Frequently Asked Questions
What if I am a beginning writer?
Any extra things I should bring?
What's in the surrounding area?
What airport should I fly into?
How do I get from the airport to the conference center?
What does the schedule of events look like?
Do I need to bring written material to the conference?
Is there cell phone reception at the Marconi Center?
What amenities are in the guest rooms?
Will I be able to buy faculty members' books?
What if I am a beginning writer?
Welcome! This year we have classes that are more specific to those with less experience in the process of writing.
What's the weather like?
Evenings are chilly and misty. When the sun comes out, it can be as warm as 75 degrees.
What should I wear?
Dress is casual. You should bring warm clothes and layers for variations in the northern coastal climate. Be prepared for warm, sunny days and also rain and fog. We recommend hiking boots or sturdy, comfortable shoes for the hills in and around the Marconi Center.
Any extra things I should bring?
You might want to bring a flashlight, umbrella, jacket, hat, sunscreen, camera or a calling card. If you are an especially light sleeper, earplugs.
What's in the surrounding area?
The Marconi Center is located in Marshall, California. Marshall is a small, quaint town on the Marin coast (north of Point Reyes) dotted with docks, oyster beds and seafood restaurants. Nearby, Point Reyes Station is home to art galleries, the Cowgirl Creamery and fine wines. Point Reyes National Seashore is known for miles of beautiful, unpopulated beaches and forested hiking trails.
What airport do I fly into?
The two closest airports are Oakland (OAK) and San Francisco (SFO).
How do I get from the airport to the conference center?
The best option is to rent a car. Carpool arrangements with other conference attendees can be made by going to The Tomales Bay Carpool Message Board (the Web address is given out upon enrollment). If driving, go to www.marconiconference.org/sitemap.html for route information.
Charter van, limousine and/or bus companies that provide door-to-door service to the Marconi Conference Center include:
- Marin Door-to-Door (415) 457-2717
- Marin Airport Express (415) 666-01666
- Black Tie Transportation (800) 445-0455
- Marin Chart and Tours (415) 256-8830
- West Valley Charter (408) 371-1230
- All West Coachlines, Inc. (916) 423-4000
What does the schedule of events look like?
2009 Tomales Bay Workshops Schedule of Events 
(1 MB)
Do I need to bring written material to the conference?
Copying facilities are extremely limited and expensive so it is best to bring copies of your work to share with other conference attendees. A lot of attendees, as they meet new friends and fellow writers, want to share their work. Also, be sure to check your individual course description, which (when it is updated a few months before the conference) will tell you what your instructor requires you to bring for your workshop class.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the Marconi Center.
Is there cell phone reception at the Marconi Center?
Due to the relaxing and remote location, there is no cell-phone service. We recommend bringing a calling card with a 1-800 access number to make calls from the guest room phones or from one of the pay phones on the premises.
Guests wishing to receive calls in their rooms may give callers the private number after check-in; guest room phones have no message service.
In case someone has an emergency and needs to contact you, messages may be left from outside callers by calling the reception desk at (415) 663-9020. Messages will be posted at the reception desk, or in case of emergency, delivered.
How about Internet access?
Yes, the rooms have wi-fi wireless for a fee. A credit card number is required to purchase access—$10 for a 24-hour period. There is also one community computer with dial-up Internet access in the reception area.
What amenities are in the guest rooms?
Guest rooms include a private bathroom, alarm clocks, telephones/modem ports, coffee maker/supplies, linens, soap and drinking glasses. Note: Candles and incense are not permitted. All Marconi building are non-smoking. Ash trays are located outdoors at entrances, on decks and on patios.
Is there an ATM available?
No, there is not an ATM on the premises. We recommend bringing cash for the bookstore, and if you’d like, for purchasing wine at dinner. Credit cards are also accepted.
Can I receive college credit?
Yes, for an additional fee, college credit is available through UC Davis Extension. For more information, please contact Kate Asche at .
Will I be able to buy faculty members’ books?
Yes, there will be an on-site bookstore offering a large selection of faculty work.
What wildlife will be around?
Hares, deer, herons and pelicans have all been spotted.
How is the food?
The best food of any writers’ conference in America, really—according to Pam Houston and staff. We received rave reviews on the cuisine. There are vegetarian options at every meal.
