Things to Do in Belvedere, CA

Nestled on the Tiburon Peninsula, Belvedere, California, is one of Marin County’s most picturesque and exclusive waterfront communities. Though small — with fewer than 2,500 residents — it offers breathtaking scenery, elegant architecture, and a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere.

While Belvedere is primarily residential, it provides a wealth of ways to enjoy the natural beauty and community spirit that define life here. Whether you’re exploring the area for a day or considering a move, this guide shares some of the best ways to experience Belvedere’s outdoor spaces, maritime lifestyle, and local culture.

Belvedere’s location on the San Francisco Bay makes every day feel like a postcard. From nearly any street, you can glimpse Angel Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, or the San Francisco skyline.

Take a morning stroll along Beach Road or the quiet lanes circling Belvedere Island, where bougainvillea climbs over white fences and sailboats glide across the bay. Belvedere Park, in the heart of town, offers open lawns, a playground, and picnic areas — a favorite spot for families and casual gatherings.

For those drawn to the water, sailing and boating are woven into Belvedere’s identity. The sheltered Belvedere Cove and nearby marinas offer easy access to the bay, making this one of Marin’s premier settings for maritime recreation.

The Tiburon Peninsula is a haven for walkers and cyclists, and Belvedere residents enjoy easy access to scenic routes that hug the shoreline. The Old Rail Trail, a paved path running from downtown Tiburon to Blackie’s Pasture, provides an ideal way to take in the views — especially at sunset.

Locals often ride or walk the Belvedere-Tiburon loop, stopping along Main Street for coffee or ice cream before continuing back home along the water’s edge.

Belvedere’s charm lies in its history and architecture. A quiet walk through the neighborhoods reveals shingled cottages and elegant waterfront homes — many dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Belvedere first became a summer retreat for San Francisco’s elite.

Nearby in Tiburon, the China Cabin, a restored Victorian-era saloon from the steamship China, offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s maritime past and connection to early Pacific trade routes.

Though Belvedere itself has no commercial district, its partnership with neighboring Tiburon ensures a vibrant calendar of arts and cultural events. Residents attend community concerts, summer picnics, and seasonal celebrations organized by the Belvedere Community Center and the City of Belvedere.

Just next door, Tiburon hosts the Tiburon International Film Festival, summer outdoor concerts, and art shows on Main Street — all easily walkable from most Belvedere homes. These local gatherings reflect the easy camaraderie that makes small-town life here so special.

For many residents, sailing isn’t just a pastime — it’s a way of life. Belvedere is home to two historic and beloved institutions: the San Francisco Yacht Club (established in 1869) and the Corinthian Yacht Club. Both are social and sailing hubs, offering races, youth programs, and waterfront dining.

Membership in these clubs connects residents to a rich maritime heritage and a community that values both tradition and adventure.

While Belvedere remains exclusively residential, its proximity to downtown Tiburon means world-class dining and boutique shopping are just minutes away. Enjoy waterfront meals at Sam’s Anchor Café, The Bungalow Kitchen, or Luna Blu, where sunsets over the bay create a truly Marin experience.

Charming local shops line Main Street, offering gifts, fashion, and coastal-inspired home décor. For more extensive shopping, Mill Valley and Sausalito are a short, scenic drive away.

Belvedere is cherished for its sense of safety, stability, and community connection. Families enjoy access to top-rated Marin County schools, neighborhood parks, and family-friendly events throughout the year.

Volunteering, civic engagement, and neighborhood gatherings are part of the culture here — fostering friendships that span generations. Many residents remark that while Belvedere offers extraordinary homes and views, its real beauty lies in its community spirit.

Living in Belvedere means easy access to some of Northern California’s most memorable destinations.

A short ferry ride from Tiburon lands you on Angel Island, where you can hike, picnic, or take in panoramic views of the Bay. Wine tasting in Napa or Sonoma, hiking Mount Tamalpais, or exploring Marin’s coastal trails are all effortless day trips.

Residents love the ability to enjoy both serene island living and quick escapes to world-class destinations.

Belvedere’s allure lies in its blend of natural beauty, privacy, and proximity to everything the Bay Area offers.

Residents enjoy quiet mornings by the water, evenings spent sailing or dining in Tiburon, and weekends exploring Marin’s endless outdoor possibilities.

This rare balance of elegance, tranquility, and access makes Belvedere real estate among the most desirable in Marin County — and a community people are proud to call home.

With deep roots in Marin County and years of personal experience building, buying, and selling homes in Belvedere and Tiburon, Phillipa Criswell offers first-hand insight into what makes these waterfront communities so exceptional.

Her understanding of local regulations, architecture, and the nuances of the Belvedere lifestyle allows her to guide clients with clarity and confidence. Known for her warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail, Phillipa has built lasting relationships with buyers and sellers throughout Marin.

If you’re considering a move to Belvedere — or simply want to learn more about the local market — contact Phillipa Criswell for trusted, local expertise.