Went clamming up in Tomales Bay a few months ago. Stopped at Drakes Bay Oyster Co and picked up a couple dozen oysters at totally unbelievable prices. Only ever been to Hog Island and Tomales Bay Oyster Co (both of which are great for hanging out) but if you're just grabbing some on the run, Drakes is your spot. Took our picnic over to Heart's Desire Beach and started the digging.
Lots of little guys, but plenty that passed the old O-ring test ( a Groshong favorite).
Hats, scarves, garden claws and a bottle or two of wine and we wrangled our limit of clams from the rocky shore. The best part is watching them spit water in giant arcs as the tide comes back in.
Soon to be linguine with clams, dinner for two.
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Hands all clammy? Unlike the giant Washington clams we dug for up in Bodega Bay, these guys are littler and closer to the surface (though they still bury themselves pretty good). A fishing license is required, but day-use ones can be bought at the hardware store in nearby Pt. Reyes Station (or get a yearly one online). Heart's Desire is part of Tomales Bay State Park and so has an entrance fee and a check-out time, but is well worth it for it's lovely seclusion (and amazing view, and abundance of clams, and...) Whether you take Hwy 1 or Sir Francis Drake to Olema, head north from there towards Pt. Reyes Station, then west on Sir Francis Drake. Take a detour to Drakes Bay Oyster Co (open 8:30am - 4:30pm everyday) or just keep on til you hit Pierce Point Rd and follow that to your Heart's Desire.