Things To Do
in Larkspur
Larkspur is a small, scenic town in Marin County perched along the northern San Francisco Bay. It offers a charming, walkable downtown with boutique shops, waterfront parks, and inviting dining options. The town serves as a gateway to Marin’s outdoor playgrounds, including Mount Tamalpais and Richardson Bay.
Easy ferry connections to San Francisco make it a convenient base for Bay Area explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Your first morning begins with a scenic drive over the Golden Gate Bridge as you make your way to Larkspur. After checking into your cozy boutique hotel, treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at a local café featuring freshly baked pastries and farm-to-table eggs. Take a leisurely stroll along Magnolia Avenue, exploring antique shops and flower-adorned storefronts.
In the afternoon, sample fresh seafood at the historic Larkspur Landing while watching boats drift by on Corte Madera Creek. Explore the Marin Country Mart’s upscale boutiques, artisanal stores and gourmet market stalls. Don’t miss a visit to the charming Larkspur train depot for a photo op and local history.
As dusk falls, reserve a table at one of downtown’s farm-to-table restaurants to enjoy seasonal dishes paired with local wines. Take a post-dinner stroll along the boulevard, admiring the glow of street lamps against Victorian facades. Finish the evening with a nightcap at a cozy wine bar or craft brewery, mingling with friendly locals.
Fuel up with a breakfast burrito or yogurt parfait at a café on Magnolia Avenue before heading to Mount Tamalpais State Park. Drive along Panoramic Highway as the morning light unveils sweeping views of the Marin Headlands and Pacific Ocean. Set off on the East Peak hike, breathing in the crisp mountain air as you ascend among towering redwoods.
Pause for a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook, savoring local cheeses, charcuterie and fresh fruit. Continue along the Redwood Creek Trail to discover fern-lined groves and hidden springs. Learn about the area’s natural history at the park’s visitor center before heading back down.
Return to Larkspur in time for dinner at a rustic tavern featuring hearty regional fare and craft beers. Relax on a heated patio under string lights and watch the stars emerge above the hills. Cap off the night with a short walk to a local gelateria for a sweet treat.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $8-12 |
| 🚕Taxi or rideshare within town | $8-20 |
| 🏨Lodging per night | $150-300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to San Francisco with easy ferry access
- Mild climate and scenic Marin County setting
- Quiet, walkable downtown with strong local culture
- Access to Mount Tamalpais and coastal parks nearby
- Limited nightlife within Larkspur itself
- Higher costs typical of Marin County
- Smaller urban amenities compared to larger Bay Area cities
- Weather can be foggy or rainy during winter
Places to Visit in Larkspur
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour views of the Bay, San Francisco skyline visible on clear days, with boats and water as foreground.
Charming 19th-century storefronts and brick-paved streets ideal for street photography.
Panoramic bay views and dramatic coastlines; great silhouettes against the sky on clear days.
Food in Larkspur
Larkspur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bay Area staple: creamy chowder served in a crusty sourdough loaf, a comforting classic at many waterfront spots.
Must-Try!
Bright crab with avocado and citrus, a light yet flavorful coastal dish commonly found at seafood-focused eateries.
Chef-driven plates highlighting Marin County produce and seasonal ingredients.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air markets and stalls offering locally sourced produce, prepared foods, and treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect private properties and natural spaces; keep voices down in residential areas; support environmental stewardship.
Safety
Tipping in Larkspur
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15-20% at restaurants; check if service is included. Tip taxi and rideshare drivers as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for market stalls and some street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with comfortable highs, occasional coastal fog; ideal for outdoor activities and waterfront strolls.
Cool and wetter with occasional storms; bring a rain jacket and check trail conditions before hiking.
Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers; great for hikes and outdoor markets.
Continued mild weather with fewer crowds; excellent for winery visits and scenic drives.
Larkspur at Night
Hiking in Larkspur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hike offering rewarding views after a climb; a quintessential Marin experience.
Coastal forest and beach trails with relatively easy to moderate routes.
Ancient redwood forest with accessible loop trails for visitors of all levels.
Airports
How to reach Larkspur by plane.
Major international airport about 20-25 miles south; connects to global destinations; accessible by car, rideshare, or via longer transit routes to SF.
Alternative airport about 25-30 miles southeast; often cheaper for West Coast flights; accessible by highways and public transit.
North of the Bay Area; longer drive but serves as a flight option for certain trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Larkspur and nearby towns, with good schools and safe neighborhoods.
Marin County has a sizeable retiree presence seeking scenic, low-stress lifestyles.
Residents attracted by proximity to San Francisco and Marin’s outdoor lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Road and mountain biking are popular in Marin, with scenic routes around Mount Tamalpais and the Headlands.
Coastal waters around Richardson Bay and the Bay provide paddling and sailing opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Larkspur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Marin restaurants offer vegetarian menus; look for farm-to-table options and fresh vegetables.