Tiburon is one of the few California towns where you can get a full and immersive bay-front experience. This charming city in the Northern part of the bay area is only a 30-minute drive from San Francisco, which makes it ideal for a weekend getaway.
Tiburon is a sophisticated neighborhood located in Marin County, where you can see luxury yachts docked on the marina, deep cerulean waters, and the view of San Francisco’s cityscape on the backdrop.
There are several things to do in Tiburon that people of all ages will surely enjoy. This small city boasts picturesque views, a relaxing lifestyle, and a lively atmosphere. For that perfect day trip, you can go biking, hiking, wining, and dining, or simply enjoy the views at the park.
If you’re planning a quick getaway to Tiburon, here are some of the best things you can do:
Discover The Hidden Gem That Is Angel Island
Angel Island State Park is a natural island found in the San Francisco Bay. It offers excellent views of the Bay Area, great hiking trails, and many other recreational activities.
It only takes a ten-minute ferry ride to get from the heart of Tiburon to Angel Island. Tourists can also see and learn about all the cool landmarks in the San Francisco Bay area when they join one of the Bay cruises from Angel Island.
Kids and adults alike will also enjoy the wildlife tours that offer the chance of seeing marine animals like whales and sea lions.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Immigration Station guided tours are still currently unavailable.
Enjoy A Picnic At Blackie’s Pasture
The place is named after Blackie, an old swayback horse that grazed the meadow in the early to mid 20th century. Blackie used to be a cavalry horse at Yosemite National Park when he was younger.
He became a rodeo horse after he retired from the military, then spent the rest of his years in a pasture, where several people visiting Tiburon would always see him, give him treats, or a caring pat. Blackie passed away in 1966, and many citizens and tourists mourned his death.
To commemorate his time in the pasture, a life-structure of Blackie was built in the fields. Today, Blackie’s home is a green space that serves as a huge playground where tots and older kids can swing, slide, bike, and play soccer while accompanying adults relax at the picnic benches.
Learn About Tiburon’s History At The Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum
Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum used to provide rail and ferry passenger service throughout Northern California. The movable building was donated to Tiburon in 1989 and has since been restored as a museum. In 1995, the building became part of the National Register of Historic Places.
The museum showcases the history of how trains and ferries became a big part of Tiburon’s culture, history, and economy. On the museum’s ground floor, visitors can see an incredibly detailed model of what the town looked like in 1900. The second floor of the building has been restored to look exactly like how it did from 1913 until 1940.
See The Iconic Tiburon Jewelflower At Old St. Hilary’s Open Space Preserve
This 122-acre rolling grassland used to be home to a mission chapel that was later declared a historical landmark. The Open Space Preserve is a beautiful, natural green space where Tiburon Jewelflower, an annual herb that’s considered an endangered species.
The Tiburon Jewelflower can grow up to two feet tall, and its sepals have a dark purple hue. Old St. Hilary’s Open Space Preserve also offers the best views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and the Marin Headlands.
Climb The Hippie Tree
This giant, old Eucalyptus Tree has been a hit with Tiburon tourists for decades. The beautiful Hippie Tree has long, sturdy branches that hang horizontally out from its trunk, making it fairly easy to climb.
A wooden rope swing that hangs from one of its branches provides a thrilling ride and a great view of Richardson Bay, Mount Tam, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The location of the Hippie Tree is a secluded spot. You will need to hike for about 15 minutes to reach this super-awesome tree swing and enjoy the amazing views it offers.
Paddle The Waters Of Paradise Beach Park
Paradise Beach Park is a 19-acre regional park that offers stunning views of the bay, rolling hillsides, colorful poplar trees, wildflowers, and a redwood grove. This beautiful area is nestled along the east shore of the Tiburon Peninsula.
Visitors get the chance to watch marine life while paddling the water on a kayak, swim, go fishing, or have a peaceful picnic. Parking and entry fees to the park are waived on the first Saturday of the month.
Hike To Mt. Livermore
The highest point of Angel Island was named after Caroline Livermore, a conservationist who worked hard for the island’s preservation. Mt. Livermore’s summit is 788 feet above sea level, offering visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of San Francisco and the Bay Area.
From Ayala Cove’s trailhead, visitors can choose either the Sunset Trail or the North Ridge Trail to get to the summit of Mt. Livermore: The Sunert Trail is easy and grounded, and offers spectacular views of San Francisco. Those seeking a different kind of adventure can opt for the more rugged and natural North Ridge Trail, which will take hikers among twisting pathways.
Learn About Ecology At The Richardson Bay Audubon Center
This ecological area located next to the Bay is a sanctuary for migratory waterbirds and other wildlife in the Bay Area. San Francisco Bay. The Center also hosts summer camps and leadership training programs for visitors and volunteers who want to learn a lot about wildlife. Guests get the chance to see waterbirds in their natural habitat in the 900-acre open water sanctuary of the Richardson Bay Audubon Center.
Score Great Finds At The Tiburon Thrift Shop
The Tiburon Thrift Shop located in Tiburon’s Main Street is a great place to score pre-owned and gently-used clothing, vintage furniture, jewelry, art, books, housewares, and collectibles stocked from donations from locals.
Eco-friendly and budget-conscious will surely love the items they can find in this adorable community shop that is staffed by volunteers from the community. The shop is maintained by the Landmarks Society and has been serving the Tiburon community for many decades.
Visitors looking for vintage items or a unique souvenir they can take home should visit the Tiburon Thrift Shop.
Dine At Tiburon Tavern
Tiburon Tavern is a favorite among Tiburon locals and tourists. This Italian-inspired chic gastropub serves simple and delicious New American dishes made from high-quality locally sourced ingredients. You can check our menu here.
The restaurant is also very committed to maintaining an eco-friendly operation by recycling whenever possible, and cutting down on waste by limiting the use of non-biodegradable materials.
The restaurant features two outdoor patios and two indoor fireplaces that lend a relaxing atmosphere great for hanging out with friends and family. It also boasts of the latest self-service wine bar.
So if you’re looking for a nice spot to dine and chill the next time you go to Tiburon for a day trip or weekend getaway, make a reservation at Tiburon Tavern today by filling out this form.