A suburban neighborhood with a heart for entertainment
Centrally located to have access to the best of everything in Marin County, the neighborhood of Terra Linda rests in the northern portion of San Rafael and is nestled between the San Francisco Bay to the east and Mount Tamalpais to the west. Its location—with access to US-101—makes Terra Linda perfect for commuting, as it lies just minutes from downtown San Rafael and Novato and is around 30 minutes from the shimmering skyline of San Francisco.
With a population hovering around 15,000, Terra Linda gives off a small-town feel even as a suburb of a much larger city. Most homes here were built after World War II, and the residential area includes around 900 homes built by the famous Joseph Eichler. From those earlier Mid-century modern designs, housing in Terra Linda has evolved to include modern builds in quaint cul-de-sacs and plenty of luxury apartments and condos.
Present-day Terra Linda is also surrounded by an abundance of shops, eateries, and lively activities, parks, and public transportation access. However, despite its commercial offerings, the neighborhood remains a largely residential, tight-knit community that draws in a friendly, warm population.
Terra Linda is well-known for being great for families, young couples, retirees, and professionals looking to escape from the busier parts of urban living without losing access to its benefits. The schools here are incredible, and Terra Linda maintains a high percentage of owner-occupied housing.
Terra Linda is always bustling with activity, and much of that activity is centralized around Northgate Mall. Part mall, part movie theater, part venue, Northgate houses name-brand stores like H&M, Express, Macy’s, and Home Goods in addition to several chain restaurants and a few local favorite eateries.
Around the Northgate area, you’ll find tons of restaurants to try and explore. Located on Northgate Drive, Roadside BBQ is serving up savory comfort foods, a “down-home” atmosphere, and of course, epic BBQ. Breakfast lovers can’t miss a chance to eat at Black Bear Diner. Though the restaurant serves fantastic lunch and dinner as well, visitors rave about the breakfast selection, which includes hearty portions of sweet cream waffles, blackberry stuffed french toast, massive omelets, and even chicken-fried steak.
Looking to get your grocery shopping done but in need of a quick meal, too? Scotty’s Market is happy to help. This neighborhood grocer provides everyday items as well as wines and gourmet foods, in addition to its deli that has hot meals, salads, and sandwiches.
Community is at the heart of everything in Terra Linda, and the desire to build connection expands into the activity offerings of the neighborhood. Expand your interests by going to the Terra Linda Community Center and registering for any of their classes, which cross all age ranges and include subjects such as dancing, art, music, sports, fitness, theater, and cooking. Or, if you prefer to keep things casual, spend a lazy day at the Century Theater in Northgate, catching up on all the latest releases and binging buttery popcorn.
Every Sunday morning, the Marin County Civic Center hosts the Marin Farmers Market. Hundreds gather to sample seasonal harvests from some of California’s best-known farms, specialty and exotic foods, and local artisan goods. In the summer, you can make the short trip to Northgate Mall on Friday evenings for the Under the Oak concert series that serves excellent food and drink in addition to the live, multi-genre performances.
Terra Linda is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
April was honored with the California Association of Realtors Rising Star Award. She has succeeded in a multitude of varied sales positions throughout her professional career, garnering top awards at both Fortune 500 companies as well as smaller, family-operated businesses.
