Larkspur
Downtown Larkspur is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is typical of a small town at the turn-of-the-century town. Larkspur residents have been quite successful in preserving the small-town ambience. A medley of specialty shops, boutiques, Queen Anne Victorians, cafes and first-class restaurants can be enjoyed by taking a relaxing stroll down Magnolia Avenue.
Larkspur offers special places to play, relax, shop, dine and enjoy many things Marin County has to offer. There are world-renowned restaurants, stylish stores, intimate coffee houses, and unique shopping centers. There are lush redwood groves, winding trails and waterways. There are ten parks and every sport from horseshoes to windsurfing.
Larkspur is divided into two distinct areas adjoining Highway 101. Its historic downtown is west of Highway 101, and an old quarry area, now known as Larkspur Landing is to the east of the highway along the San Francisco Bay shoreline. The Landing is a rambling outdoor shopping area with outdoor eating areas, such as the popular Marin Brewing Company and spectacular bay views. Larkspur Landing hosts live music on Friday evenings and a Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings during the summer months. A foot bridge over the highway allows visitors to access the futuristic Golden Gate Ferry terminal, a departure point for travelers going from Marin to the San Francisco Ferry Building. The 30 minute ride offers spectacular views of Mt. Tamalpais, Angel Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. Just across the way is the Marin Airporter shuttle to San Francisco International Airport.
With high public school scores and low crime rankings this family oriented community is among the most sought after place to live in Marin County. School scores in the Larkspur Elementary District, which serves both Larkspur and Corte Madera, rank among the highest in the state. Redwood and Marin Catholic High Schools are within a few miles of downtown, and the College of Marin is just minutes away by car or bike.
Population: 12,054 (approx)
Distance to Golden Gate Bridge / San Francisco: 11-14 miles