WHERE: Tomales Bay, Calif.

For certain people, no fruit of the sea is better than a fresh oyster. And in California, there's no better place to eat them than at Tomales Bay, northwest of San Francisco. The bay, an index finger of water that separates the Point Reyes Peninsula from mainland Marin County, is a protected ecosystem where oysters are farmed. In Marshall are two standouts, about five miles apart, for those who love to slurp the succulent mollusks: the Tomales Bay Oyster and the Hog Island Oyster companies, which supply some of San Francisco's finest restaurants. But you don't have to drop a fortune to sample some. At their stores in Marshall, you'll find bushels of small, medium and large oysters and other shellfish. Bring work gloves, because you'll have to shuck the oysters yourself. Many people bring a cooler filled with sides and sauces and their favorite beverages — wine or some ice-cold beers. Waterfront views and tables are provided in the picnic areas, and if grilling's more your style, barbecue pits are ready to fire up. It doesn't get any fresher than this.

GETTING THERE: Tomales Bay is about 35 miles northwest of San Francisco. The bay which is good for swimming, fishing and boating offers secluded coves, and provides a warm sunny alternative to Point Reyes' frequent fog. The bay forms the eastern boundary of Point Reyes National Seashore. Marshall is on the east shore of Tomales Bay and serves as the center for visitors to Tomales Bay and Point Reyes Peninsula.

INFORMATION: Tomales Bay Oyster Co., 15479 Highway 1, Marshall, Calif., 415-663-1242. Drive 5 miles north of Point Reyes on Highway 1, look for the long white picket fence. www.tomalesbayoysters.com.

Hog Island Oyster Co., 20215 Highway 1, Marshall, Calif., 415-663-9218, www.hogislandoysters.com. Reservations are required for the picnic area.