Stinson Beach Stinson Beach Open Water Swimming

Long sand beach 20 miles NW of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is the site of the Sharkfest swim. Access this site via Highway 1 with free main lot parking. Bicycle access via panoramic Highway 1 (a challenging ride) with bike racks near main pavilion. West Marin Stagecoach route 61 provides limited public transit.

Beach amenities include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

Swimming routes: 3.5-mile sandy beach hosts annual Sharkfest swim events. Popular training route follows the beach south toward Seadrift (1.5 miles). Best swimming before 10AM. Safety: Lifeguards on duty May-October. Watch for great white shark advisories and strong rip currents. Water quality updates through Marin County Health Department. Afternoon winds common.