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About Rodeo Beach in Sausalito, California

Rodeo Beach is a wide pebble beach on the sand spit that separates Rodeo Lagoon from Rodeo Cove on the west side of the Marin Headlands in Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The beach is dark colored and made up of small pebbly stones in brown, red, green, and blue. Rodeo Beach is a popular spot as it is close to San Francisco and easy access for both locals and tourists.

Walk to the south end of the beach to see rocks in the surf that are frequently photographed, especially at sunset. Bird Rock is offshore and has a small arch in the center. With binoculars you can see birds on the rock but Rodeo Lagoon is the best spot for birdwatching at this beach.

Hiking trails lead south from Rodeo Beach to various military batteries and South Rodeo Beach.

From the north end of the beach the Coastal Trail goes north along the bluff to coastal overlooks, hidden military bunkers like Battery Townsley, and more conspicuous sites like Hill 88. If you branch off the main trail to Tennessee Point you’ll find a labyrinth and wonderful views of the rugged Marin Coast from Point Bonita to the Muir Beach Overlook. Note that a steep unofficial trail descends from the Coastal Trail to Tennessee Beach.

To get to Rodeo Beach cross the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco and take the Alexander Ave exit (Exit 442). Drive a short distance and turn left following signs to Marin Headlands via Bunker Road. You’ll go through the Baker Barry Tunnel and Bunker Road will continue past the Marin Headlands Visitors Center to Rodeo Lagoon. Round the lagoon on the north side and look for signs to the Rodeo Beach parking lot and picnic area (on Mitchell Rd).

Address
1049 Mitchell Rd
Sausalito, CA 94965
Park Name
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Pet Details
Dogs allowed off leash if under voice control
Fees
Free parking
Activities
Hiking, Birdwatching, Surfing, Rockhounding
Amenities
Restrooms, Trails, Picnic Tables, Lagoon
Map
Marin City, US
7:37 pm, March 27, 2023
temperature icon 50°F
L: 45° H: 53°
Feels like 48.47 °F overcast clouds
Wind gusts: 5 m/s
UV Index: 0
Precipitation: 0 inch
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 7:03 am
Sunset: 7:27 pm
Humidity 71 %
Pressure1020 mb
Wind 5 m/s

Nearby Beaches

South Rodeo Beach

0.3 miles away

South Rodeo Beach is a small beach in a secluded cove south of Rodeo Beach in the Marin Headlands. It...

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Nearby Attractions

Nearby Lodging

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