafes for a pit stop.
Mill Valley Retail Highlights
Mill Valley feels a bit more intimate, almost like a friendly village. Strawberry Village serves as a hub for Tiburon, Belvedere, and Mill Valley folks, offering a coastal touch and a practical mix of stores.
Head downtown to Miller Avenue and Throckmorton, and you’ll spot boutiques like Summer House and Terrestra with carefully chosen home goods and clothing. It keeps a small-town vibe, even though you’re just minutes from the city.
Local bookstores, outdoor gear shops, and artisan food stores reflect the area’s outdoorsy, active lifestyle. Mill Valley’s shops often feature local designers and artists, so you’ll stumble on stuff you just can’t get elsewhere.
Destination Shopping Centers
Several shopping centers in Marin go beyond just retail—they mix in dining and activities, making them real destinations.
Marin Country Mart
Marin Country Mart in Larkspur operates as an open-air village, focusing on independent businesses. The design feels modern but welcoming, with courtyards and walkways that make you want to poke around.
Shops here sell clothing, home goods, and specialty finds, with a lot of attention to sustainable and local products.
Food-wise, you’re covered—there are bakeries, organic spots, and casual cafes. On Saturdays, the farmers market draws crowds with local produce, ready-to-eat foods, and live music.
Families like the regular events—kids’ storytimes, seasonal festivals, and a playground for little ones to burn off energy.
Parking is free, and it’s right by the Larkspur Ferry Terminal, so folks from San Francisco can get there easily.
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The Village at Corte Madera
The Village at Corte Madera stands out for its upscale shops in a stylish outdoor setting. It’s got over 60 stores, including anchors like Nordstrom and Macy’s.
You’ll find a mix of luxury brands and familiar names, with clothing for all ages and tastes.
There are plenty of places to eat, from sit-down restaurants to grab-and-go spots. The outdoor patios offer a nice break between shops.
The Village hosts community events and festive displays, especially around the holidays.
Covered parking keeps you dry in winter. The layout’s straightforward, with clear signs and easy walkways.
Northgate Mall
Northgate Mall in San Rafael gives you a more classic mall experience, mixing national chains with local businesses. Recent updates freshened up the place, so it feels less dated than it used to.
You’ll find department stores, specialty shops, and services all under one roof. Since it’s indoors, it’s a solid pick for rainy days.
Food choices run from typical mall fare to some more interesting local eats. The food court works well for groups with different cravings.
Events happen here year-round, from holiday celebrations to local fundraisers. There’s even a movie theater if you want to tack on a film to your shopping trip.
Parking’s plentiful, and public transit gets you there without a car.
Boutiques and Specialty Shops
Marin County’s shopping scene goes well beyond the usual chains. Local shops highlight unique finds—from clothing to handcrafted goods—and shoppers often get to know the owners and makers themselves.
Independent Boutiques
All over Marin, you’ll spot independent boutiques. In San Rafael, Art Works Downtown blends art galleries with boutique shopping in a cool historic spot. The RealReal in Marin curates high-end consignment for those after luxury labels.
Helen Lyall’s shop is a favorite for women’s clothing, known for personal service and a well-edited selection. Loyal customers swear by it.
In Corte Madera, Fairfax, and Larkspur, you’ll find distinctive boutiques ranging from casual to elegant. Many owners handpick their stock, so the collections stay fresh and unique.
San Anselmo’s boutiques often live in historic buildings, which adds a bit of character to your browsing.
Artisan and Craft Stores
The creative spirit runs deep in Marin, fueling a thriving artisan marketplace. Local makers sell everything from jewelry and pottery to textiles and woodwork in shops scattered around the county.
At Marin Country Mart, artisans sometimes demo their crafts on weekends. Watching someone make what you’re about to buy? That’s a cool connection.
Most Marin artisans work in small batches, so you’re often picking up a limited edition or even a one-off piece.
Some craft stores double as studios, offering classes in jewelry, weaving, or pottery. It’s a fun way to learn something new and support local artists at the same time.
Throughout the year, seasonal craft fairs and pop-ups bring even more chances to track down special handmade finds.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Shops
Marin County’s environmental awareness shows up in its retail scene. Plenty of shops here focus on sustainable products and eco-friendly practices.
You’ll spot stores selling organic clothing, goods made from recycled materials, and fair trade items. Some boutiques go all-in on zero-waste products—definitely a plus for anyone trying to cut down on their environmental footprint.
Many shops carry locally made goods, which helps keep transportation emissions down. Some highlight brands with transparent supply chains and ethical manufacturing, though you’ll need to ask for details—owners are usually happy to chat about it.
The Marin County Farmers’ Market in San Rafael isn’t just about produce; vendors also sell sustainable household items. Shopping here feels like an easy way to stick to your environmental values.
Eco-shops often host workshops or set up informational displays to help customers make more sustainable choices. Owners and staff are usually eager to share what they know about the environmental benefits of their products.
Outdoor Shopping and Farmers Markets
Marin County really shines when it comes to outdoor shopping. The farmers markets run throughout the week and show off the area’s agricultural bounty and local crafts.
Open-Air Markets
The Marin Country Mart in Larkspur is a stylish spot with boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops. At 2257 Larkspur Landing Circle, this place blends modern, upscale retail with a laid-back outdoor vibe.
Art Works Downtown in San Rafael has galleries, studios, and shops filled with local artwork and handmade goods. It’s a pedestrian-friendly spot, so you can wander as long as you like.
Town Center Corte Madera brings an open-air mall feel, mixing national retailers with local shops. The wide walkways and outdoor seating make it a pleasant place to stroll, no matter the weather.
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Weekend Farmers Markets
The Sunday Marin Farmers Market is huge—California’s third-largest, in fact—with over 150 vendors year-round. Expect loads of organic produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods from local folks.
The Marin County Farmers’ Market in San Rafael draws big crowds for a reason. Vendors offer fresh, seasonal produce and specialty items that really reflect the area’s agricultural roots.
The Mill Valley Certified Farmers’ Market is another solid choice for fresh food. Local farmers bring their best seasonal picks straight to you.
Novato’s Downtown Farmers Market feels like a community hangout—shop for fresh goods and soak up the small-town charm.
Most markets run rain or shine, usually on weekend mornings until early afternoon.
Luxury and Designer Shopping
For those who love high-end shopping, Marin County delivers. Designer boutiques and luxury retailers cluster in the Corte Madera area, offering premium brands and upscale shopping with a personal touch.
Designer Boutiques in Corte Madera
Corte Madera has really become the county’s designer shopping hub. The RealReal at Marin Country Mart stands out for luxury consignment—think authenticated pre-owned pieces from Hermès, Cartier, Rolex, and more. Their staff handles authentication and offers personal shopping help if you want it.
Helen Lyall is another favorite, earning a 4.8-star rating from happy shoppers. They curate designer clothing and accessories with care.
Throughout Corte Madera, independent boutiques offer premium brands in intimate spaces, not the usual department store vibe. Many provide personalized styling and tailor the experience to your tastes.
Luxury Retailers at The Village
The Village at Corte Madera is the county’s go-to for luxury shopping. This outdoor center mixes high-end department stores like Nordstrom and Macy’s with exclusive designer shops.
Flagship stores for Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Burberry sit side by side here. The grounds are manicured, seating is comfy, and the staff go out of their way to help.
The Village hosts special events—trunk shows, designer visits, seasonal celebrations. Parking’s never too much hassle, and there’s valet if you want to skip the search for a spot.
If you’re making a day of it, The Village has several upscale restaurants where you can relax between shopping sprees.
Dining and Entertainment Near Shopping Areas
Shopping in Marin County isn’t just about buying stuff. The area has great dining and entertainment, rounding out a day on the town.
Top Local Restaurants
Marin Country Mart in Larkspur is loaded with good eats. Farmshop serves up farm-to-table California dishes in a classy setting. Their weekend brunch? Locals swear by it.
For something quick, Rustic Bakery bakes up artisanal breads, pastries, and light lunches. Their organic coffee and famous morning buns are a match made in heaven.
The Village at Corte Madera is home to Pacific Catch, where you can dig into fresh seafood with a view. Fish tacos and poke bowls are crowd-pleasers here.
In San Rafael, close to the farmers’ market, Sol Food is a must-try. It’s a beloved Puerto Rican spot with bold flavors and, honestly, lines out the door (totally worth waiting for).
Entertainment Options
After a shopping haul, you’ve got entertainment options all over Marin. The Lark Theater in Larkspur Landing (near Marin Country Mart) screens indie films and throws special events in a restored art deco building.
Marin Country Mart puts on free outdoor concerts on Fridays and Saturdays during summer. Local musicians play, families gather, and it’s a nice way to unwind after shopping.
The Village at Corte Madera sometimes hosts pop-up art shows and seasonal events like holiday concerts or spring fashion shows.
Need a nature break? The nearby Corte Madera Marsh has bird-watching and walking trails just minutes from the shops—a peaceful shift from the retail buzz.
Tips for Shopping in Marin County
Shopping in Marin County mixes farmers markets, boutiques, and quirky retail spots. Knowing the best times to visit and how to get around can make your trip a lot smoother.
Parking and Accessibility
Most shopping areas have their own parking lots, but weekends get crowded fast. The Village at Corte Madera and Northgate Mall offer free parking with plenty of spaces. Downtown spots like San Rafael and San Anselmo rely on street parking, but those spaces usually have 2-3 hour limits.
Public transit is a solid backup. Golden Gate Transit buses link up major shopping areas, and the SMART train stops near Northgate Mall in San Rafael.
Most shopping centers are wheelchair accessible, though older downtowns might have some uneven sidewalks. Marin Country Mart in Larkspur is especially easy to navigate if you have mobility concerns.
Best Times to Visit
If you want a mellow shopping experience, try weekday mornings or early afternoons. Most shops open around 10am, and you’ll dodge the weekend rush that hits hardest from noon to 4pm.
Farmers markets have specific schedules to keep in mind:
- San Rafael: Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings
- Marin Country Mart: Saturday mornings
- Novato: Tuesday evenings (May-September)
December weekends are packed thanks to holiday shopping. If you have to go then, weekday evenings are a little less hectic and stores often stay open later.
January and February are prime for sales as shops clear out winter stock. Summer brings tourists, so shopping areas get busier—especially when foggy weather drives everyone indoors.
Supporting Local Businesses
Marin County’s community of local businesses and boutiques really relies on resident support. Shopping local keeps money in the community and gives Marin its unique character.
Benefits of Shopping Local
When you buy from local boutiques in Marin, about 68% of your money stays in the local economy—compared to just 43% at chain stores. That direct support helps your neighbors pay bills and hire more local folks.
Local businesses usually offer better customer service since owners know their products inside-out. You’ll find unique things at places like Made in Marin—voted “Best Local Brand 2025,” apparently—that you just won’t see at big chain stores.
Shopping local helps the environment, too. Less driving and shipping means less pollution. Plus, many Marin boutiques focus on sustainable products that fit right in with county values.
How to Discover New Shops
Social media’s probably your easiest way in when it comes to finding new local shops. Try following accounts like @themadeinmarin on Instagram or Facebook for updates about businesses and events—they post about sales, openings, and sometimes stuff you might not see anywhere else.
Community events can be a goldmine for discovery. Keep an eye out for shopping festivals, farmers markets, or those random pop-up events that seem to appear out of nowhere. Sometimes locals put together their own gatherings to support Marin businesses, and you might stumble across those on Eventbrite if you poke around a bit.
Local publications—think newsletters or neighborhood magazines—often feature new stores. If you spot a headline like “New Shops and Boutiques in Marin,” it’s probably worth a click for the scoop on what’s just opened up.
And honestly, just ask around. People in Marin tend to love their favorite shops, and most won’t hesitate to send you to some tucked-away spot you wouldn’t have found on your own. It’s worth striking up a conversation, even if you feel a bit awkward about it.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Marin County Shopping Centers
Ark Row Shopping Center
Bon Air Greenbrae Shopping Center
Lark Creek Shops Shopping Center
Marin Country Mart
Mill Valley Lumber Yard
Strawberry Village
The Village at Corte Madera
Town Center Corte Madera
Vintage Oaks at Novato
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
