Visit Us
The Refuge is closed to the public. To report trespassing please contact Meg Marriott at (707) 769-4200.
Location and Contact Information
About Us
Once a private retreat for a Bay Area family, the Marin Islands now offer refuge for migratory and resident birds. The Islands cover 10.5 acres of the 339-acre refuge, the rest is submerged tidelands.
What We Do
The refuge was established in 1992 to protect migratory species, including the heron and egret nesting colony, protect and restore suitable habitat for the colony, and protect the tidal mud flats and unique island ecosystem.
Our Species
The islands consist of mixed evergreen forest, coastal prairie, coastal salt marsh salt marsh
Salt marshes are found in tidal areas near the coast, where freshwater mixes with saltwater.
Learn more about salt marsh and northern coastal scrub. Marin Islands provide nesting habitat to one of the largest heron and egret rookeries in northern California. In the tidal and sub-tidal habitats surrounding the islands, diving ducks are commonly seen along with grebes, brown and white pelicans, terns, and black oystercatchers.
Get Involved
Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National wildlife refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community by doing what you love. National wildlife refuges partner with volunteers, youth groups, landowners, neighbors and residents of urban communities to make a lasting difference. Find out how you can help make American lands healthier and communities stronger while doing something personally satisfying.