OUT & ABOUT
The Corte Madera Guide
Morning light on the Bay, kids biking to school, the hum of espresso machines and easy hellos — Corte Madera is the everyday heart of Marin. Balanced, beautiful, and deeply livable, it’s where errands feel effortless and weekends never feel wasted.
The Vibe
Corte Madera has a rare mix of energy and ease. Nestled between Mount Tam and the Bay, it offers quick access to everything — five minutes to Larkspur, ten to the Golden Gate Bridge, yet it still feels tucked away and deeply local. Mornings start with a hike on Ring Mountain Preserve or a latte at Town Center Corte Madera, afternoons roll into errands that somehow feel pleasant, and evenings wind down on sunny patios with family and friends.
You’ll love living here if: you crave connection, simplicity, and a community that still feels like a true neighborhood.
Real Estate Snapshot: Corte Madera offers everything from mid-century ranch homes to remodeled Craftsman bungalows and waterfront properties. Demand is steady for flat, family-friendly neighborhoods with walkability, great schools, and access to open space.
Local Lore
Named for “chopped wood” in Spanish, Corte Madera supplied lumber to rebuild San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake. Its roots as a working town are still visible in its practical charm — though these days, you’re more likely to find locals hauling strollers.
Eat + Drink
RH Rooftop at Marin Country Mart elevated dining under olive trees with sweeping Mount Tam views and that signature RH glow.
Burmatown a neighborhood gem serving modern Burmese comfort food with seriously warm hospitality.
Kito’s the go to for authentic Mexican flavors and shrimp tacos people daydream about.
Il Fornaio a longtime local favorite for wood fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and easy Italian vibes.
Flores stylish Mexican cuisine with great cocktails, bold flavors, and a sunny patio that always hits.
Blue Barn gourmet salads and sandwiches stacked with local, farm fresh ingredients.
Benissimo classic Italian comfort food and pastas in a cozy, keep it casual setting.
Café Verde the neighborhood staple for healthy breakfasts, fresh smoothies, and easy everyday plates.
Urban Remedy quick, organic meals, juices, and snacks for the wellness crowd on the move.
Joe & The Juice smoothies, sandwiches, and a little Scandinavian cool to perk up your day.
Philz Coffee Bay Area cult favorite serving custom pour overs with the friendliest baristas around.
Pacific Catch fresh seafood, poke, and cocktails with an easy California coastal twist.
Palmetto the new local hangout for craft cocktails, oysters, and that effortlessly good energy.
Zinz Wine Bar cozy neighborhood spot for an afternoon glass of rosé or a relaxed evening wind down.
Where to Shop
The Village at Corte Madera
Nordstrom — a go to for everything from last-minute outfits to curated home finds.
Apple — the sleekest stop for upgrades big and small.
lululemon — Marin’s unofficial uniform, stocked and ready.
Aritzia — elevated essentials with that cool, effortless fit.
RH Marin — a design lover’s dream and the place to get inspired.
Pottery Barn — classic pieces that make any space feel pulled together.
Jo Malone London — signature scents and gifting moments that always land.
Vuori — performance pieces that work from trail walks to school pick-up.
Anthropologie — boho polished clothing, décor, and the prettiest little extras.
Williams Sonoma — elevated kitchen tools for the home cook era we’re all in.
Gap — easy everyday staples for the whole crew.
Banana Republic — travel inspired classics with that refined edge.
Faherty — coastal casual layers built for Marin weekends.
Town Center Corte Madera
REI — adventure-ready gear for every Marin trail and getaway.
Crate & Barrel — modern home pieces that nail the clean, California look.
Arhaus — handcrafted, globally inspired furniture with presence.
Sephora — skincare, beauty, and everything in between.
Athleta — polished activewear for life on the move.
The Container Store — the shortcut to a home that feels calm, organized, and intentional.
Where to Learn
Corte Madera families are served by two top-tier public school districts:
Larkspur-Corte Madera School District — Home to Neil Cummins Elementary and The Cove School, feeding into Hall Middle School.
Tamalpais Union High School District — High school students attend Redwood High School, one of Marin’s most acclaimed for academics and athletics.
Private options nearby include Marin Montessori School, Marin Primary & Middle School, and Marin Country Day School.
Wellness + Movement
Ring Mountain Preserve — Favorite local hike with panoramic Bay views and spring wildflowers.
Pilates ProWorks — Contemporary reformer workouts in a modern setting.
Metta Yoga — Bright, welcoming studio for yoga, sound baths, and breathwork.
Resonance — Mindful self-care and wellness experiences in a design-forward space.
Corte Madera Creek Path — Scenic bike and walking path connecting town centers.
Town Park Fields — The community’s green heart for tennis, soccer, and gatherings.
Where to Get Outside
Corte Madera sits at the base of Mount Tam, so outdoor life comes naturally. Locals hike Ring Mountain, bike the Old Railroad Grade Trail, or stroll the Corte Madera Creek Path. Families frequent Corte Madera Town Park for picnics and sports, while Marin Country Mart doubles as an open-air social hub on weekends.
Events + Happenings
Weekly Favorites
Marin Country Mart Farmers Market — Saturdays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. — live music, oysters, and local produce under the lights.
Sunday Concerts in Town Park — Summer evenings with neighbors, blankets, and wine.
Annual Traditions
Fourth of July Parade & Festival — Beloved red, white, and blue celebration shared with Larkspur.
Holiday Tree Lighting at Town Center — Cozy community kickoff to the season.
Why We Love It
Corte Madera is everyday Marin at its best — comfortable, connected, and quietly beautiful. You can live your whole life within a few square miles and never feel limited: great schools, endless trails, thoughtful shops, and a community that shows up.
It’s that rare balance of easy living and everyday beauty — practical, peaceful, and always perfectly placed.