Guests of The Inn Above Tide in Sausalito are perfectly placed to explore one of the Marin Headlands’ lesser-known gems: Tennessee Beach. This quiet stretch of sand sits at the end of a scenic trail through rolling hills and coastal scrub, opening onto a secluded horseshoe-shaped cove. It’s a perfect day trip for travelers who enjoy combining a rewarding hike with a bit of local history — and a dose of dramatic Pacific Ocean scenery.
A Beach with a Story
Once known as Indian Cove, Tennessee Beach was renamed after a dramatic event in 1853, when the S.S. Tennessee — a steamship traveling between San Francisco and Panama — ran aground here. Miraculously, all 550 passengers, along with the ship’s mail and baggage, made it safely ashore. The wreck quickly became a landmark for mariners, and over time the cove took on the ship’s name. Today, this history adds a layer of intrigue to what is otherwise one of the Marin Headlands’ most peaceful beaches.
Seeing the Shipwreck Remains
One of Tennessee Beach’s most fascinating features is the opportunity to see the remains of the S.S. Tennessee. At low tide, parts of the ship’s engine are still visible at the southern end of the beach. The corroded metal, half-buried in sand and barnacles, offers a tangible connection to the area’s maritime past. Tide conditions vary, so if spotting the wreck is on your list, check tide tables before you go. The National Park Service’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area site is a great resource for current information.
The Hike to Tennessee Beach
Reaching Tennessee Beach is part of its charm. The trail begins at the Tennessee Valley parking lot and follows a mostly flat, 1.7-mile path to the ocean. Along the way, you’ll pass through open meadows, stands of coastal chaparral, and wetlands that are home to seasonal wildflowers and a variety of birds. The wide, well-maintained path makes this an accessible hike for most visitors, and benches along the way provide spots to rest and take in the scenery.
In spring, the valley is carpeted with lupine, poppies, and other blooms, making the walk especially photogenic. In winter, migrating birds and the possibility of spotting gray whales offshore add to the appeal. The final approach to the beach reveals the cove suddenly and dramatically, framed by high cliffs on either side.
What to Expect at the Beach
Tennessee Beach is undeveloped, which is part of its beauty. There are no facilities or lifeguards, and the surf can be rough with strong currents — so swimming is not advised. Instead, visitors can enjoy walking along the shore, exploring the rock formations at each end of the cove, or simply relaxing and listening to the waves. The high cliffs make this beach feel wonderfully enclosed and remote, even though it’s just a few miles from the nearest road.
Wildlife sightings are common, with pelicans and cormorants skimming the waves, harbor seals occasionally bobbing in the surf, and hawks soaring above the bluffs. Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
Planning Your Visit from The Inn Above Tide
- Distance from the hotel: About 25 minutes by car from Sausalito
- Parking: Available at the Tennessee Valley trailhead lot
- Hike length: 3.4 miles round trip; mostly flat with gentle grades
- Best time to visit: Spring for wildflowers, winter for whale watching, and low tide for shipwreck viewing
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and a windbreaker
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra time, consider visiting nearby Fort Cronkhite or Rodeo Beach. Both offer additional opportunities to explore the Marin Headlands’ unique combination of history and coastal beauty. You might also enjoy a stop at the Marine Mammal Center to learn about local wildlife rescue efforts.
Preserving a Special Place
Tennessee Beach is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which means it’s protected for public enjoyment and ecological preservation. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles — pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife. This helps ensure the beach remains as pristine for future visitors as it is today.
A Perfect Day Trip from The Inn Above Tide
For guests at The Inn Above Tide, Tennessee Beach offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. The easy hike, fascinating history, and stunning scenery make it an ideal outing for couples, families, or solo travelers. After a day spent walking through Tennessee Valley and exploring the beach, you can return to your waterfront room and watch the sun set over the Bay — a perfect ending to a day immersed in the natural beauty of the Marin Headlands.
