With an invitation to Google’s Local Guides Connect<\/a> this year, I made plans to spend a few extra days in the San Francisco area.\u00a0 Having friends and family nearby, I chose not to stay in the city (mostly because I knew the bulk of the events with Google would be based in the metropolitan area), but instead Marin County, in the small coastal town of Tiburon.<\/p>\n Tiburon is easily accessible by ferry, which is an excellent and memorable way to experience the bay.\u00a0 I lucked out with the weather, and while the temperature was a bit cool for my desert self, there was something exhilarating about being on the Pacific Ocean — plus I got great views of both Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.\u00a0 After purchasing my ticket, I jumped on the Blue & Gold Ferry boat.<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0 Tickets are available online or at the booth at famous Pier 39<\/a><\/strong> (allow extra time to explore this area — honestly, lean into being a tourist).\u00a0 The ferry leaves at regularly scheduled times, and the company also offers a 30-minute Rocket Boat experience (which I would definitely consider for my next trip).\u00a0 The trip takes roughly 40 minutes, and tickets cost $12.50 each way for adults.\u00a0 Should feel inclined, there are drinks to buy on board (have cash ready).<\/p>\n Coming off of the ferry, The Lodge at Tiburon<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0was a quick and easy walk just up a short hill from the ferry terminal (less than 5 minutes, even without my trusty Google Maps).\u00a0 I was greeted warmly, and the loved the charming tone and Californian style of the property. While I would make a few changes to the hotel (namely, adding blackout curtains and doing more to soundproof the rooms), overall, the hotel is a nice change of pace from the city.\u00a0 Additionally, the Tavern at the hotel is a lovely venue to enjoy a glass of wine at the end of the day.\u00a0 Everything is within walking distance in Tiburon, including charming boutiques and a wonderful grocery store (where I went to pick up breakfast every morning).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n There are plenty of dining options in town, but I chose to dine at Servino<\/a><\/strong>, a restaurant focusing on southern Italian food.\u00a0 While the food was decidedly average, the service was well above normal, and the views looking back at the city were memorable.\u00a0 The location is a great place for a lazy afternoon or a romantic evening to dine al fresco.<\/p>\n