Stinson Beach is rich in history! The history of Stinson Beach revolves around its geography. Beginning in the 19th century, ranches used the rolling hills to raise milk cows. White Gate Ranch was part of the Throckmorton tenant ranches; only a grove of eucalyptus on Panoramic Highway marks its location.

Early in the 19th century the area was accessible only by sailing schooner from San Francisco, by horseback to San Rafael, or on foot over the Dipsea Trail. In 1870, the first dirt road along the coast from Sausalito was completed. Soon tent camps sprang up among the willows, hence the early name, Willow Camp.

The real birth of the community was in 1906 when the earthquake brought refugees from San Francisco who built the first hotel and stores and the first Stinson subdivision was accepted by the County. In 1916, with the opening of the first post office, the name was changed to Stinson Beach, in honor of the largest landowners.

New residents arrived during World War II, and after the war, the Seadrift Subdivision and the Highlands above town were developed resulting in the Stinson Beach of today. In the meantime, the beach park had passed from county to state hands, and in 1972, it became part of the Golden Gate Recreation Area.

Keeping up the traditions of Hotels in San Francisco, there are many things to do and see in the vicinity of Mill Valley Travelodge. San Francisco (Marin County), spectacular views from Mill Valley retreat just 15 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Two main trails lead from the house down the north side of the ridge to downtown Mill Valley. The trails on the west side lead to the old gravity railroad grade to the top of Mt. Tamalpais. The trails on the south side lead down to Muir Woods.

Muir Beach is only ten minutes away and Stinson Beach is 17 minutes away. Downtown Mill Valley is five minutes away and is a very charming and delightful town with shops, multiple restaurants, theaters, coffee shops, a terrific library and community center, parks and playgrounds.

Napa and Sonoma County wine regions are about an hour away. Berkeley and Oakland are about 45 minutes away. Other upscale Marin County towns like Sausalito, Belvedere, Tiburon, Larkspur, and San Anselmo are also just minutes away from Mill Valley.