Stinson Beach

We love driving over Mt. Tam to enjoy a relaxing day in Stinson Beach. Unfortunately the selection of dining venues is limited and hostile. On a recent Saturday we were greeted without a smile by a surly hostess/waitress at the Parkside cafe in Stinson Beach. When we requested to be seated at one of about seven empty tables by the fire we were told that they were reserved and directed to sit anywhere in the back dining room. The tables by the fire remained empty throughout our dinner. We were dismayed by this and the unfriendly service she provided throughout our less than savoury meal. As a result we left a tip we believed matched the quality of the service, 12%. Shockingly we were followed out by three men with whom the waitress was clearly friendly for she had been sitting at their table. As we left the restaurant, these men hurled profanities and insults at me and my husband for leaving a small tip and attempted to engage in a physical altercation with my husband. I have never experienced a situation like this before, where a waitress sends out her thugs if a customer does not tip enough. I would adivse anyone not to waste their time or money in this hostile environment. Pros: Scenery Cons: Parkside Cafe more

When I first saw the fog at Stinson Beach, I thought it was going to be cold. It was actually pretty warm, with no sun out! Don't worry about the windy roads and minor traffic, Stinson Beach is worth it with it's barbeque grills on top, and its gorgeous sands and waters on the bottom!! Pros: Free access, Barqbeque Grills, Clean bathrooms Cons: No soap in bathrooms more

try to go at low tide! you can see sculptured beach. you can also see sea lions at the end of the the beach. Pros: not crowded, long beach walks Cons: windy, can be foggy more

The road is pretty windy, but it's worth it! The views are fabulous, the sky and water are endless. more

Stinson Beach has so much more to offer than sand to sit on. The area is surrounded by beautiful views, miles of hiking trails, bike riding routes and ocean breezes. The local restaurants all have a unique flare (casual, cozy, comfort food or something new) with a welcoming atmoshpere. You can play until you are exhausted or simply relax and soak in the scenes. But whatever you choose, you won't be disappointed. Cons: Long Drive more