Hike to Stinson Beach

Weekend traffic to Stinson Beach can be a nightmare, especially if the fog decides not to kiss the coast and sunny skies prevail. An alternate way to access Stinson Beach is to hike the Steep Ravine Trail. It’s a real beauty with tall redwoods, lush fern groves, and trickling waterfalls. Park at the Pantoll Ranger Station on Mt. Tam (don’t forget to pay, it’s a $51 ticket if you don’t) then follow the Steep Ravine trail down. If your destination is Stinson Beach, take a right once you intersect the Dipsea Trail. The return is a steady uphill switchback. It’s not easy, but moderate hikers will do just fine. It’s gorgeous and peaceful and way better than stressing out in a car.  

See Live Music (and Eat Well Before You Do)

Progressive bluegrass with a crunchy rock coating, Hot Buttered Rum initially formed as an acoustic string band. But seven years of constant touring has transformed them into a plugged-in, percussive powerhouse. Their left-coast rock reveals an access to jazz, country, and world music that few groups can match. Tip: Go early and eat at the Sweetwater Café, which serves mouthwatering fare for both omnivores and carnivores, try the Thai shrimp sliders, yum! Show starts at 9 p.m. Saturday 9/8, Sweetwater Music Hall, 19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley.

Make your own soda

Homemade soda making is much easier than you think and comes with delicious results. You don't need to be a slave to the grocery store to make wonderfully bubbly drinks. In this hands-on class, you’ll make your own ale, root beer, lemon lime, and a few other flavors. Play with CO2 and learn how to perfect carbonation for fizzy drinks. $45, get tickets here, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.  at ITK Culinary, 300 Turney St, Sausalito.