Welcome to Fairfax! We are a close-knit community of 3500 homes and roughly 7,500 people We are governed by our town council of five residents, and a staff headed by our Town Manager. The volunteer spirit and community engagement of Fairfaxians is legendary, and we appreciate how fortunate we are to live in this beautiful, bucolic hamlet so close to all that nature and culture have to offer!
Fairfax is a magical place where we enjoy festivals, community projects, the farmer’s market, great parks, facilities and trails, and access to over 18,000 acres of Open Space. We are also known as the gateway to West Marin and its many State and National Parks and beaches. Gaining recognition as the birthplace of the mountain bike ––be sure to visit our Repack Bench & Mosaic honoring the pioneers of mountain biking–– we rightly boast about our range and variety of bike trails for beginners to single tracks for the experts.
Our quaint and charming downtown includes local merchants who provide most of the essential needs of the community–- two major food markets, a full service hardware/lumber yard and reuse center, eclectic variety, collectibles, galleries and clothing stores, general and specialty retail serving outdoor enthusiasts, kids, crafts, home and garden, yoga, dance, martial arts, veterinary services, health professionals and many other professionals from CPAs to hair and beauty salons to landscapers, graphic designers, real estate and insurance. A weekend stop in Fairfax can include designer coffees and pastries, al fresco dining, local brews and wines, music, local crafts and amazing organic fare with international flair.
There’s always something going on in Fairfax. We have a reputation throughout the Bay Area as a historically significant musical center where such bands as the Grateful Dead, Van Morrison and the Sons of Champlin originated. With our rich and diverse assortment of restaurants and drinking establishments, Fairfax continues this tradition today with performances from many top national and international acts at many venues in town. And we pride ourselves on showcasing the newest, biggest talents on their way to stardom.
We are a close family here evidenced by such organizations as Sustainable Fairfax and the Fairfax Volunteers. Along with our highly rated school system in the Ross Valley School District, as well as our many private schools and pre-schools, there are ongoing events through the town-sponsored FOCAS program. We are family-friendly and welcoming to all!
We hope this helps you get acquainted with us and our treasured community. When you do, you will immediately see why Fairfaxians are so passionate about where we live. There’s a reason Marin locals say “Only in Fairfax!” Come visit us and find out why!