Events & Community

Attend seasonal events, lectures, and community collaborations.

Archives & Photos

Browse vintage photos and documents that tell the town’s story.

Membership & Support

Join or donate to help us preserve Stinson’s legacy.

Welcome to the Stinson Beach Historical Society

A local archive built by locals - preserving the past of our small California beach town

Founded in 1992, the Stinson Beach Historical Society is a nonprofit dedicated to collecting, protecting, and sharing the unique stories of Stinson Beach.  Through photographs, oral histories, letters, maps, exhibits, and newsletters, we help residents and visitors explore the rich heritage of our community – from the early ranch settlements and pioneer families to local legends, lost landmarks, and everyday beach life.  Our mission is to preserve the history of Stinson Beach so future generations can better understand and appreciate the people and places that shape our remarkable coastal town.

EVENTS

Join us throughout the year to celebrate local history.

More events will
appear soon...

Support

Help us preserve the stories of Stinson Beach

From photographs to family letters, maps to oral histories — every dollar helps us protect and share the rich past of our coastal town. We’re a volunteer-run nonprofit, and your support makes all the difference.

Featured Exhibit

The Sea Downs Pavilion

Built in 1920 by Thomas Kent, the Sea Downs Pavilion was once a thriving dance hall at the edge of the ocean. Known for live music and warm summer nights, it became a community hub before being removed in 1956.