Springtime in Marin County is a season of renewal—longer daylight hours, vibrant wildflowers, and abundant wildlife make it the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Whether hiking to Cascade Falls, taking a scenic drive through Point Reyes, or trying something new like goat yoga, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season.

Ready to explore? From peaceful nature walks or exciting wildlife encounters, here's what to see and do in Marin this spring!

A Guide to Marin’s Most Beautiful Wildflowers

Spring in Marin County transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette of wildflowers. From rolling hills to coastal trails, vibrant blooms stretch across meadows and ridgelines, making this a prime time to explore the area's natural beauty.

One of the best places to witness this seasonal display is the Marin Headlands, where the hills come alive with color from late winter to autumn. The region’s diverse habitats support a variety of wildflowers, including rare species found only in Marin.

For a unique floral experience, Ring Mountain Preserve is home to the Tiburon Mariposa Lily, a delicate bloom that exists nowhere else in the world. Meanwhile, the Old St. Hilary’s Preserve in Tiburon offers a glimpse of the extremely rare Tiburon Jewelflower, known for its striking dark maroon petals.

If you’re hiking the Point Reyes Peninsula, keep an eye out for the White Wakerobin, while the Loma Alta Preserve provides one of the best late-season wildflower displays. Other notable blooms include the Douglas Iris at Bald Hill Preserve and the Bush Monkeyflower along the trails of Camino Alto Preserve.

Remember, these wildflowers are protected—admire them, take photos, but leave them undisturbed so future visitors can enjoy the same breathtaking views.

 

Wildlife Wonders of Marin County

From elephant seals at Chimney Rock to gray whales along the coast, Marin County offers unforgettable encounters with marine life.

Spotting Elephant Seals and Sea Lions

If you're a wildlife enthusiast visiting Marin County this spring, you’ll have a rare chance to see northern elephant seals, harbor seals, and sea lions in their natural habitat.

One of the best spots to observe them is at Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock, where a breeding colony gathers from December through March. From the overlook, visitors can watch elephant seals as they give birth to their pups and engage in their fascinating social behaviors.

For an even closer look, trained docents are available on weekends and holidays with binoculars, spotting scopes, and expert knowledge to enhance the experience.

Whale Watching Along the Marin Coast

Each year, approximately 15,000 gray whales migrate along the Pacific Coast, making Marin County one of the best places to witness this breathtaking journey. The migration begins in December and lasts through May, as whales travel between their Arctic feeding grounds and the warmer waters of Baja, California.

During December and January, pregnant whales lead the southward migration, while in February through May, mothers and calves hug the coastline as they head north. Some of the best whale-watching spots include:

• Point Reyes Lighthouse: A high vantage point for spotting whales in mid-January, the peak of the migration.
• Chimney Rock: A quieter alternative with stunning coastal views.
• Pt. Bonita Lighthouse: Located in the Marin Headlands, offering excellent visibility on clear days.

Keep an eye out for 10 to 15 foot spouts breaking the ocean surface, and don’t forget to bring binoculars for a closer view.

 

Discover Outdoor Spring Adventures

You might love spending time with rescued farm animals, be a history buff fascinated by the past, or prefer guided tours that bring nature and wildlife to life. Whatever your interest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this spring!

Charlie’s Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary

Charlie’s Acres is a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and caring for farm animals while educating the public about compassion for these intelligent beings.

The sanctuary offers visitors a chance to connect with rescued animals through unique experiences like guided tours, plant-based picnics, and corporate team-building activities.

Some fun and interesting on-site experiences include:

• Goat Yoga: A lighthearted yoga session where friendly goats may join in. Suitable for all skill levels, with mats provided.
• Sheep Meditation: A peaceful experience featuring meditation with rescued sheep and the soothing sounds of nature.

 

Enjoy a Self-Guided Driving Tour of Point Reyes

Explore Point Reyes at your own pace with Action Tour Guide’s Self-Guided Driving Tour. This app-based experience, created by a father-daughter duo, brings the region’s history, wildlife, and landscapes to life through engaging storytelling. With a 4.8/5 rating, it’s an immersive way to explore, featuring auto-play narration that activates at key locations.

 

Capture Nature’s Beauty with a Guided Safari

Join professional wildlife photographer Daniel Dietrich for an unforgettable Point Reyes Safari. Limited to just three participants, these half and full-day tours offer up-close encounters with bobcats, tule elk, coyotes, badgers, and more.

Enjoy expert guidance and stunning photo opportunities, all included with a hearty lunch, snacks, and beverages!

A Scenic Hike to Mill Valley's Cascade Falls

Nestled in the redwood-lined Cascade Park in Mill Valley, Cascade Falls is a must-visit spot for a short yet rewarding hike. The trail, just half a mile round-trip from the Cascade Drive trailhead, is an easy walk for all ages. As you follow Cascade Creek, the sound of rushing water and birdsong create a peaceful escape from the everyday.

Spring rains bring the 15-foot waterfall to life, making it especially impressive this time of year. The path winds through a lush forest filled with ferns and blooming wildflowers, crossing wooden bridges before leading to the falls. Benches along the way offer spots to pause and take in the scenery.

For those looking for a longer walk, an alternate route begins at Old Mill Park, adding a scenic 1.5-mile trek through towering redwoods. Since parking near the trailhead is limited, this can be a great way to extend the experience!

Where to Stay & Dine in Mill Valley

If planning a day hike to Cascade Falls is on the agenda, make it a getaway with a stay at one of these nearby hotels and enjoy a delicious meal in town.

Hotels Near Cascade Falls

• Mill Valley Inn: A charming boutique hotel in downtown Mill Valley, offering cozy rooms with redwood views and easy trail access.
• Acqua Hotel: A modern bayfront retreat with complimentary breakfast and a peaceful ambiance.
• Holiday Inn Express: A convenient stay with great amenities, close to trails and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Best Restaurants in Mill Valley

• Piazza D’Angelo: Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh pastas and wood-fired pizzas.
• Rock & Rye: A lively dining spot at Sweetwater Music Hall, perfect for food and live entertainment.
• Floodwater: Contemporary American eats with craft beers and cocktails in a stylish setting.

 

Plan the perfect spring adventure in Marin County today by downloading the Marin App! From scenic walks to unique tours—hike, dine, and explore like never before. For the best places to stay in Marin, visit the Marin CVB at visitmarin.org/hotels.