Dreaming of a sunny road trip to an iconic beach destination? Pack your bags for Northern California’s Tomales Bay and leave the winter chill behind. This lovely area is accessible via the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, and offers multiple opportunities to enjoy fresh local foods and unwind in nature.

You can drop off your bags at the Lodge at Marconi, located on 62 acres among the hills and woods of Marconi State Historic Park, close to Point Reyes National Seashore and about an hour from San Francisco. Built in 1914 as a radio receiving station, the historic structure gets its name from the station’s builder, Guglielmo Marconi, often referred to as the “inventor of radio.”

The Lodge at Marconi’s © Asher Moss

Today, guests can relax in one of the lodge’s 45 modern luxury rooms or suites. Amenities include organic linens and artisanal bath products. Choose the rustic A-Frame, which has its own private kitchen, loft and deck. Enjoy a charcuterie board composed of seasonal local ingredients on the deck at Mable’s, take a wellness break in the sauna, or get cozy around an outdoor firepit as the stars come out.

Property views include the sparkling waters of Tomales Bay, and guests enjoy easy access to hikes like Lodge’s Meadow Trail, Tomales Bay Trailhead and Bolinas Ridge Trail. Other area paths lead to Point Reyes Lighthouse and Tomales Point, while a collection of nearby spots worth exploring include the Cypress Tree Tunnel.

There’s also plenty in the way of dining. Explore the West Marin Culture Shop and The Farmer’s Wife at Point Reyes Station, where you can fill up on organic sandwiches and gourmet cheeses. The area’s bounty of seafood can be experienced at Hog Island Oyster, where fresh oysters and savory clam chowder are local stars. Smoked fish, oysters and Dungeness crab are menu staples at The Marshall Store, while Tony’s serves up seafood with views of the bay.