4.5 stars Bear…read moreValley visitor's center is a really nice and well-maintained visitor's center. Inside, there's a little museum explaining the wildlife found in the area. There's a gift shop area with books for all ages and small selection of souvenirs. The restrooms are also pretty clean. There's free parking on site and additional parking and restrooms across from the visitor's center. There's also plenty of space for picnics. Idk what the rules are, but I did see horses and horse riders, so I think there's a horse trail nearby?? Would recommend the stop for maps, souvenirs, restroom breaks, and/or picnics.

My husband and I visited the free Bear Valley Visitor Center in Inverness, CA, the primary (of 3)…read morevisitor center (VC) for the Point Reyes National Seashore in early August, 2024. We were driving between San Rafael and Bodega Bay and debating whether it was worth our time to drive the 21 miles (42 minutes), each way, to the Point Reyes Lighthouse -- especially as we had been experiencing a lot of fog over the previous few days. What we hadn't anticipated was how interesting the stop would be at the Visitor Center itself! The Visitor Center had very friendly NPS staff and volunteers who provided maps and information about the roads, trails, and human and cultural history of the Olema Valley and the Point Reyes National Seashore. They recommended that we start by watching the orientation film in the auditorium (we did!), check out the indoor exhibits that provide a glimpse of the diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage of the park, and recommended some hikes that begin near the VC. They also told us of what we might see on the road to the lighthouse (including beaches and overviews where we might see wildlife, such otters and elephant seals) and at the lighthouse itself. Importantly, they showed us a live stream from the lighthouse that showed that the lighthouse area was currently shrouded in fog. We also stopped by the small gift shop and picked up a few souvenirs. At the suggestion of the park ranger, we next walked the Earthquake Trail, which is an easy and short (0.6 miles) paved loop trail that only takes about 15 minutes to walk. Signage on the interpretative trail allows walkers to discover the geology of the San Andres Fault Zone. The highlight was seeing a fence that jumped 16 feet in the 1906 earthquake. We ultimately decided to drive down to the Point Reyes lighthouse, and were pleased that the fig had lifted by the time we reached. I will review the lighthouse in its separate entry in Yelp. The VC is handicap accessible. There are 2 parking lots -- at the VC and trailheads area. Restrooms are available in the VC during operating hours and in the trailhead parking lot from 6 am-midnight. There's a picnic area with BBQ grills.

How fortunate we are to have Point Reyes National Seashore. The headquarters is fantastic- maps,…read morerecommendations, nice restrooms & plenty of free parking. Today we chose the Bear Valley hike trail. The path is wide and mostly flat and even includes a bathroom midway. As you walk you are able to hear the beautiful sounds of the babbling brook along the route. Being late Spring we were able to spot a good amount of wildflowers- buttercups, poppies, bleeding heart, foxglove and more. We encountered several equestrian's throughout our hike.

Sea How You Are A…read more71,000-acre park that was founded in 1962 and whose eastern boundary consists of a little thing called the San Andreas Fault. It's also home to over 900 plant species (50 of which are endangered), over 40 species of mammals, and over 400 different birds. Point Reyes is unlike any other park we've ever been to in that it's such a unique area that includes a small town, farmlands, estuaries, beaches, headlands, and so much more. If this is your first time or you're planning your first time, I'd try to allow for at least two full days to really get a feel for this place, and the best part is it's all 100% free to visit! Here's a quick guide to the best of the best things to do here (Pro Tip: There are multiple other Yelp pages with lots of more specific reviews for each of these locations). * The PR lighthouse is a must-see, and with the 308 stairs you'll need to get there, you'll definitely get your steps in! * There are multiple Visitors Centers, but if you only want to visit one, I'd recommend going to the one at Drake's Beach where you might get a glimpse of elephant seals during their breeding period (Dec - March). * Tomales Point Trail at the Tule Elk Preserve is my mostest favoritetest trail on Earth. It's relatively flat with very little uphill, but it is over nine miles if you want to get to the point and get back. And, yes, you'll want to get to the point. Otherwise, what's the point? ;) Just be sure to bring water and some snacks to cover you for those 9+ miles. This will also be your best chance to come face-to-face with the infamous Tule Elk. * Drake's Estero if you want to do some kayaking (check website for rules and dates). * McClures Beach if you want to hang and picnic. Great for tidepooling but not so much for swimming. Seriously. Don't do it. * Chimney Rock Trail is a relatively low effort for high reward spot for some spectacular views. There's plenty of other places to check out, but this should help get you started. Enjoy!

2 of 2 Yelp reviews. Sorry, photos posted on my Napa…read moreDowntown Review. Quality/Quantity - Always so welcoming, pun intended. And I like your new location. Large self service touch screen computers to get Napa information - Restaurants, wineries, hotels, suggested things to do, events, maps, travel information, etc. Ambiance - Cool new location, better and more centrally located. Clean restrooms. Cool decor, even a hot air balloon basket selfie station. Service - 5 stars. EVERYone was so friendly and welcoming! As our guests were shopping, I ended up making small talk and hanging out with the team. Price - Depends on what souvenirs you buy. Owner Comment - Thanks for having this consistent amazing service.

On a recent visit, I explored downtown Napa on foot and was happy to find this welcome center. They…read morehad a tasting of local wineries for free at the front, plus a large gift shop of mainly wine items and souvenirs of the area. They also have pamphlets and maps, as well as knowledgeable local guides to help you plan your visit. They also had nice restrooms, which were appreciated on a driving trip. All the staff were welcoming and friendly. I bought a few small items, but the best thing were the wine bottle shippers that came in handy when packing for home. Every bottle survived. It's worth it to stop in if you're visiting the area, especially your first time.

There is little to no cell service.... So make sure you have your map downloaded offline (or have a…read morepaper map). The elephant seals are on shore until about March every year. The visitor center is free and they offer some great programs (check the schedule) Our kids love visiting and learning about the ecosystem and the animals.

The Kenneth Patrick Visitor Center is in a spectacular setting. It's not as comprehensive as the…read moreBear Valley one with its dioramas, but it's all about the view. There is now a monument to Sir Francis Drake's voyage of discovery; Drake would eventually found the Jamestown&Roanoke settlements in Virginia, but one could say that nearby Drakes Beach is a placid New England shore. The visitor center is tucked among oyster-harvesting esteros and historic cattle ranches. One could call it surf&turf in an extreme, powerful setting. They have a good gift shop... and unlike the Bear Valley one, a coffee/tea/hot cocoa snack bar. There are several picnic tables. Though it is closed from late September to late December, it is an okay visitor center.

My husband and I went to Bodega Bay for our 22nd wedding anniversary on July 20 2018. Alfred…read moreHitchcock's "The Birds" has always been a favorite of mine. I want excited to see the film locations. We went first to the Bodega Bay Visitor Center to get the answers. There we met Emily who was taking care of the office that day. She kindly showed me all "The Birds" souvenirs in stock and mapped out all the film locations for us to visit. She spoke to us like we were old friends. We appreciated the welcoming hospitality to Bodega Bay. The Visitors Center had the most and best "The Birds" souvenirs available. Wonderful note cards with a crow, a guide book, a humorous t-shirts and tote bags showing a screen shot of The Birds film, commemorative t-shirt of the Alfred Hitchcock Film Festival held in the Bodega Bay. The center was decorated with The Birds theme was throughout, from crow bookends, framed autographed picture of Tippi Hedren and a silhouette of Alfred Hitchcock on the wall! The center is clean, inviting, warm and welcoming to the visitor. You will smile at the funny restroom sign. The Visitor Center is the best place to start if you want to know all about Bodega Bay!

Bodega Bay...close enough to be convenient, yet far enough from SF to feel like you've gone away…read more Unlike the Santa Cruz visitor center, this one actually has a small area to park your car. Since a lot of Bodega Bay now looks nothing like in the film The Birds, this is a good place to play tourist and get some free local maps and a ton of local restaurant and hotel brochures even if you have a GPS. The maps are helpful because many of the small buildings in the movie were actually sets and those that weren't sets were old wooden buildings that either rotted away or were destroyed by fire over the years. Even then, some interesting places from the film still exist today. The person who assisted me last time was really helpful and great with directions too. The visitor center is the perfect place to start a fun visit to Bodega Bay.

1 of 2 Yelp reviews. Sorry, photos posted on my Napa…read moreDowntown Review. Quality/Quantity - Always so welcoming, pun intended. And I like your new location. Large self service touch screen computers to get Napa information - Restaurants, wineries, hotels, suggested things to do, events, maps, travel information, etc. Ambiance - Cool new location, better and more centrally located. Clean restrooms. Cool decor, even a hot air balloon basket selfie station. Service - 5 stars. EVERYone was so friendly and welcoming! As our guests were shopping, I ended up making small talk and hanging out with the team. Price - Depends on what souvenirs you buy. Owner Comment - Thanks for having this consistent amazing service.

Very cute store lots of wine products, California, Napa items. Shirts, earrings, bags, coasters,…read moresome snacks. We bought a cute baby shirt that said 'I'll take the house white' and has a picture of a wine glass filled with milk :) :) The only reason I give 4, and NOT 5 stars is because I bought a box of pistachios across the street for $10, but this store sold them for $11 (same brand of course) So that let's me know they're marking things up just slightly

Came to Sonoma for a day trip and had no plans at all. Walked over to the visitors center and met…read morewith Ruth. She was so sweet, amazing and gave such great advices! We were lucky and came when Sonoma Sips was happening! Ruth was awesome, I left with a plan and great advice! We did the tours, wine tastings and ate around town!

Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau has always provided the most accurate, well maintained information…read morefor visitors and locals alike. Their website offers information and links to parks, restaurants, wineries and attractions.

Fog is burning off. He fires up the Jetboil…read more She probes him: "Say, What is this little rat-tail thing you've got going on?" He has a short braided thing of hair hanging off the back of his head, like he's a Padawan apprentice or something. "What, this?" he laughs. "Party in the back?" In a thicket by the creek, they sip coffee. Song of the thrush ascends. Seems to spiral to heaven upward like a shell. They gaze through a seven foot tall cow parsnip at the sky. The umbels are bobbing galaxies in a vast universe. Ever expanding. Wielding a magic wand, she identifies the plant: "Heracleum maximum!" It has gigantic leaves. Each one is connected to a thick, hollow, densely-haired stem. She steers the huge leaves on their thick stems in her slender arms. Swipes away the poison oak. "Found a path to the creek," she says cheerily. Clear water riffles and splits around a shoal. It's sandy with willows and cattails. There is a great blue heron in the reeds. The heron saunters forward deceptively, like a starlet at the Croisette, then recoils its long neck and strikes. "Bill stab!" he exclaims. He purses his mouth, throws his arm up and makes a fist. Taking a beat, she observes the scene, and says wryly "Sick, huge fan. What a bird." The impaled fish writhes on the heron's spear in the sun, scales glinting. It has met its immutable fate. They sit on a bank dotted with Cyperaceae. Lady beetles fly about. They turn and face each other. "F#$%#g sh*# show that was..." he moans. "What do you mean? We shucked a thousand shells. You have to respect your aunt's stamina, it's a Vibe!" she says, grinning. The moment is fleeting. The song and the chirping and the thrum of insects in the morning heat. They kill the coffee. It's time to pack up their tent and go. "Check out time!" she says. "Pack it up!"

Beautiful campground and hike in, I took coast trail from bear valley and it was 8 miles... trail…read morewas very secluded after bear valley fire road... magical forest and garden surrounds the campgrounds. Camped at 2ab and it was ok, it was not very private and near the bathroom/water spigot so I felt like it was more people interaction than I cared for but that was what was available! The beach was a great place to relax after my hiking days and I loved it. I was there 3 days mid week in June and it was 75 one day and foggy/wet 60 degrees the other days, recommend rain fly for tents, and exploring the singletrack trails , they are so beautiful, full of wildlife

This is a legit Souvenir Store with locally-made souvenirs of San Francisco from local artists and…read morecraftspeople. Nope, you won't find endless useless fridge magnets and keychains sourced from overseas here, but instead, imaginative and appropriate momentos of iconic San Francisco locations that even locals like me find unexpectedly of great interest.. Stuff like cool BART souvenirs, artist prints depicting various neighborhoods, clothing, and even cool items that celebrate iconic restaurants and eateries around SF that only locals would know (Beep's Burgers, HOPR, Bob's Donuts, LaTaqueria, Devil's Teeth Baking Co, The Buena Vista, Andytown, etc).. Impressive.. Best postcards here too! Friendly clerk, and the prices look reasonable for what you get.

San Francisco has always been an expressive city especially among the few remaining natives who…read morestill dwell around the streets of San Francisco. You will see people wear sports gear which has the San Francisco team logos or wear San Francisco related ironic T-shirts. Tourist visiting the city wear the SF logo sweater and hat which they picked up at the Pier 39 at the Only in San Francisco store. There is a place which is located in North Beach which has a more local artist San Francisco vibe which is welcoming to all who appreciate the city including tourists and visitors. Inside you will find some interesting items for sale which has postcards with San Francisco themes. At this gift shop you will see anything from the Golden Bridge to Sutro Tower in a unique light.They have candles, tote bags, t-shirts , stickers, and hats . This is a fun place to visit on Columbus Avenue. The Summer of love in San Francisco has been extended to October although it brings rain "showers" but you can still see the child running wild with the "Flowers" this place celebrates San Francisco landmarks like Coit and Sutro " Towers" all at the Locali Visitors Center with 11am-7pm being the opening "hours " San Francisco harvest a lot of different local artist who create a printed city "monologue " which creates a "dialogue "about the best San Francisco neighborhood restaurants and subjects like Karl the "Fog"which are done digitally but the art here is done "analog "

The Inn at Roundstone Farms is my favourite BnB anywhere. We make it a point to visit a couple of…read moretimes a year. The bedrooms/bathrooms have plenty of space, are quiet, spotless and well-maintained. There is a spacious living area in which to lounge, read, or relax with a beverage from a nice selection of coffees and teas. The lounge opens to an outdoor deck with a great view over Olema valley; good for stargazing too, as the night sky is way clearer than the SF Bay Area. Frank's breakfasts are some of the best we've ever had at BnBs, with a friendly environment with the other guests, (and bird-watching during breakfast!) After making the reservation they inquire whether any dietary preferences or restrictions.

Had an amazing time staying at the Inn at Roundstone Farm! Breakfast was served promptly at 8:30am…read moreand Frank was kind enough to offer a tray so I could eat in the room with my partner (we are still quite covid cautious). Lots of beautiful birds to watch and listen to. The ridge room was lovely, comfortable and quiet. Frank was extremely welcoming and easy going.