Discover Tomales Bay Oyster Company in California

Tomales Bay Oyster Company is a renowned destination for oyster enthusiasts.

Located in California, this oyster farm is situated on the shores of Tomales Bay, a picturesque estuary that's home to a diverse array of wildlife.

The company has been in operation since 1977, making it one of the oldest and most established oyster farms in the region.

Their oysters are harvested by hand, ensuring a high level of quality and freshness.

Tomales Bay Oyster Company is a beloved destination for oyster lovers, and for good reason. It's the first of four oyster stops on the eastern shores of Tomales Bay when driving north from the Bay Area.

The company sells two types of Pacific oysters in various sizes, and customers must take them away and shuck their own oysters. If you're unsure, you can buy a couple and have the salespersons shuck them open for you.

The oysters are harvested right in the bay, and their prices are reasonable. The staff is super helpful, and they have ice if you want to take them away and eat them later. Shellfish sales to the public is only offered Friday through Sunday.

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Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Tomales Bay Oyster Company:

Tomales Bay Oyster Company has a rich history that spans over a century. Founded in 1909, it's the oldest continuously ran oyster farm in California.

Tod Friend co-owned the farm from 1947 to 2017. Cathryn Irving and Heidi Gregory currently own and operate the company.

The farm has been a popular destination for many years, drawing in so many visitors that the parking lot often overflows onto Highway One, causing traffic congestion.

TBOC has been in litigation with the California Coastal Commission regarding the farm's popularity, which the state says has increased beyond the capacity of its original permit allowance. The original permit, acquired in 1987, allows for Friday through Sunday retail sales and only eight employees.

Starting in 2012, TBOC began providing retail sales seven days a week, exceeding the employee limit set by the original permit.

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Marshall, California is a charming destination for foodies and nature lovers alike. Tomales Bay Oyster Company is the first oyster stop on the eastern shores of Tomales Bay when driving north from the Bay Area.

Located in Marshall, Tomales Bay Oyster Company is a must-visit for fresh oyster enthusiasts. Their Pacific Oysters, harvested right in the bay, are about as good as oysters get.

The drive to Marshall is scenic, with Highway 1 offering stunning views of the coastline. Tomales Bay Oyster Company is a great place to stop and grab a snack or take some oysters to go.

If you're unsure about trying oysters, you can buy a couple and have the salespersons shuck them open for you.

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Tomales Bay Oyster Company offers a variety of experiences and activities for visitors.

Take a tour of the oyster farm to learn about the sustainable farming practices and see the oysters being harvested.

You can also visit the oyster bar and grill to taste the freshest oysters of the day, often served raw with a variety of toppings.

The company's farm-to-table approach ensures that all products are of the highest quality and made with care.

Their knowledgeable staff are happy to answer questions and provide recommendations for the best oysters to try.

The oyster bar and grill is open year-round, making it a great destination for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch any time of the year.

The company's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is evident in its practices and products.

The Tomales Bay Oyster Company has been around since 1909, making it the oldest continually-run shellfish farm in the area. They've been perfecting their craft for over a century.

They start with tiny oysters, about the size of a penny, which they plant in oyster bags and let grow for about two years, depending on the season. It's a slow and gentle process.

The location of the farm is crucial, as the oysters get their flavor from the bay itself, including the brininess and algae. You can taste the difference when you eat them.

To keep the oysters fresh, the company uses wet holding tanks that draw water from the bay and run it through a UV filtration system to kill any live bacteria. It's a clever way to keep things clean and safe.

Most of their customers prefer to eat the oysters raw, but they're also very popular when grilled or used in dishes like Rockefeller.

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Tomales Bay Oyster Company is a must-visit destination in California, especially during the summer months. Located about an hour north of San Francisco, it's a scenic drive with a long, narrow inlet of the Pacific Ocean.

The drive can be a bit windy, but the views are worth it. If you have a group of 10 or more, be sure to reserve tables in advance, as they require it.

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Here are some tips to make the most of your trip:

* Bring sunscreen, as it can get really sunny out there!Bring something warm in case it gets windy – it can feel very chilly!Bring food to grill and lots of snacks.Bring lots of drinks and ice, and don't forget a cooler.Come early for parking in the lot, but there's also parking along the highway if needed.There are bathrooms available, including regular ones and porta potties.They play music, so no need to bring your own.It's cash only, so don't forget to bring cash!

I've been lucky enough to visit Tomales Bay Oyster Company twice, and both times have been a blast. The weather has been perfect, with plenty of sun and a fun atmosphere in the picnic area.

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