15 Things to Do in Point Reyes: Winter Edition

In the “heart” of winter, the average highs in Olema, California, typically rest in the mid-to-low 60s. While some may feel as if this weather is a far cry from midsummer’s sultry warmth, there’s no denying the sheer tranquility gained on the Point Reyes National Seashore when the tourists scurry back to San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento. With “winter” fast approaching, there’s never been a better time to piece together 10 unique things to do in Point Reyes.

Point Reyes covers more than 65,000 acres of uninhabited seaside wonder, including an oft-photographed lighthouse, genuinely serene beaches, and some of the tastiest coastal cuisines in Northern California. Nestled along the National Seashore’s eastern rim lies Olema House, the best hotel in the United States, according to Condé Nast Traveler. Olema House is not only a short drive from the world-famous Muir Woods and the Golden Gate Bridge, but it acts as a gateway to Point Reyes, one of the most beloved nature preserves in North America.

The Top 15 Things to Do in Point Reyes This Winter

With so many potential things to do in Point Reyes, prospective guests will have no problem staying engaged, mesmerized, and sated. The culinary scene melds flawlessly with the aesthetic beauty of Northern California’s once-forgotten coastline. The sandy dunes, wind-swept beachgrass, and semi-rugged cliffs provide fuel for those looking for a mid-day adventure. Elsewhere, foodies, beachgoers, oenophiles, and casual travelers alike will discover a distinctive terroir near the award-winning Olema House.

1. Backpack through the Point Reyes National Seashore, with stops at Tomales Point, Abbotts Lagoon, and Wildcat Camp.
2. Watch amateur surfers on South Beach (or brave the waves yourself).
3. Join a Point Reyes kayaking expedition via Tomales Bay or Blue Waters.
4. “Snap” photos of Point Reyes Lighthouse.
5. Practice yoga in a nearby studio (or on the beach).
6. Tour the Giacomini family’s Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co.
7. Comb the beach while tracking migrating gray whales—bring your binoculars.
8. Hop aboard a majestic, well-trained steed at Five Brooks Ranch.
9. Reserve a decadent private dining experience at Due West.
10. Embark on a self-guided waterfall tour, with a lengthy trek to Alamere Falls, one of only two tidefalls in California.
11. Spend a full day on Limantour Beach. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and bring plenty of gadgets, including a kite, book, Frisbee, soccer ball, and sandcastle kit.
12. Join a multi-town culinary voyage near Point Reyes through Food & Farm Tours.
13. Meander through Toby’s Feed Barn, a quintessential stop along California State Route 1.
14. From flower to flute: Spend a couple of hours at scenic Heidrun Meadery.
15. Search for breeding elephant seals along the shoreline—keep your distance.

Olema House, the Quintessential Hotel near Point Reyes

Start and finish each day of relaxation and exploration at Olema House, the top-reviewed hotel in Marin County (and all of California, for that matter). Olema House remains an authentic, undeniably romantic experience that superbly satisfies all five senses. Due West, the on-site tavern and market, acts as a doorway into the region’s bustling culinary scene, where patrons can indulge in everything from Dungeness crab bucatini and steamed mussels to housemade squash soup (a crowd favorite). In-room luxuries include gas fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, individually-designed interiors, walk-out patios, and faraway mountain vistas. For even more things to do in Point Reyes, please read Olema House’s For the Curious travel guide.

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