Marin County is one of the best places in the Bay Area to spend a day outside. Redwoods in Muir Woods, the climb up Mount Tam, a long afternoon at Stinson Beach. It’s easy to picture cannabis as part of that day, but the rules for where you can actually use it are stricter than a lot of people expect.
Here’s what you need to know before you pack anything for the trail, and how to enjoy cannabis legally once you’re back home.
The Short Answer: Private Property Only
California law allows adults 21 and over to possess and use cannabis, but only on private property. Using cannabis in public is not allowed anywhere in the state. That includes smoking, vaping and eating edibles.
In practice, “public” covers most of what makes Marin great: parks, trails, beaches, sidewalks, parking lots and open space preserves. Smoking is also banned anywhere tobacco smoking is banned.
Federal Land Is a Different Story
A large share of Marin’s best-known outdoor spaces are run by the National Park Service, including:
- Muir Woods National Monument
- Point Reyes National Seashore
- The Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which includes the Marin Headlands, Muir Beach and Stinson Beach
Cannabis is still illegal under federal law, and federal rules apply on national park land. That means even having cannabis there can be a federal offense, not just using it. California’s legalization doesn’t change that. The simplest approach is to leave it at home when you’re headed to a national park site.
State and County Parks
Places like Mount Tamalpais State Park, China Camp State Park and Marin’s county open space preserves are public spaces, so cannabis use isn’t allowed there either. Many of them also ban smoking of any kind, partly because of wildfire risk.
That wildfire risk is worth taking seriously. Marin’s hillsides get extremely dry in late summer and fall, and a single ember from a joint or pipe can start a fire.
Driving to the Trailhead
Most Marin adventures start with a drive, so a few vehicle rules apply:
- No using cannabis in a vehicle, whether you’re driving or a passenger.
- No open containers. Keep products in their original sealed packaging, and if a package has been opened, store it in the trunk.
- Never drive high. Driving under the influence of cannabis is a DUI in California, the same as alcohol.
How to Enjoy Cannabis After a Day Outside
The good news: there’s a legal way to make cannabis part of a Marin day. Hike, swim or bike first, then enjoy it at home.
A few ideas for winding down after a long day outdoors:
- Low-dose edibles for a relaxed evening. Browse our edibles, start small, and give them time to kick in.
- Topicals like balms and lotions are a popular addition to a post-hike routine. Find them in our topicals section.
- Pre-rolls for a ready-to-go option on your own patio or deck. See our pre-rolls.
- Tinctures for an easy, measured dose. See our tinctures.
If you’re on private property with the owner’s permission, like a home, a backyard or your own deck, you’re within the rules.
Get It Delivered for When You’re Back
Don’t want to make a stop on the way home? We deliver across Marin County, including Mill Valley, Sausalito, San Rafael, Tiburon and Corte Madera. Deliveries go to private addresses, so you’ll need to be home to receive your order with a valid ID.
New to ordering? Read how cannabis delivery works in Marin County, or check your address and start shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke weed at Stinson Beach or Muir Beach?
No. Both are part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which is federal land where cannabis is illegal. They’re also public places, where California bans cannabis use.
Can I bring edibles on a hike in Marin?
Eating edibles in public is still public consumption, which isn’t allowed. On national park land, possession itself is prohibited under federal law.
Where can I legally use cannabis in Marin?
On private property, with the owner’s permission. Your own home is the safest bet. Renting? Check your lease or ask your host first.
This article is for general information only and isn’t legal advice. Rules can change, so check current state, county and park regulations before you go.
