Fairfax derives its name from Lord Charles Fairfax, a Baron from Scotland, whose ancestors were given a large land grant in Virginia and who was lured west during the Gold Rush. A popular figure, Fairfax was elected a Marin County Supervisor in 1865, but died young in 1869 after traveling east as a delegate to the National Democratic Conference.
The further one drives out on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, the warmer the summers are and the further back in time it seems you have traveled. Upon arrival to the town of Fairfax, you have reached one of the most laid-back towns in Marin with some of the best Mountain biking and hiking in the county. Many of the town’s residents after making the same drive some 25 years ago, and realizing they found their bucolic oasis, have stayed put. The area is known for its vibrant live music, a huge Fourth of July picnic, and its once-upon-a-time Big Band parties of the 1960’s. Fairfax is an ideal spot for outdoor lovers with almost limitless hiking and picnicking on watershed lands and the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais.