OUT & ABOUT

The Tiburon Guide

Set on a slender peninsula that stretches into the Bay, Tiburon delivers the kind of view that never gets old — San Francisco glimmering across the water, Angel Island just offshore, and Mount Tam rising in the distance. It’s coastal living with a heartbeat: polished but peaceful, effortless yet deeply connected to place.

Downtown moves at an easy rhythm — coffee by the water, ferry commuters bound for the city, neighbors pausing mid-walk to say hello. You can be in San Francisco in thirty minutes, but most locals will tell you: once you’re here, why would you ever leave?

The Vibe

Sophisticated, serene, and deeply coastal. Tiburon draws people who love good design, good food, and the feeling of being close to the water. It’s elegant without trying — just sunlight, salt air, and an understated sense of luxury that feels perfectly Marin.

Neighborhoods flow from the walkable heart of Downtown to the quiet lanes of Old Tiburon, the hillside estates of Little Reed Heights, and the private coves along Paradise Drive. Belvedere Island offers manicured gardens and stately homes with 360° Bay views, while Paradise Cay and The Lagoon bring that rare “feet in the sand” coastal living to Marin. Wherever you land, the rhythm of life here moves with the tides — slow, beautiful, and deeply intentional.

You’ll love living here if: you find peace in a morning hike, joy in good conversation, and inspiration in the in-between moments.

Real Estate Snapshot: Homes range from shingled cottages with heritage charm to sleek, contemporary builds with glass walls framing the Bay. Demand is strong for anything with walkability, privacy, or a view that stops you in your tracks.

Local Lore

Tiburon takes its name from the Spanish word for “shark,” after the leopard sharks once common in the surrounding waters. Once a bustling railroad terminus, its old tracks now form the beloved Old Rail Trail — a coastal path where locals walk, run, and bike from downtown to Blackie’s Pasture. It’s a town that’s evolved from maritime industry to modern serenity, holding onto its seaside soul all along the way.

Photo cred: Bungalow Kitchen

Eat + Drink

  • Sam’s Anchor Café – Since 1920, Sam’s has defined Tiburon’s social life. Aperol spritz, sun-soaked decks, and boats bobbing below — it’s the Bay at its best.

  • Caffè Acri – A Tiburon staple. Morning coffee, harbor views, and the hum of locals heading to the ferry — this is the heartbeat of downtown.

  • The Bungalow Kitchen – Bold design, warm lighting, and a menu that nails every craving from sushi to steak frites. The vibe is upscale, but everyone’s welcome.

  • Petit Left Bank – French brasserie classics and sidewalk seating that makes you feel like you’re in Paris — if Paris had Golden Gate views.

  • Malibu Farm – Fresh, organic, and impossibly photogenic. Come for the farm-to-table fare, stay for the sunshine and sea breeze.

  • The Caprice – Romantic, refined, and right on the water. A classic reborn, with floor-to-ceiling views and timeless coastal dishes.

  • Salt & Pepper – A neighborhood favorite for brunch and comfort classics — it’s where everyone ends up on Sunday mornings.

  • Luna Blu – Authentic Italian seafood served right on the marina. Order the linguine vongole and thank us later.

  • Troya – Mediterranean plates, fresh mezze, and modern design — everything feels light, flavorful, and easy.

  • The Caviar Co. – The esteemed go-to for all things caviar. Champagne flights, waterfront views, and an indulgent energy that still feels very Tiburon.

  • Jane – Bright, modern café perfect for morning lattes or afternoon pick-me-ups. Also the local secret for picking up desserts for dinner parties or birthday cakes.

  • Lola’s – Chic but approachable — excellent cocktails, seasonal dishes, and that California-coastal ease.

  • Ground – Espresso, pastries, and design inspiration in equal measure. You’ll want to move in.

  • Point Tiburon Plaza – Local shops, galleries, and sun-drenched patios steps from the water.

  • Rustic Bakery – Classic Marin café and weekend brunch favorite for sandwiches, salads, and fresh pastries.

Photo cred: Highlow Larder

Where to Shop

  • Main Street Mercantile – Thoughtful home goods and gifts, curated for coastal living.

  • Black Bird Bookstore & Café – Books, espresso, and community in one cozy, creative space.

  • Highlōw Larder – Where the art of entertaining meets the soul of a shared meal. Part shop, part gathering space, it offers curated goods and immersive cooking experiences that turn ingredients into invitations — to gather, to linger, and to make something that lasts.

  • 5 Hearts Boutique – Effortless, feminine style with a coastal twist.

  • Boats – Relaxed, curated, and perfectly Tiburon.

  • Mog Asu – Scandinavian-inspired lifestyle pieces that redefine “less is more.”

  • Cinelounge – A boutique movie theater with plush seats, craft cocktails, and surprisingly great food.

  • The Nugget Markets – A local favorite for high-quality groceries, artisanal snacks, and fresh flowers — where even errands feel elevated.

  • Woodlands Market – The neighborhood hub for gourmet groceries, deli sandwiches, fine meats and cheese and a curated wine selection that never disappoints. If you’re not in the mood to cook, Woodlands has you covered.

Where to Learn

Tiburon families are served by the Reed Union School District, home to Reed and Bel Aire Elementary and Del Mar Middle School — all known for excellent academics and a warm community feel.

For high school, students attend Redwood High School in Larkspur, part of the Tamalpais Union High School District — one of Marin’s best, with exceptional programs in academics, athletics, and the arts.

Private options include Marin Country Day School, Marin Montessori, and St. Hilary School, each known for nurturing, progressive education. Preschool favorites include Belvedere Nursery School and Little Arrows, both beloved for their play-based, community-driven approach.

Wellness + Movement

  • Old Rail Trail – Start your morning run or end your day with a sunset stroll. Flat, scenic, and right along the Bay.

  • Tiburon Fitness Club – Boutique membership gym in town, ideal for strength, spin, and well-earned endorphins. 

  • Pilates Tiburon (Firon Fitness) – Downtown studio offering Pilates, barre and yoga for every level — perfect after a full-week hustle.

  • Tiburon Spa – Holistic wellness with massage, facials and seasonal treatments; a calm contrast to everyday momentum.

  • Belvedere Park – Tennis courts, open green lawns and family-friendly moves all wrapped in quiet luxury.

Where to Get Outside

Tiburon is surrounded by the kind of natural beauty you never take for granted. The Old Rail Trail lines the waterfront from downtown to Blackie’s Pasture, where kids climb the famous horse statue and dogs roam free—the soccer field is booming on the weekends and there’s always a neighbor to play with at Blackie’s playground. Ring Mountain offers sweeping Bay views, spring wildflowers, and — insider tip — the best spot in Marin to watch the Blue Angels during Fleet Week.

Paradise Drive curves along the coastline for a scenic ride or Sunday drive, while Angel Island State Park is just a quick ferry away — a weekend hike, picnic, or bike ride with panoramic Bay views. And don’t miss Paradise Beach Park — a locals’ favorite for picnics, fishing, or lazy afternoons on the pier with the city skyline shimmering in the distance.

For time on the water, join the San Francisco Yacht Club or Corinthian Yacht Club, where sailing, sunset dinners, and regatta watching are just part of daily life.

Events + Happenings

Why We Love It

Because Tiburon makes every day feel like the weekend — easy, scenic, and beautifully balanced. You can grab a latte by the Bay, hop the ferry to the city, or hike a trail that ends in salt air. It’s coastal living at its most refined: stunning views, friendly faces, and that quiet confidence that comes from knowing you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

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