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I’ve lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for quite a few years, but it wasn’t until the last couple of years that I have been able to have the chance to explore the different places that are only a short drive away.
Visiting the California Coast in the summertime is always a win. The drive is just gorgeous for us, going up and over hills on winding roads (take Dramamine!) and once the ocean comes into sight, I feel at home. On this particular day, it was beautiful and sunny summer day – just what you would expect from California weather. After a hearty breakfast at Mel’s in Richmond, we ventured out to the Point Reyes area to spend the rest of the day.
We first stopped for fresh oysters at Drake’s Bay, which my husband loves.
Drake’s Bay has since closed, sadly.
We parked at Heart’s Desire Beach, which was unfortunately very packed with people. But this is just what comes with summer in the Bay Area – everyone has the idea to escape to the beaches where the temps are cooler! Instead of finding a spot at this beach, we decided to take a little hike over to some less crowded areas.
We ventured on the Indian Nature Trail , stopping to admire and learn a little about the plant life on the trail. This used to be the home of the Coast Miwok Indians, so you can learn a little bit about what helped sustain their lives out here.
We ended up at Indian Beach, overlooking Tomales Bay. There were far less people on this beach, which was so much more peaceful!
After playing in the wooden teepees, we picnicked with some yummy sandwiches from a nearby deli and just enjoyed the views and explored this little treasure.
Have you ever made a trip out to the Northern California Coast?
Ah Drakes Bay. I guess there is a lot to do and see here but for us the prices and traffic have taken away all the fun. We never leave Walnut Creek unless we have to. Last week we went for a drive to have dinner with friends on the peninsula and were an hour late thanks to the usual parking lot mess that never stops on te freeways. Glad you are still enjoying it however and hope it never gets old for you. We would rather thanks our insane sale price money just under seven figures and let the next couple sit in traffic
Lol! I certainly don’t enjoy many aspects of the Bay Area…but am trying to make the best of it for now 🙂 I’m lucky my husband doesn’t mind driving me around everywhere, otherwise I’d probably be much less adventurous! We don’t plan on staying in the area forever either. It’s too expensive and I hate the traffic too!