Marin County | Tomales Bay

One of the most wonderful things about living in Marin County is the lifestyle. From quaint towns to vast open spaces and coastal dreamscapes, there is so much to do and see in the area. My favorite weekend jaunt was to travel to Tomales Bay to enjoy a scenic drive and eventually bbq oysters at Hog Island Oyster Company.

Tomales Bay is a long, narrow inlet of the Pacific Ocean in Marin County. It is approximately 15 miles long and averages 1 mile wide, effectively separating the Point Reyes Peninsula from the mainland of Marin County. It is located approximately 30 miles northwest of San Francisco. The bay forms the eastern boundary of Point Reyes National Seashore. Tomales Bay is recognized for protection by the California Bays and Estuaries Policy. On its northern end, it opens out onto Bodega Bay, which shelters it from the direct current of the Pacific Ocean. The bay is formed along a submerged portion of the San Andreas Fault.

Oyster farming is a major industry on the bay. The two largest producers are Hog Island Oyster Company and Tomales Bay Oyster Company, both of which retail oysters to the public and have picnic grounds on the east shore. These particular types of oysters found in this area must be cooked and the best way to cook them is with bbq sauce!