Planning your trip to Mt. Tamalpais

Planning this trip THE BEST WAY From LAX, American, United, Southwest and Virgin America have nonstop flights to San Francisco. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $78. Or from Los Angeles, drive Interstate 5 north for about 400 miles until it merges with Interstate 580, heading north. Cross the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge and then head south on U.S. 101 and north on California 1 to Stinson Beach.RENTING A BIKE Mt. Tam Bikes, 244 Shoreline Highway, Suite B, Mill Valley; (415) 389-1900 www.mt.tambikes.com. Mountain bikes rent for $30 a day.WHERE TO STAY The Sandpiper, 1 Marine Way, Stinson Beach; (415) 868-1632, www.sandpiperstinsonbeach.com. Doubles $135 to $195.Stinson Beach Motel, 3416 Shoreline Highway, Stinson Beach; (415) 868-1712, www.stinsonbeachmotel.com. Doubles from $90.WHERE TO EAT Sand Dollar Restaurant & Bar, 3458 Shoreline Highway, Stinson Beach; (415) 868-0434, www.stinsonbeachrestaurant.com. Good beach food, such as burgers, fish tacos and sandwiches. Entrees $16 to $22.Parkside Cafe, 43 Arenal Ave., Stinson Beach; (415) 868-1272, www.parksidecafe.com. Great service, tasty food, including sandwiches, pasta and salads. Dinner entrees $8 to $19.