Our Top 8 Things To Do This Summer

Away from the city and across the Golden Gate Strait, you may be surprised to discover sweeping landscapes, panoramic views, giant redwoods and historic architecture – all in one county. To the visitor it’s paradise; for us, it’s home. With our headquarters located in San Rafael, the Private Ocean team takes great pride in its local communities and offers their favorite reasons for crossing the bridge this summer.

What are your favorite hot spots in Marin County? Share with us at info@privateocean.com.

2018 MARIN COUNTY

Summer Guide

CYNTHIA’S PICKThe Marine Mammal Center

Located in Sausalito, The Marine Mammal Center is a private, non-profit U.S. organization that rescues and rehabilitates marine mammals who are injured, ill, or abandoned. On average, the Center rescues 600-800 marine mammals each year. Open daily, their engaging tours are the best way to experience the exhibits and hear amazing stories of marine mammal rescue.

Cynthia’s Tip:Visit the center on “Marine Science Sundays.” Every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, the Center hosts an ocean-inspired classroom series with tours and activities that are suitable for the whole family.

www.marinemammalcenter.org

SUSAN'S PICKMuseum of Contemporary Art

What’s that? You didn’t realize Marin County had its very own historic museum housing contemporary art? Consider it a secret no more – located at Hamilton Field in Novato, the Marin MOCA is a vibrant arts center offering free contemporary art exhibitions that showcase local, national, and international artists, with new exhibits on view every six weeks.

www.marinmoca.org

June 16, 2018 - July 29, 2018

The exhibit features artists who usie a variety of media to

create abstract imagery.

June 16, 2018 - July 29, 2018

This exhibit will explore how artists create a visual voice

through their use of color.

It may no longer be a secret, but the popular event venue in the countryside of Nicasio hosts BBQ's on The Lawn with live music and great food all summer. Tucked away on a five-acre site with panoramic views of the hills of Nicasio Valley, their weekend brunches and outdoor dining are a great reprieve from a busy week.

Bill's Tips:• Plan ahead by visiting the Rancho Nicasio website to view the events calendar and to purchase

tickets. Doors open at 3pm and music starts at 4pm.• Chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis so make sure to bring your beach blanket

or a low-backed sand chair.

www.ranchonicasio.com

BILL'S PICKSummer BBQ Concerts at Rancho Nicasio

Need a mid-week laugh to get you to the weekend? The Throckmorton Theatre in Mill Valley showcases 5-7 different comedians every Tuesday night ranging from newcomers to veterans. For the kids, the Throckmorton Youth Performers offer a theater summer camp based on the Broadway musical production of Hairspray.

Simmi’s Tip:Make it a date night! After the show, take a short troll to the recently remodeled restaurant, Bungalow 44. The menu features an extensive drink list and Californian cuisine with ingredients fresh from the Marin Farmer’s Market, fishing boats, and local ranchers.

www.throckmortontheatre.orgwww.bungalow44.com

SIMMI'S PICKTuesday Nights At theThrockmorton Theatre

MAX'S PICKHiking Cataract Falls

There’s nothing quite as rewarding on a challenging hike as stumbling upon a waterfall or two. The 2.6-mile trail is considered a “moderate” hike with some steep and rugged areas to keep you on your toes, quite literally. The payoff (besides the cardio) is sheer serenity, from lush flora to scenic picnic areas to the therapeutic sound of rushing water from the falls and swirling pools. Pet-friendly.

Max’s Tips: • Arrive early, as parking is limited and

fills up quickly. • Bring real hiking shoes (your feet will

thank you!) and water.

www.onetam.org

Self-described as “off the grid,” the secluded West Point Inn is located on the south slope of Mt. Tamalpais and accessible only by hiking or biking. It’s interesting history – it was once a brief stop on the “Crookedest Railroad in the World,” where passengers could meet a stagecoach bound for the beach – lends to its charm. Visitors looking for adventure are treated to panoramic views of East Bay, the Marin Headlands, and the Pacific Ocean.

Amanda’s Tips:• The Inn hosts fun, exclusive events, including their legendary pancake breakfasts.

Book in advance!• The sunsets are not to be missed over the Bay.

www.westpointinn.com

AMANDA'S PICKWest Point Inn on Mt. Tamalpais

ZACH'S PICKHeart’s Desire Beach

With a name fit for a romance novel, Heart’s Desire Beach in Tomales Bay State Park offers calm, shallow waters great for wading and swimming. As the beach is located in a hidden sandy cove, you’ll find the water temperature to be a nice reprieve from the chill of the Pacific. Hiking trails nearby also lead to other secluded beaches not accessible by car. Dogs are not permitted.

Zach’s Tips:• Unplug. Cell service is spotty at best, which isn’t the worst thing if you want a little relaxation. • Bring a picnic! There are tables and grills available, easy facilities and garbage disposal.

www.parks.ca.gov

While the Marin County Fair is no secret, knowing how to get there and avoiding stress, especially with little ones in tow, can make or break your holiday. If you are heading from the North, our Chief Compliance Officer, Justin Hult, recommends parking at San Marin SMART station and taking the train to the Civic Center. “Last year, it saved us easily an hour of sitting in traffic trying to get back to Hwy 101 to go home”, said Justin. The Marin County Fair runs from June 30 – July 4th, with fireworks nightly.

www.marinfair.org

JUSTIN'S PICKMarin County Fair and Fireworks