Friday, January 17, 2025

The Excellent Day Journey to Level Reyes, California: 12-Hour Itinerary

In case you are heading to Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore in California, however are quick on time, then my one-day itinerary is ideal for a day journey stuffed with bucket record enjoyable. This gorgeous coastal area has every thing—breathtaking nature, scrumptious meals, and quirky outlets—however with out the hustle that leaves you needing a trip from your trip. Belief me, as somebody who’s walked these trails and tasted the cheese (a lot cheese!), this itinerary is your ticket to the proper day in Level Reyes.

Have extra time? Take a look at all my favourite issues to do in Level Reyes.

Cypress Tree Tunnel Annette

Spend One Day in Level Reyes


8:00 AM

Espresso & Pastries at Brickmaiden Breads

First cease: carbs. (Truthfully, does any trip day even begin with out carbs?) Brickmaiden Breads is a tiny bakery, tucked away in Level Reyes Station simply sufficient to really feel such as you’ve stumbled upon a secret. I had the ginger scone (which had simply the correct amount of spice!) and couldn’t resist shopping for a loaf of their seeded levain for later. The outside backyard is so peaceable; sipping espresso there felt like hitting the reset button. 


8:45 AM

Fast Cease on the Inverness Shipwreck

Ever heard of the S.S. Level Reyes? It’s an outdated fishing boat that’s been hanging out in Inverness Bay since 1944, trying all mysterious and photogenic. It’s the spot for some moody, Insta-worthy pics (morning fog makes it further dramatic). Heads up: the shipwreck is slowly falling aside, so don’t miss your probability to see it whereas it’s nonetheless there.

Tip: you’ll be able to simply discover parking for the shipwreck is at Inverness Retailer. Then there’s a quick path behind to the shop the ship.

Inverness ShipwreckInverness Shipwreck

9:15 AM

Pose on the Cypress Tree Tunnel 

For those who’re into pictures—or simply desire a cool new profile pic—the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Inverness is a should. This picturesque lane of towering cypress timber kinds a cover overhead, making it really feel like one thing out of the Sport of Thrones. Whilst you can’t drive by means of it, taking a leisurely stroll underneath the timber is an expertise in itself.

Don’t be stunned in the event you stumble upon different vacationers posing right here too (a lot of them!). 

Cypress Tree TunnelCypress Tree Tunnel

10:15 AM

Go to the Level Reyes Lighthouse

If there’s one factor you should do in Level Reyes, it’s go to the Level Reyes Lighthouse. On a transparent day, you’ll get the sort of panoramic vistas that make you’re feeling such as you’re standing on the fringe of the world. However heads up—fog and wind are widespread right here, so examine the climate earlier than you go. 

Point Reyes Lighthouse ViewPoint Reyes Lighthouse View

You’ll stroll a couple of quarter mile to the primary viewpoint, however in the event you’re up for the problem, take the 313 steps right down to see the lighthouse up shut. (Sure, which means 313 steps again up, however hey, consider it as your exercise for the day. There are a few relaxation platforms alongside the best way—good for catching your breath and taking within the view.  

Tip: If the lighthouse is closed otherwise you need extra nature time, Chimney Rock is simply 5 minutes away. It’s a straightforward 1.8-mile hike with jaw-dropping coastal views.

Chimney Rock Point ReyesChimney Rock Point Reyes

12:00 PM

Discover Downtown Level Reyes Station  

Downtown Level Reyes is tiny, however it’s full of persona. Begin at Toby’s Feed Barn, a mixture of a normal retailer, artwork gallery, and low bar. It’s been round since 1942, so it’s an area staple.

Want picnic provides? Hit up the Cowgirl Barn for cheese and goodies. And don’t skip Vita Collage—this store has the cutest residence items and jewellery. I wished every thing (however settled for a plant and a candle as a result of, , self-control).

Toby_s Feed Barn JamToby_s Feed Barn Jam

1:30 PM

Cheese Tasting at Level Reyes Farmstead  

For those who’re a cheese lover (or simply hungry by now), Level Reyes Farmstead is your subsequent cease. They provide sit-down cheese tastings by means of September, which is a enjoyable solution to pattern native varieties. However in the event you miss it, no worries—their store is open year-round, and you may nonetheless choose up some scrumptious cheese to take residence. I HIGHLY advocate the Quinta, a soft-ripend rind cheese —I’m drooling simply typing the identify.

In the course of the tasting, you’ll get a board stuffed with native cheeses and seasonal treats, and you may also order from their Fork kitchen. I extremely advocate the mac and cheese—it’s pure consolation meals heaven. And don’t even get me began on their house-made ice cream sandwiches!  

Point Reyes FarmsteadPoint Reyes Farmstead

If cheese isn’t your factor (or in the event you simply desire a fast chew), head to The Farmer’s Spouse contained in the Cowgirl Barn for lunch. I make a killer tuna soften, however their tuna soften with potato chips inside is a game-changer—significantly, don’t knock it until you attempt it! You may eat on their patio or take it to go for a picnic.  

Tuna melt sandwichTuna melt sandwich

3:30 PM

Mead Tasting at Heidrun Meadery

Prepared for slightly afternoon buzz (pun supposed)? Head to Heidrun Meadery for a tasting. Mead, in case you didn’t know, is a kind of wine comprised of honey, and it has a novel style that’s means completely different than any wine you ever had. You may select a flight of 4 meads or simply take pleasure in a glass. For those who occur to be there on a Saturday, they provide guided excursions, so you’ll be able to be taught extra about how they make their mead.  

Heidrun Meadery Point ReyesHeidrun Meadery Point Reyes

The outside seating space is chill—image picnic tables and winery vibes. It’s the proper place to unwind for a bit earlier than persevering with your journey. However the vibe right here is so laid-back, you would possibly end up lingering longer than deliberate.


5:30 PM

Go to Little Wing Farm 

Little Wing Farm is an cute roadside stand the place you should purchase contemporary veggies, flowers, and fruits. It’s a type of honor-system locations—you simply jot down what you purchase in a pocket book and go away money within the field (so ensure that to carry money!). I grabbed some shishito peppers, however every thing appeared so contemporary and scrumptious that it was onerous to decide on.

Even in the event you don’t want something, it’s value stopping by simply to absorb the allure and snap just a few images.  

Little Wing FarmLittle Wing Farm
Little Wing Farm AnnetteLittle Wing Farm Annette

6:30 PM

Dinner at Cafe Reyes 

Finish your day with a laid-back dinner at Cafe Reyes. This place has a cool, fashionable vibe and serves some significantly good wood-fired pizza. What’s even cooler is that the pizzas are all named after native landmarks, which I assumed was such a cute contact. I ordered the Miwok pizza and a mozzarella salad with contemporary tomatoes and spinach. All the pieces was so contemporary and flavorful—it was the proper solution to finish the day.  


Make it an Overnighter 

Keep the Night time at Nick’s Cove

For those who’re not able to say goodbye to Level Reyes (and actually, who can be?), deal with your self to an evening at Nick’s Cove. Their rustic waterfront cottages are cozy and cute, and waking as much as bay views? Completely value it.


1-Day Level Reyes Itinerary Video

YouTube videoYouTube video

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Point Reyes Day Trip: The Ultimate 12-Hour ItineraryPoint Reyes Day Trip: The Ultimate 12-Hour Itinerary


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