Three miles west of Muir Woods, along Highway 1, is a small crescent-shaped cove called Muir Beach. Strewn with bits of driftwood and numerous tide pools, Muir Beach is a more sedate alternative to the beer ’n’ bikini crowds at the ever-popular Stinson Beach up north. If all you’re looking for is a sandy, quiet place for some R & R, park your car right here and skip the trip to Stinson.

And for an equally memorable experience, grab a brew and a bratwurst in the well-kept secret Tourist Club (415/388-9987; www.touristclubsf.org), a German beer garden in the midst of the coastal forest, a few miles up the hill for Muir Beach. It’s open to the public the first, third, or fourth weekend of any month between 1pm and 6pm. Just remember to bring cash, as the bar doesn’t accept credit cards.