$2,199,064Average Value$1,630Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
Bolinas is an artistic haven surrounded by protected land
Long a magnet for artists and beat poets, Bolinas is a small coastal village with an eccentric heart. Foggy mornings, dynamic seascapes and dramatic cliffs create a poignant backdrop here. "We're surrounded by protected land, and with little light pollution, we can actually see the stars and the Milky Way," says associate broker for Coldwell Banker Realty Theresa or "Terry" Donohue, who is also a local artist and writer and has sold homes for decades. Bolinas' unique culture became legendary along the West Coast, making it somewhere many wanted to be, even if they couldn't find it. "In the past, a covert group would take the road signs down. But now, because of GPS and Google Maps, everyone knows where it is." The community's quaint downtown with its farm stand and local galleries showcases its richness and self-sufficiency. Thirty miles from San Francisco, Bolinas now draws in remote entrepreneurs seeking a quiet life filled with color and nature.
The Bolinas neighborhood stretches from the Pacific Ocean to Stinson Beach and is separated by the Bolinas Lagoon.
Gospel Flat Farm Stand in Bolinas offers honor payments and an egg vending machine.
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Bolinas' small downtown area and strong support for local artists
Bolinas' downtown area offers a small selection of commercial conveniences, galleries, coffee shops and eateries. "We don't do a lot of shopping. You might go to Point Reyes or what we call 'over the hill' for that. We do have a grocery store and a farm stand," Donohue says. The neighborhood also gets by without a gas station and a post office. Smiley's Saloon, established in 1851 and freshly renovated in 2020, serves coastal cantina food made fresh from local ingredients. It also a venue for regional and touring music artists. The Bolinas Museum, another downtown area highlighted and deeply cherished by the community, hosts rotating exhibits demonstrating Bolinas' wide range of local talents.
The Coast Cafe is a local hotspot in Bolinas.
Smiley's Saloon, Hotel & Kitchen in Bolinas offers up a gnarly eight-dollar taco.
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Homes area eclectic, coveted and rarely come on the market
Preserved land and a water moratorium limit development as demand rises, making each property fetch a pretty penny. Homes typically range from the high $800,000s to over 11 million, but finding a house under a million can be challenging. "Each property is individually priced because no two properties are the same," Donohue says. The array of architecture includes mid-century modern ranch styles, timber-framed chalet cottages, traditional beach houses, old-school farmhouses and luxury estates. Most homes are older, with the median building year of 1962, and have either been modernized or maintain their vintage feeling. As prices rise, organizations like Bolinas Community Land Trust work to create affordable housing to preserve and stabilize the community. The CAP Index Crime Score in Bolinas is 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Some Bolinas homes are perched in the hills with large parcels of land.
Modern Bolinas homes are perched in the hills with peaceful land often shrouded in clouds and fog.
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Hiking and surfing spots in and around the community
A quiet spot in the winter and packed in the summer, Bolinas Beach is a popular spot for surfing, fishing and beachcombing. "When the surf is up and the sun is out, it's hard to find parking," Donohue says. The small beach is also one of the most dog-friendly spots to bring the pups. The Bolinas Lagoon Nature Preserve is another local gem. Seals relax on the mudflats of the 1,100-acre tidal estuary, also home to diverse waterfowl. Another spot to walk along the sand is RCA Beach, a part of the Agate Beach County Park. "It's a protected marine reserve, and it's a good place to go tide pooling because of Duxbury Reef, and when it's low tide, all the schools come out to study the starfish," Donohue says. Trails weave through the community's bluffs toward the shoreline, leading to peaks with epic views. Mesa Park has a playground and skate park. National, state and country parks surround Bolinas, offering more places to hike through the wild, swim from the sand and view wildlife.
Bolinas Beach is a great place to spend the day waiting for waves.
Palomarin Trailhead offers long hikes to the coast and waterfalls.
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The road to Bolinas, and some of the weather challenges
Bolinas only has one road in and out of the community, and it tends to flood during heavy rain. "We can have floods, landslides, you name it. In the winter, it gets intense around here," Donohue says. "You have to be flexible and resourceful." Coastal erosion, a strained water supply and the threat of wildfires are concerns here. Many residents counteract this by investing in fire-resistant landscaping and water conservation.
Students attend two highly rated school districts
Students attend both the Bolinas-Stinson Union School District and Tamalpais Union High School District. Bolinas-Stinson Elementary School, serving kindergarten through eighth grade, scores an A-rating on Niche. Tamalpais High School earns the same ranking.
Bolinas-Stinson Elementary School has a wonderful campus for its students.
Tamalpais High School is within walking and biking distance to shopping and dining.
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Photography Contributed By
Luke George
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Bolinas, CA sell after 84 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Bolinas, CA over the last 12 months is $2,100,000, up 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Hidden behind a lush, tropical garden on a generous .275-acre parcel, this simple, handcrafted home offers a rare sense of calm. Thoughtfully reimagined by the two architects who have lived here, the house is defined by clean lines, a restrained material palette, warm white oak floors, and spaces filled with natural light. The home unfolds as a series of bright, interconnected rooms where indoor
Rare Oceanfront property. Perched on the bluffs above beloved Brighton Beach and the renowned Patch surf break, this extraordinary coastal retreat captures some of the most breathtaking views in all of Bolinas. Built in 1919, the charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath bungalow spans approximately 1,712 square feet and sits on an expansive 64,895-square-foot lot, offering unparalleled privacy and a front-row
10,000 sq ft level, sunny vacant lot (APN 192-132-30; numeric 350 for mapping). Currently considered unbuildable due to permanent BCPUD 1971 water moratorium; restricted to non-structural, daytime use. Located in the Coastal Zone. Ideal for gardening, beekeeping, or picnicking. Buyer to verify permitted uses and access with local authorities.
Coastal Creekside Sanctuary Near Agate Beach Rarely available, this approximately 14,000 sq. ft. creekside parcel offers a peaceful escape amid the natural beauty of West Marin. With approximately 140 feet of paved road frontage, the land features two gently terraced levels shaded by mature pines and vibrant echium, descending to Alder Creek. A short walk leads to Agate Beach, Duxbury Reef, and
It's a feeling, not just a house. With a glimpse of the ocean from the main residence to stunning views from the top deck, this quintessential Bohemian refuge is an ideal spot to recharge. Here, days are measured by the tides and changing light, while the simple pleasures of life by the sea are amplified. A handcrafted brick patio outside a bejeweled front door is the perfect spot for slow
B.G. BatesGolden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
This isn't just a home, it's a front-row seat to California's most iconic coastal lifestyle, wrapped in history, creativity, and rare exclusivity. Welcome to 99 Brighton, a surfer's paradise and an extraordinary opportunity to own a share of one of Northern California's most legendary oceanfront estates. Offered for the first time in 30 years, you are invited to step into a legacy property that
Kara Warrin Paul Warrin TeamGolden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
Nestled in the charming coastal enclave of Bolinas, California, this quaint cottage offers a unique opportunity for buyers to create their dream home. Completely gutted on the inside, it serves as a blank canvas, inviting your personal touch and vision for the interior. Just a short stroll from Agate Beach, this property boasts ocean views, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of coastal
Set along the southern edge of the Olema Valley in Bolinas, within the historic hamlet of Dogtown once known as Woodville, this four-acre generational property is being offered for the first time in over six decades. Dating to the early 1900s, the farmhouse reflects the character of early West Marin ranch architecture with high ceilings, gabled roofs, porches, and a history of families connected
Cristina diGraziaGolden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
Discover your dream retreat at this enchanting property nestled at the end of a serene dirt road in Bolinas. Spanning over 3.3 acres, this unique home offers a perfect blend of tranquility and style, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by stylish upgrades that enhance the home's charm. The modern kitchen and
Rare large Muir Beach buildable lot, just 30 min. to San Francisco. 47 Charlotte's Way. MBCSD maintained paved road & MBCSD water meter, PG&E electric on site, 3 off street parking spaces, 15 redwood trees screen the sites & parking. Acre price is about half of typical appraisal of 1/2 acre land values in recent Muir Beach house sales, find them to see. Listing reflects beautiful views, privacy,
An iconic super home overlooks a stellar perspective of Duxbury Reef where waves rhythmically wash the rocky shoal below while sounds of the surf play like a lullaby. A mesmerizing sweeping view takes in the horizon and twinkling city lights across the water. It's a stone's throw to Agate Beach where winter sunsets are legendary and summer tide pooling is celebrated. A family and friends coastal
B.G. BatesGolden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
Brand new build. This coastal retreat was designed for effortless, enduring enjoyment. From the ground up, it emphasizes durability and ease. The open-concept living area features resilient oak floors, light-filled high ceilings, and expansive windows. A custom wood banister highlights the home's quality craftsmanship. The kitchen, ideal for the discerning cook, includes a chef's-grade six-burner
The Sherfey GroupGolden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
This lot is unbuildable due to the water moratorium BPUD (1971). Zoning disallows camping or off-grid habitation. For more information please contact the Marin County Building & Safety Department.
Just steps from the ocean, with lovely ocean views and perfectly sheltered from wind and weather, this rare property offers a unique blend of privacy, sunshine, and stunning coastal scenery. Enjoy panoramic vistas, all-day sunlight, and a beautiful lookout over the charming village below. With the beach and town just a stone's throw away, convenience meets coastal luxury.
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