Exploring new places is a hobby for every adventure seeker, especially for solo travelers. Tomales Bay is also one of such hidden gems in the Northern California coastline that offers amazing views, delicious seafood, and bunches of outdoor activities.
If you are planning or will plan a getaway for this stunning place, you may stuck in the worry about the best places to stay in Tomales Bay. Well, you don’t have to worry much about it, ready for an unforgettable adventure, you will get all your answers in this travel guide.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Tomales Bay?
Before we talk about the best stay in Tomales Bay, let’s talk about why Tomales Bay should be on your bucket list for your next trip. Rolling hills, restful waters, and beautiful landscapes are some of the reasons. Tomales Bay has something special for everyone, must try kayak, hiking, or simply indulge in some world-class seafood. If you are an Instagram addict enjoying stunning sunsets that paint the sky with different beautiful colors will be perfect for your feed.
Best Places to Stay in Tomales Bay
Tomales Bay is one of the unique destinations that offers a variety of accommodations customized for all types of budgets and facilities. Different types of getaways like intimate inns, cozy cottages, and luxurious waterfront properties give you relaxation after a busy day in Tomales Bay.
1. Tomales Bay Resort
The Tomales Bay Resort is one of the top places to stay in Tomales Bay for a peaceful, nature-filled escape. This beautiful resort is close to the bay and offers everything you could want for a relaxing escape! With stunning views, cozy rooms, and direct access to the water, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy your precious time away.
This resort is especially popular for its huge cottages that feature large windows, allowing guests to enjoy all-inclusive views of the bay. These large windows allow kayaking, birdwatching, and stunning seaside views from the comfort of your cottage. Tomales Bay Resort provides a perfect base for exploring all the areas your eyes looking for.
The resort also offers an on-site restaurant, where you will enjoy a variety of fresh and local seafood, this on-site restaurant is perfect for those looking to satisfy themselves with some famous local region dishes and cultural experiences.
2. The Inn at Tomales Bay
If you want to explore something more luxurious stay, The Inn at Tomales Bay is the best option for you. This boutique hotel is a mixture of modern comfort and natural charm. This hotel is located just a few meters away from Tomales Bay, stunning views from here, and beautifully appointed rooms come with fireplaces and large decks to help you fully grab the natural beauty of the area.
With its comfortable atmosphere, The Inn at Tomales Bay is perfect for a solo retreat, offering the complete mix of quiet solitude and access to Tomales Bay’s activities. Guests can explore hiking with locals or can visit the nearest The Inn at Tomales Bay restaurants to grab fresh oysters, clams, and other regional options.
3. Nick’s Cove & Cottages
Exploring Nick’s Cove & Cottages provides a unique experience to visitors with its delightful waterfront cottages on the edge of Tomales Bay. This place become an iconic stay for those looking for a romantic couple escape or a special solo retreat. The cottages are fully equipped with modern luxuries but maintain a wooden, cozy feel that adds to the charm.
Nick’s Cove not only is a beautiful place to stay, also the onsite restaurant offers an extraordinary dining experience with incredible views of the water. Explore fresh oysters and seafood dishes at the onsite restaurant, it’s one of the most famous Tomales Bay restaurants. The area around Nick’s Cove is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and exploring, giving you the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Places to Stay in Tomales Bay on the Beach
If you planned the idea of waking up with the natural sound of the waves and stunning views of the ocean, many beachfront properties are available to consider staying in Tomales Bay. A long or permanent stay in Tomales Bay offers easy access to many water activities, like kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming or simply walking along the shoreline.
4. Point Reyes Seashore Lodge
A little further south, Point Reyes Seashore Lodge offers one of the best beach accommodations near Tomales Bay. This lodge is located at the Point Reyes National Seashore, providing direct access to miles of clean beaches. If you want to be close to Tomales Bay and also enjoy the broader seaside beauty of the region, Point Reyes Seashore Lodge is an excellent choice for you.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, some of which have private balconies, and an amazing onsite restaurant that serves delicious, locally sea-sourced food. Take a short drive from Tomales Bay to the Point Reyes Seashore Lodge which is a calm retreat surrounded by nature. It’s one of the best places to stay in Tomales Bay for those who love the beach and want to explore the surrounding area as well.
5. Bodega Bay Lodge
Bodega Bay Lodge is technically located in nearby Bodega Bay, but it offers easy access to both Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay, making it a top contender for your stay. The Bodega Bay Lodge offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, there are many rooms available including balconies where you can enjoy the seaside activities.
The lodge is perfect for those visitors who want to experience a luxury beachside stay. It offers a heated outdoor pool, a spa, and an incredible on-site restaurant serving dishes made from local ingredients, including fresh seafood. While a little further from Tomales Bay, the Bodega Bay Lodge is an excellent base for exploring both the stunning places of Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay’s seaside attractions.
6. Muir Beach Overlook
If you prefer a more cherished noise-free, budget-friendly experience, you might want to look at staying near Muir Beach Overlook. This is not exactly a traditional beachfront accommodation, But the area around Muir Beach offers access to a peaceful and scenic waterfront.
The Muir Beach area is the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway. The beach is less crowded, making it a wonderful alternative for those who want to soak up the beauty of the coast without the hustle and bustle of busier beaches. You’ll find a few delightful inns and cozy rental homes nearby, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to relax and enjoy some quietness.
Cheap Places to Stay in Tomales Bay
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to give up comfort or a great location! There are plenty of budget-friendly places to stay in Tomales Bay that ensure you can relax and enjoy your cherished time.
7. Tomales Bay Hostel
As a budget-conscious traveler, looking for a cheap place to stay, you’ll love the Tomales Bay Hostel. Nestled in the charming town of Tomales, this cozy hostel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with both shared bedrooms and private rooms at great prices. It’s a fantastic spot to meet solo travelers to immerse in the stunning beauty and fun of Tomales Bay.
The Tomales Bay Hostel may be simple, but it’s only minutes away from the beautiful waterfront. You’ll feel no trouble exploring the nearby parks, beaches, and hiking trails. It’s a perfect spot for solo travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations, solo adventure activities, and those who want to be close to the stunning nature all around.
8. Point Reyes Farmstay
Point Reyes Farmstay is on the list of another budget-friendly and unique place to stay in Tomales Bay, it offers guests the chance to stay on a genuine working farm near the bay. The farm offers simple cabins and rooms at affordable prices, which makes it a great option for solo travelers or those looking for a more down-to-earth experience.
Staying at Point Reyes Farmstay allows you to interact with farm animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and understand natural food processes while enjoying fresh produce. It’s a peaceful location and just a short drive from Tomales Bay, making it an excellent base for exploring the region.
9. Affordable Airbnb Rentals
Apart from the luxury accommodation sometimes you just prefer a homey atmosphere, Airbnb offers many budget-friendly rental options in Tomales Bay. There are many affordable listings available within a short distance of Tomales Bay, where you will get customized facilities of small cottages and private rooms. These rental options are located in a quiet area and allow you to experience like a local. Booking an Airbnb is one of the best cheap places to stay in Tomales Bay, no matter if you’re staying for a few nights or longer.
Tomales Bay Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss
Tomales Bay visit is incomplete without visiting the well-known delicious restaurants, especially when it comes to fresh seafood. The region is famous for its crawfish, and many of the best places to stay in Tomales Bay are located near top-notch dining spots.
10. The Tomales Bay Oyster Company
If you love crawfish, you have to check out The Tomales Bay Oyster Company. Nestled right on the water, this family-owned restaurant serves up the freshest seafood you can imagine. You can savor them while enjoying stunning views of the bay, along with some great local wines and beers. Whether you like your oysters raw, grilled, or fried, you’re in for a treat. The laid-back, friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.
11. The Marshall Store
Another iconic spot is The Marshall Store, a waterfront restaurant known for its excellent seafood, including Tomales Bay oysters. The Marshall Store is a great place to eat and enjoy the beautiful view of the bay. You can also taste some of the freshest oysters in the area.
12. Bovine Bakery
Bovine Bakery, located in Point Reyes Station is an ideal place for a quick breakfast and snack, also it is famous and the favorite of locals. Bovine Bakery is a place known for its tasty pastries and filling sandwiches. It’s a great spot to eat before you head out for a day of exploring.
Conclusion
After planning your visit, when it comes to choosing the best places to stay in Tomales Bay, you will find many options for every type of visitor. Tomales Bay offers multiple choices for luxury accommodation, budget-friendly stays or someone looking for a calm stay near the beach. After getting an ideal stay don’t forget to explore the culinary delights of locals, especially the fresh seafood, which is among the best you’ll find in California.
Tomales Bay is a safe place for solo female travelers, where you can unwind, explore, and enjoy some of the most stunning seaside landscapes in the beauty of nature. The variety of accommodations allows you to choose the perfect fit place according to your choice and budget, which makes your experience unforgettable in Tomales Bay. Follow Travel Till You Drop for more travel guides!