The magic of staying at Marin Castle doesn’t start when you turn the key in the front door—it begins the moment you cross the Golden Gate Bridge.
Instead of rushing up Highway 101, we always recommend taking the scenic route. By turning your arrival into a slow, multi-stop road trip, you’ll transition out of city life and ease straight into West Marin’s relaxed rhythm.
Here is our favorite step-by-step itinerary for your drive from San Francisco to the Castle gates.
Step 1: The Golden Hour Goodbye
Route: Conzelman Road through the Marin Headlands
As soon as you cross the Golden Gate, bypass the main highway exit and wind your way up into the Marin Headlands along Conzelman Road. Pull over at one of the upper bluffs for a final, breathtaking look back at the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Pacific coastline. It’s the ultimate way to wave goodbye to the hustle of the city before diving into the countryside.
Step 2: Dinner & Ice Cream in Downtown Fairfax
Stop: Downtown Fairfax
As you cut across central Marin toward West Marin via Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, stop in Fairfax—the charming, free-spirited heart of Marin’s valley towns. No visit to town is complete without stopping at Fairfax Scoop on Broadway. Follow the scent of fresh-baked waffle cones to this tiny, beloved storefront serving organic, small-batch ice cream. Try signatures like Honey Lavender Vanilla or Mexican Chocolate (and be sure to bring cash!).
Step 3: Stock Your Castle Kitchen
Stop: Good Earth Natural Foods (Fairfax)
Before leaving town, pull into Good Earth Natural Foods. This community mainstay is legendary for its organic produce, curated local cheeses, fresh-bakery treats, and phenomenal wine selection. Pick up everything you’ll need for slow mornings, charcuterie spreads, or cozy cooking sessions back at the Castle.
Step 4: Weekend Oyster Pitstop (Friday–Sunday)
Stop: The Local Oyster Farmstand (Lagunitas)
If you’re traveling on a weekend, keep your eyes open as you pass through Lagunitas. Stop by the local farmstand to grab fresh Tomales Bay oysters, lemons, and hot sauce. Bringing a dozen back to shuck on the deck at Marin Castle is the ultimate West Marin welcome.
Step 5: Golden Hour at Mt. Barnabe
Stop: Mt. Barnabe Ridge
Just seconds before you reach the gate to Marin Castle, make one final stop at the summit of Mt. Barnabe. Timing your drive to hit this spot right before dusk rewards you with sweeping, panoramic views of the ridge-lines bathed in golden light. Watch the coastal fog roll over the hills as the sun sets over the valley—it’s pure magic.
Welcome to Marin Castle
Once the sun dips below the horizon, head through the gates, unlock the door, kick off your shoes, and unpack your local treats. Your retreat has officially begun.