Marin County, with its breathtaking landscapes, exceptional schools, and lively small-town charm, is a fantastic destination for families in the San Francisco Bay Area. The region offers a diverse range of weather, from the cooler climates of Mill Valley and Tiburon to the warmer locales of Greenbrae and San Rafael. Its unmatched access to outdoor activities and natural beauty makes it a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Additionally, with its close proximity to San Francisco, commuting by car, bus, or ferry is convenient and efficient. Here are five compelling reasons families should consider making the move.
1. Exceptional Education Options
Marin is renowned for its outstanding educational institutions. From public to private schools, the county offers a variety of choices that cater to different learning styles and needs.
- Towns to Consider:
- Corte Madera: With schools like Neil Cummins Elementary, The Cove, and Marin Country Day School, this town offers a nurturing educational experience with a focus on both academic and personal development.
- Mill Valley: Home to highly rated schools like Mill Valley Middle School and Tamalpais High School, known for their strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
- San Rafael: Offers a mix of public and private schools, including Marin Academy, which is known for its college preparatory curriculum.
- Tiburon: Known for its top-rated schools, including Reed Elementary and Del Mar Middle School, Tiburon provides an excellent educational environment with a strong emphasis on community engagement and academic success.
2. Family-Friendly Communities
Each town in Marin has its own unique charm, fostering a strong sense of community. Residents often come together for local events, making it easy for families to connect.
- Towns to Consider:
- Corte Madera: Known for its friendly neighborhoods and community events, Corte Madera hosts fun activities like the Summer Concerts and the annual 4th of July Parade and Festival (with Larkspur).
- San Anselmo: This charming town offers a close-knit community feel, with plenty of parks, family-oriented events, and activities like the San Anselmo Film Festival, a great summer concert series, a community parade and many holiday events, making it a great place for families to grow and thrive.
- Mill Valley: So many great events in this town including the Kiddo! Family Carnival to benefit the schools, Annual Fall Arts Festival, and Family Fun Fest at the Community Center.
Check out the SJ blog post with ideas to Eat & Play Your Way Through Southern Marin and read about this client’s move to Mill Valley!
3. Stunning Natural Beauty
Marin County is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, parks, and coastal areas. This natural playground encourages outdoor activities that families can enjoy together. Amazingly, you can hike from your home in most of the towns!
- Must-Visit Areas:
- Mount Tamalpais: Offering hiking trails with panoramic views, it’s perfect for family hikes and picnics.
- Muir Woods National Monument: Famous for its towering redwoods, it provides educational opportunities about nature and conservation.
- Sausalito: Known for its stunning waterfront views and access to beautiful parks like the Golden Gate National Recreation Area with hiking, Rodeo Beach, The Marine Mammal Center, and NatureBridge, Sausalito provides ample opportunities for family outings, including biking along the waterfront and enjoying outdoor festivals. There is also a yacht club with kids sailing programs. Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito is also very popular with families with young kids.
- Point Reyes National Seashore for great hiking, camping, kayaking and beaches where you can spot elephant seals and several species of whales.
4. Convenient Commuting Options
One of the major advantages of living in Marin County is its accessibility to San Francisco and the greater Bay Area. Families can enjoy the suburban lifestyle while still having the option to easily commute for work or leisure.
- Towns with an easy commute:
- Mill Valley: Located just across the Golden Gate Bridge, it offers a quick drive or bus ride into San Francisco, making it a popular choice for commuters.
- Corte Madera: With easy access to U.S. Route 101 and the nearby Larkspur Ferry, it provides convenient options for commuting to the city.
- Tiburon: The ferry service from Tiburon to San Francisco is not only scenic but also efficient, providing a pleasant commuting experience.
- Larkspur: Home to the Larkspur Ferry terminal, it offers a quick and scenic commute across the bay to San Francisco, making it a favorite among families.
5. Cultural and Recreational Opportunities
Marin offers a rich tapestry of cultural and recreational activities that cater to families. From arts and music to sports and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone.
- Cultural Hotspots:
- Marin Center in San Rafael: Hosts concerts, theater productions, and art exhibits, providing families with engaging cultural experiences.
- Point Reyes National Seashore: Perfect for family trips to learn about coastal ecosystems, wildlife, and history.
- Mill Valley Film Festival: This eleven-day, internationally acclaimed cinema event presents a wide variety of new films from around the world in an engaged, community setting.
- PAAM (Performing Arts Academy of Marin), in Mill Valley, has popular classes for kids.
- Tamalpais High School, in Mill Valley, is well known for its theater program.
- Sweetwater Music Hall in downtown Mill Valley is a wonderful non-profit with a thriving performing arts music space and programs to support music education for adults and kids alike.
- Tiburon: Several wonderful events including the Tiburon Wine Festival and several cultural festivals including the Jewish Festival, Celebrate Diwali, and the Persian New Year Festival.
With its exceptional schools, welcoming communities, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, Marin County is an ideal place for families looking to settle down in the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you choose the charm of Mill Valley, the community spirit of Corte Madera, the beauty of Tiburon, or another wonderful town, Marin offers a fantastic environment where families can thrive and create lasting memories.
For more insights, visit SJ’s San Francisco Bay Area blog page and the San Francisco Bay Area Featured Market section on our website.
