If you’re heading to Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore in California, however are quick on time, then my one-day itinerary is ideal for a day journey crammed with bucket checklist enjoyable. This gorgeous coastal area has all the pieces—breathtaking nature, scrumptious meals, and quirky retailers—however with out the hustle that leaves you needing a trip from your trip. Belief me, as somebody who’s walked these trails and tasted the cheese (a lot cheese!), this itinerary is your ticket to the right day in Level Reyes.
Have extra time? Try all my favourite issues to do in Level Reyes.
Learn how to Spend One Day in Level Reyes
8:00 AM
Espresso & Pastries at Brickmaiden Breads
First cease: carbs. (Truthfully, does any trip day even begin with out carbs?) Brickmaiden Breads is a tiny bakery, tucked away in Level Reyes Station simply sufficient to really feel such as you’ve stumbled upon a secret. I had the ginger scone (which had simply the correct quantity of spice!) and couldn’t resist shopping for a loaf of their seeded levain for later. The outside backyard is so peaceable; sipping espresso there felt like hitting the reset button.Â
8:45 AM
Fast Cease on the Inverness Shipwreck
Ever heard of the S.S. Level Reyes? It’s an outdated fishing boat that’s been hanging out in Inverness Bay since 1944, wanting all mysterious and photogenic. It’s the spot for some moody, Insta-worthy pics (morning fog makes it further dramatic). Heads up: the shipwreck is slowly falling aside, so don’t miss your probability to see it whereas it’s nonetheless there.
Tip: you’ll be able to simply discover parking for the shipwreck is at Inverness Retailer. Then there’s a quick path behind to the shop the ship.
9:15 AM
Pose on the Cypress Tree TunnelÂ
In the event you’re into images—or simply need a cool new profile pic—the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Inverness is a should. This picturesque lane of towering cypress timber varieties a cover overhead, making it really feel like one thing out of the Recreation of Thrones. Whilst you can’t drive by way of it, taking a leisurely stroll below the timber is an expertise in itself.
Don’t be shocked if you happen to stumble upon different vacationers posing right here too (a number of them!).Â
10:15 AM
Go to the Level Reyes Lighthouse
If there’s one factor you should do in Level Reyes, it’s go to the Level Reyes Lighthouse. On a transparent day, you’ll get the form of panoramic vistas that make you’re feeling such as you’re standing on the fringe of the world. However heads up—fog and wind are frequent right here, so test the climate earlier than you go.Â
You’ll stroll a couple of quarter mile to the primary viewpoint, however if you happen to’re up for the problem, take the 313 steps all the way down to see the lighthouse up shut. (Sure, meaning 313 steps again up, however hey, consider it as your exercise for the day. There are a few relaxation platforms alongside the way in which—excellent for catching your breath and taking within the view. Â
Tip: If the lighthouse is closed otherwise you need extra nature time, Chimney Rock is simply 5 minutes away. It’s a straightforward 1.8-mile hike with jaw-dropping coastal views.
12:00 PM
Discover Downtown Level Reyes Station Â
Downtown Level Reyes is tiny, nevertheless it’s filled with character. Begin at Toby’s Feed Barn, a mixture of a normal retailer, artwork gallery, and occasional bar. It’s been round since 1942, so you recognize it’s a neighborhood staple.
Want picnic provides? Hit up the Cowgirl Barn for cheese and goodies. And don’t skip Vita Collage—this store has the cutest house items and jewellery. I wished all the pieces (however settled for a plant and a candle as a result of, you recognize, self-control).
1:30 PM
Cheese Tasting at Level Reyes Farmstead Â
In the event you’re a cheese lover (or simply hungry by now), Level Reyes Farmstead is your subsequent cease. They provide sit-down cheese tastings by way of September, which is a enjoyable method to pattern native varieties. However if you happen to miss it, no worries—their store is open year-round, and you may nonetheless choose up some scrumptious cheese to take house. I HIGHLY suggest the Quinta, a soft-ripend rind cheese —I’m drooling simply typing the identify.
Throughout the tasting, you’ll get a board crammed with native cheeses and seasonal treats, and you may also order from their Fork kitchen. I extremely suggest the mac and cheese—it’s pure consolation meals heaven. And don’t even get me began on their house-made ice cream sandwiches! Â
If cheese isn’t your factor (or if you happen to simply need a fast chew), head to The Farmer’s Spouse contained in the Cowgirl Barn for lunch. I make a killer tuna soften, however their tuna soften with potato chips inside is a game-changer—critically, don’t knock it until you attempt it! You possibly can eat on their patio or take it to go for a picnic. Â
3:30 PM
Mead Tasting at Heidrun Meadery
Prepared for slightly afternoon buzz (pun meant)? Head to Heidrun Meadery for a tasting. Mead, in case you didn’t know, is a sort of wine produced from honey, and it has a singular style that’s manner totally different than any wine you ever had. You possibly can select a flight of 4 meads or simply take pleasure in a glass. In the event you occur to be there on a Saturday, they provide guided excursions, so you’ll be able to be taught extra about how they make their mead. Â
The outside seating space is chill—image picnic tables and winery vibes. It’s the right place to unwind for a bit earlier than persevering with your journey. However the vibe right here is so laid-back, you may end up lingering longer than deliberate.
5:30 PM
Go to Little Wing FarmÂ
Little Wing Farm is an cute roadside stand the place you should buy recent veggies, flowers, and fruits. It’s a kind of honor-system locations—you simply jot down what you purchase in a pocket book and go away money within the field (so make certain to carry money!). I grabbed some shishito peppers, however all the pieces seemed so recent and scrumptious that it was onerous to decide on.
Even if you happen to don’t want something, it’s price stopping by simply to absorb the allure and snap a couple of photographs. Â
6:30 PM
Dinner at Cafe ReyesÂ
Finish your day with a laid-back dinner at Cafe Reyes. This place has a cool, fashionable vibe and serves some critically good wood-fired pizza. What’s even cooler is that the pizzas are all named after native landmarks, which I assumed was such a cute contact. I ordered the Miwok pizza and a mozzarella salad with recent tomatoes and spinach. Every little thing was so recent and flavorful—it was the right method to finish the day. Â
Make it an OvernighterÂ
Keep the Evening at Nick’s Cove
In the event you’re not able to say goodbye to Level Reyes (and actually, who can be?), deal with your self to an evening at Nick’s Cove. Their rustic waterfront cottages are cozy and cute, and waking as much as bay views? Completely price it.
1-Day Level Reyes Itinerary Video
This submit could include affiliate hyperlinks. In the event you make a purchase order by way of my hyperlinks, I earn a fee that helps to maintain this weblog working—at no further price to you. For extra data learn my full disclosure.
Save this Submit to Pinterest for Later
