Small but mighty communities of affluence and elegance
Sitting next to each other and tucked between the bay and the majesty of Mount Tamalpais, the communities of Kentfield and Greenbrae share both a zipcode as well as a private, affluent vibe. The more populous Greenbrae is an unincorporated community bounded by the Corte Madera Creek to the south and US-101 to the east, while Kentfield is established as a census-designated place and includes part of the Baltimore Canyon Preserve within its bounds.
Greenbrae was developed in the mid-twentieth century by the Schultz Building Company, which transformed the rural farmland into a thriving suburban paradise set among the green hills it was named after. In Kentfield, the community was formed out of its connection to the railroad and service as a landing place for steamers traveling along Corte Madera Creek. Both cities now have populations under 15,000 and are around 30 minutes north of San Francisco.
From gorgeous, secluded estates on large slices of land to mid-century beauties in highly desirable neighborhoods all the way to high-end condos with unobstructed views of the Corte Madera Creek, Kentfield, and Greenbrae, properties bring comfort and lavish design in harmony with nature.
The majority of households in both communities are family units of some kind, with or without children, the population is well-educated, and the jobs are overwhelmingly white-collar. Many residents are commuters into San Francisco or San Rafael, and access to excellent schools makes both Greenbrae and Kentfield great places to start a family or raise children. In these communities, the open space, charming parks, small shops, and lush estates all create an elevated opulence that absolutely shines.
In Greenbrae and Kentfield, residents and visitors get more than simply what they need—they also get everything they could possibly want. With cleverly designed centers like Bon Air, which offers specialty shops, eateries, workout facilities, and places for kids to play, it’s no hardship to make a fun day out of simple errands and shopping excursions. You’ll get an experience like no other at Marin Country Mart, located at Larkspur Landing. An open-air, sophisticated and modern village, this market is the place to go for local art, boutiques, organic and locally-grown goods, health services, and tons of dining options.
But more than just centers, Kentfield and Greenbrae also have an abundance of stand-alone restaurants that are impressive in their own right. Check out the ivy-laced, brick exterior Half Day Cafe and indulge in classic breakfast and lunch favorites made with fresh and organic ingredients. Cocktail aficionados will love the inspired takes on classic drinks at Guesthouse Marin, and the restaurant’s delicious American cuisine takes center stage with standouts like the wood-grilled half chicken, truffle fries, and prime New York strips.
In Greenbrae and Kentfield, the impetus is to expand your horizons, learn new things, and make the best of each day. Whether you’re taking a class at the local College of Marin, taking advantage of the natural recreation opportunities, or shopping up a storm in the many centers, these small communities offer every opportunity to explore and enjoy.
Take a hike—literally—up to Lake Lagunitas and drink in the spectacular views at the crest of this 25-acre reservoir. The trail is full of colorful wildflowers and greenery and is meant for all skill levels. For equally resplendent displays of flowers along with gorgeous landscaping, check out the Marin Art and Garden Center. Its 11-acres provides a bounty of carefully cultivated garden spaces, water features, and trees, and the site itself also facilitates workshops, educational programs, and galleries for artists and conservationists, both young and old.
Kentfield/Greenbrae is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
If you’re looking for a strategic real estate If you’re looking for a strategic real estate partner for buying or selling, you’ve found your match -- Imagine Marin.