Chapter 22. Rodeo Beach/Marin Headlands

Rodeo Beach/Marin Headlands

A view of Rodeo Beach taken just before sunset on a clear spring evening. Taken at ISO 100, f/11, 4 seconds with a 17–35mm lens.

Why It's Worth a Photograph

The Marin Headlands are made up of ridges and valleys, each offering its own distinct character. Many charming beaches and vistas are scattered throughout. Spring is when you can see an explosion of golden poppies and pastel accents of yellow, white, and lavender wildflowers blanketing the hillsides that offer wonderful scents. The Marin Headlands is a photographer's dream, offering unparalleled views of the Pacific Coast from an untamed Rodeo Beach, to the incredible manmade bunkers left over from the 1960s and the 150-year-old lighthouse that protects ships from the high cliffs, rough seas, and dense fog.

Where Can I Get the Best Shot?

Three wonderful locations are tucked amongst the rolling hills, valleys, and beaches that make up the Marin Headlands. The locations are Rodeo Beach, the Bunkers, and Point Bonita Lighthouse, all of which offer you the opportunity to photograph entirely different qualities of the Marin Headlands (see A, B, and C on the map).

Where Can I Get the Best Shot?

The best locations from which to photograph the Rodeo Beach/Marin Headlands: (A) Rodeo Beach, (B) Bunkers, (C) Point Bonita Lighthouse. Other ...

Get Photographing San Francisco: Digital Field Guide now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.