Views, Space and Vibes 

in Mill Valley

Nestled at the foot of Mount Tamalpais, homes in the Marin County city range from 500-square-foot hunter's cabins to multimillion-dollar mansions tucked away on winding, narrow lanes under the redwoods. Coffee is king in Mill Valley. Downtown, three separate coffee shops do a brisk business. At the Depot, as the sunny town center is called, parents with strollers, kids on bikes and scooters, and locals relax in the open-air plaza, which now houses an independent bookstore and cafe. The Depot is also a jumping-off spot for hikers and mountain bikers heading up the slopes of Mount Tamalpais; or some, with boards strapped to hoods of cars, seeking waves at nearby beaches. Nightlife in Mill Valley is anchored by Sweetwater Music Hall, which hosts many well-known musical acts.