Dillon Darling

Relax at Dillon Beach in Marin

11.07.2019
dillon beach in marin

Hankering to hit the beach? Don’t dilly dally—Dillon dally! Often overlooked, Dillon Beach in Marin can be magical in fall when the mist lifts to reveal a 1-mile swath of wide and sandy terrain backed by dunes and dotted with picnic tables.

dillon beach in marin

The size of the beach means people can disperse even when the parking lot is totally full. Stroll seaside, soaking in views of Point Reyes and sea stacks rising from the ocean.

Dillon Beach in Marin

Low tide brings good tide-pooling on the north end. Bluffs offer more private hideaways. And the bow-wow bonus—your dogs get to roam with you, or sit on your lap to enjoy the scenery. That’s some Dillon chillin’.

dillon beach in marin

dillon beach in marin

BONUS FOOD AND DRINK: Not only is it Marin County’s Oldest Saloon and Inn, William Tell House, located in the nearby town of Tomales, now has a new patio with firepits for autumn warmth. Belly up for some Buttermilk Fried Oysters & Chips or a Stemple Creek Burger, and wash it all down with their signature cocktail or a Ghost Town IPA beer.

Dillon Beach is located between Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay. Take Hwy. 1 to Tomales and then go west on Dillon Beach Rd. Parking at Dillon Beach is $15. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View

  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

    View

  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View

  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View
  2. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

    View

  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  4. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View