HI Marin Headlands Hostel

Just 20 minutes north of San Francisco, HI-Marin Headlands is set in a coastal wilderness steeped in more than 100 years of American military history. Stay in turn-of-the-century buildings -- a former military hospital and general’s quarters -- nestled into the rolling hills of the Headlands. The traditional red-roofed buildings are surrounded by a grove of eucalyptus trees overlooking a huge swatch of green space.

In the park just outside the door, hike the open meadows, bike the coastal mountainside, check out the operating Point Bonita lighthouse, tour military barracks and batteries from both world wars, see the nation’s only officially restored NIKE missile site, or head to one of many local beaches -- and don’t forget your binoculars! The park is famous for both migrating raptors and long-legged shorebirds.

A camera comes in handy as well -- some of the most famous photos of San Francisco are taken from the Marin Headlands, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the City by the Bay.

The Marin Headlands -- part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area -- borders several other popular destinations, including Mount Tamalpais State Park (climbing the mountain gives you 360 degree views of the bay, San Francisco, and beyond), and Muir Woods, where you can stand or hike among the majestic coastal redwoods.

Back at the hostel, enjoy free parking, free linens and towels, bag and bike storage, a yoga room, two shared kitchens, and a cozy lounge with a wood stove, piano, and library. Nearby shopping and dining options are just 5 miles away in the coastal town of Sausalito. San Francisco is a short drive or bike ride away over the Golden Gate Bridge, and is also reachable by ferry from Sausalito.

The hostel is also a Certified Bay Area Green Business. Our green practices include composting, recycling, reducing water and energy usage through efficient appliances, lighting, and faucets, and using environmentally friendly cleaning products.

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"Sweet and spacious... Feels like hostelling in name only." --Lonely Planet

"Endless hiking trails and breathtaking scenery just steps outside the door." --Fodor's