Mother's Day Adventures in Marin and Beyond

A leisurely Sunday brunch is a Mother's Day tradition for many, and you can find plenty of family-friendly options in Marin here. If your family is the more adventurous type, however, why not check out some of these fun alternatives in Marin, the San Francisco Bay Area, and beyond. From wineries to museums to hikes and picnics on the beach, there's plenty of fun to be had by all! Mother's Day is on Sunday, May 11, 2025.

Have Fun at a Marin County Beach

Plan a picnic and a day at the beach for Mother's Day! In Marin you'll find a variety of beaches that are ideal spots for splashing in the water, building sand castles and picnicking on a warm spring day. Here are some of our favorites.

Explore the Marin Headlands for an Outdoor Adventure

The Marin Headlands is one of our favorite destinations for a day of outdoor family adventure. Take Mom out for a day of fun visiting beaches, hiking the trails, exploring historic sites, and taking in the amazing views.

Go on a Family Hike at Jack London State Park in Glen Ellen

Make a day of it at this sprawling park in the Wine Country. Hike the trails, explore Beauty Ranch, and learn about the life of famed author Jack London and his wife Charmian. Don't forget to bring a picnic.

Awesome Spots for a Mother's Day Picnic

Pack a picnic and celebrate Mom's day outdoors at one of the many great picnic spots in and around Marin and the North Bay. Here are some of our favorite places to bring our lunch (or brunch) and dine al fresco on Mother's Day.

Take Mom to the Zoo

Take Mom on a trip to the zoo! Head to the San Francisco and Oakland Zoos for a fun day out with the whole family.

See the Birds at the Botanical Garden

The Sonoma Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen is always a fun place to visit, and their latest special exhibition, Winged Wonders, showcases 12 larger than life bamboo bird sculptures by Boston-based artist duo the Myth Makers, Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein, placed around the garden. It's a great place to relax and take in the beauty and even have a picnic!

Surprise Mom with a Scenic Cruise

Mother's Day Sunset Cruise
6:30–8 pm (6:10 pm boarding)
Surprise mom with a sunset sail aboard the Angel Island! As the day ends and the evening begins, join the crew of the Angel Island – Tiburon Ferry and experience the natural splendor of the San Francisco Bay aboard their exclusive Mother's Day Sunset Cruise! Bring your own dinner for a picnic on the bay! Tables and chairs both outside and inside are provided. Location: 21 Main Street,
Tiburon Purchase tickets here.

Mother's Day Premier Brunch Cruise, San Francisco
Noon–2 pm (11:30 am boarding)
Create family memories that will be treasured forever with an amazing Premier San Francisco Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise on the San Francisco Bay. Enjoy a chef-inspired buffet with a selection of wine, champagne, and classic cocktails. Soak in the picturesque backdrop of San Francisco’s skyline and unbeatable views including the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz Island from our outdoor decks. Location: Pier 3, Hornblower Landing, San Francisco For more info, visit their website.

Take a Train Ride with Mom

The Spring Trains at the Western Railway Museum in Suisun City are great for a family excursion with Mom! See the seasonal wildflower bloom from a vintage interurban train car. Passengers in the parlor car can even sample local wines and enjoy baked goods, and other refreshments. Also, the California State Railroad Museum's excursion train rides are back in action! Take a trip on a historic train along the Sacramento River.

Take mom to the Marin Civic Center Farmer's Market

Sunday, May 11, 8 am–1 pm
Marin Civic Center, San Rafael
Pick up some fresh produce, colorful flowers, and prepared food and grab lunch at this Sunday's farmers market. Stop in at the nearby French Market Marin to browse for antiques and collectibles, too!

Hike to Breakfast on Mt. Tam

Sunday, May 11, 9 am–1 pm
West Point Inn, Mt. Tamalpais
Take a hike to the historic West Point Inn on Mt. Tam for a Mother's Day pancake breakfast! Breakfast costs $13 for adults and $8 for kids under 12. Amazing views are included for free! Learn more here.

Free Admission for Moms at Charles M. Schulz Museum

Sunday, May 11, 10 am–5 pm
Charles M. Schulz Museum, Santa Rosa
All moms receive free Museum admission on Mother's Day! Location: 2301 Hardies Lane in Santa Rosa. Event details

Pay What You Will at the Exploratorium

Sunday, May 11, 11 am–3 pm
Exploratorium, San Francisco
All mothers — and especially Mamás latinas — and their families are invited to to pay what you wish for a day of fun at the Exploratorium. Event details

Mother's Day Crafts

Mother's Day Flowers
Sunday, May 11, 11:30 am–1 pm
McNears Beach Park, San Rafael
Learn about the wildflowers of Marin and where to see them in our parks and preserves while crafting a Mother's Day corsage or a small vase arrangement. Enjoy celebrating Mother Nature and the mothers in our lives! Best for ages 6 to 12, though everyone is welcome. Sign-up here.

Mother's Day Afternoon Tea and Flower Bouquet
Sunday, May 11, 1–3 pm
Westin St. Francis
Celebrate Mother's Day high above the city in the St. Francis' stunning 32nd floor event space overlooking Union Square. Enjoy an elegant tea service accompanied by live music, then create your own bouquet with guidance from the lovely team at Diosa Blooms. Tea includes a glass of sparkling wine. Sunday, May 11, 1–3 pm. $160 adults, $90 children 16 and under, includes a bouquet to take home. More info