Santa Margarita Island Preserve
An enchanting oasis near the Santa Venetia neighborhood
Rangers Recommend
- This is the only true island preserve in the Marin County Open Space District.
- This 9-acre preserve (the island 4.5 acres) was once the proposed location of a residential subdivision designed to mimic Venice, Italy. A few remnants remain, including cement canal walls, light post, and imported palm tree.
- See Mount Tam off in the distance.
- No dogs or horses allowed.
Naturalist Notes
- Marsh edging the island provides habitat for endangered Ridgeway's rail, a shy bird.
- A wide variety of waterfowl and shorebirds also flock to the waters. Swallows nest under the bridge in spring. Woodpeckers and California scrub jays feast on acorns.
- Three types of oak as well as madrone and California bay trees stand tall in the island's center.
- Pipevine and other shade loving plants grow beneath the canopy, attracting butterflies in spring.
- Blue dicks and checkerbloom appear in spring in the grassland between the trees and the high tide mark.
- Check out the iNaturalist field guide [External]. Add your own observations.
Activities
Know Before You Go
- Stay on roads and trails to preserve sensitive ecosystems and to avoid trespassing on private property.
- Dress appropriately for the weather. Trails can be muddy during rainy season.
- Bring water.
- If launching a kayak, watch tides. Currents can be strong.
- There are no restrooms at this location.
- Steer clear of poison oak.
- After an outing, check for ticks.
Download Preserve Map