Directions to Point Molate Beach

From Interstate 80 (either direction), take the San Rafael exit to Interstate 580 West towards the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. Just before the toll plaza, take the Point Molate/Stenmark Drive exit (right). Stay left at the fork and watch your left side for a small sign marking the entrance to Point Molate Beach parking lot as the hill goes down. If you see a brick fortress type building to your right (Winehaven), turn around at the stop sign and watch your right side for the entrance to small parking lot.

You can find Point Molate Beach Park on Google and set it as your destination on GPS. Just be sure to read the instructions above before you leave.

Description

This smaller beach has expansive views of Mount Tam, the San Rafael Bridge, East Brother Island, and Tiburon. There's a few picnic tables with trash cans and grassy areas in this semi-developed park, but no bathrooms or water. It is a dog-friendly beach, but few dog owners visit. The parking lot is surrounded by Monterrey pines, so there are shady areas from which you can see gorgeous views to each side. It does get windy when the fog comes in, so please bring a way to make your easel stable and warm clothes.

History

Located near the site of a Chinese fishing camp. Point Molate Beach was part of the Point Molate Naval Fuel Depot a few decades ago. After the Navy leased it to the City of Richmond in the early 1970s. Budget cuts and the high cost of cleaning it led to its closure in 2001, and in 2003 the Navy sold it to the City for a dollar. The city council approved a Mega-Casino later on. In 2010 this plan was rejected by city residents. The beach reopened in 2014 through the conservation efforts of several non-profits and the city of Richmond. Currently the beach faces two threats: erosion due to climate change, and a sprawling development on the nearby hills, approved without support from most Richmond residents.

Map of Point Molate Beach Painting Location