
Visiting San Francisco for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Here’s what you need to know to make the most of a single day in San Francisco.
Tomales Bay Oyster Company, which dates back to 1909, is California’s oldest shellfish farm. It’s situated north of San Francisco on the shores of Tomales Bay, an inlet between Point Reyes National Seashore, on the western edge of Marin County. Its proximity to San Francisco means city-dwellers flock here on the weekends to purchase oysters fresh from the sea.
Tomales Bay Oyster Company is located 40 miles (65 kilometers) from San Francisco in the community of Marshall, just north of Point Reyes Station. Unlike neighboring oyster companies, Tomales Bay does not allow on-site picnicking or grilling; you simply buy your oysters and take them to a nearby beach or park to enjoy them. Some Marin County food tours include this as a stop, although many stop at Hog Island Oyster Company or Marshall Store.
Oysters are typically priced by the dozen (or bag of 50) and cost depends on size and type.
Sauces, lemons, ice, an oyster knife, and shucking gloves are available for purchase.
Bring a cooler so you can keep your oysters on ice after purchasing.
Be sure to properly dispose of your oyster shells when you are done picnicking.
From San Francisco via vehicle, head across the Golden Gate Bridge and north along State Route 1 until you reach the oyster farm on the west side of the road, just past Millerton Point.
Tomales Bay Oyster Company is open for oyster sales on Friday 12pm-5pm and Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm. Go early to beat the line.
On your way to Tomales Bay Oyster Company, stop by Tomales Bay Foods in Point Reyes Station to pick up locally made cheeses by Cowgirl Creamery. This Bay Area favorite also has a popular shop in the San Francisco Ferry Building.