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


If you’re heading to Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore in California, however are quick on time, then my one-day itinerary is ideal for a day journey full of bucket checklist enjoyable. This gorgeous coastal area has every thing—breathtaking nature, scrumptious meals, and quirky retailers—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 journey to Level Reyes.

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


How one can Spend One Day in Level Reyes


8:00 AM

Espresso & Pastries at Brickmaiden Breads

First cease: carbs. (Actually, 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 It’s an outdated fishing boat that’s been hanging out in Inverness Bay since 1944, trying all mysterious and photogenic.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 additional 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 possibly can 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 

In case you’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 bushes types a cover overhead, making it really feel like one thing out of the Recreation of Thrones. Whilst you can’t drive by means of it, taking a leisurely stroll beneath the bushes is an expertise in itself.

Don’t be shocked when you stumble upon different vacationers posing right here too (numerous them!). 

Cypress Tree Tunnel AnnetteCypress Tree Tunnel Annette
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 frequent right here, so test the climate earlier than you go. 

Point Reyes Lighthouse ViewPoint Reyes Lighthouse View

You’ll stroll a couple of quarter mile to the principle viewpoint, however when you’re up for the problem, take the 313 steps all the way 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 way in which—excellent 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 filled with character. 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 a neighborhood staple.

Want picnic provides? Hit up the Cowgirl Barn for cheese and goodies. And don’t skip Vita Collage—this store has the cutest dwelling items and jewellery. I needed 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  

In case you’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 method to pattern native varieties. However when you miss it, no worries—their store is open year-round, and you may nonetheless choose up some scrumptious cheese to take dwelling. I HIGHLY suggest the Quinta, a soft-ripend rind cheese —I’m drooling simply typing the identify.

Through the tasting, you’ll get a board full of native cheeses and seasonal treats, and you may also order from their Fork kitchen. I extremely suggest 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 when you simply desire a fast chunk), 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—severely, don’t knock it until you strive 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 a little bit afternoon buzz (pun meant)? Head to Heidrun Meadery for a tasting. Mead, in case you didn’t know, is a kind of wine constructed from 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 get pleasure from a glass. In case you occur to be there on a Saturday, they provide guided excursions, so you possibly can study 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 kind of honor-system locations—you simply jot down what you purchase in a pocket book and depart money within the field (so be certain to convey money!). I grabbed some shishito peppers, however every thing seemed so contemporary and scrumptious that it was exhausting to decide on.

Even when you don’t want something, it’s price stopping by simply to absorb the appeal 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, stylish vibe and serves some severely 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 things was so contemporary and flavorful—it was the proper method to finish the day.  


Make it an Overnighter 

Keep the Night time at Nick’s Cove

In case you’re not able to say goodbye to Level Reyes (and actually, who could 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 price it.


1-Day Level Reyes Itinerary Video

YouTube videoYouTube video


Touring Quickly? Use my Favourite Assets for Reserving Your Journey!

E book Your Flight
Skyscanner is my favourite flight search engine, as a result of it checks dozens of airways so you possibly can simply discover the most effective fare offers. You too can choose ‘least expensive month’ to seek out the bottom fares on your vacation spot (I exploit this on a regular basis!).

E book Your Lodging
I exploit each Reserving.com and Expedia for motels, as a result of every affords a pair completely different resort decisions and I like to match the opinions on every one. When you’ve got a bunch or are in search of extra of a house environment, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has homes, residences and even only a room for hire in each value vary. 

E book Your Rental Automobile
If love the liberty to discover like I do, driving from place to put is the most suitable choice! I at all times ebook with Uncover Automobiles for the most effective costs and high model choices.

E book Some Enjoyable Excursions!
Viator and Get Your Information are my go-to search engines like google for cool bucket checklist experiences! Each can have completely different excursions, so test each—why restrict your self, proper?

Don’t Neglect Journey Insurance coverage
Journey might be unpredictable. Whether or not it’s a last-minute cancellation, an harm, or (ugh) theft, issues occur. That’s why I like to recommend by no means leaving the nation with out journey insurance coverage. Listed here are my faves: Security Wing and World Nomads.

Get Packing & Journey Necessities Prepared
Take a look at the Bucket Listing Journey Amazon Retailer to seek out all my favourite journey necessities. All the things from Packing cubes, to journey adapters and toiletry containers to strolling footwear.

*Lastly, test journey.state.gov for visa necessities and security data.

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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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