Welcome to Greenbrae
Tucked into the heart of Central Marin, Greenbrae offers a rare balance of everyday convenience, natural beauty, and easy access to the greater Bay Area. Just about 15 miles north of San Francisco, this well-established community is a favorite for buyers who want a calm residential setting without giving up proximity to shopping, dining, open space, and major commute routes.
With Mount Tamalpais rising behind it and Corte Madera Creek winding through town, Greenbrae feels grounded in nature while remaining deeply connected to its surroundings. Larkspur, Corte Madera, and Ross are all just minutes away, making Greenbrae a true hub within Marin County.
Greenbrae’s roots date back to the mid-1900s, when the area transitioned from roughly 635 acres of farmland into a carefully planned residential community. Developers built more than 1,000 homes, 1,500 apartments, and a variety of local businesses, all while respecting the natural contours of the land. Mature oak trees were preserved, green spaces were woven throughout neighborhoods, and homes were designed to complement the rolling hills rather than compete with them.
Today, that intentional planning is still evident. Many homes offer private, landscaped yards and scenic views that stretch toward Mount Tamalpais, Corte Madera Creek, or even glimpses of the San Francisco Bay. Condos and townhomes provide a lower-maintenance lifestyle with easy access to walking paths and nearby amenities, while single-family neighborhoods offer a more traditional suburban feel.
The Bon Air Shopping Center serves as a neighborhood gathering place, with local favorites for coffee, casual meals, groceries, and everyday errands. On warm afternoons, outdoor tables fill up with residents lingering over lunch or meeting neighbors by chance.
For those who love the outdoors, the Corte Madera Creek Path is especially popular. This multi-use trail is perfect for walking, running, biking, and dog walks, offering peaceful water views and frequent wildlife sightings. Mount Tamalpais provides a dramatic backdrop and access to miles of hiking trails through redwood groves and oak woodlands, suitable for all experience levels.
Greenbrae is also home to MarinHealth Medical Center, offering convenient access to medical care and specialty services right within the community.
Greenbrae is especially appealing for commuters. Highway 101 is easily accessible, providing a direct route south to San Francisco or north toward Sonoma County. The Larkspur Landing Ferry Terminal is just a few minutes away, offering a scenic and stress-free commute into the city. Public transportation options and nearby transit hubs make it easy to navigate Marin and the broader Bay Area.
Whether you’re commuting daily, working hybrid, or spending weekends exploring Northern California, Greenbrae serves as a comfortable and well-connected home base.
GREENBRAE FAQS
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Greenbrae has a classic Marin microclimate: mild, sunny days are common, especially in late spring and early fall. Summers are typically warm but rarely hot, thanks to cooling breezes off the Bay. Marine fog can drift in during the mornings, particularly in June and July, but usually burns off by midday to reveal clear skies. Winters are cool and wetter, with most of the annual rainfall falling between November and March. This temperate pattern makes Greenbrae comfortable year-round and ideal for outdoor activities.
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Greenbrae is primarily served by the Kentfield School District for elementary and middle schools, with high school students attending Redwood High School in the Tamalpais Union High School District. Families also have access to a variety of well-regarded private schools throughout Central Marin.
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The Bon Air Shopping Center is the heart of local shopping and dining, featuring coffee shops, casual eateries, groceries, and boutique services. Residents also enjoy quick access to dining and retail options in nearby Larkspur, Corte Madera, and Ross.
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Yes. The Corte Madera Creek Path runs through Greenbrae and is ideal for walking, running, biking, and dog walking. Mount Tamalpais is just minutes away and offers extensive hiking trails with redwood forests, panoramic views, and varied terrain.
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Greenbrae is approximately 15 to 16 miles north of San Francisco. Commute times vary, but many residents take advantage of the nearby ferry terminal or Highway 101 for easy access to the city.
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Absolutely! With close proximity to Highway 101, the Larkspur Ferry, and regional transit options, Greenbrae is considered one of Central Marin’s most commuter-friendly communities.