Overview
The most-visited and most accessible destinations in Marin, Sausalito and Tiburon offer beautiful San Francisco views with high-end dining experiences. There are delicious restaurants spread all across both of these towns, and nearly any establishment will be a good one. Both are easily reachable from San Francisco (especially Sausalito) and offer a similar experience. Sausalito is a bit larger and more touristy, though its downtown also has more to offer. Tiburon has a more local feel though its options are more limited.
Sausalito
Fish
Offering the best crab sandwich in the Bay Area and a scening bayside dining experience, Fish is possibly the best place to eat in Marin County. Offering a diverse selection of fresh local seafood at a steep price, Fish is a perfect introduction to Marin County culture and its food scene. The restaurant is a short walk from downtown Sausalito and is a must-visit for any visitors to the town. Though not the traditional fine dining experience that you might get at some other Sausilito restaurants, the Fish experience is equally tasteful with its pleasant outdoor patio.
Bay Model
Built by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s, the Bay Model is one of Marin’s most unique attractions. Initially built to demonstrate the effects of a dam in the South Bay, the Bay Model now serves as a to-scale replica of the San Francisco bay and surrounding areas. The model features realistic, changing tides throughout the day. At over an acre large, it is easy to spend at least an hour exploring the massive model. It is also very informative with various museum exhibits spread throughout the space. This is a quirky slice of Sausalito but is absolutely worth a stop. It is also free.
Sea Trek Kyaking
If you want something to do in Sausalito during the day, look no further than Sea Trek. Offering kyak and paddle board rentals and even lessons, Sea Trek lets you explore the bay for yourself. The rental stand is located just across from the Bay Model and the launch point is located just far enough from downtown to make the ride interesting. If you are ambitious, you can also take a left to explore Sausalito’s house boats. Pay attention while you paddle—if you are lucky you might find a group of seals soaking up the sun.
Sushi Ran
With a Michelin star and a reputation as one of the best Japanese restaurants in the United States, Sushi Ran needs no introduction. If you feel like a nice meal and manage to snag a reservation, it is absolutely worth it. There is not much more to say. It is probably the best restaurant in Marin by traditional metrics.
Avatar’s
For a delicious culinary experience without the high price point of other Sausalito establishments—though not necessarily cheap either—Avatar’s cannot be beat. At its core, the restaurant offers a menu of unique an Indian-Mexican fusion dishes. The food ranges in spice from mile to extreme, and the friendly owner is happy to give recommendations. The space is not as fancy and airy as other Marin restaurants, but the food is as good as any you will find in the Bay Area.
Tiburon
Sam’s Anchor Cafe
The food at Sam’s is good, but the real draw is the outdoor deck and views of the bay. The menu features fresh seafood and a robust list of local beers and wines to fuel its relaxing seaside atmosphere. Longstanding and famous in Marin, Sam’s is a local institution and always makes for an enjoyable meal.
In-N-Out
If you want a refuge from Marin’s high prices and sometimes stuffy atmosphere, look no further than one of the county’s two In-N-Outs. Tiburon’s, located in Strawberry Village right off highway 101, is conveniently located for a quick bite at any hour. I would recommend it as a stop following a hike or sunset at the hippie tree, but In-N-Out is good anytime. Although it may not seem as unique as some of the places on this list, In-N-Out is absolutely a must visit while in Marin. If you want a taste of local life, I highly recommend this location. Come around 8 p.m. on a weekend for an authentic Marin dining experience. It is said among Marin residents that you cannot visit this In-N-Out without seeing someone you know.
The Hippie Tree
This is the kind of place I wouldn’t include on this list if I thought more people would read it. It is hard—but not impossible—to find a better spot to watch a sunset or take in the beautiful view of the bay and San Francisco than the hippie tree. To get to the swing pictured and the titular tree, park here and take the short trail up the hill to the tree and swing here.
Blackie’s Pasture
For an easily accessible look into Marin’s thriving outdoor scene, Blackie’s Pasture is a great place to start. Featuring a large statue of a horse—Blackie—and miles of beautiful bayside trails and parks, Blackies Pasture is the Marin destination for jogs, walks, and picnics with a view. If you feel like a workout, start at Blackies and take the trail into downtown Tiburon. If you are short on time, simply walk out and enjoy the view.
Angel Island
Full of hiking trails and history, Angel island is the perfect day-trip escape from Tiburon. Once an important stop for immigrants coming to the United States, the island is now preserved as a state park with museums and great views dotting the island. A ferry runs regularly from Tiburon to the island making it an easy escape from the city.
Wide Open Road 