Belvedere, CA, is a distinctive enclave in Marin County, known for its exceptional water views, tightly held neighborhoods, and a quiet, understated atmosphere that residents value deeply. One of the most rewarding ways to experience Belvedere is on foot. From gentle waterfront strolls to hillside pathways, and even its famed secret stairways, walking Belvedere reveals layers of beauty, history, and community that are easy to miss from behind the wheel.
The Allure of Belvedere’s Walkways
Belvedere’s pedestrian routes are as varied as its architecture. The town’s unique geography, two islands connected by causeways, with winding streets and hillside homes, creates natural vantage points for sweeping views of San Francisco Bay, Angel Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Many of these routes feel tucked away and quiet, offering a sense of calm that residents cherish.
Scenic Vistas and Coastal Views (Best Enjoyed Quietly)
Few places in Marin offer such consistent visual reward while walking, particularly for those who appreciate observation without intrusion. Routes along Belvedere Avenue, Golden Gate Avenue, and Beach Road provide ever‑changing perspectives of the bay. Sailboats drift by, ferries cross toward Angel Island, and on clear days the San Francisco skyline feels almost close enough to touch. Sunset walks are a local favorite.
Historic Homes and Architectural Character
Walking through Belvedere is also a journey through architectural history. Stately Victorians, classic mid‑century homes, and contemporary hillside residences sit side by side, each reflecting a chapter of the town’s evolution. Carefully maintained gardens, mature landscaping, and narrow lanes add to the sense that Belvedere is best appreciated at a slower pace.
The Secret Stairways of Belvedere Island
One of Belvedere’s most delightful, and lesser‑known, features is its network of hidden pedestrian stairways. Tucked between homes and winding up steep slopes, these staircases quietly connect streets that would otherwise require long detours by car. Locals often refer to them as the “secret stairs” of Belvedere Island.
These pathways include stairways and lanes such as Belvedere Way Lane, Golden Gate, Park Lane, Woodwardia, Pomander Walk, Hawthorne, Cedar Lane, Woodland, Pagoda Lane, and McLean. Each has its own personality, some shaded and lush, others open with striking views, and together they form an informal web that makes walking Belvedere both efficient and adventurous.
The stairways gained wider attention in 2023 when a resident organized a one‑time, informal community fun run inspired by Mill Valley’s Dipsea tradition. The route zig‑zagged across the island, linking surface streets and stairways into a scenic, stair‑climbing loop that showcased Belvedere’s topography. Regardless of the event itself, it highlighted how integral these hidden stairways are to daily life for many residents.
Popular Walking Routes in Belvedere
Whether you prefer a leisurely loop or a more invigorating climb, Belvedere offers routes to suit every mood.
Belvedere Island Loop
A favorite among locals, this loop circles Belvedere Island and offers continuous water views. It’s relatively gentle and well‑suited for casual walkers, with the added pleasure of passing waterfront homes, landscaped gardens, and occasional wildlife.
Corinthian Island Walk
This walk takes you through the heart of Belvedere’s residential neighborhoods. With a mix of flat stretches and modest inclines, it showcases the town’s architectural diversity and provides easy access to local landmarks such as the Corinthian Yacht Club.
Beach Road Promenade
For a relaxed waterfront stroll, Beach Road is hard to beat. The wide, open feel and expansive bay views make it especially popular in the evenings, when the light softens and the water reflects the changing sky.
Richardson Bay, West Shore Road, and the Belvedere Lagoon
Another well‑loved walk follows the edge of Richardson Bay along West Shore Road and continues around the Belvedere Lagoon. This route offers a different rhythm—level, unhurried, and closely tied to the water. The views open across protected Richardson Bay, with Mount Tamalpais rising in the distance, The lagoon loop is a favorite for its reflective views and level walking, though it follows San Rafael Avenue, one of Belvedere’s main thoroughfares, making it more active and less secluded than the town’s hillside paths and stairways.
Parks, Nature, and Community Life
Belvedere’s walkability is enhanced by its shared spaces. Community Park (often referred to as Belvedere Park) offers a central green gathering place with a playground and picnic areas. In summer, the park hosts popular Sunday concerts where residents arrive on foot carrying blankets and picnics, reinforcing the town’s strong sense of community.
Nature lovers will also appreciate the abundance of birdlife. Herons, egrets, and other water birds are regular companions along shoreline routes, adding to the feeling that Belvedere is closely connected to its natural surroundings.
Walking with Respect for Belvedere’s Private Character
Belvedere is a community that strongly values discretion, privacy, and a low public profile. Walking here is less about social interaction and more about quiet enjoyment, taking in views, architecture, and nature without intrusion. Many of the town’s pathways, particularly the stairways, are used purposefully by residents moving efficiently between streets rather than as destinations themselves. Approached thoughtfully and respectfully, walking Belvedere offers insight into the town’s rhythms and its residents’ preference for calm, understated living.
Explore Belvedere with Phillipa Criswell
Belvedere’s walkways, waterfront paths, and secret stairways offer a window into the town’s character and lifestyle. If you’re curious about living in Belvedere or simply want a deeper understanding of its neighborhoods, I’m happy to share insights shaped by years of local experience. Reach out to Phillipa Criswell to learn more about homes, streets, and the many small details that make Belvedere such a special place to call home.
