The Houseboat community in Sausalito is one of the largest in the world. It is also one of the most beautiful. Living on a boat in the water obviously has benefits. First of all, you live on the water. This in my opinion is a HUGE draw. Second, being in Sausalito is pretty spectacular in itself. Third, more often than not, you have the most amazing views you could ever hope for. Everywhere you turn you are surrounded by beauty! All you have to do is look out your window to see Tiburon, Belvedere, San Francisco, Sausalito, Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley…
Houseboat living is not a new phenomenon. It is definitely not for the timid and is a bit counter-culture. I have several friends that live on houseboats and they all love it. Making the decision to “move aboard” is a bit of a commitment, but worth it. Houseboats surface for sale (as do rentals), but not as often as you might think. When locals think of Sausalito, they naturally think of “the houseboats,” and for good reason. The houseboat community has been here for decades and is vital to the community. It has seen its myriad of changes through the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, 00’s and continues to morph while retaining much of the charm and appeal from its yesteryear. San Francisco has always had a rich maritime history. There is definite sense of community within the marinas. People look out for and know each other. There are people from all walks of life, each with a zest for why it is they continue to participate in such a way of life!
Walking through the houseboat communities of Sausalito confirms that Marin County is the most beautiful place I have ever lived. This morning I went meandering about the houseboats with my camera and took pictures of the boats, their dock-front gardens, fountains, and arbors. These are a few of the many pictures I snapped. The creative energy on and around the docks is abundant!
Come this September, we will have the 25th Annual Houseboat tour! Should you find this interesting, you can visit: www.floatinghomes.org for more information as well as a plethora of information regarding houseboats and houseboat living.
Related Links:
Sausalito floating homes for sale
Beautiful, I remember when I first moved to San Francisco I wanted to live in these houseboats..thanks for the beautiful reminder!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is lovely! I'm now following!
bisous!
Kit
Love the pics!
ReplyDeleteYvette!
Thank you for the wonderful words about the houseboat community. We need the support of the community to keep the houseboats affordable and viable. One of the only lenders of houseboats has decided we are now not worth lending to. Apparently our leading "community" bank no longer finds us profitable and we have been booted out of the community. We need the support of all Marin residents to acknowledge we are a vital and productive part of the community and worth investing in. We only ask for fair and equal access to credit no different than any other home owner and resident of Marin.
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