Lunch stop between SFO and Muir Beach

Question

We’re (family of four with two teen boys) arriving at SFO early am on a Saturday and renting a car. Our ultimate destination is Mill Valley, with a stop at Muir Beach (Tennessee Valley trail) on the way. I think we’ll need lunch before we get to the trail. Where is an easy place to stop with a car along that route? It’s the boys’ first trip to the West Coast, so something with a view of the Pacific or Golden Gate would be ideal but not necessary. Thanks for any suggestions!

Answer

Driving from SFO to Muir Beach offers a few great options for a convenient and scenic lunch stop before hitting the Tennessee Valley trail. Since you’re traveling with teens and want a casual spot that’s easy to reach with a car, here are some options along your route:

First, keep in mind that traffic around the Golden Gate Bridge can be unpredictable, so plan for extra time if you want a leisurely stop with a view.

Sausalito – Fish. or Scoma’s of Sausalito: Both are right along the waterfront with beautiful views of the Bay and the Golden Gate. Fish. offers a casual, walk-up counter service with great seafood and sandwiches, while Scoma’s is more of a sit-down experience. Either is convenient if you want a scenic stop before heading north.
Marin Headlands / Hawk Hill Picnic Area: If you prefer a quick picnic-style lunch, consider picking up sandwiches or takeout in Sausalito or Mill Valley and stopping at the Marin Headlands pullouts. The views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate are spectacular, and there’s plenty of space to stretch your legs.
Mill Valley – Marin Coffee Roasters or Della Fattoria: Both are casual, quick options in Mill Valley with good sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Easy to grab something to go for a light lunch before heading to the trail.

Additional tips:

Arrive early at SFO and grab a coffee or breakfast snack; you might not need a heavy lunch immediately, depending on your morning schedule.
If you’re timing it with the trail, consider stopping just after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in either Sausalito or Marin City to minimize backtracking.
Parking can be tight in Sausalito on weekends, so if convenience is key, Mill Valley options may be easier to manage with a car and family of four.

Overall, Sausalito offers both views and a quintessential Bay Area experience, while Mill Valley is more convenient and family-friendly. Depending on how hungry everyone is and how long you want to linger, either makes a solid choice before exploring Tennessee Valley.

Lunch stop between SFO and Muir Beach

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