Mill Valley

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Mill Valley's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Muir Woods
morning
:

Start your day early with a visit to Muir Woods National Monument to witness the towering redwoods. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the various trails to soak in the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head over to the nearby town of Sausalito for stunning views of the bay and eclectic shops. Consider renting a bike to explore the waterfront area and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Sausalito, where you can sample fresh seafood. Watch the sunset over the bay for a perfect ending to your adventure.

day 2
Hike and Picnic
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a local café before setting off on a hike through the Marin Headlands. The trails offer breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean.

afternoon
:

Prepare a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or just relaxing in the sun.

evening
:

Return to Mill Valley and grab a casual dinner at a local pizzeria. If time allows, take a stroll through the charming downtown area for some evening shopping.

day 3
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Mill Valley Public Library, which often hosts art exhibits. Spend some time appreciating local artists' works and getting inspired.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art galleries showcasing Mill Valley’s creative side. Afterward, have lunch at a café and mingle with the friendly locals.

evening
:

Check out a live music venue or theater performance for a taste of Mill Valley's vibrant culture. Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant to wrap up the night.

day 4
Bird Watching
morning
:

Visit the Marin County Bird Watching Area in the early morning for a chance to see different bird species. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby café, then join a guided birdwatching tour to learn more about the local fauna. This is a great opportunity for both seasoned bird watchers and novices.

evening
:

Head back to Mill Valley for a dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. End your day with a peaceful evening stroll through the surrounding hills.

day 5
Scenic Views
morning
:

Rise early and drive to Mount Tamalpais State Park for breathtaking panoramic views. Hike to the summit to fully appreciate the beauty of the Bay Area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a picnic spot in the park, soaking in the fresh air and scenery. Spend your afternoon hiking down or exploring more trails in the area.

evening
:

Return to Mill Valley and relax with dinner at a quaint restaurant. Watch the stars come out as you enjoy your meal.

day 6
Biking Adventure
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails around Mill Valley. Start your ride along the Southern Marin Line, which offers fantastic views of the valley.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a local eatery and recharge before continuing your biking adventure. There are several trails that lead to beautiful coastal views.

evening
:

Complete your biking day with dinner at a casual spot and share stories with fellow adventurers. Consider a nighttime walk around downtown Mill Valley to unwind.

day 7
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a tranquil morning in the Marin Art and Garden Center, walking through beautiful gardens and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for photography.

afternoon
:

After a relaxing morning, enjoy lunch at the on-site café, which often features locally sourced ingredients. Spend some time relaxing in the gardens or exploring the nearby trails.

evening
:

Head to a local spa for an evening of pampering or attend a yoga class. Wrap up your day with a light dinner at a healthy eatery.

day 8
Wine Tasting
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to nearby wine country. Visit one of the wineries for a morning tour and sampling of local wines.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant and soak in the vineyard views. Explore more wineries in the area, making sure to take plenty of photos.

evening
:

Return to Mill Valley for dinner at a restaurant that pairs dishes with local wines. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance to conclude your day.

day 9
Kayaking Adventure
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local café, then head to Richardson Bay for a kayaking adventure. Paddle through calm waters and observe the wildlife around you.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a waterfront spot and enjoy the views of the bay. Afterward, continue kayaking or explore nearby marinas.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a sunset kayak tour that offers stunning views as the sun sets over the water. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant to finish your exciting day.

day 10
Relaxing Read and Coffee
morning
:

Spend your morning at one of Mill Valley’s quaint coffee shops, enjoying a brew and a good book. Immerse yourself in calm surroundings and enjoy the local vibe.

afternoon
:

After your reading session, visit the Mill Valley Film Festival if it's the season, exploring independent films and local talent. Have lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Unwind with dinner at a cozy restaurant and reflect on the films you've seen. Consider attending a film screening to cap off the day.

Discover Mill Valley

Read more in our Mill Valley 2024 Travel Guide.

Mill Valley Travel Guide