Dillon Beach

Marin County

Dillon  Beach, Marin County, California
Dillon  Beach, Marin County, California

Dillon Beach

Marin County


Dillon Beach

Dillon Beach is the only privately owned beach in Northern California. The Dillon Beach Resort maintains the beach and provides facilities for visitors. A milder undertow, or rip current, at Dillon Beach than at other nearby beaches makes Dillon a popular spot for swimming, despite the cold water. Those who spend any time in the water usually opt for a wetsuit.


Dog on Dillon Beach, Marin County, CA

Well behaved dogs are allowed to run off-leash at Dillon Beach




Surfing

Surfers find respectable waves, beach walkers enjoy long strolls down to the Lawson's Landing and the mouth of Tomales Bay, and many just spread out on the sand and relax. With a cafe and store nearby at the Dillon Bay Resort, food and beach supplies are close at hand. They also have a surf shop.

General Store

The General Store carries camping gear, bait, groceries and beverages, fresh-baked bread, clothing, propane, tide books, souvenirs, and a variety of other things. The store is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Cafe

Open Thursday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the Dillon Beach Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are best known for their fried calamari and their clam chowder. They use locally grown produce and fresh-baked bread. Dining is indoors or on their enclosed patio.

Surf Shop

The Surf Shop, located within the General Store, offers surfboards for rent or sale along with other items such as boogie boards, wetsuits, and booties.

Dillon Beach, Marin County, CA

Dillon Beach

map of Dillon Beach, Marin County, CA



Lawson's Landing

One and a quarter miles to the south of Dillon Beach is another private enterprise along the coast, Lawson's Landing. This fishing and boating resort and their popular campground have been family-owned and operated since 1957. Their marina includes boat launching facilities, mooring, and a fully-equipped boathouse and outboard shop.

Visitors to Lawson's Landing enjoy clamming in nearby clamming beds and fishing for crabs. Anglers often use Lawson's Landing as a place from which to set out for a day of fishing on Tomales Bay. Others launch kayaks or hike along the shore. All pets must be kept on leash.



Lawson's Landing Fees and Hours

Because of limited parking, it is recommended that visitors purchase a parking reservation online. Parking fees vary by the day.
Day-use Fees: about $10 - $15
Day-use Hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
(707) 878-2443   Lawson's Landing
Find more about Lawson's Landing at ACTIVITIES.
Camping information: CAMPING.


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Ocean Safety

California State Parks and Recreation cautions that "large surf, cold water temperatures, backwash, sudden drop-offs, pounding shorebreak, and dangerous rip currents can turn what seem like safe activities such as playing near the surf line, wading, or climbing on rock outcroppings, deadly." Learn more about ocean safety at CA State Parks: Ocean Safety