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Top 5 Bay Area Basecamps

By: Hipmunk + Save to a List

Photo: Griffin Moon

Woodchip trails, soaring redwoods and awe inspiring views await you in the Bay Area. San Francisco gets all the Norcal lovin’, but if cityside traipsing isn’t your thing, we suggest heading about 10 miles North, to the outdoor playground that is Marin County. Cyclists, hikers, runners and boaters from all over the world flock here because of its temperate climate, infinite trail options and remarkable views by land and sea. If your ideal trip involves seeing nature at her finest by day, and nestling into a cozy bed by night, look no further; we’ve found you some of the best basecamps in the Bay.

Marin Suites Hotel - Corte Madera, CA

Corte Madera is the trailhead of Marin county. If you want accessibility to land, sea and city, this is the town where you should be staying. The Marin Suites Hotel features suite style accommodations that include a full kitchen for prepping trailside sandos-perfect for large groups and families. Practically nestled into the base of Mt. Tamalpais, you can’t get any more convenient at a high quality with low cost. Bonus: Fido is welcome at Marin Suites so you can bring him along for the family vacation.

Best Western Corte Madera - Corte Madera, CA

Another comfortable, affordable option is the Best Western Corte Madera. Five miles north of Sausalito and 6 miles north of Tiburon, its located on a stellar bike loop that connects the seaside towns. If hiking is more your style, nearby Muir Woods National Park offers soaring redwoods and hidden coastal coves for discovering.

Looking for something a little more personal? Check out these Airbnbs...

The Tower Room - Mill Valley, CA

Have you ever wanted to live in tree house? Here’s your chance! The Tower Room is a cozy wooden bungalow hidden away in hiker’s paradise. With a fully stocked kitchen, ample music collection and immediate access to the great outdoors (hello, it’s a tree house) this is the perfect getaway for nature lovers. Watch a blazing sunset out on the porch and wake up with the sun shining through the large windows throughout the interior. The Tower Room is the ideal location for those hikers who want to stay close to mother nature without pitching a tent.

Sweet and Sunny at the Base of Mt Tam - Mill Valley, CA

A cushy bed nestled in the trees in your own private cottage…talk about camping at its finest. This petite cottage is a no fuss affair, so minimalists will be delighted by its simplicity. If all you are looking for a recovery hideaway from your day of mountaineering then this sweet and sunny spot should be your home base. With no kitchen to clean and convenient parking options, this cottage is meant for travelers on the move.

Bloomers, Mill Valley - Mill Valley, CA

At Bloomers, you can prepare breakfast in your stocked kitchen and have your morning coffee on the tree house deck before setting off on your morning adventure. Located close to grocery stores, public transport and a small town center, Bloomers is also abutting the base of Muir Woods. The sprawling bike paths also take you on the epic coastal loop from Sausalito to TIburon so pack your two wheelers if you can! Side Note: This 1 BR property used to be the homestead of Mike Bloomfield, a famous blues guitarist known for playing with the likes of Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones…#coolpoints.

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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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