Marin County: Scenic Golf North of the Golden Gate
Marin County sits just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco โ one of the most dramatic commutes to a golf course anywhere in the world. The county's courses are set in a landscape of rolling hills, oak woodlands, and San Francisco Bay views. Peacock Gap in San Rafael has stunning bay views. Indian Valley winds through a wooded canyon in Novato. Mill Valley is charming and walkable from its picturesque downtown.
Sausalito and Mill Valley are two of the most charming small towns in the Bay Area โ excellent bases for a golf trip that also includes hiking in Muir Woods, kayaking on Tomales Bay, or simply enjoying the best views of San Francisco from the Marin Headlands. The drive over the Golden Gate Bridge to SF courses takes under 30 minutes in non-peak traffic.
One of the most extraordinary hotels in the Bay Area โ Cavallo Point occupies a former US Army post in Fort Baker, with historic officers' quarters and contemporary green lodges set against the Golden Gate Bridge. The views from the property are absolutely stunning. The spa, farm-to-table restaurant, and yoga facilities make it a full resort experience. About 15 minutes from Peacock Gap and 20 minutes from San Francisco courses.
A beautiful boutique inn in the heart of Mill Valley โ walking distance from the town's excellent restaurants, wine bars, and the famous Depot bookstore and cafรฉ. Mill Valley Golf Course is a short drive away, and Muir Woods National Monument is 10 minutes up the mountain. The inn itself is intimate and beautifully designed, set in a redwood-shaded location that feels completely peaceful.
San Rafael and Novato are the most centrally located Marin towns for golf โ close to Peacock Gap, Indian Valley, and within easy reach of Foxtail in Petaluma. Both cities have a solid selection of mid-range hotels (Marriott Courtyard, Hilton Garden Inn) at much lower prices than Sausalito or Mill Valley. Practical, well-located, and good value for golf-focused trips.
Marin & North Bay Courses
Local Tips
Avoid the Golden Gate Bridge during commute hours. The bridge backs up badly 7โ9am and 4โ7pm on weekdays. Schedule early morning tee times in Marin to avoid the commute, or come on a weekend when traffic is much lighter.
Peacock Gap has the best views in Marin golf. Holes along the bay offer stunning vistas of San Pablo Bay and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. Early morning rounds with the bay mist are particularly memorable.
Combine with a Muir Woods visit. Muir Woods National Monument is one of the most impressive old-growth redwood forests in California. It's 10โ15 minutes from most Marin golf courses โ an easy add to any golf trip.