If you are heading to Point Reyes National Seashore in California, but are short on time, then my one-day itinerary is perfect for a day trip filled with bucket list fun. This pretty coastal region has everything—breathtaking nature, delicious food, and quirky shops—but without the hustle that leaves you needing a vacation from your vacation. Trust me, as someone who’s walked these trails and tasted the cheese (so much cheese!), this itinerary is your ticket to the perfect day in Point Reyes.
Have more time? Check out all my favorite things to do in Point Reyes.
How to Spend One Day in Point Reyes
8:00 AM
Coffee & Pastries at Brickmaiden Breads
First stop: carbs. (Honestly, does any vacation day even start without carbs?) Brickmaiden Breads is a tiny bakery, tucked away in Point Reyes Station just enough to feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret. I had the ginger scone (which had just the right amount of spice!) and couldn’t resist buying a loaf of their seeded levain for later. The outdoor garden is so peaceful; sipping coffee there felt like hitting the reset button.Â
8:45 AM
Quick Stop at the Inverness Shipwreck
Ever heard of the S.S. Point Reyes? It’s an old fishing boat that’s been hanging out in Inverness Bay since 1944, looking all mysterious and photogenic. It’s the spot for some moody, Insta-worthy pics (morning fog makes it extra dramatic). Heads up: the shipwreck is slowly falling apart, so don’t miss your chance to see it while it’s still there.
Tip: you can easily find parking for the shipwreck is at Inverness Store. Then there is a short path behind to the store the ship.
9:15 AM
Pose at the Cypress Tree TunnelÂ
If you’re into photography—or just want a cool new profile pic—the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Inverness is a must. This picturesque lane of towering cypress trees forms a canopy overhead, making it feel like something out of the Game of Thrones. While you can’t drive through it, taking a leisurely stroll under the trees is an experience in itself.
Don’t be surprised if you bump into other travelers posing here too (lots of them!).Â
10:15 AM
Visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse
If there’s one thing you must do in Point Reyes, it’s visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse. On a clear day, you’ll get the kind of panoramic vistas that make you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world. But heads up—fog and wind are common here, so check the weather before you go.Â
You’ll walk about a quarter mile to the main viewpoint, but if you’re up for the challenge, take the 313 steps down to see the lighthouse up close. (Yes, that means 313 steps back up, but hey, think of it as your workout for the day. There are a couple of rest platforms along the way—perfect for catching your breath and taking in the view. Â
Tip: If the lighthouse is closed or you want more nature time, Chimney Rock is just five minutes away. It’s an easy 1.8-mile hike with jaw-dropping coastal views.
12:00 PM
Explore Downtown Point Reyes Station Â
Downtown Point Reyes is tiny, but it’s packed with personality. Start at Toby’s Feed Barn, a mix of a general store, art gallery, and coffee bar. It’s been around since 1942, so you know it’s a local staple.
Need picnic supplies? Hit up the Cowgirl Barn for cheese and goodies. And don’t skip Vita Collage—this shop has the cutest home goods and jewelry. I wanted everything (but settled for a plant and a candle because, you know, self-control).
1:30 PM
Cheese Tasting at Point Reyes Farmstead Â
If you’re a cheese lover (or just hungry by now), Point Reyes Farmstead is your next stop. They offer sit-down cheese tastings through September, which is a fun way to sample local varieties. But if you miss it, no worries—their shop is open year-round, and you can still pick up some delicious cheese to take home. I HIGHLY recommend the Quinta, a soft-ripend rind cheese —I’m drooling just typing the name.
During the tasting, you’ll get a board filled with local cheeses and seasonal treats, and you can also order from their Fork kitchen. I highly recommend the mac and cheese—it’s pure comfort food heaven. And don’t even get me started on their house-made ice cream sandwiches! Â
If cheese isn’t your thing (or if you just want a quick bite), head to The Farmer’s Wife inside the Cowgirl Barn for lunch. I make a killer tuna melt, but their tuna melt with potato chips inside is a game-changer—seriously, don’t knock it till you try it! You can eat on their patio or take it to go for a picnic. Â
3:30 PM
Mead Tasting at Heidrun Meadery
Ready for a little afternoon buzz (pun intended)? Head to Heidrun Meadery for a tasting. Mead, in case you didn’t know, is a type of wine made from honey, and it has a unique taste that is way different than any wine you ever had. You can choose a flight of four meads or just enjoy a glass. If you happen to be there on a Saturday, they offer guided tours, so you can learn more about how they make their mead. Â
The outdoor seating area is chill—picture picnic tables and vineyard vibes. It’s the perfect place to unwind for a bit before continuing your adventure. But the vibe here is so laid-back, you might find yourself lingering longer than planned.
5:30 PM
Visit Little Wing FarmÂ
Little Wing Farm is an adorable roadside stand where you can buy fresh veggies, flowers, and fruits. It’s one of those honor-system places—you just jot down what you buy in a notebook and leave cash in the box (so make sure to bring cash!). I grabbed some shishito peppers, but everything looked so fresh and delicious that it was hard to choose.
Even if you don’t need anything, it’s worth stopping by just to take in the charm and snap a few photos. Â
6:30 PM
Dinner at Cafe ReyesÂ
End your day with a laid-back dinner at Cafe Reyes. This place has a cool, trendy vibe and serves some seriously good wood-fired pizza. What’s even cooler is that the pizzas are all named after local landmarks, which I thought was such a cute touch. I ordered the Miwok pizza and a mozzarella salad with fresh tomatoes and spinach. Everything was so fresh and flavorful—it was the perfect way to end the day. Â
Make it an OvernighterÂ
Stay the Night at Nick’s Cove
If you’re not ready to say goodbye to Point Reyes (and honestly, who would be?), treat yourself to a night at Nick’s Cove. Their rustic waterfront cottages are cozy and adorable, and waking up to bay views? Totally worth it.
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