Things To Do
in Tiburon

Tiburon sits on the northern shore of the San Francisco Bay, facing Angel Island and the Marin Headlands. This picturesque waterfront town blends charming boutique shops, family-friendly cafés, and sweeping views of the bay. Its compact, walkable center makes it easy to explore Main Street and the harbor without a car.

It's a gateway for ferries to San Francisco and nearby parks, with easy access to iconic Marin landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploring the Waterfront
morning
:

Arrive in Tiburon and settle into your charming bed and breakfast. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while overlooking the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Spend some time strolling along the Tiburon Waterfront Park, taking in the scenic beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the local shops and art galleries that line Main Street, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. Grab lunch at a waterfront cafe, sampling fresh seafood and local cuisine. After lunch, rent a bike or kayak and explore the serene shoreline at your own pace.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a rooftop restaurant for dinner, enjoying spectacular views of the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. Participate in the vibrant local nightlife or attend a community event depending on what’s on during your stay. Wind down with a casual walk along the waterfront, relishing the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Day Trip to Angel Island
morning
:

After breakfast, catch a ferry to Angel Island, a beautiful state park known for its scenic hiking trails. Spend the morning hiking or biking around the island, soaking in the panoramic views of the Bay Area. Explore the historic sites and learn about the island's military past at the visitor center.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the island's scenic picnic areas. Continue your exploration with a guided tour or additional hiking, taking in the natural beauty and wildlife. On your return trip to Tiburon, enjoy the picturesque ferry ride back.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant back in Tiburon, indulging in farm-to-table dishes or local wine. If available, consider joining a sunset cruise for a breathtaking view of the bay at twilight. Afterward, relax at a cozy coffee shop or cocktail bar, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
Coffee or latte$3-6
🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant (per person)$15-25
🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel$180-350
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$4-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic bay views and easy access to Angel Island
  • Compact, walkable town with waterfront charm
  • Good seafood and farm-to-table dining
  • Limited nightlife and higher prices
  • Ferry dependency for SF access and some attractions
  • Parking can be challenging in peak times

Places to Visit in Tiburon

Visit one of these nice places.

Tiburon Waterfront with Angel Island

Panoramic bay views across the harbor, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Old St. Hilary’s Church (Main Street)

A charming historic church with a coastal backdrop and dramatic skies.

Sam’s Anchor Cafe Deck

Classic waterfront dining area that frames San Francisco’s skyline on clear days.

Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve Viewpoints

Stunning vantage points over Tiburon, Angel Island, and the city skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tiburon

Tiburon's dining scene blends Marin's farm-to-table ethos with harbor-front specialties.

Tiburon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dungeness Crab Cioppino

A seafood stew featuring Dungeness crab, clams, tomatoes, and herbs, best enjoyed with a crusty sourdough loaf.

Must-Try!

Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl

Creamy clam chowder served in a hollowed sourdough loaf, a Bay Area classic.

Crab Louis

Chilled crab salad with avocado, lettuce, and a tangy dressing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tiburon Farmers Market

Seasonal produce, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods along the waterfront.

Marin County Market Stalls

Local farmers market stalls in nearby towns offering fresh produce and artisanal bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tiburon enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers. Average highs range from the mid-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit in summer, with cooler mornings and evenings; winter highs average in the 50s, with periodic rainfall. The Bay Area microclimate means fog can roll in along the waterfront, especially in late spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Quiet, respectful demeanor

Marin County culture values courteous behavior, quiet conversations in public spaces, and tipping for service.

Waterfront photography etiquette

Ask for permissions when taking portraits or private property, and be mindful of posted signs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tiburon is generally safe, with low violent crime and a strong sense of community. Standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure, watch for slippery trails after rain, and exercise caution on water activities with proper gear. In winter, bring layers and check weather conditions before coastal hikes.

Tipping in Tiburon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In sit-down restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; cash and card tips are accepted; rounding up at cafes is common but optional.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small places and street vendors; some venues accept mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry, sunny days with long daylight hours; coastal fog may roll in mornings and evenings; ocean breeze keeps temperatures comfortable.

Fall

Milder crowds, vibrant foliage near coastal trails, and excellent harbor sunsets.

Winter

Mild but wetter weather; expect occasional storms and cooler evenings.

Spring

Blooming wildflowers on hillsides; comfortable hiking and outdoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Tiburon at Night

Tiburon offers a relaxed nightlife scene with waterfront bars and casual eateries. For more lively options, residents often head to Sausalito or San Francisco by ferry for live music, cocktails, or clubs. The emphasis here is on scenic views, sunset dining, and conversation-friendly venues.

Hiking in Tiburon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve

A short-to-moderate hike with sweeping bay panoramas and native flora.

Blackie’s Pasture and Corte Madera Creek Trail

Flat, family-friendly waterfront trails with scenic marsh views.

Mount Tamalpais State Park (via Mill Valley/Marin Headlands)

Iconic hiking with redwood groves, ocean vistas, and challenging climbs.

Paradise Cay and Tiburon Hills Trails

Coastal trails with views over Richardson Bay and the Tiburon Peninsula.

Airports

How to reach Tiburon by plane.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Major international and domestic hub about 25-40 miles south via bridges and highways.

Oakland International Airport (OAK)

Alternative Bay Area airport about 25-40 miles southeast with good connectivity.

Sacramento International (SMF)

Further north, about 110 miles driving, for longer trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tiburon is highly walkable along the waterfront and Main Street, with many shops, cafés, and scenic overlooks within easy reach. The terrain includes some gentle hills, so a comfortable level of fitness helps. Parking can be limited during peak tourist hours, but the town is well-suited to pedestrian exploration and short strolls to the ferry dock.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Affluent families and professionals

A high-income, family-oriented community with educated residents and professionals.

Retirees and long-time Marin residents

An established demographic with strong ties to local schools and community organizations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

A staple Bay Area activity with calm bay winds and sheltered harbors.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Popular water sports along Angel Island and along Tiburon coast.

Cycling and Trail Running

Scenic routes around the bay and in nearby Mount Tamalpais area.

Transportation

Traffic

Bay Area traffic can be variable; Tiburon is connected to San Francisco by ferries and bridges. Driving can encounter typical congestion during commute times, particularly on the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway 101/580 corridors. Public transit options include ferries to San Francisco and connections to Marin transit systems; biking is feasible for many routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tiburon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most spots in Tiburon offer salads, veggie bowls, soups, and pasta; ask for customization and dairy-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Nearest major healthcare facilities are in Greenbrae at MarinHealth Medical Center (MarinGeneral Hospital), with nearby clinics and urgent care in Larkspur and Sausalito. Most residents rely on MarinHealth network and nearby Bay Area hospitals for more specialized care. Pharmacy access and walk-in clinics are common in town centers.

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