BBQ by the Bay

Barbecue and picnic at China Camp State Park in Marin

03.09.2022

Relaxing, Dog Friendly, Hikes

Picnic spots don't get more "on the Bay" than at China Camp State Park. This sprawling state park in Marin has several panoramic picnic spots (with BBQ grills) right on the shores of San Pablo Bay. Named after an 1880s shrimp-fishing village settled by Chinese immigrants, this popular state park has really beautiful pockets of picnic spots overlooking tranquil San Pablo Bay. For a spacious lawn with about a dozen picnic tables and barbecue grills, head to China Camp Point on the east side of the park.

The spacious grassy knoll overlooks San Pablo Bay. There are also some more secluded spots with fewer tables and equally sublime views, but they are subject to reservation, so you may find yourself out of luck on those; then again, you may get lucky! If so, both Buckeye Point and Weber Point are beautiful (we like Weber a bit better). Wherever you end up here, enjoy the BBQ with a view!

Bonus Bike Ride: The 5-mile Shoreline Trail is ideal for new mountain bikers because it’s smooth and never gets too steep, plus riders get to enjoy bay views almost the entire way.

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