Point Reyes -- to go or not to go?
 

My wife and I have been to Carmel, so we are considering a day trip (with our nine-year-old) from SF to Point Reyes and Sausalito. <BR> <BR>Any advice?? Thanks.

Two years ago my family spent two partial days and one overnight in Pt. Reyes. Our kids were 8 and 5. Although this was planned as a side trip to our main destinations of SF & Yosemite, we all fell in love with the rugged beauty and isolation of the area. We were there in March and had beautiful, but windy weather. We left wishing we had devoted much more time to exploring the <BR>very different villages, national seashore historic sites, and Tomales Bay <BR>environs. The kids especially enjoyed whale watching at the lighthouse, the San Andreas fault trail at the Bear Valley Visitor Center, and seeing the <BR>elk roaming free on the peninsula. It was a memorable trip that we have recommended to others - but give yourselves more than just a day.

Kids love Pt. Reyes. There are hikes, kayaking at Tamales, visiting the oyster farms, Toby's Farm and Feed Store, the lighthouse etc.. I agree that you need more time. Now Sausalito is not a place my son has ever appreciated (except for the WestMarine store). I like it for drinks at the Horizon and pizza overlooking the bay. My son still thinks it is boring at 17.

By all means, go...and stop at Muir Woods on the way!

Pt. Reyes Seashore is our number one destination for houseguests who bring kids with them. It's a treasure. Both kids and parents will find much to love. Stay in Inverness or Bodega Bay. On the way back to SF you can go east and come down 101 to visit some wineries.