Skip Dance or Frolic to Black Sand Beach

Skip, dance, frolic. You may be inspired to do all three on your first visit to Black Sand Beach in Marin. This half-mile stretch of chocolate-colored coastline just northwest of the Golden Gate Bridge is roughly the size of Baker Beach—with only a fraction of the crowds. Walk ten minutes down the 253 wooden steps from the dirt parking lot, then spread a blanket behind one of the several rock outcroppings (a great windbreak on gusty days). Dip your toes in the refreshing 55-degree water when the afternoon heats up. Heads-up: Some folks here like to frolic bare-style, making the place a setting for many natural wonders.

For directions and more information on hidden bay area beaches, click the link. Subscribe to Weekend Sherpa's  free weekly email about accessible outdoor adventures in Northern California.