day trip ideas in the bay area

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50 Popular San Francisco Bay Area Day Trips

by DayTrippen

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If you plan a day trip from San Francisco, here are some attractions you can easily reach by car. Whether you’re looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, we’ve got you covered. All the destinations we suggest are within a two-hour drive (or less) from the Bay Area, depending on your starting point.

Sausalito:  Quick Day Trip From San Francisco

The travel time to Sausalito is about 45 minutes from downtown San Francisco. Despite being home to only 7,000 residents, Sausalito has maintained its coastal charm while still being close to downtown San Francisco. The town’s name is in Spanish and means “place of abundance.” This promise of abundance has led many to visit the city for inspiration and relaxation.

Muir Woods National Monument Old-Growth Redwood Forest

Muir Woods National Monument is a beautiful old-growth coastal redwood forest located 17 miles from San Francisco. Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the forest is often shrouded in a coastal marine layer of fog. Muir Woods is a popular day trip destination in San Francisco, so it’s best to visit during the week or arrive early on weekends to avoid the crowds. Visit the Muir Woods Website .

Go Hiking at Mount Tamalpais State Park

The distance to travel is 23 miles from San Francisco, and it will take approximately 1 hour to reach the destination. Situated north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Mount Tam is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California, including hikers, bikers, equestrians, and trail runners. The area features deep canyons filled with redwood groves and sunny slopes with springtime wildflowers. Mount Tam Website .

Day Trip Berkeley, California

During a one-day trip, visitors can explore the numerous unique shops along Fourth Street and enjoy a variety of American and ethnic cuisines. They can stroll through a stunning botanical garden or attend an award-winning theater production, symphony performance, or tribal music concert. Visitors can enjoy a steam train ride, an antique Herschell-Spillman Merry-Go-Round, and The Tilden Botanical Gardens at Tilden Regional Park .

Explore 70 miles of  Trails at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. 

If you’re looking for a fun day trip that offers a variety of outdoor activities, you should consider visiting Anthony Chabot Regional Park. This park offers everything from golfing, hiking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, kayaking, cycling, and shooting to golfing. In addition, the park provides panoramic views of Oakland and the San Francisco Bay, making it an ideal location for a day trip or an overnight camping adventure—Park  website .

Visit Historic China Camp State Park – San Rafael

The distance from San Francisco to China Camp State Park is 23 miles, which will take approximately one hour to travel. This park caters to all nature enthusiasts, including mountain bikers, hikers, kayakers, and casual campers. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the historic China Camp Village. Friends of China Camp celebrates Chinese-American heritage and the park’s natural history every August with Heritage Day. China Camp SP Website .

Stinson Beach – Bolinas Day Trip: Hidden Gems Along Highway 1

The distance between Stinson Beach Park and Golden Gate Bridge is 24 miles, and it takes about an hour to travel there. Stinson Beach Park is a part of the Golden Gate Recreation Area and is easily accessible via California’s Highway 1. During the summer, thousands flock to Stinson Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy a day away from San Francisco.

Filoli Estate & Gardens:  700 Acres of Parkland

Filoli was constructed ten years after the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake, symbolizing hope during the destruction period. Its English Renaissance gardens are one of the best recreated antique English gardens in North America. Fioli offers various events and programs throughout the year, including a Mother’s Day flower show, a yearly Jazz at Fioli concert, special Christmas programs, and once-a-month afternoon teas—admission  Reservations .

California’s Great America Northern California’s Largest Theme Park

California’s Great America Theme Park, located in Santa Clara, is the largest amusement park in Northern California. Its thrilling rides are on par with or even better than those of Southern California’s Six Flags. The park is approximately an hour from San Francisco and a little over two hours from Sacramento. South Bay Water Park is only open during the summer season. It is a great place for families to have fun and cool off.

Half Moon Bay, Home of the Mavericks Big Waves

Half Moon Bay is a picturesque area on the California coast, approximately an hour’s drive from San Francisco. It is a sought-after destination for a day trip or weekend getaway, offering visitors a chance to explore art galleries, small restaurants, and shops in its quaint downtown. While visiting, there are plenty of activities to indulge in, ranging from relaxing on the beach to shopping on historic Main Street.

Explore Historic Benicia, California

Benicia’s charming and historic town is a comfortable San Francisco day trip. The combination of a vibrant art scene, historical landmarks, and excellent dining choices make this a place that can be enjoyed by one and all. Benicia has a long and fascinating past and has, over the years, played an essential role in California’s history. For a short period in the mid-19th century, the town became California’s capital. City Website .

Sonoma County Wine Tasting & Fine Dining

Sonoma County, situated northwest of San Francisco, is well-known for its vineyards and wineries, which makes it California’s largest wine producer. The history of winemaking in California can be traced back 200 years to Sonoma, where adventurers, good restaurants, and state-of-the-art spas can be found. Although not as well-known or touristy as Napa Valley, Sonoma has a laid-back atmosphere that is just as infectious and offers much more than wine tasting. Sonoma.com

Point Reyes California Sightseeing and Watersports

Point Reyes is 54 miles north of San Francisco, California, on a cape around 30 miles northwest of San Francisco. The surrounding area is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore Reserve. Once hunted nearly to extinction, the northern elephant seal and the Tule Elk thrive there. Point Reyes is popular with water sports enthusiasts. Kayak along the shores of Tomales Bay or explore the submarine world with a scuba dive guide.

Enjoy The View At Mount Diablo State Park

Many visitors to Mount Diablo head straight for the summit to enjoy the public view. There is much more to see and explore how the 11-mile loop leads to the park’s top. Mount Diablo State Park features hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and camping opportunities. Summers are generally hot and dry; winter can be cold and rainy from November through mid-March. Visitors in the winter may occasionally experience snowfall on the mountain peak, so the best time to visit is in the spring. Park Website .

USS Hornet Museum

Travel time 1 hour – 18 miles. A national treasure known as the USS Hornet is in Alameda, California, near Oakland. This floating city allows visitors to experience life as if they were out to sea for months. Tours of the ship are self-guided, the place is massive, and you have three decks to wander around.

Pescadero California

Travel time 1 hour – 47 miles. Long before Pacific Coast Highway meandered its way along California’s coast, the small town of Pescadero served as a stagecoach stop for weary travelers. Pescadero and the surrounding area are abundant with day-trippers’ activities, quaint charm, and hints of old days.

Napa Valley Wine Train

Travel time 1.5 hours—50 miles. The Napa Valley Wine Train travels along Highway 29 on its 3-hour trip. For first-time Napa Valley visitors, the train is an excellent way to start their trip.

Glen Ellen California

Travel Time 1.5  hours – 54 miles. This peaceful Sonoma town offers those who want off the beaten track plenty of opportunities to eat, drink, and de-stress. And you couldn’t ask for a more picturesque place for a San Francisco day trip. Glen Ellen is located in the northeastern corner of Sonoma County. Drive time from the Bay Area is slightly over an hour, depending on traffic.

Winchester Mystery House

Travel time is 1 hour—50 miles. It is a fascinating house owned by the eccentric, wealthy Sarah Winchester. Sarah believed in spiritualism and added strange features to the house because of her odd beliefs and interests. The “Mystery” part implies you might find a “Haunted Mansion.”

Livermore Bay Area Day Trip

Travel time: 1 hour—50 miles. Pack up the car and head to picturesque and peaceful Livermore. Just a short drive southeast of San Francisco, the area is a wine lover’s dream come true. Even non-wine drinkers will have plenty to see and do on this day trip.

Napa Valley Wine Country

Travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes—55 miles. In addition to world-class wines, Napa Valley offers a variety of fun things for visitors to do. It is a great day trip or weekend getaway northeast of San Francisco. Visitors come worldwide to see the beautiful valley, taste the world-famous wines, enjoy fine dining, and get pampered in the spas.

San Jose Day Trip

Travel time 1.5 hours—55 miles. San Jose is California’s third-largest city and home to high-tech computer firms. These firms sit alongside farms, ranches, and open spaces between the San Francisco Bay and the surrounding hillsides. San Jose is an old, culturally diverse city with historic buildings, brilliant museums, and many excellent restaurants.

Jelly Belly Factory Fairfield, CA

Travel Time 1.5 hours – 58 miles. Jelly Belly Factory uses state-of-the-art equipment and even has robots to help with production. After the tour, you will get a free sample of this popular candy. Two things are inevitable when you visit Jelly Belly: one, you will have fun, and two, you will buy some delicious candy to take home.

Santa Rosa California

Travel time 1.5 hours – 55 miles. Santa Rosa is the perfect destination for farm-fresh food, handcrafted beer, wine, and artisan. Just 55 miles north of San Francisco, the city hosts several farmer’s markets, a thriving music scene, various museums, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Tomales Bay Marin County

Travel time 1.5 hours – 56 miles. One of the Tomales Bay area’s main attractions is the Tomales Bay State Park, which is over 2000 acres large. It is one of the few state parks split by a bay; the larger side is on the west side of Tomales Bay, and the smaller portion is on the east side. When ready to rest from Tomales Bay State Park, you can travel to the Tomales Bay Oyster Company for an oyster picnic.

Sonoma Coast State Park

Travel time 1.5 miles—68 miles. California has created an expansive and exquisite park along the stunning Sonoma coastline. The Sonoma Coast Park offers various activities dedicated to preserving this unique environment.

Bodega Bay California

Travel time 2 hours – 70 miles. With its seemingly endless miles of pristine beaches to explore, fresh seafood, and beautiful coastal scenery, Bodega Bay is less than a 70-mile drive north of San Francisco on Highway 101, yet it feels a world away. The little town of Bodega Bay has three art galleries, one antique store, five gift stores, two kite stores, a surf shop, and two grocery stores to stock on provisions for your return trip.

Guerneville Russian River Valley

Travel time 2 hours – 74 miles. Decades ago, the town was built on the back of the timber industry. Now, much of the majestic, ancient redwoods are protected. As the Lumberjacks left, the hippies headed to Guerneville and then members of the LGBT community. While the town may have a reputation for being especially popular with the LGBT community, there is plenty for everyone to see and do.

Calistoga Weekend Getaway

Famous for its hot springs, mineral pools, mud baths, and massages, Calistoga is the best place for spas in Napa. The Wappo Indians, the area’s original inhabitants, recognized the healing properties of the local waters.

Safari West Wildlife Tours

Guests visiting Safari West African Wildlife Tours can take a three-hour tour guided by an experienced professional. During the tour, guests climb aboard a Safari truck and explore the bumpy roads of the preserve. This adventure allows visitors to experience an African safari without the risk of encountering wild animals.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Located in breathtaking Santa Cruz, California, this 65-acre state park is named after the naturally formed mudstone bridges that run along the Pacific Ocean. Wave erosion created these bridges, which carved three arches on the beach after a combination of silt, clay, and diatoms solidified into a stone mixture.

Santa Cruz, California: Ride The Giant Dipper

Santa Cruz is popular for its stunning natural surroundings, sunny beaches, and redwood forests. In addition to being a hub for surfers, the city is also home to a vibrant artist community with over 2,000 artists. One of the must-visit attractions is the historic Boardwalk, which houses the Giant Dipper, one of the oldest roller coasters in the United States.

Moss Landing Day Trip: Guided Kayak Tours

Moss Landing is located between these two places, and it’s a popular destination among day-trippers who love kayaking in the Slough. Several guided kayak tours explore this area. If you’re in Moss Landing, you must visit Phil’s Fish Market and Eatery to relish some fresh seafood before you leave town.

Carmel Valley Wine Tasting

The travel time from San Francisco to Carmel Valley is approximately two hours, covering 120 miles. Located on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel Valley is a popular wine destination in California and is less crowded than Napa Valley. To reach this wine-tasting heaven, take a trip down the coast to Carmel-by-the-Sea, then turn left onto Carmel Valley Road.

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30 Breathtaking Day Trips From San Francisco To Seek Out This Weekend

Here in the Bay, we're extremely well-located for some of the best day trips from San Francisco. Read on for some inspiration!

Anytime there’s a long weekend or holiday we’re quite well-located to check out some Bay Area escapes. Be sure to put these essential day trips from San Francisco on your to-do list for the next time you want to get out of the city. And don’t forget to scroll all the way to the bottom, where you’ll find a helpful map showing exactly where each of these awesome spots is located.

Note : All time estimates in the article are for car travel. See our list of train trips from SF if you’re relying on public transportation.

1. Pinnacles National Park

Volcanic eruptions created this unique national park south of San Francisco. With over 30 miles of trails , it’s a great spot to keep going back to. You can do a strenuous hike that takes you through rocky terrain, or an easy walk through the grasslands. There are also opportunities for rock climbing, bird watching, and camping.

2. Alamere Falls

This long hiking route in Point Reyes is extremely popular for its breathtaking view of the falls at the end, but be prepared for a long day of trekking to reach the dramatic  40-foot cascade . Bear in mind that you’ll need to time your hike with low tide in order to view the falls safely, and the NPS recommends printing a map from their website or picking one up at the visitor center.

3. Filoli Estate & Gardens

If you haven’t heard of Filoli, you have got to add this spectacular historical estate to your list, as it’s one of the best day trips to take from San Francisco. The Filoli property covers 654 acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The house and garden themselves cover 16 immaculate acres, having been beautifully maintained for over a century.

Filoli’s gardens are unique in that they bloom all year round , thanks to seasonal planting and carefully planned maintenance by the estate’s 14 full-time horticulturalists. Over  75,000 spring bulbs  are planted each year.

4. Muir Woods

We’re extremely lucky to live so close to the largest and tallest trees in the world . If you don’t make it out to see them once in a while, then what are you doing in California? These old growth coastal redwoods are breathtaking, and most have been there between 600 and 800 years.

5. Mount Tamalpais

Mount Tamalpais State Park is a gorgeous hiking destination just an hour outside of the city. Cruise across the Golden Gate Bridge and you’ll find panoramic views, grassy meadows, and magical forests in this captivating park with plenty of rolling hills and trails for hiking.

6. Inverness Shipwreck

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or just a fan of cool, old things, you should check out this old boat up the coast from the City. The S.S. Point Reyes is an old abandoned fishing boat that’s been stranded on a sand bar in Inverness for several decades. There’s a dirt trail that takes you near it, and even a small picnic area, but depending on the water level that day, it may be more or less difficult to see it up close. Bring your best waterproof shoes and be sure to take pictures of this awesome Inverness shipwreck!

If you’re planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, then you’ll undoubtedly be heading to one of the most recognizable coastal waterfalls in the world. McWay Falls in Big Sur may be incredibly popular, but it’s for good reason. Onlookers will be able to view the 80-foot fall plunging from the granite cliff into the Pacific below. The beach, Saddle Rock and Mcway Falls within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are strictly off-limits, but the panoramic views from the Overlook Trail and higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1 will take your breath away.

8. Gerbode Valley

Gerbode Valley is an absolutely spectacular place to go hiking, and it takes less than half an hour to get there. If you’re looking for a challenging hike, be sure to try the Gerbode Valley Loop Trail. With 900 feet of climbing, you’ll work up a sweat while enjoying expansive views of the surrounding greenery.

9. Cataract Falls

Marin County is home to some of the best hikes in the Bay Area, and Cataract Falls doesn’t disappoint. The entire hiking route is dotted with cascading waterfalls, so you’ll make a new discovery around every corner, which is why it’s one of the most popular hikes to do in Marin.

10. Wilder Ranch

Wilder Ranch State Park , just a few minutes south of Davenport, is a 7,000 acre ranch from the late 1800s converted into a museum and nature preserve. This historic site sits along the Santa Cruz County coastline and is home to spectacular views, hikes, sea caves, and wildlife.

11. Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve

Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve is a popular hiking destination in Oakland, but it might have flown under the radar for those living in other parts of the Bay. The stunning landscape was born from volcanic activity in the region, and you can hike right to the center of where the volcano use to be. Over the years, visitors have also made large labyrinths using rocks from the surrounding landscape, similar to the famous one at Lands End.

12. Winchester Mystery House

This famous home was owned by Sarah Lockwood Pardee Winchester, who continuously renovated and added onto the mansion for decades. The sprawling building measures 24,000 square feet and is full of bizarre twists and turns, hidden doors, and staircases that lead to nowhere. Visit for a good scare or a fun lesson in local history.

13. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been entertaining generations of Californians for decades since it was founded in 1907, making it the oldest amusement park in California . Easily its most famous ride is the Giant Dipper , a legendary wooden roller coaster with amazing views of the beach and a fascinating history. The property itself is a California Historic Landmark, and both the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the Looff Carousel have national landmark status.

14. Pulgas Water Temple

The Bay Area is home to some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, but even locals may not know about the  Pulgas Water Temple , a tranquil monument and reflecting pool in the countryside of Redwood City. San Francisco built this monument back in 1938 to celebrate the engineering marvel that carried water from the Sierra Nevada mountains on a 160-mile journey to the Bay. Only 2 other such water temples exist in the United States.

15. Calla Lily Valley

One of Big Sur’s lesser-known elements is Calla Lily Valley  at Garrapata Beach, which becomes overtaken with hundreds of blooming white calla lilies every year. If you can manage to catch them in bloom between January and April , you’re in for a real treat. While you’re at it, make a stop at nearby McWay Falls or Carmel-By-The-Sea.

16. Castello di Amorosa

Castello di Amorosa  in Calistoga is one of Napa’s most unique wineries, in that it’s styled to emulate a Tuscan castle from the 13th century . The structure took 15 years to build, employing various medieval designs and construction techniques. It includes 5 defensive towers with battlements, 107 rooms, handmade antique bricks from Europe, hand-painted frescoes, and more. You’ll feel entirely transported to the Italian countryside , with a little help from their spectacular hand-crafted Italian-style wines.

17. Carmel-By-The-Sea

One of California’s most whimsical hidden gems is the small beach city of Carmel-by-the-Sea (or Carmel for short), known for its collection of quaint fairy tale cottages . Peek into these neighborhoods for a world that’s not quite our own, where storybook illustrations are rendered into reality among breezy seaside surroundings.

18. Apple Park Visitor Center

If you’re an avid Apple fan, consider paying a visit to the  Apple Park Visitor Center  in Cupertino for the ultimate Apple Store experience. The beautiful two-story building is the only part of Apple’s massive campus that’s open to the public, and it makes for an interesting peek into life for the highest echelon of Silicon Valley.

19. The Birds filming locations

Alfred Hitchcock’s  The Birds  (1963), starring Tippi Hedren and Rod Taylor, is the famous director’s first horror film and perhaps one of the most industry-defining films in history. It was filmed just up the coast in the towns of  Bodega and Bodega Bay in Sonoma County, making it just an hour-and-a-half drive from San Francisco. Whether you’re a film buff in the mood for a road trip, or you’re just a fan of quaint coastal towns and beautiful views, these iconic places are worth putting on your radar.

20. UC Berkeley campus

Travel + Leisure recently released their list of the  best college towns and cities in the US, and Berkeley is the only California city to make the cut! The magazine references Berkeley’s “energized activist scene” and “plentiful green spaces” as places where students can learn both inside the classroom and out. The campus is open to the public, meaning that anyone can take a peek into the many of the historic university’s libraries and campus buildings or have a picnic on the lawn. Not to mention local gems like the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA ) and some world-famous restaurants.

21. Devil’s Slide

Devil’s Slide  is the name given to a small area of coastline between Pacifica and Montara, which once held a landslide-prone section of Highway 1. After its construction in 1935, the road was frequently damaged during winter storms and had to be closed and repaired multiple times. Eventually in 2013, CalTrans diverted the highway into the Tom Lantos Tunnels and converted the decommissioned roadway into a pedestrian- and bike-only zone.

22. Bolinas

Bolinas is an eclectic little town on the  western edge of Marin County  with a thriving art scene, historic buildings, and unbeatable panoramic ocean views. If it’s the outdoors you seek,  Bolinas Beach  is a popular spot for beginner and intermediate surfers, or you can hike out to nearby  Alamere Falls to see the rare phenomenon of a waterfall flowing directly onto the beach. Grab a meal at Coast Cafe, which has exellent fresh seafood, or Smiley’s Schooner Saloon, which claims to be the oldest continually operating saloon on the West Coast.

23. Capitola

One of California’s most iconic hidden gems is the tiny beach town of Capitola in Santa Cruz County. It’s best known for Capitola Village , a quaint neighborhood of multicolored homes, hole-in-the-wall shops and fun restaurants right on the water — but you can’t go wrong with a stroll slightly out-of-bounds at Pleasure Point to watch the surfers or some window shopping on 41st Avenue.

24. Marin Headlands

20 minutes by car from SF

The Marin Headlands is one of the most accessible places for a day trip from San Francisco, offering a wealth of sights and areas to explore. It’s home to beaches, bunkers, the Marine Mammal Center , the historic Point Bonita Lighthouse , and a former nuclear missile launcher, to name a few.

25. Sausalito

The breathtaking city of Sausalito recalls Italy’s Amalfi Coast with its  hillside of colorful houses seemingly stacked on top of each other. The city is famous for its lovely community of floating houseboats on the waterfront. Some great places to eat near the ferry terminal include Bar Bocce, which has a private beach and waterfront bocce courts, and The Trident, where plenty of rockstars have partied including Janis Joplin and Fleetwood Mac. If you’re an animal lover, consider taking a guided tour at the Marine Mammal Center , which is the world’s largest marine mammal hospital.

26. Davenport

You might recognize Davenport’s  Shark Fin Cove , whose iconic fin-shaped rock makes for a one-of-a-kind landmark on Highway 1. Neighboring Davenport Beach is popular place to hunt for sea glass because of its proximity to Lundberg Studios, whose discarded blown-glass trimmings were knocked into the sea during a storm many decades ago. As a result, thousands of pieces of colorful glass have tumbled in the waves for centuries, and you can catch professional beachcombers seeking the highly-coveted sea glass in full wetsuits. You’ll also want to look for the Davenport Jail, a one-room jailhouse from 1914; the abandoned Davenport Pier, which is a photographer’s dream; and the Whale City Bakery, a lauded NorCal institution with mouthwatering pastries.

27. Napa Valley

Wine country is a major draw for anyone traveling in California, and it’s hard to beat the allure of Napa Valley. Of course most visitors go for wine tasting across the region’s  400+ wineries , which is a treat in and of itself. But you can enjoy plenty of variations on the wine tasting experience whether you want to squeeze in a  bike tour, hot air balloon ride, spa day, concert, gallery visit, or shopping spree . One of the most unique destinations in Napa Valley is Castello di Amorosa  in Calistoga, an authentically-styled  13th century Tuscan castle where you can enjoy spectacular hand-crafted Italian-style wines. It’s also worth spending an afternoon at Oxbow Public Market , a  40,000-square-foot marketplace  in downtown Napa with excellent local vendors and seating along the Napa River.

There’s so much to explore in wine country and Sonoma is a great option if you want to be a bit closer to SF. Tour one of the county’s 425 wineries dotted throughout the rolling CA landscape, go for a scenic hike along the coast or in the redwoods, or amp up the luxury with a 5-star spa day.

29. Amador City

Did you know that the smallest city in California lies just a little outside of the Bay Area? Amador City is the state’s smallest city by land area at  0.3 square miles with a population of 201 . It’s located past Sacramento off of Old Highway 49 and takes about two hours to reach by car from San Francisco. As “California’s smallest hometown,” it’s an interesting piece of Gold Rush history that’s often overlooked by daytrippers passing through the region.

30. Angel Island

Angel Island is famous for having been a quarantine facility, a military base, an immigration facility, and more. Despite its tumultuous history (this is where the US enforced the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882), it is now a picturesque State Park and a California Historical Landmark. You can reach Angel Island via ferry from Pier 41 and even rent a bike on the island to take a spin around the 5.9-mile Perimeter Loop. Stop by the Immigration Station for a self-guided museum visit.

Visitors can reserve campsites on Angel Island 6 months in advance, and they fill up very quickly. The island has 10 campsites scattered throughout, all of which are a 1-2 mile walk from the ferry landing.

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The best day trips from San Francisco

From pristine beaches to exquisite hikes, there’s so much to discover on the best day trips from San Francisco

Okay, there are so many magnificent things to do in San Francisco that leaving might seem strange, but stay with us here. Sometimes, a little excursion out of the city is just what the doctor ordered, and the best day trips from San Francisco are medicine for the soul. When you need a break from the bars, beaches, and restaurants of the Golden City (you might, you never know), hit the road and embrace all that Northern California has to offer. And what an offer it is. Everything from fascinating towns to incredible nature is just a short drive away. You might find your new favorite cafe or a love of wildflowers in the process. San Francisco is one of the world’s great cities, and its surroundings only accentuate the magic.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in the Bay Area

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Best day trips from San Francisco

1.  Big Sur

With winding mountainside roads, sweeping beaches, and breathtaking sunsets, is it any wonder the Big Sur is the subject matter of so many songs? (The Thrills and Buckethead, we're looking at you.) Ok, so it is pushing it on the day trip scale from San Fran, but if you head out at the crack of dawn or thereabouts, the drive will be totally worth it. Plus, the high quality of relaxing and eating that can be done there is sure to send you back singing. Make your way in on Highway 1, lap up the crazy beautiful views, and beeline for the beach—Pfeiffer is the stretch of shoreline where you can see the arched rock that forms a stunning light tunnel at sunrise/set. Then wander up to the vantage point at McWay Falls to admire the tropical island-like vibes before swanning off for lunch.

Sierra Mar, the restaurant at  Post Ranch Inn , offers a three-course prix fixe lunch with a view of the Pacific. Or stop in at  Nepenthe  amid the trees for 'The Famous Ambrosiaburger'—a ground steak sandwich served on a French roll with housemade ambrosia sauce. After that, you'll likely want to relax before the hefty drive back, so chill out at  Ventana Inn , a wooden-lodge-style hotel that welcomes day guests at their spa. Don't forget to stop in at the  Henry Miller Memorial Library , where they host a range of events, before heading back up the coast.

Distance from San Francisco:  2 hours 45 mins

2.  Point Reyes and Tomales Bay

With an enormous 71,000 acres of nature preserve on the Pacific Coast, Point Reyes is a dramatic windswept land populated by elephant seals, old-growth Douglas-fir forests, and a 145-year-old lighthouse. Start your trip at the  Bear Valley Visitor Center  to pick up trail maps, then make your way to Chimney Rock, where a five-minute walk from the parking lot takes you to a cliff's-edge vantage point. If visiting between January and April, keep your eyes peeled for the Pacific gray whale migration, which passes just off the coast on the journey between Baja California and feeding grounds in Alaska. At the Tule Elk Reserve, hike or take a ranger-led tour to get a glimpse of these majestic animals (July to September is the rutting season), or visit the historic Pierce Point Ranch at the trailhead. If you want a dip in the water, Heart’s Desire Beach in neighboring Tomales Bay has shallower and warmer waters than the open ocean.

Food options abound in nearby Point Reyes Station, a small rustic town at the mouth of the bay.  Cowgirl Creamery  churns out its award-winning artisanal cheeses on-site—in a restored hay barn—and the Cowgirl Cantina has creamy tomato soups, cheddar toasties, and the classic organic ham and Mount Tam sandwich.  Point Reyes Books  deserves a look-in while you’re here. This winsome little independent bookstore has respectable collections on wildlife and the environment and routinely hosts events involving the local artists’ community. Just up the bay, feast on classic oyster and Dungeness crab delights with a view at  Hog Island Oyster Company 's farm and the  Marshall Store .

Distance from San Francisco:  1 hour 30 mins

3.  Stinson Beach and Bolinas

For friendly, laidback beach vibes, venture north to Stinson Beach and Bolinas. These two points, which bookend Bolinas Bay, boast a rugged coastline, stretches of white sand, and water-based activities. Newbie surfers can book lessons at the  2 Mile Surf Shop , while keen swimmers should look out for Bass Lake, a body of freshwater situated a short drive up Mesa Road followed by a near-three-mile hike (trust us, it is worth it).

Reenergize with some fresh seafood or pop into the hillside  Coast Cafe  for a chunky sandwich at lunch or something more substantial from their dinner menu. And if you're planning to have a swift one before driving back, try out  Smiley’s Schooner Saloon , which is popular with the locals and offers games and live music with your drink.

Distance from San Francisco:  1 hour

4.  Skyline Boulevard (Hwy 35) and Woodside

Escape into the cool blue mountains via Skyline Boulevard in Woodside, which offers nature trails, spectacular ocean and valley views, and wine-tasting without the traffic. When you reach town, you'll see a wooden cabin in a clearing at the intersection; this is  Alice’s Restaurant , the place to stop if you like to have your burgers and BBQ paired with the rumble of Harleys. Popular with bikers and cyclists plying the mountain roads, Alice’s offers breakfast until 2pm, Texas-style BBQ (brisket and pulled pork smoked in-house), and cheesy (literally and figuratively) motorbike-themed burgers. This is still the Bay Area, though, so the burgers are made with hormone- and antibiotic-free beef patties, and there is gluten-free beer on the menu.

After lunch, continue southeast on Skyline. Ten minutes away is  Thomas Fogarty Winery —it is a short drive, so don’t miss the few unmarked vista points along the way—where you can catch panoramic views of the ocean across rolling hills. In the winery's tasting room, try a flight of five signature wines or buy a bottle, borrow some glasses, and sit out in the romantic wooden gazebo. For a different kind of unwinding, visit the  Jikoji Zen Center . Founded by Kobun Chino Otogawa, Steve Jobs’ mentor, the center welcomes visitors to meditate in its  zendos  or wander its tranquil grounds. From the front gate, it is a winding dirt track down to the main building, so make sure your suspension is in place. Ring the aging bronze bell at the entrance to let them know it is your first time.

Distance from San Francisco:  45 mins

5.  Sebastopol

Unlike Healdsburg, Sebastapol is still the authentic, laid-back Sonoma outpost it was a generation ago. Dive right in, beginning at  Aubergine Vintage Emporium , a hangar-like space where you might pick up anything from a broken-in aviator jacket to a Soviet Army-issued canvas belt. Hidden behind the clothing racks are a cavernous live music venue and a bar with an open patio. If you’re of a spiritual rather than spirits bent, wander up to  Many Rivers Books & Tea , a cozy bookshop stacked high with New Age and philosophical tomes and figurines. In the tea shop at the back, pick up a bag of Monk’s Blend, a smooth malty mix of Assam, Darjeeling, Keemun, and Nilgiri. For a light lunch, head to The Barlow, a cluster of restored warehouses once home to an apple processing plant. Sit out on the patio at  Woodfour Brewing Company  and try one of their Belgian farmhouse-style sours, mashed and boiled in the copper-plated tanks right behind the bar. Snack on cheeses from Petaluma, bratwurst, or Miyagi oysters.

Across the street, browse Scandinavian-inspired ceramics at  the Passdoor .  A small detour to nearby Guerneville would be worth your while if only to check out  Guerneville Bank Club , a historic bank building now housing the INIZI wine tasting room, a corner store specializing in handmade crafts, and the Nimble & Finn's ice cream parlor. Grab a cone of Bulleit Bourbon with chocolate-covered pretzels if available. Take in the Russian River Historical Society’s exhibit at the back of the building, cataloging Guerneville’s early days as a logging town. Wrap up your evening with a digestif at the  Hopmonk Tavern , a vast space with a red banquette bar, a concert venue, and a Tuscan-inspired garden strung with lights.

Distance from San Francisco:  1 hour 15 mins

6.  Gold Country (Sierra Nevada Foothills)

The Gold Rush pretty much jolted San Francisco (along with the rest of California) onto the world map, so a list of day trips would be incomplete without a visit to Gold Country. Much of it is further away than you’d want to travel in a day, but head to Columbia for a quick escape into the past. This historical town set in the Sierra Nevada foothills features shops and restaurants preserved to evoke the 1850s Gold Rush era.

Walk into  Parrott’s Blacksmith Shop  and get yourself a memento forged in their coal oven. For lunch, hit up  Columbia Kate’s Teahouse . Sit in a tiny red 1880s-style barn and enjoy rustic fare like chicken pot pie made from scratch or spinach and ricotta quiche. For a taste of old-style candy-making, visit  Nelson’s Columbia Candy Kitchen , which still makes their confections in copper kettles and cools them on 100-year-old marble-topped tables. On the way home, stop at Parrotts Ferry Bridge, under which ferries once carried passengers between mining towns, which offers dramatic views over New Melones Lake and the adjoining hills. 

Distance from San Francisco:  2 hours 30 mins

7.  Santa Cruz

Beyond the surf and boardwalk amusement park rides that Santa Cruz is best known for are mountain ranges,  treetop walks , butterflies, and indie bands. The adventurous should beeline for Mount Hermon, where you'll find all sorts of activities ranging from an ecology tour in the trees to a two-hour zipline, railroad riding, and Bigfoot hunting. Those who prefer to remain on terra firma (and are visiting during the colder months) should try to catch the impressive butterflies residing in the eucalyptus trees at Monarch Grove, in  Natural Bridges State Beach .  Music lovers will be satisfied with a night at  Moe's Alley , where they regularly host local and international bands. 

8.  Pescadero and Half Moon Bay

Pescadero boasts stunning bluffs and sandy beaches next to a small country town with a laid-back main street. Start your day by exploring the  Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve , a 243-acre wetland habitat popular with hikers and bird watchers. For a short, relaxed stroll, take the Butano Trail up to a picturesque iron bridge over the creek. More intrepid hikers will enjoy the Sequoia Audubon Trail, which winds past coastal scrub and Great Blue Heron nesting sites up to a pretty eucalyptus grove. After your workout, head to Arcangeli Grocery in  Norm’s Market , where you can get made-to-order grilled sandwiches from the deli in the back. For dessert, amble down the street to the James Beard-anointed America’s Classic  Duarte’s Tavern  for a slice of their olallieberry pie. Afterward, head to  Downtown Local  for a cup of Sightglass coffee and browse their eclectic collection of vintage items, including two café racer motorbikes (look out for the 1949 Nimbus in the window).

End your day at  Pescadero State Beach ; park at the northernmost parking lot if you want long sandy beaches, or at the southernmost lot if you’d like to clamber over rocky outcrops, inspect tide pools, and watch the surf from the top of a sandstone bluff. As sunset approaches, join the locals in camping chairs and blankets on the sand. If you’re in the mood for pampering, head up the coast to Navio at the  Ritz-Carlton , score yourself a window table, and watch the sun set beyond the ocean over a glass of pinot noir.

9.  Point Lobos

With miles of hiking trails across cliffs, coves, and forests, plus a rich marine habitat of giant kelp forests and darting sea lions, Point Lobos offers a great day out for photographers, hikers, and scuba divers. Park by Cannery Point and start at the  Whaler’s Cabin , a museum on the site of a former whaling station displaying the personal effects and diaries belonging to the Chinese, Portuguese, and Japanese whalers who once lived here. You'll also see harpoons and learn the grisly process of harvesting blubber. Parts of humpback and gray whale skeletons lie somewhat gruesomely scattered outside.

If you’re oceanically inclined, the neighboring Whaler’s Cove is the place to scuba dive, kayak, or do some stand-up paddle boarding. Otherwise, find your way to Sea Lion Cove, where California sea lions and their pups can be spotted during the springtime pupping season, packing the beach nose to tail. A walk along the Sea Lion Point Trail will show you some of the best views of the reserve, with its characteristic lashing waves and craggy outcrops. Stop at Piney Woods for a picnic lunch with a view. Before you journey home, head to the famed tide pools on what is now called Weston Beach. Large sandstone slabs jut out of the ground, creating an awesome display of colors and patterns, all composed of sand that settled in underwater beds millions of years ago.

10.  Carmel

Carmel’s Ocean Avenue and its environs are a great place to feel the European village vibe the town is famous for. A worthwhile stop is the elegant  Harrison Memorial Library , which occupies a building designed by Bernard Maybeck (École des Beaux-Arts alumnus and architect of San Francisco’s Palace of Fine Arts). The reading room captures the charm of the quintessential small-town library, with heavy tables flanked by tall windows. Outside, the flagstone courtyard is a pleasant place to sit back and people-watch. For a cultural stop and to sample works rooted in this historic artist colony, visit the  Weston Gallery . In addition to a vintage photography collection (including prints by Carmel’s own Edward Weston and Ansel Adams), the gallery also has regular exhibitions of contemporary work.

When hunger strikes, drop into  Casanova , a charming French restaurant with a trellised outdoor patio. The eponymous Ocean Avenue leads directly to the ocean, and Carmel Beach is a lovely spot to kick back with locals on the fine white sand. Dog walkers and couples stop by in the afternoon to enjoy the view from the sheltered cove. History buffs will appreciate a trip to  Carmel Mission , the second founded in Alta California. On the grounds is a shrine to Junípero Serra, a member of the Portolà expedition that brought the first European settlers to the Bay Area.

Distance from San Francisco:  2 hours 15 mins

11.  Los Gatos

With its affluent tone and charming yet eclectic main street, Los Gatos weekends sees well-heeled locals having relaxed brunches or cruising boutique shops, all at the foot of the Santa Cruz Mountains. If Michelin-starred Manresa feels excessive for the day, drop in at  Manresa Bread  and take home a loaf of their signature sourdough levain. For lunch or an early dinner, stop at  Oak & Rye , a popular bistro with a wood-fired oven and a rye- and bourbon-laced cocktail list (best with the bistro's pretzel bread, made from two-year yeast grown in-house).

Bay Area history buffs shouldn’t miss a trip to Quicksilver Country nearby: Mercury was being mined in New Almaden before the Gold Rush, and the New Almaden mines were the most valuable in the state, attracting Cornish, Chinese, and Mexican settlers. The  New Almaden Mining Museum  is housed in the Casa Grande, built in 1854 as the official residence of mining supervisors. If you’re feeling energetic, hike up to English Camp in the County Park next door for an aerial view of the remaining mine buildings.

12.  Berkeley

Almost everyone has heard of Berkeley, even if they've never been there. This legendary university town is set in an incredibly beautiful location, perched on a hilltop with views of the bay looking west. To the east, there are lush green parks, redwood trees, and reservoirs. The campus itself is made up of tasteful, contemporary architecture incorporating the iconic Sather Tower. More commonly known as 'The Campanile' for its resemblance to the Campanile di San Marco in Venice, it stands 307ft tall, features clocks on its four faces, and affords jaw-dropping views of San Francisco Bay from its observation platform.

This university, arguably more than any other, has featured prominently in recent American history. With its Bohemian counterculture, Berkeley gained a worldwide reputation for political activism in the 1960s with the Free Speech Movement, student protests, and rallies against the Vietnam War. Once you've soaked up some important history, wander around and explore the bookstores, quirky shops, and casual eateries that serve all kinds of ethnic cuisine and quick bites.

Distance from San Francisco:  30-minute drive

13.  Tiburon and Angel Island

In Tiburon, you'll get that small-town vacation vibe less than an hour away from the city and with fewer tourists than in Sausalito. Rent a bike from  Demo Sport  and ride a segment of the Paradise Drive Loop (download a map from  marinbike.org ) or let serendipity take you past the town's pretty houses and impressive bay views. Hop on to the  Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry  and visit the museum at the  Angel Island Immigration Station , which documents the experiences of the many immigrants who crossed the Pacific Ocean, stopping first at the "Ellis Island of the West." Look out for poetry scrawled on the walls when the station was used as a detention center.

For lunch, we recommend a picnic at one of the many scenic spots scattered around the island. When you head to Tiburon, stop at  Luna Blu , a waterfront Italian restaurant serving English afternoon tea. Indulge in scones with Devonshire clotted cream and mixed berry jam together with traditional English cucumber sandwiches. Before you head home, take a leisurely stroll through Shoreline Park for a glimpse of the San Francisco lighting up the evening across the bay.

Distance from San Francisco:  40 mins by car, 20 mins by ferry

14.  Gilroy

Unlike the frenzied outlet shopping malls typically plonked near industrial parks and parking garages, Gilroy offers  outlet bargains  in more quaint surrounds. It's also famed for its farmstands and markets, where you can pick up all manner of fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers, juices, and preserves—not to mention the famed Gilroy garlic. Pop over to  Garlic World  on Monterey Road to immerse yourselves in all things vampire-repelling—from seasonings to dips to garlic-flavored almonds.

After all that garlic action, you might want to air it out before heading home. The rambling woodland of  Henry Coe State Park  is a fantastic place to do this; covering 250 miles of land, it's the largest in California.

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14 Amazing Day Trips from San Francisco to Plan Now

Part of what makes San Francisco such a fantastic place to live and visit is the city’s proximity to beautiful outdoor recreation areas and nearby towns and cities worth exploring. Within just a few hours drive, and sometimes much less, you can easily access mountain peaks and trails, stunning coastline and beaches, charming seaside towns, wine country, foodie destinations, and much more. 

Looking for ideas for day trips from San Francisco? Whether you’re a long-time resident, new to the Bay Area, or you’re visiting San Francisco and you’ve got a few extra days on your hands, we’ve got you covered with this list of the best day trips in the Bay Area.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your day trip, with ideas for outdoor adventures, city escapes, and more. We’ve included information on how to get there, along with suggestions on what to do and where to eat and drink. Because we believe those details matter. Especially the “eat and drink” parts.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 14 Bay Area Day Trips to Plan Now

Here are some of our favorite excursions within 90 minutes of San Francisco (one way). 

Looking for a longer trip? Read our guide to the best weekend getaways from San Francisco to plan your next weekend trip – whether it’s a rugged backpacking trip or a romantic getaway for you and your partner.

San Francisco Day Trips for Outdoor Adventures 

If you love outdoor adventures then you’re in luck. There are plenty of places where you can hike, bike, paddle, surf, or just enjoy nature and the great outdoors. Some of these are literally just across the bay, while others are a short drive away, leaving you plenty of time to make the most of your day.

You will need a car for the vast majority of the places in this section, with the exception of the Marin Headlands and Angel Island , which you can take public transportation to. 

The Marin Headlands 

Distance from San Francisco : 5 miles / 15 minutes

How to get there: Head north on US-101 across the Golden Gate Bridge (or take the 76X bus from San Francisco).

Since it’s just over the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, you can maximize your day in the Marin Headlands. The spectacular area is known for its breathtaking scenery, along with interesting historical sites. There are also miles of trails to explore.

Things to Do in the Marin Headlands

Tennessee Valley Trail – This is one of the best, and most popular, hikes near San Francisco . You have the option of an easy 3.5-mile out and back trail to the small, black-sand Tennessee Beach , or a moderate 5.5-mile loop connecting to the Coastal Trail (which you can extend to Muir Beach) and Coyote Ridge Trail . Either way, you’ll enjoy incredible coastal views as you walk past rolling hills, coastal scrub, and wildflowers in spring. There’s a pretty lagoon popular with birds, as well as a nice overlook. At low tide you can sometimes see the engine of the shipwrecked SS Tennessee.

Point Bonita Lighthouse – Located at the very southern tip of the Marin Headlands, and perched on a small, rocky promontory, the Point Bonita Lighthouse can be accessed via an easy though sometimes steep 0.5-mile trail, which crosses a tunnel (duck if you’re tall) and a small suspension bridge. The still operating lighthouse, which was built in 1855, is only open Saturdays through Mondays from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. The lighthouse itself is interesting, but the dramatic views may be even more so.

Kirby Cove – Located at the base of the Marin Headlands, this pretty cove offers incredible views of Golden Gate Bridge (great for photos!) and San Francisco. Check out the Battery Spencer Viewpoint before tackling the steep, 1-mile trail down. At the bottom, Battery Kirby can be found right behind the beach. If you have more time, try to reserve one of the five campsites at the beach for an overnight, though there is no water available.

Pelican Inn – Located right by Muir Beach, you can grab a pint and some solid British pub fare (or High Tea) at this pretty, Tudor-style English inn. It’s one of the only options in the area.

Coastal Trail / Miwok Trail Loop from Rodeo Beach – Rodeo Beach itself is nice enough, and offers a wide stretch of beach. A great hiking option, which takes you to some of the best views in the whole area, is the moderate 5.5-mile loop trail along the Coastal Trail, Wolf Ridge Trail, and Miwok Trail. In the spring, look for wildflowers along Wolf Ridge. You’ll also pass by Battery Townsley and Rodeo Lagoon. Nearby Marine Mammal Hospital rehabilitates seals, sea lions, otters, and other injured marine mammals and is free to visit.

Planning a trip to San Francisco?  Here are some of our other San Francisco travel guides to help you plan your time.

• One Day in San Francisco: The Best of San Francisco in a Day
• 3 Days in San Francisco: A Perfect San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: The 7 Best Areas to Stay in SF
• The Best Hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area

Point Reyes National Seashore

Distance from San Francisco : 35 miles / 60 minutes to Point Reyes Station, further to the Lighthouse and Tomales Point

How to get there: Head north on US-101 to CA-1

Point Reyes is a nature and outdoor lover’s paradise, with more than 80 miles of shoreline and 150 miles of hiking trails, biking routes, and horseback riding trails. Plus, there are some really excellent food options to reward yourself with afterwards.

Things to Do at Point Reyes

We have an entire guide dedicated to the best things to do in Point Reyes with more detail.

Point Reyes Lighthouse – Located on the westernmost point of the Point Reyes headlands, considered one of the windiest and foggiest spots on the entire west coast, the Point Reyes Lighthouse was built in 1870. It was retired from active service in 1975 when an automated light was installed. The hike to the lighthouse is only 0.5 miles, though you do have to climb 300 steps on your way back. The lighthouse is only open from 10am to 4:30pm Fridays to Mondays. There’s a visitor center and a small museum you can explore, where you can read about life as a lighthouse keeper from 19th century logs. In the winter, look for migrating whales in the ocean below.

Tomales Point Trail – This moderate 9.5-mile out and back trail is great for incredible ocean views and a good chance of spotting wild Tule elk as you pass right by the Tule Elk Reserve. It’s a long trail but it’s largely flat. You also don’t have to go all the way to the end and can turn around at any time. Look for wildflowers in the spring and migrating gray whales in the winter. If you’re short on time, try the easy 1.6-mile Chimney Rock Trail instead, which still gives you incredible views of the coastline and elephant seals on the beach. 

Bovine Bakery – There’s a reason for that long line. Their pastries are delicious. Stop here first to fuel up for the day, or for your post-hike snacks. The morning buns and bear claws are amazing, and they also have heartier fare like pizzas and quiches. A great spot to pick up supplies for your picnic later.

Hog Island Oysters – You can get these in San Francisco too, but there’s something about shucking your own oysters at the source, where they’re farmed – in fact, this is where I learned how to shuck oysters. Bring some wine, cheese, and crackers, and enjoy a picnic at the handy tables – or you can purchase everything you need for a picnic from their to-go shack. They also have a full-service outdoor cafe if you’d rather not DIY. Nearby Tomales Bay Oyster Company is another good option, though they don’t have a picnic area onsite. If you want to work up an appetite, try kayaking in Tomales Bay beforehand (check with Blue Waters Kayaking for rentals). 

Cowgirl Creamery – Sadly, their shop and cafe in the Ferry Building closed down after 18 years, so the Creamery Barn Shop & Cantina in Point Reyes is now their only retail outlet. Though you can find them in different markets in San Francisco. Sample their amazing cheese, and pick up your new favorites for a picnic to take back to San Francisco with you.

Heidrun Meadery – For something different, try a tasting at Heidrun Meadery. They make sparkling mead, which is like a sparkling wine, but made from honey instead of grapes. You can bring along a picnic to have with your tasting. Tours are also available if you want to see the bees, the gardens, and how they make it all. 

Mt. Tamalpais

Distance from San Francisco: 16 miles / 40 minutes

How to get there: Head north on US-101 across the Golden Gate Bridge, then CA-1

A sacred mountain to the Miwok, who named it “coast mountain,” Mt. Tam is a popular destination for outdoor lovers, who seek out its more than 200 miles of trails, legendary mountain biking, and spectacular views.

Things to Do at Mt. Tam

Hike to the East Peak – There are several ways to reach East Peak, the summit of Mt. Tam at 2,571 feet. A great, though steep, route is the 3.9-mile out and back trail from Mountain Home Inn. Head up the Gravity Car Fire Road to the Old Railroad Grade (a really popular mountain biking route), then take the Fern Creek Trail all the way to the summit. Take your time to appreciate the views from the top, assuming it’s not blocked by fog. This is also a great sunset spot. A much easier option is to take the short 0.6-mile Plankwalk Trail loop (which you can extend by doing the Verna Dunshee Loop as well) from the Mt. Tam East Peak Fire Lookout Station. 

Steep Ravine/Matt Davis Loop – This moderate 7.5-mile loop is a classic and showcases much of the beauty of the area, including redwood forests, lush canyons, streams, wildlife, beach, and plenty of incredible views. Start at Stinson Beach and take the Matt Davis Trail (look for wildflowers in the spring) up to the Pantoll Ranger Station, then take the Steep Ravine Trail down past groves of coastal redwood (look for waterfalls in the spring). Hop on the Dipsea Trail (with jaw-dropping views of the beach, coast, and Point Reyes) until you end up back at Stinson Beach. Spend the rest of your time at the beach. You could also start and end at the Pantoll Ranger Station instead, but know that there will be a fee for parking there.

Cataract Falls – One of the most popular waterfalls in the area, Cataract Falls can be reached via a moderate 3-mile out and back trail from the Bolinas Fairfax Road. Heading uphill, you’ll pass by lush forests, a creek, bridge, and some steep steps. There’s also a picnic area towards the end. You can combine this trail into several longer loop options, or start from the Rock Spring Trailhead for a longer hike that tracks the entire Cataract Segment.

Equator Coffee – For great coffee, tea, and an assortment of baked goods, stop at Equator Coffee in Mill Valley on your way to Mt. Tam and fuel up for your day of outdoor adventures.

Parkside Cafe – Located right by Stinson Beach, Parkside Cafe is a great spot to grab some food after your hike. The seafood and pizzas are good options. There’s also a takeaway snack bar where you can grab some quick snacks or tasty soft serve if you want to maximize your beach time.

Mt. Diablo State Park

Distance from San Francisco:   45 miles / 60 minutes

How to get there : Head east on I-80 to CA-24E 

At 3,849 feet, Mt. Diablo is one of the highest mountains in the Bay Area, with stunning views from its summit and more than 50 miles of hiking and biking trails. It’s a sacred mountain to the Miwok and Ohlone, who believe it to be the point of creation.

Mt Diablo State Park is, well, a state park, which means you’ll need to pay a $10 entry fee at the gate to get in. 

Things to Do at Mt. Diablo

Summit – On a clear day, you can see nearly 200 miles, past the Golden Gate Bridge to the Farallon Islands to the west, to Mt. Loma Prieta in the Santa Cruz Mountains to the south, to Lassen Peak to the north, and the Sierra Nevada to the east. It’s said you can see parts of 40 of California’s 58 counties from here! Get a closer look with the telescopes at the observation deck. A small museum also covers the geology and habitat of Mt. Diablo.

Rock City – This area is full of unusual sandstone formations that are fun to explore. Highlights include the Wind Caves, Elephant Rock, Fossil Ridge, and Artist Point. Sentinel Rock and Boy Scout Rocks offer good rock climbing, while many other areas offer fun scrambling for adults and kids. You can also see Native American grinding rocks near the Grotto.

Hiking – The Mount Diablo Grand Loop is a great option and circumnavigates the entire mountain. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Bay Area and beyond from here, along with fantastic wildflowers in the spring. Those looking for an easier way to circumnavigate the mountain can take the 0.8-mile Mary Bowerman Interpretive Trail near the summit. In the spring, go waterfall hunting on the Waterfalls of Mt. Diablo Loop Trail .

Walnut Creek – Stop at Walnut Creek on your way to or back from Mt. Diablo for food and drinks. To fuel up for your day of adventure, stop at the Sunrise Bistro or grab some sandwiches at Kinder’s . The Walnut Creek Yacht Club is a good choice for seafood and has a good oyster bar and an excellent wine list. Teleferic Barcelona offers great tapas, while Il Fornaio is a solid choice for pizza and pasta. Finish up with ice cream from the San Francisco Creamery Co.

Day Trips to Nearby Cities and Towns 

If you’re looking for a bit more of an urban outing, there are a number of nearby towns and cities that make for great San Francisco day trips. From wine country, to a university town, to laid-back beach towns, here are our picks.

Distance from San Francisco : 65 miles / 75 minutes

How to get there : Head north on US-101 across the Golden Gate Bridge

You almost can’t visit the Bay Area and not visit wine country. Located in Sonoma County, and offering arguably the best all around wine country experience, Healdsburg is ideally situated where the Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, and Alexander Valley growing areas all intersect. 

Things to Do in Healdsburg

Go wine tasting – This is after all the main reason you are here. There are more than 20 tasting rooms within walking distance of downtown, and more than 100 wineries just a short drive away. Some wineries require a reservation, so be sure to check before you go. Most tastings will cost, but it is totally reasonable to share a tasting and if you really like the wine often the fee will be waived with a bottle purchase. Just make sure you have a designated sober driver for the ride home. If you need a pick-me-up, grab some coffee from Flying Goat Coffee .

• Locals Tasting Room is a great way to sample several small-production wineries at the same time, plus the tastings are free. 
• For an elegant wine tasting experience with spectacular views and a beautiful chateau, head to Jordan Vineyard & Winery . They have an amazing three-hour wine and food pairing experience if you have the time, but if not, you need to at least try their chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. 
• Another spectacular estate, with gorgeous gardens, and a wide range of wines, is Ferrari-Carano . 
• For a different experience in an underground wine cave, and great Zinfandel, check out Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves . 
• If you love sparkling wines, J Vineyards is a good choice. 
• For a laid-back experience that’s right in town, head over to Banshee Wines , usually open until 6 or 7pm. 

Sample the cuisine – The dining scene in Healdsburg is also fantastic. If you want to just grab something to go or to pack a picnic to take with you wine tasting, Oakville Grocery offers everything you need. Take your time and linger over small casual plates in their lovely outdoor patio at Bravas Bar de Tapas . The same group also operates the excellent Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar . Barndiva serves up modern, farm-to-table cuisine. And if you can get a reservation, splurge for the seasonal tasting menu at SingleThread .

Other options – While wine and food are the two main draws to Healdsburg, there are other options too. There’s an excellent assortment of art galleries downtown worth checking out. Rent a bike and ride along the winding Dry Creek Road (and/or use the bikes to visit various wineries!). Or paddle in a kayak or canoe down the Russian River, which cuts right through town.

Distance from San Francisco : 6 miles / 15 minutes

How to get there: Walk/bike/drive over the Golden Gate Bridge or catch a ferry from the Ferry Building 

Just over the Golden Gate Bridge, this pretty seaside town is known for its colorful houseboats, Mediterranean feel, and incredible views.

Things to Do in Sausalito

Stroll the Bridgeway – The Bridgeway is the main street of Sausalito. The Bridgeway Promenade section, between Princess and Richardson streets is particularly scenic. Enjoy spectacular views, and a large assortment of galleries, shops, and restaurants. Other landmarks include the Sea Lion statue, Yee Tock Chee Park, the Southern Sausalito Boardwalk, and the Northern Sausalito Boardwalk. 

Bike or paddle – Sausalito is great for biking, with scenic views all around and plenty of bike parking in town. A bike also allows you to explore areas outside of Sausalito. You can bike across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco and then bring your bike back to the city on the ferry, or rent one in Sausalito. Kayaking and standup paddleboarding are also great ways to explore on the water at Sausalito. Sea Trek can outfit you with everything you need, including guided tours.

Explore the Houseboats – There’s a vibrant community of around 500 colorful floating homes (the resident’s preferred term) in five floating marinas in the northern Marinship neighborhood. Take a self-guided walking tour around the Gate 5 Road area and the Gate 6 Road area. You won’t be able to go inside unless you happen to catch their annual tour , but it’s still worth a wander. Be respectful and don’t talk loudly, ride bikes, smoke, or bring pets. Afterwards, stop by the nearby San Francisco Bay Model to check out the 1.5-acre 3-D pneumatic model of San Francisco Bay.

Grab a Dungeness crab roll (or any of their sustainable seafood options really) at Fish . For modern and gluten free Mexican, head to Copita , and try to choose from their more than 100 tequilas and mezcals. Or enjoy cocktails and pizza while playing a game of bocce ball at Bar Bocce . Finish up with a scoop of two of Lappert’s incredible ice cream. Yes, it’s worth waiting in that line.

Distance from San Francisco : 10 miles / 20 minutes

How to get there : Head east on I-80, take public transportation (BART or a ferry to Jack London Square)

You might be surprised at all the points of interest here, from Lake Merritt to a thriving arts and culinary scene, and a redwood forest just minutes from downtown.

Things to Do in Oakland

Lake Merritt – Lake Merritt is known as the Crown Jewel of Oakland and it’s easy to see why. A tidal lagoon, it’s also the oldest designated wildlife refuge in the country and home to many different native birds. There’s a lovely 3-mile loop around the lake, and several themed gardens within Lakeside Park. You can also rent all sorts of watercraft to get out on the water, or even take a gondola ride. Grab some drinks and seafood at The Lake Chalet , and sit out on the pier. Or head to Arizmendi for their vegetarian pizza and tasty baked goods. On Saturdays there’s a great farmers market at the Splash Pad.

Jack London Square – You can also get out on the water and paddle the Oakland Estuary at Jack London Square (go with California Canoe and Kayak ), then check out the replica of Jack London’s cabin. After you’ve worked up an appetite, you have several great food choices, including Souley Vegan , Everett & Jones for barbecue and blues, and Yoshi’s for Japanese and jazz. Grab a drink at Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon , built from the remains of a whaling ship, and where author Jack London used to drink (and supposedly wrote as well). Or grab a coffee at Bicycle Coffee .

Temescal Alley – Temescal Alley and Alley 49 may be the most well known and main alleyways but the area is teeming with hip shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Shopping highlights include Dandelion Post, jeweler Marisa Mason, Standard and Strange, Homestead Apothecary, and the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Keep your eyes peeled for murals and mosaic trash cans as you walk around. Hungry? Top choices include Cholita Linda for tacos, Bakesale Betty for their fried chicken sandwiches, Homeroom for their mac and cheese, and Curbside Creamery for ice cream. Grab a beer at divey The Avenue with its skeletons and stalactites, a craft brew at Temescal Brewing , or some wine at Oakland Yard .

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park – Just a few minutes from Downtown Oakland is a 1,830-acre park where you can walk among coastal redwoods. The Redwood Regional Park Loop is an easy and popular 3.5-mile trail, or try the longer French Loop Trail . The Chabot Space and Science Center next door is worth a visit if you’re into astronomy or have kids. 

Distance from San Francisco: 13 miles / 25 minutes

How to get there: Head east on I-80 to 580 or take public transportation (BART)

Located in the East Bay and easily accessible, Berkeley is quirky and bohemian, with lovely outdoor spaces, cool museums and cultural institutions, a vibrant culinary scene, and its namesake university.

Things to Do in Berkeley

UC Berkeley – Berkeley’s beautiful campus is worth a visit, even if you’re not a student or care to be. Enjoy sweeping views of the bay from Campanile (Sather Tower). Take a guided tour or try to seek out the secret spots. The university is also home to several excellent museums and venues, including the 34-acre Botanical Garden in the Berkeley Hills, the Lawrence Hall of Science , and Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive . Then see if you can catch a performance at the Greek Theatre .

Telegraph Avenue – After your campus visit, stroll down Telegraph Avenue, which some consider the heart and soul of bohemian Berkeley. You’ll find plenty of eclectic shops, cafes, and cheap eats here. Highlights include Rasputin Music , Amoeba Music , Moe’s Books , and its many street murals. There’s even an app that tells you all about the area’s rich history.

Tilden Park – Spanning more than 2,000 acres, this popular park in the Berkeley Hills offers nearly 40 miles of trails (try the Bay Area Ridge Trail , Inspiration Point to Wildcat Peak for fantastic views, or look for the Fairy Post Office at the start of the Curran Trial). Go for a swim in Lake Anza, or just enjoy a leisurely picnic on the banks. There’s a golf course, and a carousel and miniature steam train for kids. You’ll need a car to get to the trailheads here. 

Gourmet Ghetto – Anchored by Alice Water’s famed restaurant, Chez Panisse , the Gourmet Ghetto stretches for several blocks along Shattuck Avenue offering a wide range of food and drink options. Favorites include Gather , the Cheese Board Collective , Ippuku , and Revival Bar & Kitchen . You can also find the original Peet’s Coffee shop here (where the Starbucks founders once worked).

Santa Cruz 

Distance from San Francisco : 75 miles / 90 minutes

How to get there : Head south on US-101 to CA-17

Enjoy sun, surf, and seaside fun at this quintessential and laid-back California beach town. The redwoods meet the coast, and the Beach Boardwalk is one of the most unique spots to visit in Northern California.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Beaches and surf – With 29 miles of coastline, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. The buzzing Main Beach offers lots of amenities, and people. Enjoy plenty of sunshine at Twin Lakes State Beach , while Natural Beaches State Beach (walk the scenic West Cliff Drive there, with a stop at the Surfing Museum ) is great for families and sunsets. Surfers should head to Cowell Beach, Pleasure Point, or Steamer Lane.

Beach Boardwalk – The West Coast’s oldest beachfront amusement park is free to enter but you have to pay to play, either per ride or with an unlimited pass. Two of the rides, the Looff carousel and Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, even have National Historic Landmark status. There’s plenty of carnival food to be had, or grab some fish and chips and check out the resident sea lions at nearby Santa Cruz Wharf, the longest pier on the West Coast.

Mystery Spot – Genuine gravitational anomaly or tourist trap? You decide. Balls seem to roll uphill, water seems to flow upward, and people stand at a slant. It’s a very popular attraction so it’s best to book your tickets ahead of time.

Explore the redwoods – Go for a hike among towering ancient giants at Big Basin Redwoods State Park (the Sequoia Trail is a popular and easy trail that will lead you to a waterfall, while the longer and tougher Berry Creek Falls passes several waterfalls)or Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (the Cowell Highlights Loop will take you past many park highlights, including Cathedral Redwoods and stunning views), can take a steam train ride through the park with Roaring Camp Railroad .

Abbot Square Market – The former jail now is now a hopping food hall. Top choices include Pizzeria La Bufala , third wave Cat & Cloud Coffee , and Front & Cooper where you can sample artisanal beer, regional wines, and handcrafted cocktails. 

Penny Ice Creamery – They make all their ice cream from scratch from organic and locally sourced ingredients. Best in a homemade waffle cone. Yum!

Other Great Day Trips in the Bay Area

One of the best parts about living in or visiting San Francisco is the huge array of things to do and see in the broader Bay Area.

We couldn’t fit ALL of the Bay Area day trips we love in the list above, so here are a few more to consider when you’re searching for the perfect day trip. 

Angel Island

The largest natural island in San Francisco Bay, Angel Island has been many things throughout its history: Miwok hunting ground, Spanish supply stop, Civil War military fort, immigration station, WWII POW camp, and missile site.

Today, the 740-acre island is a state park – Angel Island State Park – with historical sites, beaches, parkland, and 12 miles of hiking and 9 miles of biking trails. Hike to the top of the 781-foot Mt. Livermore for sweeping views. Tram, e-bike, Segway, and kayaking tours are available.

Bring some food and enjoy a scenic picnic or grab a bite at the Angel Island Cafe (get the Way Down South barbeque pork sandwich) by the pier. Ferries are available year-round from San Francisco (pier 41), and seasonally from Tiburon. 

Located just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods National Monument is home to more than 500 acres of towering old growth redwood trees.

Head to Cathedral Grove to see the tallest (258 feet) and oldest trees (1,200 years old) in the park. There are 6 miles of trails (including 2 miles which form the very popular and paved main loop trail). For more of a challenge, try the Canopy View Trail or the Dipsea Trail instead.

There’s also a nice cafe on-site (get the Marin Melt grilled cheese).

Reservations are required for all vehicles and shuttles (from Sausalito, Mill Valley, and Marin City—check in advance if it’s running), and a separate entrance fee must be paid as well. Private tours are also available. You can also access Muir Woods by hiking down around 2 miles from the Panoramic Highway if you don’t have a reservation (park by the Mountain Home Inn – you’ll still need to pay the entrance fee!).

Napa Valley

We’ve already covered our recommendation for wine country, Healdsburg, in more detail above. Napa is the other main wine growing region. It’s certainly worth a visit so long as you are prepared for a much pricier experience.

Some of the biggest names in California wine are all here, including Silver Oak , Stag’s Leap , Domaine Carneros , and Robert Mondavi . The Napa Valley Wine Train is a great experience, with packages that include lunch along with stops at several different wineries.

Culinary superstars such as The French Laundry , Bouchon , and Morimoto Napa are all in the area as well. For a more accessible experience, the Oxbow Public Market lets you sample the best of northern California cuisine, while Culinary Institute of America ( CIA at Copia ) next door offers tastings, cooking demos, and a restaurant.

Located just 15 minutes south of San Francisco, the historic surfing town of Pacifica is a great getaway for the day. Several local shops will teach you how to hang ten, or you can just chill at the centrally located and popular Pacifica State Beach (Linda Mar Beach) or the pristine Rockaway Beach .

Take the trail to Mori Point , or hike, bike or horseback ride the Devil’s Slide Trail . Pay a visit to the Shelldance Orchid Gardens , which is conveniently located next to the Sweeney Ridge Trail. Try your hand at fishing or crabbing off the Pacifica Pier. If the weather isn’t cooperating, head to Sea Bowl for bowling, billiards, and arcade games.

Grab some pastries from Mazetti’s Bakery , a pulled pork sandwich from Gorilla Barbeque in the bright orange railcar, or seafood from Moonraker . Finish up with some wine at A Grape in the Fog .

Half Moon Bay

The charming and sleepy seaside village offers rugged coastal bluffs that overlook miles of sandy beaches. Relax on one of four beaches at Half Moon Bay State Beach , or stroll past all of them on the 3-mile Coastside Trail. Other great hiking options include the Purisima Creek Trail through the Redwoods Open Space Preserve and Montara Mountain.

You can go horseback riding at Sea Horse Ranch or play golf at two world-class championship golf courses with stunning ocean views.

When the surf swells, watch pros at the famed Mavericks surf break. Browse the locally-owned boutiques and galleries along Main Street. Grab some lobster rolls from Sam’s Chowder House or a Dungeness crab sandwich at Barbara’s Fish Trap , then down some local brews at the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company .

There’s more to San Jose than just tech companies. Pay a visit to the architecturally odd and supposedly haunted Winchester Mystery House with more than 160 rooms and see for yourself the bizarre layout and useless features, including stairs that go to nowhere, doors that can’t be used or lead to drops, and secret passageways.

Or spend the day at California’s Great America theme park.

Several interesting museums are worth a visit, including, not surprisingly, the Computer History Museum , the Tech Interactive , and the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum .

Santana Row offers plenty of upscale shopping and dining options. San Pedro Square Market food hall will have something for all tastes. Did you know there are more than 150 wineries in the mountains near San Jose? Try some flights at Testarossa Winery or Ridge Vineyards . If beer is more your thing, head over to Hermitage Brewing Company or Original Gravity .

Plan an Unforgettable California Adventure

Heading to California? We’ve got all sorts of super detailed, in-depth California travel guides written by locals to help you plan an amazing trip.

• San Francisco: We’ve got a guide to spending 3 days in SF, one day in San Francisco for planning a shorter trip, and a complete guide to finding the perfect place to stay in San Francisco . We also have guides to 14 perfect weekend getaways from San Francisco and the best day trips in the Bay Area . Oh, we almost forgot, here are the 15 best hikes near San Francisco , written by two Bay Area locals.
• Los Angeles: Read our perfect 2 Day L.A. itinerary , our guide to spending one amazing day in L.A. (with two versions!), and a guide to helping you figure out where to stay .
• San Diego: Learn how to spend a day in San Diego , a weekend in San Diego , and where you should stay .
• Lake Tahoe : Plan the perfect summertime adventure with our 3 day Tahoe itinerary , guide to the best hikes , and our guide to the best things to do in Tahoe .
• Santa Barbara : We have a guide to planning a weekend in Santa Barbara , and a guide to a day trip to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles if you’re pressed for time.
• Mammoth Lakes : To plan a perfect getaway in the Eastern Sierra, read our guide to the best things to do in Mammoth Lakes in the summer . Plus, our guide to the best hikes in Mammoth , featuring the epic climb to the top of Duck Pass .
• Big Sur: Plan the perfect weekend away with our complete Big Sur itinerary .
• Yosemite National Park : Plan an amazing trip with our guide to planning an amazing Yosemite itinerary , and our guide to choosing where to stay at Yosemite .
• Joshua Tree National Park: Plan the perfect trip with our perfect weekend itinerary (or a day trip , if you have less time), a guide to the best hikes , and some cool places to stay in Joshua Tree .
• Death Valley National Park : We have a SUPER detailed guide to planning the perfect Death Valley itinerary , and a guide to the best hikes in Death Valley National Park .
• California Road Trips : See the best of the Pacific Coast Highway on our San Francisco to San Diego road trip , or make the trip up Highway from on a Los Angeles to SanFrancisco road trip . If you’re more into mountains than beaches, a Highway 395 road trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe might be more your speed.

Jen is a freelance writer, photographer and content producer based near South Lake Tahoe. She loves the outdoors and living the Tahoe lifestyle, including hiking, climbing, scuba diving, surfing, and snowboarding. An avid traveler, she enjoys exploring the mountains, oceans, and everything in between.

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• Destinations

25 Best Bay Area Day Trips

Last Updated By VI on April 11, 2024 in Things to Do in Northern California

Bay Area Day Trips: Alcatraz Island

Angel island state park.

• See the Complete List

Roaring Camp Railroads is another great attraction that offers a glimpse into Santa Cruz's history while touring the redwood by steam engine.

Travelers who love garlic can visit Gilroy, the "Garlic Capital of the World," all year round. The California town is known for the Gilroy Garlic Festival held annually on the last weekend of July and is one of the largest food festivals in the United States. Many people who visit Gilroy like to explore the wine trails, farmer's market and stands, vibrant nightlife, and restaurants. Visitors can also see the only horticultural theme park in California at Gilroy Gardens, shop at Garlic World, and The Garlic Shoppe for gourmet garlic themed gifts and edibles, or picnic at one of the wineries. There are also many outdoor activities to enjoy, including spending time on the lake and hiking the Mummy Mountain Trail at Harvey Bear Ranch County Park; or enjoy the outdoor festivals that happen all year long. More day trips from San Francisco

Golden Gate National Recreation Area, B201 Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA

Phone: 415-435-1915

Armstrong Redwood State Reserve

17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, CA, 95446, Phone: 707-869-2015

Bay Area Day Trips: Big Sur

The Big Sur makes a perfect day trip for people who love driving up the California coast. This section of coastal Highway 1 is ninety miles long and stretches from Carmel-by-the-sea through the redwoods and waterfront to Hearst Castle. There are several places to pull over along the way where travelers can take in the gorgeous ocean views, the phenomenal Bixby Bridge, and watch for birds like the California Condor, which is endangered, or whales and sea otters. Campgrounds and hotels also dot the highway along with iconic restaurants and boutiques in places like the Santa Lucia Mountain towns. Art galleries and popup showcases are also found along the highway along with the Henry Miller Memorial Library and a Japanese style bath called The Sur House, which also has a restaurant. The Esalen Institute offers massages, a hot springs spa, and dance classes.

Carmel-By-Sea

Nestled along the sandy beaches of northern California is a charming, European village where visitors can walk to art galleries, boutiques, inns, shops, and more with people from all over the world. The town has been named as a Top 10 Travel Destination and is the perfect place to go for a quiet day away in the Bay Area. The hotels and inns in the area are known for their sustainable practices without the use of flashy neon lights, and no national chains offered. Carmel is a great place to visit for perusing wineries, spending a day at the spa, shopping, visiting art galleries, and attending special events such as holiday markets, the annual city Birthday Party and Parade, and numerous cultural and arts events. Many of the spas and inns also host retreats and fitness events.

Gold Country

Central California Gold Country is found along the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, where the discovery of gold launched a national migration to the west coast of people hoping to strike it rich in the foothills. Visitors to Gold Country can explore the Old West in historic towns, pan for gold, and even go white water rafting. They can also dine at gourmet farm-to-table restaurants, or spend the afternoon tasting wine at the local vineyards or shopping in the surrounding towns. One of the best ways to experience California’s Gold Country is to cruise along the Golden Chain Highway on historic Highway 49, stopping at the local boutiques, restaurants, and inns along the way.

Half Moon Bay

Visitors to California who want to see some of the tallest and oldest trees on earth can visit Half Moon Bay on the San Mateo County Coastside. Visitors get both sandy, golden beaches, and the iconic redwood forest, all within 300 acres of countryside. Visitors may enjoy hiking in Ano Nuevo State Park, visiting Half Moon Bay’s Main Reserve, or strolling through the redwood forest. Visitors can also horseback ride, spend the day at one of many spas, charter a boat to go fishing, cruise along the wine trails, or enjoy art galleries, local shops, and festivals all year round.

Some of the best shopping and dining in the Bay Area is had in Los Gatos, a charming, pedestrian-friendly, historic, small town. Visitors love shopping in Los Gatos during the holiday season, especially when there is free valet parking downtown with no time limits and holiday events happening frequently. There are many charming locally owned boutiques that offer specialty and gift items, beauty brands, toys, art, home furnishing and more. There are four hotels all within walking distance of Downtown Los Gatos for visitors who want to stay for more than just the day.

Visitors can get the best of everything California has to offer in Mendocino County, including ocean coastline, forest, and a great city vibe with fantastic shopping, dining, and spa experiences. Mendocino offers more than ninety miles of coastline and some of the best beaches in California. Visitors can hike through old-growth redwood forests, explore the vineyards, go boating on inland rivers and lakes, or even venture into the snow-capped mountains in the Yolla Bolly Wilderness. There’s also a vibrant performing arts community with theater and music performances often happening at one of the five theaters in Mendocino County.

One of the best road trips in the country, Big Sur on Highway 1, takes visitors through Monterey County, where there are great shops and attractions, especially along Cannery Row, the former Ocean View Avenue. Monterey County is known for its wineries and tasting rooms, surfing, and golf courses, as well as the magnificent Carmel Beach. Some of the best attractions in Monterey County include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Pebble Beach, historic missions, Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, and the National Steinbeck Center. Some of the best times to visit Monterey County are during one of the acclaimed special events, including the Carmel Beach Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, or Monterey Car Week.

Muir Woods National Monument

1 Muir Woods Rd., Mill Valley, CA, 94941, phone: 415-561-2850

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is one of the most iconic places in California and is known for its amazing wine and food. The Napa Valley is made up of nine towns—Calistoga, Angwin, Lake Berryessa, St. Helena, Rutherford, Oakville, Yountville, Napa, and American Canyon. All but Angwin and lake Berryessa are located along Highway 29. Wine tasting is one of the most popular things to do in the valley, but visitors also enjoy the spas and resorts, golf courses, museums, Public Market in Napa, and has many outdoor adventures like hiking, watersports, and climbing. One of the most popular outdoor activities to do for families in Napa Valley is visiting the Petrified Forest in Calistoga and the many parks in the area.

Pescadero Marsh Nature Preserve

Pescadero State Beach, New Year’s Creek Road, Pescadero, CA, Phone: 650-593-3281

Point Lobos

62 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, Phone: 866-338-7227

Point Reyes and Tomales Bay

The Point Reyes National Seashore is a 33,300-acre coastal park with estuaries, beaches, forest, and marshland habitats are available for visitors to explore. The San Andreas Fault also runs through Point Reyes, and visitors can see examples of how the movement of the fault line has affected the landscape. There are three visitor centers—Bear Valley near the Highway 1 Entrance, the lighthouse, and Drakes Beach, where people can find maps, information, toilets, and find out weather conditions and forecasts. Other sites at Point Reyes include the Kule Loklo Coast Miwok Indian Village, Pierce Ranch, and Alamere Falls at Wildcat Beach.

Sausalito is just north of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge along Highway 101 with two miles of sunny shoreline and charming cafes and boutiques. The small bay town is usually accessed from San Francisco via a walk, bike, or drive across the Golden Gate Bridge or ferry trip across the harbor. Sausalito is an artsy town full of galleries, restaurants, and writers, but is also very industrial with a thriving harbor economy. Visitors to Sausalito can take houseboat tours, which are one of the main attractions or check out the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s Bay Model. The working model of the San Francisco Bay is hydraulic and spans over an acre.

At the crossroads where State Highways 12 and 16 meet, there is a rural community called Sebastopol that is a nuclear-free zone with a rich history in agriculture, including Luther Burbank’s Experiment Farm. Over 800 varieties of products were developed on this farm in the late 19th century. The town also has a thriving fine arts community and is known for its many practitioners of the healing arts, sustainable living, and outdoor recreation. Visitors to Downtown Sebastopol can enjoy fine dining, cafes, art galleries, boutiques and retailers, health and wellness centers, New Age stores, and more. One of the most popular areas of downtown Sebastopol is Antique Row, where there are many antique and thrift stores.

Silicon Valley

People who love to keep up to date with the latest and greatest in technology and scientific advancement will love spending a day in Silicon Valley. The area is home to technology giants such as Apple, Google, Uber, and Facebook, with thousands of tourists coming to the valley each year. The metropolitan city has a population of four million and has lots to do, including a visit to Stanford University, and the Tesla Motors Show Room. Visitors can also go to the Computer History Museum, and NASA Exploration Center.

Skyline Boulevard

Visitors to the Bay Area looking for a scenic road trip with less traffic than Big Sur Highway 1 can explore the Skyline Boulevard where they can take in mountain views, and brave narrow, curvy roads just forty minutes outside of San Francisco. There are several places to pull over and view the amazing scenery on the Skyline Boulevard, including the San Mateo Peninsula and the lush riparian forests. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and mountain biking at El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve near Skeggs Point Turnout or take a break at one of the quaint roadside diners.

Sonoma Valley

One of the U.S.’s greatest leaders of sustainable tourism is the Sonoma Valley of California. Less than an hour north of San Francisco, the valley is a perfect getaway for visitors looking to experience shopping, hiking, biking, and arts and culture, amidst a backdrop of wineries and vineyards stretching seventeen miles right next to Napa Valley. Sonoma is considered the birthplace of modern Cali and is also known as “wine country.” Most people who think of Sonoma picture urban bohemians, farmers, and lush landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy historic walking tours, botanical gardens, visit the state parks, or take part in a retreat at one of the spas or wellness centers.

Stinson Beach

Right next to Mt. Tamalpais State Park, just twenty minutes from San Francisco, is Stinson Beach, a popular beach for locals day-tripping from the Bay Area. Visitors to beach can take boat tours for whale and dolphin watching, hike or walk the beach, have picnic, go treasure hunting, collect shells, surf, fish, and swim, along with other water sports and recreation. The water at the beach is relatively shallow and calm and great for families with young children. Other points of interest nearby include Audubon Canyon Ranch, Martin Griffin Preserve, Point Reyes Lighthouse, Bolinas Lagoon Preserve, Red Rock Beach, and Mt. Tamalpais State Park.

Yosemite National Park

Founded in 1864, the 1200 square miles of Yosemite is one of the most beloved National Parks in the United States. Visitors to the park can camp, hike, or explore the wilderness. There are guided hikes, interpretive programs, and ranger programs available for visitors. Tours by trolley are also available for visitors who prefer not to walk or hike. Birdwatching, fishing, and horseback riding are also popular activities, as well as rock climbing, which Yosemite is world-famous for. Winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing are also available seasonally. Yosemite National Park also has one of the darkest skies in the country, making it ideal for stargazing.

• 1. Santa Cruz
• 3. Bay Area Day Trips: Alcatraz Island
• 4. Angel Island State Park
• 5. Armstrong Redwood State Reserve
• 6. Bay Area Day Trips: Big Sur
• 7. Carmel-By-Sea
• 8. Gold Country
• 9. Half Moon Bay
• 10. Los Gatos
• 11. Mendocino
• 12. Monterey
• 13. Muir Woods National Monument
• 14. Napa Valley
• 15. Pescadero Marsh Nature Preserve
• 16. Point Lobos
• 17. Point Reyes and Tomales Bay
• 18. Sausalito
• 19. Sebastopol
• 20. Silicon Valley
• 21. Skyline Boulevard
• 22. Sonoma Valley
• 23. Stinson Beach
• 24. Yosemite National Park

There are also many National and State Parks in the area which is very ecologically diverse as well and home to many endangered and threatened species. Because the Bay Area is so expansive, there are many places that make for an ideal day trip or weekend getaway in the region.

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6 Best Day Trips from San Francisco

By Jenna Scatena and Ana Kamin

Discover the hidden gems just outside of San Francisco that will take your adventures to new heights. From urban hikes to sandy beaches, a fog forest in the heart of the city to world-class cuisine, there's no shortage of reasons why San Francisco is a must-visit destination. But the excitement doesn't end at the city limits. Within a short drive you'll find a multitude of travel options that are sure to satisfy your wanderlust. Saunter around small towns ensconced in towering redwoods, explore charming coastal villages, or take a day trip deep into wine country. Whether you're a visitor or a local, these unforgettable day trips are not to be missed. Discover the top picks from our editors and embark on an unforgettable journey just beyond the city.

Click the link to read our complete San Francisco city guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The charming town of St. Helena and the surrounding area is home to many of Napa Valley’s finest wineries . Located on Highway 29 between Calistoga and Yountville, St.Helena is for anyone whose ideal getaway includes delicious wine, Michelin-starred restaurants, art galleries, and maybe even a hot air balloon ride. The Main Street is dotted with local shops, restaurants, and bakeries, and the weather is mild year-round, making it an excellent place to stroll no matter the season.

Alila Napa Valley Arrow

With Beringer Estate vineyards’ cabernet vines as the backdrop, this hotel made quite the splash as soon as it opened. At the center is a turn-of-the-century Victorian mansion, now called Acacia House, which includes celebrated chef Chris Cosentino’s restaurant , and a romantic porch perfect for aperitivo at sunset.

Hall Wines St. Helena Arrow

Craig and Kathryn Hall helped set the standard for Bordeaux-style wines in modern-day Napa, but your typical wine tasting room this is not. Located at the base of Napa’s majestic Mayacama Mountains, Hall St. Helena sits on 33 acres that celebrate wine and art. More than 35 pieces of contemporary art decorate the winery, with works from internationally renowned artists like Patrick Dougherty and Lawrence Argent, and the vineyard doubles as a museum.

Brasswood Bar + Kitchen Arrow

Located on a wine estate in the heart of Napa Valley, the Brasswood Bar + Kitchen has quickly become a favorite place to gather for winemakers and out-of-town wine tasters alike, all enjoying the sophisticated Cali-Italian menu. Although Brasswood opened in 2016, Chef David Nuno has been making Napa folks happy with his Mediterranean-inspired food, like duck bolognese, for over 20 years. Looking for an off-menu item? Brasswood has it. The “Mozza” is the most delicious house-made mozzarella, pulled and stretched at the table. Just ask for it.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

The Charter Oak Arrow

The latest iteration of this longtime Napa outpost comes courtesy of chef Christopher Kostow . The centerpiece of the dining room—and the kitchen—is the steel hearth, a titan for roasting, crisping, and smoking vegetables. The result is simple, smoke-kissed Napa produce, like peeled avocados blistered over a flame, coated in chrysanthemum and dill. It's perfect for a leisurely lunch to refuel between wine tastings, or an evening out. While it’s fine to come as a couple, the family-style servings work best for groups—a nice addition to Napa’s honeymoon-centric dining scene.

St. Helena Cyclery Arrow

One of the best ways to explore Napa is on two wheels, following a custom route mapped out for you by the experts at this longtime boutique operator. Just be sure you get a bike suited to your ability level . Experts can take a Trek Hybrid off-roading for extra adrenaline, while people with less experience or limited ability will want to consider an electric bike that can help you with hills.

Wydown Hotel Arrow

There is an air of cool to this 12-room boutique hotel, located in a historic building. Owner Mark Hoffmeister’s appreciation for art is visible throughout, with pieces from both local artists and collections from his travels. It also does lots of collaborations with artists, food business, and winemakers that make it a great team player in St. Helena. And the intersection of service and price point is something you don't find often in this part of wine country.

Even after an influx of creatives moved up from San Francisco to the Russian River Valley , Guerneville somehow manages to stay under the radar. Hidden in between redwoods, on the bend of the river, Guerneville is a like a summer camp full of party people and artists. Main Street and its buildings will transport you to the times of Wild Wild West, yet don’t be fooled by the old facades. Many of them have been lovingly transformed. The historic bank building was turned into Guerneville Bank Club—a space for local business, now accommodating a small-batch ice cream shop, carefully curated home good store, and a pie shop. Another bonus of Guerneville? You are in the middle of one of Sonoma’s prime wine regions. So flex your taste buds, there will be wine. 

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve Arrow

Though it’s just a stone’s throw from downtown Guerneville, this ancient redwood grove feels as wild as it does timeless. The 805 acres of coastal redwoods are perfect for a day of meandering tended trails along with a picnic to enjoy in the shade. Some of the giants are more than 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old. Don’t miss the Parson Jones Tree: the tallest tree in the grove, it's longer than the length of a football field.

El Barrio Arrow

Stepping into this tiny Baja-inspired bar on Guerneville’s main drag is transportive. Colorful tiles, serape textiles, and steer skulls channel Cabo San Lucas , while the intimate back patio is the ideal place to sip a mezcal flight, no matter the time of day. The limited bar food menu is appropriately tasty, and makes for a good base when consuming potent drinks like they have here. 

Owner Christa Ludtke (she of the mini Guerneville hospitality empire, including Boon Hotel + Spa and El Barrio) grew up on German food—her parents owned a German restaurant—so Brot is a bit of a homecoming for her, and she’s done a great job. The menu is classic German—currywurst, spätzle, sausage—with just the right amount of Cali thrown in. Also not to be missed: the chicken doner with toasted pita, lettuce, onion, chili sauce, garlic yogurt and fries. Wines come Austria and Germany, providing a fun change of destination for anyone who has loaded up on California cabs.

AutoCamp Russian River Arrow

Located just a minute's walk from the Russian River amid the majestic redwoods, AutoCamp Russian River (one of several AutoCamp outposts around California, including at Yosemite ) and its custom 31-foot-long silver Airstreams, bring back the ‘50s in luxe style. Inside your Airstream you’ll find marble tiles in the bathrooms, Tempur-pedic mattresses, Ursa Major bath products, spa shower, and Schoolhouse Electric light fixtures. Outside, private fire pits and grilling grates to for an evening cooking over an open fire.

Boon Hotel + Spa Arrow

The dressed-down crowd that comes here arrives with one thing in mind: relaxation. Pack light; all you really need are your hiking shoes , bathing sui t, and something to wear when you stroll into town for dinner. The 14 rooms at Boon Hotel + Spa are tucked away in the redwoods and tricked out with cork floors, organic cotton linens and pure, simple bathrooms that will let you feel totally zenned out. One of the best perks, though? The homemade breakfast in bed, complimentary, served right to your door every morning. 

Burke's Canoe Trips Arrow

Just over an hour from San Francisco, a Burke’s Canoe trip makes for a perfect day's excursion into the wild. Located under the towering redwoods that seem to be everywhere in this part of the state, the little office house and silver canoes here may remind you of summer camp. Pick one out and then get ready for a 10 mile ride downstream. Pack your cooler with provisions (no alcohol or glass bottles please), slather some sunscreen on your face, don’t forget a hat , and enjoy some of the best scenery in Northern California. 

Monterey might have a reputation for being touristy, but if you are a traveler who needs local vibes, Monterey can also be for you if you know where to go. The unparalleled natural beauty cannot be seen in one day—the blue ocean crashing against the sand, the flower-covered hills, hiking trails galore, and activities on land and sea will create a memorable weekend. And the further you go from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, the more local Monterey you will find.

The Sanctuary Beach Resort Arrow

This classic, though renovated, resort sits atop the windswept sand dunes of Monterey Bay’s coastline, and it neighbor is the National Marine Sanctuary. It feels timeless, and a million miles away, though it's a quick drive to downtown Monterey. The beach bungalows offer panoramic views of the Pacific and salty ocean air drifting right into your room. You can’t get any closer to sleeping on the beach than this.

Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette Arrow

Monterey is home to some of the best seafood in the country, but many area restaurants compromise it for the tourist hustle. Salt Wood doesn't. Starters like grilled Monterey Bay sardines need only the fennel and citrus they’re served with, and local oysters grilled with kimchi butter, Bernaise, and tarragon pesto are a must. Though this is technically a hotel restaurant, you’ll find mostly locals and regulars filling the tables and bar seats—a sign that that this place is something special.

Alvarado Street Brewery Arrow

The bartenders and brewmaster here fit the profile of classic California beach towners. as such, they’ll happily chat you up and tell you all about the beers. In the outdoor beer garden you'll find a rotating, condensed menu of Alvarado Street’s finest suds, as well as beer to-go in growlers and bottles. Stick around for a cold Peninsular Pilsner—a clean and crisp German-style pils—or the malty Yeast of Burden pale ale.

Parker-Lusseau Pastries Arrow

Tucked away from Monterey's main touristy streets, Parker-Lusseau Pastries bakes the most delicious pastries in the area, and maybe this side of an actual Parisian croissant . The locals' favorites are the chocolate croissant and the thin apple galette, and the cute petit fours make a great gift to bring home for yourself. If you need something savory first, the curried chicken salad on a croissant might be the winner.

Pacific Grove Adventures Arrow

Whether you want to explore Monterey by bike, surrey (sort of a pedal-powered car), kayak, or stand up paddleboard, Pacific Grove Adventures has the right means of transportation for you. Arriving at the Pacific Grove Adventures' office, you might think it looks familiar. It should—one of the filming sites for HBO's Big Little Lies is Lover's Point Beach, where the shop is located. The little cove might be idyllic with its blue waters and surrounding cliffs, but it's unfortunately always way too crowded. So grab your bike, and head off to go see the quieter beauty of Monterey. 

Oysters, kayaking, oyster, hiking, and oysters are on the menu of this beautiful region just one hour north of San Francisco. Though the drive south on Highway 1 toward Big Sur gets most of the attention, the drive north to Point Reyes is just as beautiful—just far less crowded and with more room to roam, and so much delicious food. The area is a combination of Point Reyes national seashore, mini towns along Tomales Bay, and countless green fields and hills. It might be only an hour away, but we strongly suggest you bring a weekender bag with you—you will want to stay for the sunset and the foggy morning. 

Nick's Cove Arrow

With wood-burning fireplaces in the rooms, this cozy spot is the ideal home base for exploring the surrounding Point Reyes National Seashore. Five of twelve cottages are on the water—book one if you can. The Nicolina cottage is an adorable recreation of a 1930s vessel, and is tricked out with a soaking tub, and your own private deck.

Blue Water Kayaking Arrow

Whether it’s a half-day or full-day tour, Blue Waters Kayaking has top-notch guides in an intimate environment. Groups don’t get too big, and each tour is experiential and informative—which is just what you want when you’re exploring the diverse nature in Tomales Bay and Point Reyes. With more than 2,000 wildlife species along the Point Reyes National Seashore, it's unforgettable spotting blue herons, cranes, and osprey from the kayak. Bring binoculars!

Osteria Stellina Arrow

This casual Italian joint is also home to one of the best bars in Pt. Reyes. Some of the standout wines come from Marin County —not neighboring Napa or Sonoma as you might expect. Chef Christian Caiazzo’s Marin-centric dishes pair perfectly with the local wines and beers. Pick out something from the main menu and order it to the bar: local oysters are a must, as are the Pt. Reyes cheese plate, and the steamed mussels with pancetta.

Tony's Seafood Restaurant Arrow

A seafood icon for more than 70 years on the  Tomales Bay, Tony’s had already had an impressive run when the Hog Island Oyster Company bought it in 2017. Now, all spruced up after an extensive renovation, and with a region-honoring menu from Chef Matt Shapiro, Tony’s is a storybook fish house. The famous OG Tony’s BBQ oysters are almost mandatory. You will want to sponge up every single drop of the smokey sauce with the house-made bread. If you don’t want to eat the clam chowder alone, share it, but please try it. Unlike other flour-heavy chowders, the famous Hog Island Oyster Company clam chowder is a flour-less, lighter, and more refined version of the quintessential coastal dish. Oysters can be taken to-go, and the delicious, salty-sweet Chipotle Bourbon Butter, and Hog Wash, their signature oyster mignonette, will make every oyster picnic on the Bay a special one. 

Tomales Bay Trail Arrow

This is an easy, scenic hike towards the Bay. The 2.5-mile loop is good on a foggy or sunny day after the drive from San Francisco or as a morning activity before breakfast. The vistas expanding from this trail are enchanting: rolling hills, vast fields, diverse wildlife. As a bonus, if you come in spring you may get to see a blanket of wildflowers along the trail.

Located on the rugged NorCal coastline, Mendocino offers visitors a chance to escape wired city life and breathe in the briny ocean air. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the towering redwoods, while art galleries and local shops are perfect for browsing quirky local items. The Anderson Valley’s award-winning wineries and complimentary restaurants will satisfy any bon viveur’s cravings. With its wild setting, throwback Victorian architecture, and surfeit of outdoor activities, Mendocino has plenty of reasons to brave the 3-hour drive from the city.

Brewery Gulch Inn

Built in 2001 using reclaimed 150-year-old redwood, Brewery Gulch Inn is a true Mendocino sanctuary. With only 10 rooms, each equipped with gas fireplaces and private decks perched high above Mendocino Bay, you'll find it to be the perfect retreat.The property’s lush gardens and brand new spa incorporates local ingredients like pine, rose, and seaweed into their treatments, in a continuation from the restaurant’s menu of items like hazelnut custard French toast with raspberry-hazelnut butter. The downside? It’s truly hard to leave.

Elk Cove Inn & Spa

This cliffside 19th century Craftsman-style mansion is now a bed and breakfast with vertiginous views of the Pacific. The rooms are beautifully designed, some even featuring ocean views, fireplaces, and luxurious en suite bathrooms. It’s hard to compete with the views, but the fine dining menu at the restaurant is a start (even if the furniture is a bit outdated). Start your day with an indulgent breakfast, complete with champagne. The property also offers a cozy guest lounge, a rooftop deck with panoramic views, a rejuvenating day spa, and a charming beachfront gazebo.

Harbor House Inn

The Harbor House Inn’s restaurant recently became a destination unto itself after being crowned with two Michelin Stars. Chef Matthew Kammerer's inspired 8-12 course tasting menu is a creative array of seafood and vegetable dishes expertly prepared using fire, steam, and smoke. The intimate oceanview dining room, with seating only for 20, complements the Mendocino-focused dishes with breathtaking views of the coastline.

Goldeneye Winery

Pinot heads will definitely want to head to Goldeneye Winery, in the heart of Anderson Valley—Mendocino’s prized wine country. Dedicated to the altar of pinot noir, this stand-out winery is nestled in the redwood forests amid a setting that is sure to captivate your senses. The expansive scenic patio is the perfect place to linger, especially during summer and fall harvest, when a calendar of vibrant seasonal events featuring live music and renowned visiting chefs kicks it up a notch.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden

Mendocino has no shortage of natural splendors. Yet, while you could spend weeks exploring every succulent-strewn cranny and redwood haven, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offers a “greatest hits” of the region’s flora. Explore the natural beauty of the nonprofit garden, spanning across 47 acres, with diverse landscapes including canyons, wetlands, coastal bluffs, and a pine forest. Not only does this oasis preserve rare and endangered plants, but it also showcases mini ecosystems of the coast and 180 bird species.

B. Bryan Preserve

Majestic African animals roam freely across expansive open fields at this private 110-acre animal preserve. Home to a diverse range of species, from critically endangered to endangered, visitors can observe zebras, giraffes, and antelopes in their natural habitat on self-guided car safaris or private guided tours. It even offers a few updated 1940s cottage for those looking to spend the night.

Located on the picturesque central coast of California, just 75 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz has all the charm and character of a 1950s postcard. Known for its livey beaches, world-famous boardwalk, and redwood forests, Santa Cruz offers visitors a unique experience that is hard to find anywhere else. Whether it's surfing the waves at Cowell's Beach, exploring the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, or taking a hike through the towering redwoods at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, there is always something to do and see in Santa Cruz. With its year-round mild weather and laid-back culture, visiting Santa Cruz is a must for anyone looking for an unforgettable California adventure.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

The Dream Inn lives up to its name, thanks to its delightfully retro design right on Cowell Beach and a stone’s throw from the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf and Beach Boardwalk. But don’t mistake this inn as a nostalgia trap: the modernized rooms are set up for the whims and needs of present-day travelers, and is a favorite getaway hub for Bay Area travelers. A newly renovated heated swimming pool and hot tub overlooks the surf break, and has stairs leading to the beach in case you’re tempted for a cold plunge in the Pacific.

Humble Sea Brew Co

The Humble Sea Brew Co carries on Santa Cruz’s legacy of California craft brews inside its nautical-colored walls. Started by three local childhood friends who banded together over homebrewing, it’s since attracted a fierce following. The space’s sleek industrial design and inviting patio is now home to the local craft beer community, and the perfect place to mingle while sampling the brewery's exceptional main beers and seasonal releases.

Copal has staked out a tiny Oaxacan oasis in the midst of uber-California Santa Cruz. Welcoming guests with a cactus-studded front yard, once inside the colorful dishes are almost too beautiful to eat—almost. The highlight is definitely the restaurant’s selection of homemade Oaxacan moles, but don’t overlook the tangy pozole and salsa de guajillo.

The Penny Ice Cream

If you’re looking for organic hyper-local ice cream churned with flavors sourced from local farmers, The Penny Ice Cream is your spot. Ingredients coming from more than 40 local farmers and foragers is the foundation for unique, inspired, and sometimes wacky flavors like strawberry pink peppercorn and cardamom coconut blackberry. Go big with worth-the-extra-calorie additions like toasted marshmallow fluff topping, homemade waffle cones, and over-the-top sundaes. Oh, and there’s even bon bons.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Is it even a trip to Santa Cruz without hitting the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk? Not really. Since 1907, this mile-long stretch has been one of the pulse points of coastal California culture. It’s one of the oldest beachfront amusement parks in California, and a visit there promises a day filled with fun, adventure, and awesome people-watching. The park boasts of a 100-year-old, wooden Giant Dipper roller coaster that has stood the test of time and still provides a thrilling ride, plus more than thirty rides and attractions, including a ferris wheel, a log flume, and an arcade stocked with classic and modern games.

Wilder Ranch State Park

Nestled on the bluffs of Santa Cruz, Wilder Ranch State Park offers a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean set on 7,000 acres. Visitors can get a taste of the daily life of the early settlers who once inhabited the area by exploring the park’s historic adobe houses, working farm, and a preserved Victorian home. The park is also home to miles of hiking and biking trails that lead you through lush forests, over babbling creeks, and up to breathtaking vistas. For those looking for a more leisurely outing, the park offers plenty of picnic spots and the opportunity to relax on the expansive beaches nearby.

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11 Easy Weekend Getaways From San Francisco

Get away from the city with one of these easy, drivable weekend getaways..

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The Tule Elk Preserve is one of many places to visit during a weekend in Inverness and Tomales Bay.

Photo by Jessie Beck

San Francisco is an amazing city in its own right , but one of the best parts of living here is that you can be at a world-class vineyard, on a beach, or up a mountain within a short drive. There are the North Bay’s oyster farms and vineyards, the (sometimes) snowy Sierras to the east, the quiet of Tomales Bay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a change of scene, consider one of these 11 easy weekend getaways from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Healdsburg, California, is more than wine: Redwood forests and stretches of the Russian River to kayak are also accessible from this small town.

Photos by Jessie Beck

1. Healdsburg and Sonoma wine country

• Distance : 90 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for : a low-key wine and food getaway

It’s hard to see all of Sonoma wine county in a single weekend—it’s larger and more spread out than neighboring Napa Valley. Instead, make the northern town of Healdsburg, which is experiencing something of a revival, your home base for the weekend. In the past two years, a long list of exciting new hotels, restaurants, and tasting rooms have joined the area—giving the historic town a burst of new energy.

What to do in Healdsburg

Yes, of course, you could spend an entire day tasting wine (it is Sonoma County, after all), but you’ll also want to explore the area’s natural beauty. To do so, join a cycling tour at Russian River Adventures to explore the area on two wheels with a knowledgeable guide, or combine your ride with a kayak adventure on Getaway Adventures ’ pedal-paddle tour.

Healdsburg’s food scene is also a big reason to visit: It’s home to three- Michelin-starred restaurant SingleThread (and awardee of a Michelin Green Star ), and the team’s newly opened vegan café, bar, and restaurant, Little Saint. (Pro move: You can also try their dips while sampling pinot noirs at the beautifully designed, downtown tasting room for Marine Layer.) For a more casual lunch or dinner, grab a pizza on the rooftop at the Matheson , or settle down for cocktails and fried chicken at Lo+Behold . The town also has an excellent farmers’ market on Saturdays.

Where to stay in Healdsburg

For a truly luxurious retreat, book one of the tree houses at the Montage Healdsburg , a 258-acre property that officially opened its doors in 2020, making it the first major resort property in the Healdsburg area. Or head over to the Madrona, a historic property originally built in 1881 as a private residence that is now a beautiful, maximalist boutique hotel designed by Jay Jeffers. Prefer something within walking distance of Healdsburg’s square? Then check into eco-friendly Harmon Guest House, a peaceful yet centrally located hotel only a block away from dozens of fantastic restaurants, tasting rooms, and bars. Coming in the summer? Rest assured: All three options have swimming pools.

Read More: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway in Sonoma Wine Country

Fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and exploring small towns along the Mendocino Coast.

Photo by The Life in Pics/Shutterstock

2. Mendocino coast

• Distance: three hours north of San Francisco
• Best for: a remote drive along Highway 1

The Mendocino coast is no secret weekend getaway spot. While most visitors will focus on exploring the coastal town of Mendocino and its surrounds, there’s much to be discovered along the 90+ miles of Mendocino’s coastline. That said, if it’s your first time in the area, go ahead and base yourself in the small town of Mendocino—beaten path or not, its proximity to trails, beaches, restaurants, and small locally run shops make it a must on any California getaway list. Or explore a new stretch of the coast, like the small town of Elk and nearby Salt Point State Park to the south of Mendocino.

What to do on the Mendocino coast

You could easily fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and hiking trails with dramatic ocean views, but part of the Mendocino coast’s charms are in the small towns near the highway. Save plenty of time for pit stops from Guala to Fort Bragg; shop the variety store Matson Mercantile in Elk; enjoy vegetarian fare and wine at the hip and colorful Fog Eater Cafe in Mendocino; or sample fresh local seafood at Wild Fish .

Where to stay on the Mendocino coast

For classic Mendocino coast, book a stay in the town of Mendocino. Right in the heart of downtown is JD House , a six-room bed-and-breakfast with ocean views and decor that lands somewhere between ship captain’s home and modern hygge. Or immerse yourself in nature at Mendocino Grove , where you can stay in safari tents complete with beds, rugs, and firepits. The new for summer 2023 sauna and espresso bar make it an extra dreamy glamping experience. For a more removed but no less beautiful home base, head 15 miles south to the small coastal town of Elk and reserve a room at the Harbor House Inn , a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant perched on a cliff above a private, pebbled beach.

Read More: Local Getaways: Escape to the Mendocino Coast

Turn off your phone and head to Wylder Hotel for a remote mountain getaway.

Courtesy of Wylder Hotel

3. Hope Valley

• Distance: four hours east of San Francisco
• Best for: a less-crowded escape to the Sierra Nevadas

A short drive south from Lake Tahoe , Hope Valley has all the beauty of a Sierra Nevada mountain getaway—minus the crowds. It’s an ideal weekend destination to retreat to the woods for a few days of digital detox amid alpine lakes and pine forests.

What to do in Hope Valley

Like much of the Sierras and Tahoe, Hope Valley is known as an outdoor destination. In warmer months, grab your hiking shoes or mountain bike to explore miles of trails in the nearby wilderness, like the range of trails around scenic Echo Lake or Snowshoe Thompson’s Cave, which is “a short 1.15-mile hike filled with lore,” says AFAR travel news editor Michelle Baran .

In the winter, opt for a snow-filled adventure snow-mobiling or snowshoeing on one of the trails at Hope Valley Sno-Park then warm up in the natural hot springs at nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park .

Where to stay in Hope Valley

Wylder Hotel , which has rustic but refurbished log cabins, yurts, and budget-friendly campsites, is an ideal homebase in Hope Valley.

Read More: Local Getaways: A Beautiful Mountain Escape in Northern California

Yoga among the redwoods is one of many activities at Canyon Ranch Woodside.

Courtesy of Canyon Ranch

4. Santa Cruz Mountains

• Distance: one hour south of San Francisco
• Best for: wine, hikes, and mountain bikes

Bay Area residents often come to the Santa Cruz Mountains for day trips and brief weekend adventures. But if you plan to stay longer, you won’t be bored—there’s enough winery hopping and hiking among the redwoods to fill an entire weekend.

What to do in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, road cycling, and rock climbing are the main draw for visitors to the Santa Cruz Mountains. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the trails, visit one of the area’s wineries, like award-winning, family-run Mindego Ridge , or the many ranches and farms—an afternoon picnic and visit with the goats at Harley Farms Goat Dairy is a local favorite—to relax and refuel.

Where to stay in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Book yourself into a luxurious tree house at Canyon Ranch’s Woodside Retreat , which includes a full schedule of activities, like hikes and yoga sessions, and three healthy, locally sourced meals each day.

Read More: Local Getaways: The Santa Cruz Mountains Offer a Much-Needed Escape to Nature

Glamp in a classic Airstream or safari tent at Autocamp Russian River.

Courtesy of Autocamp

5. Guerneville

• Distance: one hour, 45 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: summer fun and food by the Russian River

Although scenic year-round, Guerneville’s location alongside the Russian River makes it an especially popular weekend destination in the summer, when you can float, kayak, or canoe in the water. Off the river, this tiny town is also home to a surprising number of delicious places to eat—with even more restaurants, breweries, and wineries a short drive away.

What to do in Guerneville

In the summer months, pack a floatie and a cooler full of snacks to spend the day lazing around on the Russian River. Visitors can also rent a canoe from Burke’s Canoes . Afterwards, this Sonoma County town is an excellent homebase for food and wine lovers—biscuits at Big Bottom Market , winetasting at Hartford Family Winery , beers at Stumptown Brewery , and ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s are a few of the area’s tasty highlights.

Where to stay in Guerneville

For classic Guerneville, you can’t go wrong renting a house by the river or booking a romantic retreat at the adults-only Boon Hotel + Spa , an intimate, LGBTQ-friendly boutique hotel with a pool, spa, and breakfast delivered to your room each morning. Prefer to glamp? Head to Autocamp and stay in a tricked-out Airstream trailer for the weekend.

Or, consider one of the newer hotels to the area: including the luxurious, 21-room boutique hotel, Stravrand (opened in 2021) located on a former orchard, and Dawn Ranch (opened in 2022), a collection of stylish cabins nestled in the redwoods, complete with restaurant and spa. Read More:

• A Weekend Getaway Guide to Guerneville
• Where to Eat on the Russian River

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is set on a quiet, scenic stretch of California coast—and has no shortage of scenic views.

6. Bodega Bay

• Best for : escaping the summer heat, kayaking, and relaxing in a newly renovated lodge

If you’ve spent any time exploring Northern California, you’ve likely passed by Bodega—the Highway 1 goes through this small blip of a town, located between Tomales Bay and Jenner on the Sonoma coast. Although it’s close enough to San Francisco for a day trip, the newly renovated rooms at the Lodge at Bodega Bay are reason enough for locals, out-of-towners, and north-bound road-trippers to turn their visit into a full-fledged weekend getaway.

Pro tip: Although San Francisco residents rarely have any summer heat to escape from, folks elsewhere in the Bay Area should take note. Bodega can be as much 20 degrees cooler than inland areas, making it an ideal summer retreat for anyone who wants respite from high temps.

What to do in Bodega Bay

Although you might be tempted to spend the entire weekend with a book and a beverage while enjoying the coastal views (and we won’t judge you if do), the natural beauty of the area will likely convince you otherwise. If you’re so inclined, start your morning by kayaking along the coast ( Bodega Bay Surf is a friendly spot for rentals) or hike on the scenic Bodega Head Trail. The area also happens to be an excellent spot for bird-watching, especially along the Birdwalk Coastal Access Trail in Doran Regional Park . In the mood for a beach day? Grab your blanket and head to Doran Beach or Campbell Cove.

After a day of adventuring, refuel with calamari at the Tides , fish and chips at Fishetarian Fish Market , or a cocktail and crudo at Drakes Fireside Lounge .

Where to stay

Book a room at the sprawling Lodge at Bodega Bay , a few minutes south of town. Each of the spacious 83 rooms features comfortable beds, plush robes, and westward-facing balconies with unobstructed views of the marsh and ocean. The area can get chilly at night and the lodge offers plenty of ways to warm up: in-room fireplaces, hot tub, sauna, or with a cocktail at its on-site bar and restaurant.

Big Sur has something for varied adventures and budgets, from basic campsites to five-star luxury.

Photo by Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

• Distance: three hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: a classic California coastal getaway

With its dramatic coastlines, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, and expansive, rugged redwood forests, Big Sur is one of those quintessential California destinations—and also a fortunately easy weekend getaway destination from the Bay Area.

What to do in Big Sur

“Nature is one of the region’s biggest draws, but there’s plenty of exploration to do beyond the trees,” says AFAR senior editor Aislyn Greene. Places like Tassajara Zen Mountain Center , Hearst Castle , a California condor tour with Ventana Wildlife Society , and a tour of the Point Sur lighthouse , as well as shopping for local art at Hawthorne Gallery or Coast Big Sur are all excellent things to do while in Big Sur.

Where to stay in Big Sur

Accommodation in Big Sur ranges from basic campsites , like those at Pfeiffer State Park, to five-star luxury. Some of our favorite Big Sur hotels include the spectacular, all-inclusive Ventana Big Sur resort, which gives guests the option to choose between staying in one of its luxurious suites or getting in touch with nature in its safari-style tents, as well as the creative rooms at Post Ranch Inn —weekend retreat in a tree house , anyone?

Read More: Embrace the Slow Life—and Maybe a Few Trees—in Big Sur

Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) is less than three hours from San Francisco by car.

Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch

8. Carmel Valley

• Distance: two hours, 30 minutes from San Francisco
• Best for: a wine country escape to the south

Napa Valley and Sonoma County aren’t the only places to go for a weekend of winetasting and sunshine (though you’ll rarely see us turn down a trip there). Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) to San Francisco’s south is an equally fantastic, but often overlooked, destination for wine and food adventures.

What to do in Carmel Valley

Plan your weekend around winetasting at the area’s vineyards, like western-style Cowgirl Winery or Joyce , which specializes in wine from sustainability-minded vineyards. Then, decompress with an afternoon of hot and cool outdoor pools and a massage at Refuge Spa or a stroll through the shops at Carmel Valley Village.

Where to stay in Carmel Valley

Relax with a room at family-friendly Carmel Valley Ranch . Or for a more Tuscan-esque experience, stay at Bernardus Lodge & Spa , a wine country escape with rooms that overlook its 28-acre vineyard.

Read More: Why Carmel Valley Is the Wine Country Escape You Need

This 15-mile stretch of watery inlet is home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as excellent natural vistas.

Photo by Jules Fairley/Shutterstock

9. Tomales Bay

• Distance: one hour, 30 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: oysters, cheese, and kayaking in the sea

If a weekend of eating fresh seafood, sampling locally made cheese, and kayaking in a tranquil bay sounds like your kind of getaway, then head to Tomales Bay. This area, just north of the Point Reyes National Seashore, refers to the 15-mile stretch of watery inlet separating Point Reyes Peninsula from mainland Marin County. It also happens to be home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as scenic parks and natural vistas.

What to do in Tomales Bay

Start off your weekend in Tomales Bay with an outdoor activity or two, like watching elk in the Tule Elk Preserve , hiking to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, or kayaking in Tomales Bay. ( Blue Waters Kayaking in Marshall is a great place to rent from.)

After you’ve worked up an appetite, eat your way through the area’s specialties, oysters and cheese, with a stop at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company just north of Point Reyes Station, oysters at Hog Island or Tony’s Seafood in Marshall, and a locavore dinner at Saltwater Oyster Depot in Inverness. Locals know: For oysters to go, no-frills Tomales Bay Oyster Co. is the best in the bay.

Where to stay in Tomales Bay

Point Reyes Station is where all the action is, but we prefer to cozy up in a bay-side Airbnb, like Enchanting Garden Getaway in the tranquil town of Inverness on the west side of Tomales Bay.

Take a leisurely walk along the Pacific Ocean while relaxing in Cambria.

Photo by Mada_Cris, Shutterstock.

10. Cambria

• Distance: four hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: whale watching, wine, and relaxing on the beach

Equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles, the coastal town of Cambria is further than most of the other weekend getaways on this list, but it offers a blissfully relaxing break for those who brave the extra miles. Known as where the pines meet the sea, this low-key town is full of opportunities to get outside and hike, explore tidepools, or hang out on the beach—then fill up on delicious seafood and wine while admiring views of the sunset.

What to do in Cambria

Lean into Cambria’s laid-back charm and while away your day with walks along Moonstone Beach or hike the bluffs at Fiscalini Ranch . Come sundown, enjoy a glass of wine and bite to eat at one of several locally owned eateries, like seaside Sea Chest Oyster Bar or Madeline’s , which sits along the just-lively-enough Main Street. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a drive to explore nearby sights like the tiny town of San Simeon and Big Sur to the north, Morro Bay State Park for hikes or beach hangs to the south, or Paso Robles wine country to the east.

Where to stay in Cambria

At the north end of Moonstone Beach, family-friendly Oceanpoint Ranch has comfortable rooms (many of which have wood-burning fireplaces), plenty of activities (shuffleboard, croquet, horseshoes), and an onsite restaurant that serves to-go breakfasts and hearty suppers. For a more woodsy experience, Cambria Pines Lodge is a cozy, forest retreat complete with a lounge perfect for enjoying a glass of local pinot by a warm fire.

Read more: Why Cambria Is Central California’s Most Relaxing Weekend Break

Instead of wine, taste brandy, at the new California Brandy House in Napa.

Courtsey of California Brandy House

11. Napa Valley

• Distance: one hour to 90 minutes northeast from San Francisco
• Best for: wine, of course, but also so much more

Napa Valley may feel like an obvious choice for a Bay Area getaway (it is undeniably easy), but that doesn’t mean your itinerary has to be predictable. With an exciting array of new restaurant and hotel openings in the past two years, as well as lesser-known tours, activities, and tastings (and we don’t just mean wine), it’s easy to go beyond the most well-known attractions. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you could even turn your Napa getaway into a mini road trip from Napa Valley to Mendocino along the scenic Highway 128.

What to do in Napa Valley

Napa is about more than wine (though winetasting is certainly a top thing to do here). To see a different side, spend the day cycling its back roads with Napa Valley Bike Tours , hang out with a (very cute) crew of rescue animals at Oasis by Hoopes , or taste brandy at California Brandy House . Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Empress M , the vision of entrepreneur Margaret Wong that features gourmet Chinese dishes like shrimp dumplings, Sichuan calamari, and roast duck; Lucy Restaurant at Bardessono , a tranquil restaurant with seasonally inspired dishes like asparagus en cocotte; or North Block , whose menu by Momofuku alum chef Nick Tamburo revolves around a wood-fired oven and features such items as sourdough pizzas and cured trout with almond milk and trout roe.

Where to stay in Napa Valley

There’s no shortage of incredible hotels and resorts throughout Napa Valley, but there are several new and noteworthy places to consider checking in to. The George in downtown Napa is a nine-room inn in a historic, recently restored, 19th-century home where guests are treated to plush towels, comfortable beds, and fresh English muffins from nearby Model Bakery .

Further north in Calistoga, the iconic Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs has been transformed with its chic, fully renovated, midcentury modern–inspired rooms, an on-site eatery, House of Better , that serves Southwestern-style fare, a new outdoor spa, and several new room concepts, like a stand-alone one-bedroom bungalow.

Read more: Napa’s in Bloom: How to Plan the Perfect Spring Weekend

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on June 22, 2023, to include current information.

Discover more travel inspiration with these videos by AFAR.

20 Fun Day Trips From San Jose, California (Under 2 hours)

April 20, 2024 February 6, 2022 | Paroma

Last Updated on April 20, 2024 by Paroma

If you’re looking for some fun day trips from San Jose, California to spice up your weekend plans, then this is the post for you! I am here to give you all the deets on 20 amazing destinations (towns, landmarks and attractions) that are under 2 hours drive from San Jose for a full day of fun and enjoyment! Continue reading to find the best places to visit for epic San Jose day trips!

Disclaimer: This post may contain some affiliate links. Clicking on them may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you for the product. Thank you for supporting free content on this site! All photos are my own unless credited from Unsplash which allows usage of their copyright free images.

San Jose, California (not to be confused with San Jose in Costa Rica) is not only the largest city in the Bay Area but also synonymous with the famous (or infamous) Silicon valley, i.e. the seat of modern tech. San Jose lies about 55 miles south of downtown San Francisco, cradled around the southernmost boundary of the San Francisco Bay. It is served by its very own airport, i.e. the San Jose International Airport (SJC) which is a mere 10 minute drive from downtown.

This southern location of San Jose pretty much guarantees lots of options for day trips extending all the way to the Central Coast of California. Much like my post on Bay Area day trips from San Francisco, here too I am going to talk about 20 amazing destinations that you can drive to from San Jose and all under 2 hours one way (traffic permitting). No one likes to spend a majority of their day trips driving and so this cut-off of two hours is where I draw the line for places conducive for making day trips from San Jose with plenty of time to enjoy your chosen destination.

I have arranged this list of places, i.e. day trip ideas from San Jose geographically from north to south for your convenience. One final tip before we get started on the list: maximize your day trip experience, please get an early start as much as possible since the Bay Area has notoriously bad traffic! 

Table of Contents

DAY TRIPS FROM SAN JOSE (MARIN, SAN FRANCISCO, EAST BAY PENINSULA)

Distance: 68 miles

This famous grove of coastal Redwoods named after environmentalist John Muir is one of the most popular draws of Marin county and one of the best ideas for a day trip from San Jose. Protected as a National Monument since 1908, this serene grove of old growth Redwoods has plenty of hikes with over 6 miles of trails to keep you busy. Download the Muir Woods map here and see the hiking trails here .

Please be aware that you need to make advanced reservations to access Muir Woods and entry is timed, based on your parking or shuttle reservation. Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit.   Dogs are not allowed in Muir woods.

MARIN HEADLANDS (POINT BONITA LIGHTHOUSE, MUIR AND STINSON BEACHES)

Distance: 53 miles

This is one of the northernmost destinations that I’d recommend on going on a day trip from San Jose with  about an hour and half of driving through San Francisco and crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. Marin Headlands ( see map here ) is the part of Marin county that lies right north off the bridge and is one of the best places in the Bay Area from where you can get stellar views of our beloved Golden Gate Bridge . I recommend stopping by Battery Spencer or Hawk Hill for breathtaking views.

Apart from the panoramic views of our azure blue waters, the coastline and the bridge the one thing that Marin Headlands is famous for is its beaches and coastal hikes as well as Point Bonita Lighthouse , one of the few remaining functioning lighthouses on the California Coast.

A short walk along the Point Bonita Lighthouse trail from the parking lot will lead you to the lighthouse that is open only on Sunday and Monday from 12:30-3:30 PM (as of Feb 2022, PB Lighthouse is unfortunately closed till further notice due to an electrical safety issue).

Beside Point Bonita, the other attractions of the Marin Headlands is undoubtedly the coastal hikes that connect its many beaches. The closest beaches are Rodeo and Tennessee Beaches with Muir Beach and Stinson Beach being further north. If you love to hike, then the scenic Rodeo Beach Coastal Trail or the Tennessee Valley Trail (starting from the beach’s parking lot) are good options. See all the Marin Headlands Trails here.

If you’re not into hiking, then a day at the beach or even better a visit to Muir Beach Overlook is another excellent option when at the Marin Headlands. Muir Beach Overlook provides a panoramic view of the coast and also has a nice trail (Owl Trail) that leads to Slide Ranch. This spot is one of my favorite places in Marin Headlands!

MILL VALLEY

Distance: 66 miles

Mill Valley is that cute as a button town in Marin County where we often find ourselves when we’re in the mood to either explore a gurgling waterfall (yes, Mill Valley is home to Cascade Falls that is a short drive from downtown), hiking the DipSea Trail , admiring the Redwoods at Old Mill Park or simply noshing some yum food in downtown Mill Valley (home to boutique stores and art galleries along Throckmorton Avenue).

When in Mill Valley, I recommend getting a bite to eat at either Avatar’s Punjabi Burritos or Boo Koo and grabbing baked goods from Flour Craft Bakery at Mill Valley Lumber Yard now refashioned into a beautiful outdoor mall with lots of local stores and restaurants. Also, please stop by Poet and the Bench , my favorite store in Mill Valley selling jewelry, artwork and ceramics by my favorite local ceramicist Judith Lemmens .

Distance: 62 miles

Sausalito is the very first town in Marin county that you’ll find yourselves in once you cross the Golden Gate Bridge. This charming artsy town can also be reached by ferry from San Francisco’s Ferry building.

A day out in Sausalito can mean hanging out at the beaches with plenty to choose from, such as Rodeo Beach, this secret Black Sands Beach and Kirby Cove Beach with fantastic views of Bridge. Downtown Sausalito is bustling with restaurants, cafes and many art galleries (Galerie Elektra is my favorite) with fabulous views from the harborfront that is home to a Sea Lion sculpture by Al Sybrian.

My favorite places to eat out in Sausalito are Sushi Ran , The Spinnaker (on the very edge with marvellous views of the coast), Bar Bocce and Scoma’s (they have the freshest seafood). Fans of Herge’s Tintin comics can stop by Sausalito Ferry Co. Novelty Toy and Gift Store to pick up some Tintin merchandise.

ANGEL ISLAND

Distance: 55-62 miles + Ferry

Angel Island State Park is the largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay and is located right off the shores of Tiburon , another coastal town next to Mill Valley. Angel Island is also known as the “Ellis Island of the West” because this is where immigrants coming into California (and west coast in general) made landfall prior to being allowed inland.

You will need to board the ferry from San Francisco or Tiburon to get here (the ferry from Tiburon plies on weekdays as a charter service during winter). The ferry ride from Tiburon is shorter than the one from San Francisco in case you are worried about getting motion sickness. Once you get to the island at Ayala Cove, grab a bite at the restaurant/cafe for a picnic by the Bay and also because there are no other food options inside the island.

Angel Island has a fascinating history and was only commissioned to be a state park starting from 1954. The once home to Coast Miwok, Angel Island was a seasonal hunting and gathering location for the local native tribes. With the arrival of the Europeans, this island acted as a safe refuge and supply stop for Spanish explorers like Juan Manuel de Ayala who was one of the first to map the San Francisco Bay.

From 1910 to 1940, Angel Island acted as the base for the U.S. Immigration Station which processed hundreds of thousands of immigrants, the majority being Chinese who had braved the long journey to California in search of opportunities, especially in the aftermath of the Gold Rush. During World War II, this station served as a detention center for Japanese and German POWs before they were sent to facilities farther inland.

With the outbreaks of World Wars I and II, thousands of troops both returning and going to war all around the world were processed through this Island. In the ’50s and ’60s, the Island saw its last military service as a home to a Nike missile base, and the transition to a State Park became complete after the departure of the last military troops in the 60s.

Angel island is a great place for hiking and coastal views. However, the most important visiting point in Angel island is the Angel Island Immigration Station which is now a museum that is free to the public. Nearby is the Detention Barracks museum and the Fog Bell which are also must visits.

My visit to Angel Island several years ago was a poignant affair where the sight of the detention cells and the discrimination towards the Asian immigrants (something that continues to this day) made me teary eyed. There is also a memorial facing the Bay with plaques of thousands of immigrants whose descendents live all over the Bay Area today.

SAN FRANCISCO

Distance: 55 miles

The famous “City by the Bay” or “Fog City” lies only 55 miles north of San Jose and is perfect for a day trip to get a taste of all the mind boggling possibilities that it packs within its tiny 49 square miles (much smaller than San Jose which is 180 square miles in area). I have been living in San Francisco for the last 12 years and let me tell you one thing: a day trip to San Francisco is definitely not enough to see everything! 

However, if you only have a day to spare in the city, I recommend two things: a) treat this day trip as a layover of 6-8 hours and read my San Francisco layover post to maximize your limited time in the city by seeing the major attractions (if this is your very first time) and b) try not to drive into the city if you can help it (because our parking is crazy expensive and difficult to find) and take the Caltrain from San Jose Diridon station. 

If this is not your first rodeo in the city, then boy do I have a ton of posts for you to explore my home a bit more! Find out where to find the best hidden gems in San Francisco , the best San Francisco neighborhoods , best photo spots in SF , free things to do in San Francisco (your wallet/purse will thank you), where to eat for cheap in the city , foodie experiences in San Francisco -including vegetarian and vegan restaurants , best dessert spots , artisan chocolate stores and fancy afternoon tearooms .

San Francisco is one of those cities where urban hiking is a thing, with lots of tranquil and coastal hikes revealing panoramic views of the rugged California coast and the Bridge. You can read my guide to the best hiking trails in San Francisco , hidden beaches in San Francisco , the best viewpoints in San Francisco and the best things to do in Golden Gate Park if you love to explore the outdoors.

Visiting San Francisco with your pup? I have you covered with all my dog friendly San Francisco guides – dog friendly parks , dog friendly beaches and the best dog friendly hikes in the city for a fun day trip to SF with your best friend.

Resident’s tip: San Francisco is almost always cold and chilly, even in summer! Read my what to wear in San Francisco guide or find this handy packing list to dress appropriately for our crazy microclimates.

Distance: 41 miles

Oakland is the third largest city in the Bay Area and is one of the most diverse, historically and culturally rich cities in USA. Although it does not get nearly as much touristy love as its sister San Francisco, you can easily spend a week in Oakland exploring its vibrant neighborhoods and outdoor space. 

Oakland is a big city, so you are best advised to pick one or two neighborhoods or attractions when visiting on a day trip from San Jose. I recommend exploring either Jack London Square (Oakland’s bustling waterfront), strolling around Lake Merritt, checking out the beautiful murals in Downtown, eating out at Rockridge and Temescal neighborhoods or going on a hike amidst the Redwoods at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. 

PS: Read my guide to 25 terrific day trip ideas from Oakland right here

Distance: 33 miles

Napa and Sonoma, the two gems of California wine country may be bit much of a stretch when it comes to day trips from San Jose but why go all the way north when you have Livermore wine country on the East Bay that under an hour’s drive from SJ? 

If you’re a wine enthusiast looking to taste some refreshing, crisp Chardonnay-then head to Livermore Valley wineries which produce this grape in abundance. Livermore valley AVA is one of the best wine regions in California and has been growing wine grapes since the 19th century (the first grapes were planted in 1840s). Cresta Blanca Winery   (founded in 1882) was one of the earliest wineries in this region with its first vintage (1884) winning Grand Prix at the 1889 Paris Exposition , becoming the first California wine to win a competition in France much before the 1976 Judgement of Paris. 

Livermore has over 50 spectacular wineries, of which the the biggest and most famous wineries are Concannon and Wente , the only two that were in operation during the infamous Prohibition . The other notable wineries to visit are Murrieta’s Well , McGrail Vineyards , Rodrigue Molyneaux and Wood Family.

Distance: 47 miles

This charming coastal town with pristine beaches and gorgeous hikes is one of the must visit stops along Highway 1 if you’re driving from San Francisco to Carmel and makes for an excellent day trip from San Jose. When in Pacifica stop by the popular Mazzetti’s bakery or get yourself a “wellness latte” at Saltwater Bakery in Downtown Pacifica (which is so cute!). 

A day out in Pacifica means getting your fill of the sun and sand at one of its many beaches such as Esplanade beach, Pacifica State Beach, Pacifica Beach View Park, Rockaway Beach, San Pedro beach and Gray Whale Cove Beach (between Pacifica and Montara), to name a few. I highly recommend either Pacifica State Beach (say hi to the surfers and playful pups on the sand) or Gray Whale Cove Beach.

Pacifica has tons of amazing coastal hikes revealing dramatic views of the ocean. Since you cannot get to all of them on a day trip, just take my word for it and get on the Mori Point Loop Trail for its ease and views. The other easy hike is on the Devil’s Slide trail (paved trail which used to be a part of Highway 1) or the Pedro Point Headlands trail. See all the Pacifica hiking trails right here.

HALF MOON BAY

Half Moon Bay is the oldest town in San Mateo County and saddled right along Highway 1. A day out to Half Moon Bay means chilling on one of its many popular beaches and gulping down some of the best chowder that you can find in Northern California!

Home to the world famous Mavericks beach (where surfers compete annually at the Big Wave competition) is here but it is a bit off route from Highway 1, Half Moon Bay also boasts of several beaches right off Highway 1 such as Redondo Beach, Pillar Point Beach, Poplar Beach, Mirada Surf Beach, Dunes beach, Roosevelt beach, Surfer’s Beach and Miramar Beach. My favorite? Pillar Point Beach – it is right next to the harbor and Sam’s Chowder House.

I’d be remiss if I did not include the many beautiful coastal trails that Half Moon Bay is blessed with. The most scenic one is undoubtedly the California Coastal Trail, a 1200 mile trail stretching from Oregon to Mexico along the coast that passes through Half Moon Bay, revealing spectacular views. Get on this dog friendly trail from the Poplar Beach parking lot and walk towards Pillar Point Beach in the north.

If you love seafood, check out the offerings at Sam’s Chowder House or Miramar Beach Restaurant which are famous for their fresh catches and chowder. Downtown Half Moon Bay is super nice with lots of restaurants and cute stores to keep you busy.

FILOLI HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS

Distance: 31 miles

Photo credit

If you’re a nature or plant lover, then a visit to the Filoli Historic House and Gardens is one of those day trips from San Jose that you should not miss at any cost! Located in Woodside in the Peninsula and open daily from 10AM-5PM, this 20th century estate property hosts a spectacular garden that comes alive with a riot of floral colors and fragrant fruits in Spring and Summer.

The estate is home to the grand, opulent resident of William Bourn (owner of Empire Mine and San Francisco Gas Company) and his wife Agnes. Designed by architect Willis Polk, the house spans over a whopping 54000 square foot with 56 rooms! Even more impressive is the 16 acre garden with over 75,000 spring bulbs planted and 250 fruit trees, all of which are tended to by 14 horticulturists! The estate itself is a sprawling 654 acres with 577 fruit trees in its orchards.

Filoli Gardens is a treat for the botanical lover in you and a perfect way to get lost in the nurturing beauty of nature amongst the urban sprawl of the Bay Area. Currently, visits are by reservation only and you can book your tickets here .

SAN JOSE DAY TRIPS (SANTA CRUZ COUNTY)

Big basin redwoods state park.

Distance: 28 miles

Photo Credit

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest state park and is home to the largest continuous stand of ancient redwoods, with 18,000 acres of old growth and recovering Redwood forests to be found south of San Francisco . Elevations in the park vary quite a bit from the sea level to over 2,000 feet. Beside a day of hiking and relaxing at Waddell beach, a visit to the fascinating Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center should be on your list.

Like the Giant Coastal Redwoods in Humboldt County that you’ll encounter on a Northern California road trip , some of the trees here are more than 300 feet tall and 50 feet in circumference, with some as ancient as 1,000 to 2,500 years. The park is partially open in  2022 as it continues to recover from the devastating California wildfires of 2020. 

SANTA CRUZ (ONE OF THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM SAN JOSE)

Visiting the charming beach town of Santa Cruz is hands down one of the easiest and best day trips from San Jose . In just about 40 minutes, you will end up on the Central Coast in this vibrant town boasting of world famous beaches, lots of surfing action, whale watching activities from the harbor, scenic hikes, lighthouses perched on the coast, a bustling downtown, tons of good restaurants and cafes and a mind blowing wine region in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The geographical diversity of Santa Cruz is mind-boggling to say the least. From beaches to misty mountains to Coastal Redwood groves (Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park), Santa Cruz has something for everyone. The year round mild weather makes it a fantastic winter getaway in California and one that you can visit with family members of all ages.

Santa Cruz is also a great dog friendly getaway in Northern California , thanks to its dog friendly hikes, beaches and restaurants. You can read my Santa Cruz guide (dog friendly) and where to eat in Santa Cruz for your trip inspiration.

I personally recommend visiting Santa Cruz in winter (Nov-Feb) to catch the Monarch butterflies flock to the Eucalyptus grove next to Natural bridges State Beach for their wintering ritual. Also, Winter and Spring are (Dec-April) are perfect to see the migratory whales from boats and trailers departing the Santa Cruz harbor.

For a day of fun, hop onto the Roaring Camp train for the time of your life! The train has two routes-one that takes you through the Henry Cowell Redwoods up to Bear mountain and the other being a coastal route from the Santa Cruz mountains to the beach boardwalk. 

CAPITOLA, SOQUEL, APTOS

This tiny beach town in Santa Cruz county lies just outside the city of Santa Cruz and is famous for the row of colorful homes, aptly titled “The Venetians” that line one end of Monterey Bay and form a pretty sight when viewed from the Capitola State Beach or the boardwalk. 

Capitola Wharf is a lively place with restaurants and stores showcasing local artists. I highly recommend checking two stores on Capitola Avenue: Lumen art gallery featuring eclectic, local California art and home decor as well the Ethos Santa Cruz shop dedicated to helping people move towards a zero waste lifestyle and less plastic usage.

Soquel and Aptos are two other nearby towns in Santa Cruz county that have some really good restaurants and wineries. In fact, Soquel is home to Bargetto winery which is the oldest one in Santa Cruz county while Aptos has some splendid beaches such as Seacliff State Beach.

DAY TRIP IDEAS FROM SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA (CENTRAL COAST)

Distance: 72 miles

Monterey County is ideal for day trips from San Jose since there is so much to see and do here, especially on the Peninsula. The largest and most popular spot here is undoubtedly the erstwhile fish canning town of Monterey, made famous in the novel “ Cannery Row ” of John Steinbeck ( the author was born and raised in nearby Salinas which is home to a museum dedicated to him).

A day out at Monterey means a quick photo-op at the Cannery Row (it is very touristy so please come in early to park), strolling the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf, visiting the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, dipping your feet in the sand at its many beaches (Monterey state beach, Del Monte Beach or San Carlos Beach at Monterey harbor) and doing some serious whale watching throughout the year via Monterey Bay Whale Watch that departs from the Wharf! 

Monterey has a thriving dining scene replete with the freshest seafood, bakeries and even a vegan Mexican restaurant on the waterfront! My favorites are Parker Lusseau pastries , Alta Bakery and Cafe , Old Fisherman’s Grotto and Monterey’s Fish House . 

PACIFIC GROVE

Pacific Grove is right next to Monterey and is another coastal town on the Peninsula that deserves a day trip of its own to explore. My number one recommendation would be to visit Pacific Grove in late spring (aka April-May) when the coast gets covered by a purple blanket of blooming ice plant flowers. This sea of purple is a sight to behold as you walk along the coast. You can read details on my Pacific Grove post here .

My other favorites things to do in Pacific Grove are walking down Ocean View Boulevard starting from Lover’s Point Park, visiting Point Pinos Lighthouse (the oldest continuously operated lighthouse in California), visiting Asilomar State Beach, checking out the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary (Dec-Feb) and enjoying some tasty seafood at Passion Fish. If you’re a nature lover, stop by the Natural history museum in downtown to learn more about the flora and fauna of the central coast, especially the migratory Monarch butterflies.

CARMEL BY THE SEA

Distance: 75 miles

Carmel by the Sea is a mere 10 minute drive from Monterey but feels like a totally different world! This coastal town feels like a fairy tale European village with Tudor style homes and cottages all around, not to mention the cute as heck downtown where you can easily get lost in the flower ladled cobbled bylanes. For those of you couples coming in from San Jose, Carmel also doubles up as an excellent Northern California romantic getaway.

A San Jose day trip to Carmel is actually very doable if you start in early so that you can have ample time to park and explore downtown. Since I have visited Carmel at least a dozen times over my 12 years of living in San Francisco, you can read my crazy detailed guide to Carmel to plan your trip.

The short version is that explore downtown, walk down Ocean Avenue to Carmel Beach, discover the whimsical fairytale cottages, explore the art galleries and enjoy the food and wine in one of the many cafes, restaurants and tasting rooms in downtown. I recommend my favorite La Bicyclette, Stationery (great for brunch), La Balena and Cultura Comida y Bebida as must visits. 

When in Carmel (or Monterey or Pacific Grove), try to squeeze in a few hours to explore the iconic 17 mile drive looping between these towns. This drive takes you through several scenic stops, viewpoints and beaches-the most famous being the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach.

Right outside of Carmel lies the magical Point Lobos State Natural Reserve which deserves a day trip of its own, thanks to its pristine beauty, beaches and hikes. You could spend a few hours in downtown Carmel, stop by the famous Carmel Mission and then enter the Reserve ($10/vehicle) for hiking and scenic views.

Pro tip: Fireworks are prohibited in Carmel over the July 4 weekend. So if you’re wondering where to take your dog on 4th July , escape to this seaside town.

CARMEL VALLEY

Distance: 78 miles

Carmel by the Sea is super popular as a Bay Area day trip for many, but diehard wine lovers make it to Carmel valley in Monterey Peninsula.With dozens of wineries and tasting rooms, Carmel Valley village will make your day trip from San Jose a fantastic mini wine vacation! Carve out your day at Carmel Valley with this my detailed guide on where to go wine tasting, dining and having a good time!

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK

Distance: 76 miles

Pinnacles National Park is the smallest (and also the one most recently designated) National Park in California and is located inland in Monterey county. Pinnacles is known for its unique Geologic Landscape born out of tectonic plate activity and volcanic action-leading to the formation of the unique spires or “Pinnacles” towering solemnly over the earth. Besides these obvious geologic structures, this park is also famous for its talus caves and condor sightings and is popular with rock climbers, much like Joshua Tree National Park . 

A day trip from San Jose to Pinnacles means leaving early and arriving either at the Pinnacles Visitor Center on the East entrance or driving further south to Soledad to access the park from the West Entrance. Trails from both entrances lead to Talus caves and more strenuous hikes into the High Peaks for condor spotting. Read my complete guide to Pinnacles National Park to plan your trip today!

Distance: 110 miles

Big Sur is that 90 miles of California’s central coast that has been immortalized in prose and poetry and is one of the most scenic drives in the world. However covering Big Sur as a day trip from San Jose is definitely stretching things a little bit where you are going WAY over the 2 hour driving time.

A complete Big Sur road trip from San Jose is something I would 100% advise against, but that does not mean that you shouldn’t venture out on Highway 1 and cover a few major stops.

The only issue is that once you get onto Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1/Cabrillo Highway) after Carmel, then you cannot get onto any other freeway till you hit San Simeon, 90 miles south! So pick a few stops beyond Carmel judiciously so that you have a relaxing time on your day trip from San Jose.

My recommendation to experience Big Sur as a day trip from San Jose would be to make a hard stop at Partington Cove Trailhead and turning back. Upto this point, you will get to spend time at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (one of the many romantic stops at Big Sur ), Garrapata State Park and Beach (with the Calla Lilies blooming in spring in the adjacent valley), Bixby Bridge, Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Beach (with purple sand), Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Henry Miller Memorial Library. Big Sur Bakery and Nepenthe are two excellent places to stop by for lunch.

And that brings me to the end of this post on some of the best day trips from San Jose that you can explore on weekends! I hope you liked this list of destinations to check out as San Jose day trips and have made some fantastic weekend plans already! Thanks a lot for stopping by and safe travels.

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Great Blog!!!! Helps a lot in planning local trips.

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16 Kid-Friendly Day Trips Worth the Time & Effort

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

This list has everything from amusement parks to train rides to beach days

Life has been a lot lately—and planning an epic summer vacation may have taken a back seat. We get it—between tracking down the must-dos in any given area, and finding the just-right hotel that both kids and parents will adore (plus the cost of flights), it’s all overwhelming…until now that is.

For those that want to get out of town (or check out a new part of town) without much planning, we’ve vetted 16 easy road trips that promise to deliver big-time family fun. From a town that offers roller coasters and sea lions to hikes along the coast that even your toddler will love, these stress-free mini-vacations will help you rediscover our area’s wonders and adventures.

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Bay Area Day Trip Idea #1: Pass Time in Pescadero

Between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz along Highway 1, you will find the tiny town of Pescadero tucked in off the road. It offers beaches for sunbathing and wooded state parks for hiking. Get a history lesson at the Pigeon Point Light Station and then swing by the town for some artichoke garlic bread from Arcangeli Grocery. On your way out of town, stop at Harley Goat Farm for a farm tour and meet some animals . Don’t miss the taco stand in the town’s one gas station!

READ: Our Must-Read Guide to Pescadero

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #2: Play in the Presidio

Whether you are there to spend time checking out views of the Bay, or to play in the new Presidio Tunnel Tops , the Presidio has tons to offer families who want a day in the city. There are old military batteries to explore and a fun Storywalk for the summer. Kids events like free bike riding lessons are offered all summer long so plan your day and head over!

READ: The Full Scoop on What's Happening in the Presidio  

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #3: Swim & Ride in Concord

This East Bay town is the perfect spot for a summer visit with gorgeous hiking and amusement park afternoons. Little ones will love the rides at Pixieland and you can don your swimsuits for a day of fun at Hurricane Harbor. Spend some time parked by the play structure at The Veranda and then eat your hearts out at Puesto. Todos Santos Plaza is a fun place to run around—there are family-friendly breweries, restaurants, and even an arcade in the blocks surrounding the park.

READ: More Fun Things to Do in Concord with Kids

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Bay Area Day Trip Idea #4: Adventure in Wine Country

Wine Country may sound like a parents’ perfect destination, but it also has a lot to offer families who want to bring the little ones. Some of our favorites? TrainTown in Sonoma and the Epicenter Sports and Entertainment Complex in Santa Rosa. Got an animal-obsessed kid ? Sign up for a safari and, if you have the time, spend the night at Safari West. Hungry? Eat some delicious grub at these kid-friendly restaurants: Lou’s Luncheonette in Sonoma and Boon Fly Café in Napa.

READ: Our A-to-Z Kid-Friendly Winery Guide

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #5: Back to Berkeley

The super-chill East Bay city of Berkeley offers college-town charm and cool funky stores to explore. If you visit the UC Berkeley campus, head to the Campanile (clock tower) where you can go to the top for an epic view. Kids can run around and play at Tilden Park and see animals on the little farm .

READ: Why We Love Fourth Street in Berkeley

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Bay Area Day Trip Idea #6: Zip Line in Rocklin

This massive ziplining park is worth a visit and is the perfect day trip from the Bay Area. While you must be at least 70 lbs. to take on the zipline course, little ones will have a blast on the Quarry Kidz Kove—a huge net, swing, and climbing structure.

READ: Everything You Need to Know about Quarry Park

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #7: Day of Fun in Santa Cruz

A day trip to walk the boardwalk is a summer tradition so if you haven’t made your way there yet this summer, now’s the time. There are sea lions to be seen, clam chowder to be eaten, and tie-dye shirts for everyone. For something a little more chill, go on a nature walk through Henry Cowell and be one with nature.

READ: All of our Santa Cruz Recs in One, Handy Place

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #8: Time Travel in San Juan Bautista

Gather up your mini history buffs and road trip to California’s oldest city! Visitors to this cool little town are treated to up-close views of stars, tasty treats as well as historic museums and a state park where the grounds include an early settler’s cabin, a jail, and a blacksmith shop.

READ: San Juan Bautista Is as Kid-Friendly as They Come  

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #9: Head to the South Bay

The South Bay city of San Jose is packed with kid adventures. Check out Bill’s Backyard at the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose and then run around in the Municipal Rose Garden chasing the butterflies. The Rosicrucian Museum is a must-visit if you want to check out some mummies.

READ: A Round-Up of Our Favorite San Jose Activities  

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #10: Hang Out in Fairfield

Nestled between San Francisco and Sacramento, Fairfield is a great destination for a day trip. Visit the famous Jelly Belly Factory and check out a local winery overlooking beautiful vineyards while the kids play. Head over to Two60 Kitchen + Bar to counterbalance all that sugar and try the homemade lumpia—a spring roll whose recipe has been passed down for generations.

READ: Everything to Do in Fairfield with Kids

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #11: Santa Rosa Beckons

Santa Rosa is home to the awesome Bay Area Discovery Museum where it’s easy to spend an entire day. A day trip delivers outdoor adventure, delicious eats, and maybe even some wine-tasting time for the parents.

READ: What You Need to Know about Santa Rosa Including Where to Eat & Where to Stay

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Bay Area Day Trip Idea #12: Sweet Sacramento

If visiting the state capital was on your bucket list, now you have good reason to go. Sacramento offers lots of family-friendly adventures for folks who’ve got train lovers (thanks to the California Railroad Museum), plane flyers, and fairy catchers in the family. And the perfect way to end the day? At one of the many confectionery shops. Aww, sweet Sacramento.

READ: Our Insider’s Guide to All Things Sacramento

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #13: Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Grove

This summer destination is a great spot for a day of fun or even a long weekend. Sandy beaches, Nemo at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and a quaint downtown with shopping and eating options for everyone are just a few of the draws. If you have some time, head over to Pacific Grove for a scenic walk through the butterfly garden and dinner before heading back.

READ: Why These 3 Towns are Some of Our Favorite Day Trips from the Bay Area

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #14: Get Giddy in Gilroy

Just under 45 minutes from San Jose, Gilroy is home to several fun adventures for families—none of which have to do with garlic. Parents will love wandering the beautiful botanical garden while kids will adore searching for petroglyphs and other Indian artifacts as well as the rides at Gilroy Gardens.

READ: Everything You Need to Know about Visiting Gilroy with Kids

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Bay Area Day Trip Idea #15: Explore Half Moon Bay

This coastal Bay Area town is a great spot for a beach day. Spend some time at the tide pools at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and then grab lunch downtown at our favorite sandwich shop at the San Benito House.

Insider Tip: Don’t pass up the s’mores experience at the Ritz Carlton! 

READ: Why Half Moon Bay Is Always a Good Idea

Bay Area Day Trip Idea #16: Discover Culture in Japantown

Spend your day exploring a new culture in Japantown. Start your day at Peace Plaza, shop for Hello Kitty gear at the Japantown Mall, and then have lunch at Marufuku Ramen. Summer brings a ton of cultural events to the area so check online to see what’s coming up before you visit.

READ: All of Our Japantown Recs in One Handy Place

Additional reporting by Sandra Lee

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15 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in the Bay Area, CA

Written by Lisa Alexander and Freddy Sherman Updated Jan 3, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When you're ready for a break and want to get away from San Francisco for the weekend, you have a seemingly endless array of options. Couples may want a romantic getaway near San Francisco, like The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay with its ocean-view rooms, luxurious spa, and fine dining. Families traveling with children may prefer a resort destination with a wider range of activities, like Lake Tahoe or Yosemite National Park .

You don't have to travel far from San Francisco to feel like you are getting away from it all. Muir Beach in Marin County is only 18 miles from The City (about a 45-minute drive) but gives the impression of a hidden paradise. The landmark Claremont Club & Spa offers a pampering resort experience only 12 miles (a 35-minute drive) from San Francisco.

California's excellent freeway and highway system means many weekend getaways from the Bay Area are no more than a few hours away by car. The historic waterfront town of Monterey and the enchanting seaside village of Carmel are about a three-hour drive down the coast.

Plan an interesting short break, adventurous weekend away, or relaxing escape with our list of the best weekend getaways in the Bay Area.

1. Lake Tahoe

2. stinson beach, 3. muir beach, 4. point reyes, 5. the claremont club & spa, 6. monterey, 7. carmel-by-the-sea, 8. lake berryessa, 9. bodega bay, 10. sausalito, 11. half moon bay, 13. santa cruz, 14. mammoth lakes, 15. yosemite national park.

The country's largest alpine lake covers a part of the border between California and Nevada, about 200 miles from the Bay Area. The drive takes only about four hours without traffic.

During wintertime, Lake Tahoe is a snowy wonderland and a world-class ski destination. Several large-scale ski resorts surround Lake Tahoe, and the ski slopes overlook the dazzling expanse of emerald-blue waters.

In the summer, outdoor activities draw many visitors to Lake Tahoe. Families and adventure seekers alike appreciate the wide range of attractions and things to do , from boating and fishing to hiking and mountain biking. Thousands of miles of hiking trails are found in the Lake Tahoe wilderness.

When the weather is warm, visitors flock to Lake Tahoe's beaches for the stunning mountain scenery and wide array of recreational opportunities. During the summer, the lake's snow-melted waters become more temperate (tolerable for swimming in shallow area), and the ripples glisten in the sunshine.

Kings Beach State Recreation Area offers a superb stretch of sandy beach that is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and boating. The recreation area has excellent amenities, and the nearby town of Kings Beach is brimming with shops, casual eateries, and snack bars. Another favorite lakefront spot is Incline Village , a lively area with an abundance of hotels, boutiques, and restaurants.

You can't beat Stinson Beach for an old-fashioned easy Bay Area weekend getaway, especially for families. Tucked away behind rolling hills in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area , Stinson Beach is considered one of the best beaches in California . The fine white-sand shoreline extends for miles. It's a great beach for sunbathing and playing volleyball in the summertime, and swimming is possible when the conditions are safe.

Lifeguards survey the beach from July through Labor Day weekend. Winter and spring seasons draw surfers, who practice the sport at their own risk. Facilities at Stinson Beach include public restrooms, showers, a snack bar, and picnic areas with BBQ grills.

The old-school town of Stinson Beach offers an eclectic mix of locally owned shops, cafés, and a small grocery store where tourists can pick up provisions for a day at the beach.

Although Stinson Beach is only 35 minutes from downtown San Francisco, it is refreshingly devoid of modern development. The town just has a few vintage hotels and boutique lodgings.

Travelers should be aware that the drive to Stinson Beach is a difficult winding portion of Highway One, with many hairpin turns, although many people love the coastal views along the way. During summertime, the road sometimes gets clogged with traffic, and the journey takes twice as long.

Another consideration: The parking lot at Stinson Beach often fills up on warm days, especially on weekends during summertime. It's best to arrive well before noon to get a parking spot.

Stinson Beach is located near two other top tourist attractions of Marin County: Mount Tamalpais State Park and the federally protected Muir Woods National Monument , a primeval forest of old-growth redwood trees.

Muir Beach is just 17 miles north of San Francisco but feels like a little hidden paradise far away from everything. Lush forested hillsides and shrub-covered bluffs shelter the small sandy beach, hidden in a sheltered cove.

The area surrounding the beach is protected as a nature preserve (part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area ) and includes a network of hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Redwood Creek and its tidal lagoon, which flows into Muir Beach, provide habitat for endangered Coho salmon and California red-legged frogs. A recent restoration project has improved the habitat and allowed the native species to thrive. To access the beach, visitors cross a pedestrian bridge that traverses Redwood Creek.

Those who appreciate a quiet setting will prefer Muir Beach to Stinson Beach. The picturesque environment is the focus at this beach, and facilities are limited to public restrooms, a small parking lot, and a few picnic tables near the parking lot. Several fire rings are available on the beach for creating beach bonfires. There are no lifeguards at Muir Beach.

Visitors should arrive early on summer weekends. The parking lot can fill up by around noon during high season, especially when the weather is warm. For picnics at the beach, a good place to pick up provisions on the way is at Good Earth Natural Foods .

For a romantic getaway, the Pelican Inn at Muir Beach is the perfect spot. The hotel offers old-world charm in an idyllic setting. The half-timbered whitewashed building, with its slate roof and leaded windows, channels a 16th-century English country inn. The hotel has cozy guest rooms that feature period decor and a restaurant that serves authentic English pub fare prepared from local ingredients.

Nestled in a coastal valley within walking distance of the Pelican Inn, the Green Gulch Farm is a haven of tranquility. This organic farm and garden is home to the San Francisco Zen Center . Visitors may attend meditation sessions, classes, Dharma talks, and other public events at the center.

Muir Beach is closer to San Francisco than Stinson Beach but is on the same Highway One oceanfront route; however, the drive is not quite as arduous. Muir Beach is just three miles away from the Muir Woods National Monument .

Point Reyes, less than an hour from San Francisco, is another unspoiled Bay Area getaway destination. The entire area is officially known as the Point Reyes National Seashore , a national park that includes the Point Reyes Lighthouse , which dates to 1870.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse is reached via a staircase of over 300 steps. Safety fencing surrounds the steps because they are built alongside an ocean bluff with sheer sides. Visitors can enter the lighthouse to see the historic Fresnel lens and clockwork mechanism.

A highlight of the Point Reyes National Seashore is Point Reyes Beach, also called Great Beach . This 11-mile expanse of pristine coastline is completely free of development.

The national seashore (like a national park) is also home to Drakes Beach , located near the lighthouse. This beach is America's version of England's White Cliffs of Dover with dramatic, sheer, white limestone cliffs towering hundreds of feet above the rough Pacific below.

This historic landmark hotel crowns the Oakland hills in the city of Berkeley, just 12 miles away across the Bay Bridge from downtown San Francisco. The Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel has delighted guests ever since it opened in 1915. Aside from being a luxury resort hotel, the Claremont is also a fitness and country club that offers private memberships.

The 22-acre four-star property offers an abundance of recreational opportunities: swimming in one of the three saline pools, playing tennis on one of the 10 courts, and hiking in the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve.

Many locals visit the Claremont to get a pampering spa treatment at the hotel's renowned spa, without staying overnight. Spa services include massages, facials, bath therapy, and hydrotherapy wellness experiences.

There are several dining options at the Claremont, including Limewood , a gourmet restaurant with superb Bay views; East Bay Provisions , a casual café that serves breakfast pastries, brunch, deli sandwiches, and salads; and Weekend Brunch that offers brunch and poolside meals on the weekends.

The small seaside town, formerly known for its fishing and fish packing industries, has evolved from the gritty John Steinbeck vision into a fun weekend getaway destination. Monterey is now filled with tourist attractions , and those former fish canneries are now trendy boutiques, art galleries, tourist shops, and restaurants.

It takes about 2.5 hours to drive down from San Francisco, via the very scenic Highway 1 coastal highway. Continuing farther past Monterey toward Carmel-by-the-Sea, travelers can drive along the epic 17-Mile Drive , which hugs the ocean bluffs overlooking Pebble Beach and other scenic spots like Spanish Bay .

Most tourists congregate in the area around Cannery Row and near the Monterey Bay Aquarium , a must-see attraction that showcases the incredibly rich biodiversity of the bay.

For beachfront accommodations, you have to drive around Monterey Bay to Monterey State Beach . The three-star Monterey Tides hotel is steps away from the beach and has wonderful views of Monterey Bay. This chic beachfront hotel appeals to both couples and families.

The next city down the coast from Monterey, Carmel is a quaint seaside village known for its top-notch resort amenities: locally owned boutiques, art galleries, luxurious hotels, cute cafés, candy shops, bakeries, and fine-dining restaurants. Shopping is one of the top things to do in Carmel . It's fun to browse the one-of-a-kind shops and discover artisan-made products.

Development is heavily controlled in downtown Carmel. The flower-bedecked and tree-shaded streets are lined with an ensemble of traditional Spanish-style buildings and enchanting storybook cottages that date to the 1920s. The village also has no traffic lights, no parking meters, and no individual address numbers on buildings (each building has a name instead).

The city is officially called Carmel-by-the-Sea and has long been a haven for artists of all types. The city bills itself as being extremely dog-friendly, and canine companions are welcome in most of the city's businesses. Dogs are also welcome, off-leash, at Carmel Beach .

Carmel's sublime sandy beach and stunning sunsets make it the perfect destination for romantic couples' getaways.

This man-made lake was created in the 1960s with the construction of a large dam that now provides hydroelectric power to several Bay Area cities. The lake, the largest in Napa County, is where San Franciscans come to relax and to play on the water.

Lake Berryessa is very popular with boaters, as well as swimmers and water skiers. The lake is stocked with a wide variety of fish and is a popular getaway destination for anglers .

Surrounding the lake is a vast, 6,000-acre nature reserve, which has hiking trails and other places to explore. The lake is north of San Francisco and it takes about two hours to drive here.

About 90 minutes north of San Francisco in Sonoma County, Bodega Bay is another Bay Area getaway that delights visitors with its wild, rugged stretch of coastline. The large protected bay shelters a sprawling shoreline of fine golden-sand beaches and is a popular spot for kayaking.

The community incorporates a fishing harbor and the quaint village of Bodega Bay. The town caters to tourists with a wide range of accommodations, including upscale hotels like the Inn at the Tides and the Bodega Bay Lodge. There are also affordable options such as the Bodega Coast Inn & Suites.

Movie fans will recognize the town of Bodega Bay from its appearance as the location for the iconic Alfred Hitchcock film The Birds .

The area's history is fascinating. It was occupied by the Russians in the early 19 th century before becoming part of Spanish California and later the United States.

This picture-perfect seaside community nestles along a quiet bay in Marin County, on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge. It's just a short ferry ride away from San Francisco.

Wooded hillsides enclose the town, and an array of beautiful mansions perch above the bay. Sunny yacht marinas give Sausalito the feel of a Mediterranean coastal resort town and are often captured by local artists in paintings. Tucked away at the waterfront are colorful little houseboats, relics of the town's free-spirited days in the Bohemian 1960s.

Sausalito has an inviting downtown filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The most bustling area of the town is found right next to the ferry terminal and continuing from there along Bridgeway , the town's main street, which runs alongside a scenic waterfront path .

Several gourmet restaurants on Bridgeway (or just off this street) feature fabulous bay views, including The Spinnaker and the upscale Italian restaurant Scoma's of Sausalito .

The coastal landscape of the Marin Headlands provides a splendid backdrop for the town of Sausalito. Some of the views of the Golden Gate Bridge, bay, and city from the elevated locations in Sausalito are truly amazing (and very Instagram-worthy).

In a secluded coastal setting, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is the perfect Bay Area romantic getaway for couples. This five-star hotel is the only seaside luxury resort in Northern California, and most of the rooms and suites have spectacular ocean views. The resort sits atop a cliff, with a pristine sandy beach only a short walk away.

Amenities at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay include a championship golf course, an enormous spa, tennis courts, and fitness center. The hotel also has three excellent restaurants with amazing ocean views.

The charming small country town and its surrounding nature sites offer plenty of tourist appeal. Half Moon Bay is a popular weekend destination for couples, as well as for families with kids, and outdoorsy types. Visitors can take walks along the beach, check out the local farms, and go hiking in the nearby redwood forests.

Sonoma County, about an hour's drive from San Francisco, is like a cheaper, more authentic Napa Valley. It's filled with vine-covered fields, and there are many curbside farm stands where you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Dairies and other local producers also have roadside shops where you can buy and try fresh cheese, meats, and other foods. The area is also populated with a few luxury resorts and spas.

Outdoor activities include hiking, biking (road and mountain), boating, and fishing. A good place to hike is the Jack London State Historic Park , which aside from having miles of hiking trails, has the former home and the grave of celebrated author Jack London.

Sonoma is both a city and a county, and Sonoma Plaza is the city of Sonoma's 19 th -century town center and main street area. Railroad buffs (and kids) will love the Sonoma TrainTown Railroad , a small-gauge steam railroad and train amusement park.

Synonymous with summertime fun in the sun, Santa Cruz boasts one of the best beaches in California , only a short drive (90 minutes) from San Francisco. This classic beach town has a superb beach with an expansive shoreline of soft, golden sand. Sunny weather and a sheltered location in a protected bay, with gentle surf, are other advantages of Santa Cruz Beach.

Next to the beach is the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , an old-school, mile-long wooden boardwalk, lined with shops, carnival games, and next to an amusement park. The Boardwalk opened way back in 1907, and two rides (the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the Looff Carousel) are even National Historic Landmarks.

The ocean in front of the beach is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and from the beach, you can often see dolphins, otters, sea lions, and whales.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Santa Cruz

This natural getaway destination is another year-round outdoor area known mainly for its winter sports. It's a beautiful six-hour drive from San Francisco (or a 45-minute flight). The town is in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and Mammoth Mountain is the local mountain and the name of the ski resort. Yosemite National Park is close-by, and nearby Mono Lake , with it's lunar-like landscape, is also something to see.

The elevation is high, and so is the snowpack, sometimes allowing ski areas to stay open well into the summer months.

A visit to the Mammoth area should also include a stop at the nearby Manzanar National Historic Site . This is one of the 10 concentration camps set up by the US government during World War II for people of Japanese descent.

For the ultimate Bay Area weekend getaway, you can leave San Francisco early in the morning and about four hours later, you'll arrive at Yosemite National Park . It's truly a spectacular place, with incredible natural wonders like the 3,000-foot granite walls of El Capitan or the giant granite Half Dome rock. Also be sure to check out Bridalveil Fall , a 600-foot waterfall.

The park is also home to giant sequoia redwood trees. There's a small village in the park with shops and the park's museum and visitor's center. You can also find places to eat and spend the night.

There's a range of activities available, from hiking and camping , to tours by tram. The guided tram tours are available in a two-, four-, or eight-hour (all-day) itinerary and take you all over the park.

Read More: From San Francisco to Yosemite: Best Ways to Get There

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Getaway Ideas: If you are interested in going further afield or don't mind hopping on a short flight, you can find all kinds of great destinations. Couples should have a look at our article on the Top Romantic Weekend Getaways in California . If it's a beach getaway you are looking for, see our list of the best beaches in Northern California . And for something unique, check out our list of the best hot springs in California .

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17 Family-Friendly Day Trips From San Francisco

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: February 23, 2023

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Whether you are a local or a tourist, the city of San Francisco has dozens of family-friendly activities and events to keep you busy. But sometimes it’s rewarding to get out of the city and explore more of the greater Bay Area and Northern California. Day trips are logistically easy as well as a cheap way to explore the areas surrounding the City by the Bay. We regularly add day trips from our San Francisco home base into our family’s travel plans in the summer and on weekends to keep our travel costs down.

The trick with day trips is know just how far to go and how to time a particular trip around busy Bay Area traffic trends. So with that challenge in mind, I’ve chosen 17 kid-friendly destinations that are doable as day trips from San Francisco, with all my best tips for doing each trip smartly.

I’ve personally visited 16 of the 17 destinations on this list (some of them multiple times) so you can trust these recommendations! Plus, I’ve also included links to additional in-depth resources about each destination, either here on Trips with Tykes or written by travel bloggers I know and have verified who will give you the honest scoop.

Top Day Trips from San Francisco for Families

1. monterey.

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 2 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Kid-friendly things to do in Monterey

With its world class aquarium, gorgeous beaches, and bustling waterfront scene, Monterey is as good as it gets for a kid-friendly day trip from the Bay Area. The Monterey Bay Aquarium and adjacent Cannery Row are hugely popular, especially on summer or warm weather weekends. Plan to arrive early to beat the crowds.

With toddlers and younger kids, be sure not to miss the Dennis the Menace Playground just a short drive away, which has a variety of play structures. Older kids may really enjoy a whale watching trip out on the bay or a trip to explore the quaint downtown of nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The drive from San Francisco to Monterey is about 2 hours but can have substantial traffic, so plan your departure times accordingly. If you have flexibility, this is one day trip I recommend doing on a weekday if possible (leaving the Bay Area after morning rush hour).

2. Stinson Beach

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 1 hour
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Day Trip to Stinson Beach with Kids (510Families.com)

Stinson Beach in Marin County has long been a popular summer time beach retreat for Bay Area families. At less than 1 hour from San Francisco by car when the traffic cooperates, it makes for a quick trip that still feels like a real getaway. The wide sandy beach has plenty of room to build sand castles, throw a frisbee, or find space for a picnic. And the downtown has several family-friendly restaurants for grabbing a meal or ice cream treat (I recommend Breakers Cafe, which has a casual fare and a kids menu).

Check the weather before you go because, being in Northern California, Stinson Beach can really get socked in by fog. The road to Stinson, Highway 1 North, is quite curvy so be prepared if your kids are prone to car sickness.

3. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 1.25-1.5 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Day Trip to Santa Cruz

It’s about an hour and a half to head south to laid back Santa Cruz , where a historic boardwalk with carnival rides and food galore await your adventurous kiddos. It’s one of the best theme parks in Northern California and bonus that it’s also full of history!

When we visited when our kids were toddler and preschooler age, they adored the rides but also simply enjoyed spending time on the beach in front of the boardwalk digging in the sand. Now that our oldest is a teen, she can’t get enough of the classic coasters and thrill rides.

I’m starting to sound like a broken record, but again, plan your trip around traffic. Parts of California Highway 17 to Santa Cruz from San Francisco are pretty narrow and hilly. On warm weekend days, everyone from San Francisco heads in that same direction! I recommend leaving the city early in the morning (by 8:00am ideally on weekends) to beat the traffic. Plus, you can snag the in-demand parking at the Boardwalk if you are an early bird.

4. Muir Woods

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 30-45 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Tips for Visiting Muir Woods National Monument

The natural beauty of Northern California is something that all kids should experience first-hand. The imposing redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County north of San Francisco make for an easy day (or even half-day) trip. With several loop trails of different lengths through the trees, you can customize your hike to match the ages and ability of your kids.

Muir Woods is a National Monument run by the National Park Service so your kids can participate in the Junior Ranger program during their visit as well. And if you have an America the Beautiful annual parks pass, be sure to bring it for free admission (remember, 4th graders can get in free with the Every Kid Outdoors Program !).

Just be aware that parking reservations are now required at Muir Woods. So make a reservation in advance, and do so especially early if you hope to visit on weekends or holidays that regularly sell out.

5. Gilroy Gardens

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Gilroy Gardens Review & Tips

Northern California has a number of beloved amusement parks, but Gilroy Gardens might be the most well-kept secret of them all. This hidden gem of an amusement park in the tiny town of Gilroy (about 20 minutes south of San Jose) is perfect for younger kids. Rides are fairly easy going with lots for families to do together, with a couple of smaller coasters in the mix to help get your kids ready for the bigger thrills of other theme parks.

Admission is reasonably-priced and the beautifully landscaped grounds give even Disney a run for its money. Our family’s personal favorite thing to do is spotting the famous “Circus Trees,” created using unique tree grafting techniques that sometimes defy belief.

6. Roaring Camp Railroads

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Best Train Rides in Northern California

If you have kids who are in love with trains, a day trip from San Francisco to Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton (near Santa Cruz, about 1.5 hours from the city) will definitely be a huge hit.

Roaring Camp features historic refurbished steam trains running on several routes, including one through coastal redwoods (75 minutes roundtrip) and another that drops visitors at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (3 hours roundtrip). There is also a central “town” with kid-friendly western activities and dining.

The railroad hosts special seasonal events for nearly every holiday you can imagine, including A Day Out With Thomas in summer, Christmas lights trains, a fall harvest festival train, and more. Be sure to check Roaring Camp’s calendar and purchase tickets in advance because they can and do regularly sell out.

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 2+ hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Getting the Most out of Your Big Sur Day Trip (California Crossings)

South of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea is the breathtaking coastal preserve of Big Sur. Although it’s far enough from the city that I’d recommend it as a full weekend getaway, parts of it can certainly be done from San Francisco as a day trip if you’d prefer.

Highlights include unspoiled beaches galore. Older kids will enjoy a tour of the historic Point Sur Lighthouse. A can’t miss stop offering the iconic Big Sur view most people have seen before in postcards is McWay Falls. View the waterfall from atop coastal cliffs by strolling on a short kid-friendly hiking trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. For dining with kids, I highly recommend the beloved and quaint Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn (delicious for brunch).

Most of Big Sur is accessible only on the very winding Highway 1 which can sometimes be closed by any and everything that Mother Nature throws its way – wildfires , floods, and mudslides! Always check road conditions carefully before planning a trip.

8. Half Moon Bay

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 40 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Thing to do in Half Moon Bay (365 Traveler) & How to Spend a Blissful Day in Half Moon Bay (Beautiful Brown Adventures)

On warm Bay Area days, head south along Highway 1 to the pristine beach town of Half Moon Bay. The beaches are easily accessible and free, with a fair amount of parking compared to other destinations along the Northern California coast. Watch surfers, whales, or just let your kids dig in the sand.

If you want to get active on your day trip, Half Moon Bay is teeming with hiking opportunities, many of which are doable for even younger kids. The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail runs for 11.5 miles overlooking the coast with many dramatic views and is ideal for hiking and biking and walking between beaches.

While in Half Moon Bay, consider a visit to Lemos Farm for a train or pony ride. Lemos Farm is best known for its fall pumpkin patch, but it has lots of other kid-friendly activities on weekends year-round.

9. Sonoma County: Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, & Sonoma

• In-Depth Destination Guide : 15 Fun Things to Do in Sonoma with Kids (We3Travel)

Who says wine country is only for grown ups? Definitely not me! There is so much to do in Sonoma County with little ones while still allowing mom and dad to sample a sip or two along the way (with a responsible driver, of course). There are so many different areas even within Sonoma County with kid-friendly things to do that you could definitely tackle the area as multiple day trips.

Highlights include the kid-friendly amusement park Train Town in the village of Sonoma as well as the Charles M. Schulz Museum (of Peanuts cartoons) in Santa Rosa. Animal-loving kids will adore taking a tour of the animal park at Safari West, while families will also enjoy the quaint town square of Healdsburg with several ice cream shops on the town square perfect for a treat.

10. Calistoga & St. Helena (Napa County)

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 1.25 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Complete Guide to Napa Valley Wine Country with Kids

Some parts of Napa County are decidedly not kid-friendly, but the smaller town of Calistoga north of the Napa main drag is a perfect fit for families. The city was founded as a spa retreat due to its geothermal activity, and that volcanic legacy makes for some engaging natural wonders and history to explore.

Our kids especially enjoyed seeing Old Faithful Geyser of Calistoga in action as well as the Petrified Forest – both attractions formed by volcanic activity. Another family-friendly stop (and one that tends to fly under the radar) is the Sharpsteen Museum . This tiny but captivating museum was founded by one of Walt Disney’s animators and houses some impressive Disney artifacts on display.

The next town over from Calistoga – St. Helena – is quite family-friendly as well, and is a spot our family recommends especially for dining. In particular, families will enjoy Gott’s Roadside and Pizzeria Tra Vigne.

If parents want to still take in the highlights of wine country, there are a few family-friendly winery options nearby to enjoy wine tasting in family-friendly surroundings. Consider a visit to Sterling Vineyards which has a gondola ride. Another family-friendly winery is Castello di Amorosa, which is a modern replica of a Tuscan style castle perfect for exploration.

11. Sacramento

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Visiting Old Sacramento with Kids

The capital of the state of California is located just 80 miles from San Francisco, making it an easy getaway in a single day from the Bay Area. You can easily spend the entire day in just Old Sacramento taking in the city’s Wild West history as a railroad town. The impressive California State Railroad Museum will captivate transportation loving kids for a couple of hours. I highly recommend a train ride on the Sacramento Southern Railway on the next block and a meal in a historic riverboat turned restaurant – the Delta King – on the riverfront.

Another hub of kid-friendly day trip activities is around the Sacramento Zoo. Next door to the Zoo is the adorable Fairy Tale Town, a small park with fairytale sets and scenes perfect for toddlers and young kids to explore. Also in the area is Funderland, another small amusement park with multiple carnival style rides, including a few with some mild thrills.

Need other Sacramento things to do on a day trip? In summer, be sure not to miss the Giant’s AAA affiliate, the Sacramento River Cats play a baseball game. And of course, squeeze in some education about California government and history with a tour of the State Capitol.

12. Pinnacles National Park

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 2-2.25 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Guide to Visiting Pinnacles National Park (This is My Happiness)

Northern California has a number of magnificent national parks, but big names like Yosemite National Park or Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park are a little too far for day tripping. Thankfully, one of America’s newest national parks is a bit closer – within a 2 hr, 15 minute drive south of San Francisco.

Pinnacles National Park is located on the San Andreas Fault, creating all sorts of weird and wonderful geological feature to explore. There are two entrances, not connected to one another within the park. The east entrance (south of Hollister) has the most kid-friendly hikes including one through Bear Gulch Cave that was a highlight for my family.

13. Oakland

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 15 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : 50 Things to Do in Oakland with Kids

The city of Oakland is so close to San Francisco that a lot of locals and visitors don’t think of it as a day trip. But you should! It’s quick and inexpensive to get there, meaning you have more time and money for exploring and activities.

Depending on the kind of outing you are seeking, Oakland can be an urban escape or a trip focused on nature and the outdoors. If you want to explore more of the city with kids, the Lake Merritt neighborhood is a good place to start. It is home to Children’s Fairyland, a beloved local amusement park that was one of the inspirations for Disneyland. Not too far away in downtown is the Oakland Museum of California, a museum that celebrates and details three aspects of California history: art, natural sciences, and human history. It’s engaging for kids while still being fascinating and educational for adults.

For outdoor and nature adventures, Oakland has a number of glorious hikes hidden in the hills. Redwood Regional Park (to explore redwoods, naturally) and Tilden Regional Park (for a carousel and steam trains to ride) are two good places to start. My family has also especially enjoyed hiking in Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve which has a labyrinth and sits atop Oakland’s very own extinct volcano.

Finally, don’t forget about Oakland Zoo. With its new gondola and California Trail exhibits as well as the small amusement park and train rides by the entrance, it’s a destination where it’s easy to spend at least a half-day with kids of all ages.

14. San Jose

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Free and Cheap in San Jose (This Bliss Life)

Another big Bay Area city, San Jose, is often overlooked as a San Francisco day trip possibility. But the South Bay has lots to offer families as well.

The must-do attraction is the Winchester Mystery House. Built haphazardly by the eccentric heiress to the Winchester Rifle fortune who was perhaps trying to escape a curse, this house has dead ends, staircases to nowhere, and lots of mystery. Another family-friendly attraction in keeping with its Silicon Valley home is the Tech Interactive, San Jose’s museum focused on all things STEM.

San Jose has a number of family-friendly amusements as well. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is the city’s beloved fairytale amusement park (similar to Children’s Fairyland in Oakland or Fairy Tale Town in Sacramento). The town next door, Santa Clara, is also home to a large scale theme park, California’s Great America .

15. Sausalito

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 20 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : 15 Best Things to Do in Sausalito (Discover Sausalito)

Just over the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County is the well-known bayside village of Sausalito. Sausalito is famous for its houseboats, and it’s definitely worth taking a stroll to see them along the waterfront.

Adults also tend flock to Sausalito for the quaint downtown full of boutiques and restaurants. Families should plan to grab a meal here at a waterfront restaurant, but the downtown area probably won’t hold kids’ attention for too long beyond that. Thankfully Sausalito and its immediate vicinity have several kid-friendly attractions, including the Bay Area Discovery Museum and Marine Mammal Center.

Part of the fun of a day trip to Sausalito is also just the getting there. Depending on the ages of your kids, there are several unique transportation options that can really add to their enjoyment of the trip. Older kids can visit Sausalito by biking to it over the Golden Gate Bridge. Bike rentals abound in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood. Families with kids of all ages will enjoy another mode of access – taking the ferry (bikers can ferry back to San Francisco as well). The Blue & Gold Fleet runs ferries multiple times a day between Pier 41 and the Sausalito terminal. Third and finally, if you opt to drive, pull over on the first exit after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge at the H. Dana Bower Rest Area and Vista Point. From the vista atop the Marin Headlands, you’ll get a magnificent bridge and city view en route.

16. Pacifica

• In-Depth Destination Guide : A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Pacifica (Just Chasing Sunsets)

Spacious beaches, hikes with views, and the prettiest Taco Bell in America (not kidding!) make the seaside town of Pacifica a unique family travel destination. Just south of the city en route to Half Moon Bay, it’s easily reached in about 20 minutes. Its quick and drivable location makes Pacifica an ideal day trip for families with younger kids who still need to plan around nap times.

Pacifica can often be extremely foggy, but on days when the sun wins the battle, the beaches are some of the best in the state. You’ll have the best chance for sun visiting in August and September when the Bay Area has its traditionally warmest weather.

The most popular hike in the area is Devil’s Slide, which follows what used to be Highway 1 before the road was moved inland to bypass frequent rock slides. The coastal views are amazing and it’s doable with kids, as the trail is a paved road about 2.5 miles roundtrip.

17. Point Reyes National Seashore

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Things to do in Point Reyes (California Crossroads) & Family Fun in Point Reyes (Marin Mommies)

North of Stinson Beach on the coast of Marin County is another rugged coastal destination popular as a day trip for families. The Point Reyes National Seashore is full of outdoor adventures, from beaches to wildlife spotting to hikes and even a waterfall.

Point Reyes is run by the National Park Service, so kids should stop by the Bear Valley visitor center for a junior ranger booklet and to learn about the area. Families will also enjoy visiting the Point Reyes Lighthouse for views and a chance to whale spot. Sea lions can commonly be spotted at Sea Lion Cove.

Like a lot of the NorCal coast, fog is common at Point Reyes. You’ll have the best chance for sun and warmth at Drake’s Beach which has a sheltered location (be aware the beach can be closed during winter/early spring to protect elephant seal pups). Some of the beaches along Tomales Bay side are also more protected spots for families to enjoy.

What are your favorite kid-friendly Northern California day trips? Share your recommendations in the comments.

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Shalendra@Camping In Shimla

Sunday 15th of September 2019

San jose is the best place to visit with your children. There are lot of fun activities available at the Studio to do also you can spend some time with your children at the park catching butterflies.

Tuesday 3rd of September 2019

If you ever visit to San Francisco then never forget to visit Golden Gate park which stretches half miles way. The famous attraction in the park are Japanese Tea Gardens and Deyoung museum.

Monday 18th of September 2017

Go San Francisco Card 2 Day Child

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The sfbu blog, 5 best day trips in the bay area.

The San Francisco Bay Area has so much to offer that people could spend a week here and still find new things to explore and do. Yet, there are also fantastic day trip options within spitting distance of San Francisco and the universities in Fremont, California. We’ve covered a lot of ground when it comes to Bay Area activities. Everything from our favorite outdoor activities to our recommended options for students taking their parents out on the town - we’ve introduced you to lots of options. Now we want to spread our wings a little and take you outside the Bay Area to surrounding cities and towns because some of Northern California’s best offerings don’t necessarily lie within city limits. The question is: where to?

Sure, everyone knows about Sausalito day trips, but what else is out there? Fortunately, a lot. So much that we even discovered new things as we researched this article. That’s why it was so difficult to choose only five. So, how did we do it? Well, we took into consideration everything from the sights to sounds, culture, adventure, traveler sentiment, variety, and local insight. It wasn’t an easy list to put together, but we think we’ve managed it. Are you ready to venture out of Fremont and see what the wider area around the San Francisco Bay Area has to offer? Let’s dive right in!

1. California’s Great America

While Southern California likes to lay claim to the title of “Theme Park Capital of California,” Northern California is no slouch. Enter California’s Great America, a theme park in Santa Clara. It’s about a 1 hour and 45-minute drive from Fremont but head out early so you have time to navigate the lines. California’s Great America has some awesome rides like the Gold Striker, a giant wooden roller coaster. It’s also got a whitewater rafting ride and a single-rail steel roller coaster. There’s a food court, souvenirs, and merchandise for those who are visiting from outside California.

Attached to California’s Great America is the Boomerang Bay Water Park, which is open during the summer season and is a great place for students or visiting families to splash around during the hot summer months. The maze of slides and tubes will leave you cooled off and smiling in delight, no matter your age bracket. Finally, there’s Planet Snoopy and Kidzville, which is another separate amusement area for young kids. Live stage productions are held all day long. From September through October, Great America holds its Halloween Haunt, which has haunted houses, costumed actors, and scares of all shapes and sizes. Are you ready to leave the confines of the universities in Fremont and embrace your inner child? If so, head on over to California’s Great America for the day!

2. Napa Valley

We’re taking you to the exact opposite side of the equation now. If spending your day at an adventure theme park isn’t something that excites you, consider something much more adult. Enter Napa Valley. It doesn’t get much more adult than one of the premier wine destinations not just in California, but the world. SFBU students and visitors should consider themselves lucky to have access to such a high-demand destination.

For day trippers, the best way to get a full feel of Napa Valley will be on the Napa Valley Wine Train, which travels to nearby St. Helena and back, snaking through scenic hills and vineyards along the way. It’s a gorgeous and quick way to get a feel for Napa Valley without the need to stay overnight. In the end, one should raise their expectations. Napa Valley grants travelers access to 400-plus wineries, the Calistoga hot springs and mineral pools, and a handful of Michelin-starred establishments. Whether you are into wine, food, or scenic views, Napa Valley is a true treat for anyone who wants to day trip out from SFBU or another university in Fremont and explore some of the best Northern California has to offer.

BONUS TIP : While this category is meant to highlight Napa Valley, we want to provide a more inexpensive and family-friendly option: Sonoma ! About 45 miles north of San Francisco, Sonoma also boasts dozens of wineries and exclusive eateries but also offers Safari Park West and the nearby Sonoma Coast State Park.

3. Filoli Estate & Gardens

Just 25 miles south of San Francisco, the Filoli Estate & Gardens encompasses nearly 700 acres of wild parkland, 16 immaculately landscaped gardens, and a historical mansion with several rooms open to the public. Filoli was built 10 years after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and was seen at the time of its building as a symbol of hope amid the ruin. Its stunningly beautiful English Renaissance gardens are considered by many to be among some of the best English garden replicas in the United States.

And it’s these gardens that hold the charm the Estate is known for. Beautiful flowers, gigantic trees, and perfectly manicured gardens lie behind huge shrubbery stands. Even better, the gardens constantly change based on the season, so true anthophiles will find reasons to visit multiple times throughout the year. If the size of the grounds and mansion seems imposing, consider a 1-hour guided tour. The estate often hosts special events as well, so be sure to visit their website for more information.

While the gardens and grounds steal the show, the mansion itself is quite special. From the flower-covered portico to a grand marble foyer and huge ballroom, it’s a building that will take you back in time. Make note of the massive vaulted ceilings that run the length of one of the house’s wings and are 174 feet long. There’s also a reception room and a formal dining room that has 20 seats and two marble fireplaces. So, for a relaxing day trip that will transport you from the urban Fremont center to the 19th Century, head to Filoli Estate & Gardens!

4. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Even though we are a university in Fremont, California, surrounded by dense urban jungle and Silicon Valley heavyweights , there is a different kind of jungle - forest, if you will - that we want to take you to. If you haven’t noticed by now, as an avid follower of the SFBU Blog, we love the great outdoors. We love nature and activities that get you out and into the wild, whether that be in the woods, up in the mountains, or lounging on the beach. And what better way to have a uniquely Northern California day-trip than by visiting the redwoods!

Naturally, most people are familiar with Redwoods National Park, but we wanted to take you somewhere different to give you a two-for-one. Just under two hours from Fremont, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is an ancient Redwood grove that feels as wild as it does timeless. Well-manicured trails snake through over 800 acres of coastal redwood lands. And these redwoods, quite literally, stand out. Some are more than 350 feet tall and over 2,000 years old. The Parson Jones tree is the largest tree in the grove and is taller than the length of a football field. It’s huge! And no matter what you have in mind for your day trip, a nice picnic, a calm hike, or something more strenuous, Armstrong State Natural Reserve has it all. Now, what’s the two-for-one we mentioned?

BONUS TIP: Located in Central Sonoma County, the town of Guerneville lies just a stone’s throw from the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. It has long been a weekend getaway and summer vacation spot for San Franciscans. But if you get out early enough, you can make a full day-trip out of visiting the town and the park. The town has tons of charm and its riverside location adds an extra touch of beauty and serenity. If you’re going to visit the redwoods at Armstrong State Natural Reserve, well, you may as well add Guerneville into the mix for a full day of natural and man-made merriment.

5. USS Hornet Museum

As we made our way through various outdoor options, charming little towns, and amusement parks, we came across a day-trip activity that stood out for its uniqueness. A tour of the USS Hornet aircraft carrier! It’s highly unlikely that - unless you’ve served in the U.S. Navy - you have ever been on or seen the inside of an aircraft carrier. These things are basically floating cities and a tour of the USS Hornet is probably as close as you’ll ever get to wander around one.

Approximately one hour away from universities in Fremont, the USS Hornet is parked at the pier in Alameda, California. Despite its sleek and high-tech look, it was built in 1942 and played a significant role in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Perhaps most interestingly, it was also used to pick up and transport the Apollo astronauts as they returned home from the moon. After a short 10-minute history and safety video, visitors are free to roam about the vessel, with volunteers stationed throughout in case you have any questions or get lost. With tons (and we mean that literally) of passageways, compartments, and desks to explore, there’s no doubt you’ll easily spend your full day enjoying this unique experience.

Well, there you have it! It wasn’t easy for us to choose these five day trips out of the many options we have. But we hope that SFBU students or anyone else stumbling upon these options find them fun and enjoyable. Whether you are day-tripping out from SFBU, a premier university in Fremont, California, or somewhere else in the Bay Area - safe travels!

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5 Places for Boating in the San Francisco Bay Area

T he San Francisco Bay Area is one of the most beautiful spots in the United States. From exciting cities to magnificent nature, this area has it all! If you’re a boat-owner or prospective buyer, learn about these five places for boating in the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Located within the world-famous Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 is an attraction-filled wonderland perfect for boaters. This bustling marina offers boat slips with short-term daily and nightly stays as well as long-term docking. It accommodates boats up to 85 feet, so plan accordingly!

Lake Berryessa

Lake Berryessa, one of the largest freshwater bodies within the Golden State, offers a nature-filled adventure in Napa Valley. The Pleasure Cove Marina will allow you to dock your boat and drop it in the water for day-long visits. Enjoy water skiing, tubing, swimming, and more when you visit this beautiful lake. 

The town of Sausalito, California, lies three nautical miles from the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge on Richardson Bay. Its waterfront is home to several docks and marinas ideal for boaters of all kinds. While you’re there, check out the town’s shopping, restaurants, and wine tastings. 

Paradise Cove 

Located in Marin County, Paradise Cove offers a unique experience for boaters and fishermen. During certain times of the year, you can catch salmon, sea bass, and California halibut. Use caution, however, as taking your motor in its shallow waters can be harmful.

China Basin

China Basin, also known as McCovey Cove, is a fun waterway to visit during baseball season. This area is located directly adjacent to Oracle Park, the San Francisco Giants’ baseball stadium. It’s constantly bustling in the summer, but you’ll likely be boating solo at any other time of the year.  Whether you’re boating alone or with the family, consider these five places in the San Francisco Bay Area. There’s a bit of city, nature, and fun in these waterways, appealing to anyone and everyone!

The post 5 Places for Boating in the San Francisco Bay Area appeared first on hoopLA .

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Day trip to pescadero: bay area day trip ideas.

April 3, 2020 · In: California , Highway 1 , USA , WANDERLUST

Since moving to the Bay Are two years ago, every so often I’d hear mention of a little town off of Highway 1 named Pescadero. I filed it in the back of my brain, and slowly worked my way down the list of obvious Bay are day trip ideas. (You can read about our top 5 summer Bay area day trip ideas here .) Whether you’re planning a visit while on a Highway 1 road trip, visiting in the summer or winter, this makes for the perfect day trip.

Getting to Pescadero

Whether you’re coming from the north (San Francisco) or the south (San Jose), Pescadero feels just far enough to feel like you’re in a completely new spot. It is located an hour from both San Francisco and San Jose, and only 30-45 minutes from Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay.

Walk along the water at Pescadero State Beach

• Location: North of downtown Pescadero
• Hours: Daily 8AM – sunset
• Parking: $8

Let’s start with a pro tip: when visiting the town, make sure you have CASH – especially small bills. Many of the state beaches have fees (the state beach had an $8 parking fee for normal vehicles). And there aren’t attendants so you’ll want to have exact bills.

On the chilly spring day, the state beach was pretty empty. Go for a little walk or sit and enjoy the views before heading into town.

Start your day with coffee at Downtown Local

• Location: 213 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Hours: M – F 7AM – 5PM, S – S 8AM – 5:30PM
• Pro Tip: Make sure to pop into “The Sunshine” (the market next door) for some fresh flowers and local produce.

From what I could see, Downtown Local is the hang out spot for locals and visitors alike. This spot was incredibly charming – half vintage shop, half coffee shop – and the coffee is Sightglass . Make sure to ask the barista about the painted vintage porsche out front (the owner wants to race it in South Africa one day). On your way out stop at “The Sunshine,” the local market next door.

Take photos in front of The Level Lea Farm

• Location: 1743 Pescadero Creek Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060

If you’re not dying for caffeine, before heading to your cup of joe, stop at the historic Level Lea Farm. The farm is covered in large hearts with wishes and prayers like “paz en el mundo” and “spring rain.”

Pick up fresh artichoke bread at Arcangeli Grocery Company/Norm’s Market

• Location: 287 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Hours: M – F 10AM – 6 PM, S – S 9AM – 6PM
• Pro tip: Go early to get the famous artichoke bread

While researching things to do in Pescadero, every article and every person I talked to said picking up artichoke bread was an absolute must-do. Go early as it can get crazy. We happened to get there right as they were restocking fresh warm bread so I picked up a few loaves. And in case you were worried about people overhyping it – they definitely weren’t. It was just THAT good.

Go shopping on Stage Road

Stage Road is the main street of Pescadero. While it is pretty tiny, it is jam packed with unique shops. I loved chatting with the friendly shop owners about their local wares. I recommend walking down the street and popping in and out of the different shops. However, below are a few of my favorites:

• Slowcoast Airstream Store – “locally grown, made, and inspired Slow Coast” products.
• Stage Road Shops – A group of locally owned shops featuring antiques, locally made jewelry, and other gift items.
• South Coast Children’s Services Thrift Shop – Reasonably priced thrift shop with a mix of vintage and newer items. I found a vintage DKNY top for $8!
• Topia Antiques – A mix of antiques, vintage items, and local products. You might find fun socks next to French imported tablecloths next to 100 year only antiques.

Have lunch at Mercado & Taqueria De Amigos

• Location: 1999 Pescadero Creek Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Hours: Daily 9AM – 9PM
• Pro Tip : Order the carnitas tacos & bring cash since it’s cash only

When I heard about the “gas station taco shop” I all but immediately crossed it off my list. But then, there I was chatting with one of the local shop owners and they started raving about how amazing the taqueria within the gas station was, and how I had to visit. The Mercado & Taqueria de Amigos has won awards such as “best Northern California taqueria” (you can read the plaques on the wall).

Let me tell you – I grew up in San Diego where good tacos was a must being along the border with Mexico. These tacos were the real deal . The carnitas tacos were my absolute favorite. Be sure to have lunch here, because realistically when can you ever say you had amazing Mexican food at a gas station?

Stop by R & R Herbs for fresh fruits & veggies

• Location: 2310 Pescadero Creek Road, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Hours: Daily 10AM – 6PM

R & R Herbs stocks local seasonal products such as eggs, veggies, and fresh herbs. Depending on the season you can go and pick fresh berries on their farm.

Visit the goats at the Harley Farms Goat Dairy & pick up fresh goat cheese

• Location: 205 North St, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Hours : Farm & Cheese Shop: F – SUN, 11AM – 4PM
• Tours : Check out their tours here
• Pro Tip: Don’t have time for a tour? You can still see the goats and visit the Goat Shop for fresh goat cheese and other products.

The Harley Goat Farm is a working farm that produces fresh goat products. Stop by for a tour and visit the baby goats. Or walk the grounds and stop by the “Goat Shop” for fresh goat products such as cheese, ravioli and more.

Check out the tide pools at Bean Hollow State Beach

• Location: South of downtown Pescadero
• Parking: $10

Bean Hollow State Beach is a favorite amongst dog-owners as it is dog friendly. You can walk along the seaside trails or explore the tide pools. For the more adventurous folks there beach also is a good spot for kayaking/canoeing, and windsurfing/surfing.

End your trip at Pigeon Point Lighthouse

• Location: 210 Pigeon Point Road, Highway 1, Pescadero, CA 94060
• Hours: Park daily 8AM – sunset, Visitor center TH – M 10AM – 4 PM
• Entrance: Free
• Pro tip: Doing a Highway 1 road trip, The grounds have been turned into a hostel .

Pigeon Point Lighthouse was opened in 1872 and is known as one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States. While you can’t go inside the lighthouse due to its current state, you can walk the grounds and check out the visitor center. I also highly recommend taking a walk along cliff-side paths for gorgeous views. Visit in the spring to see all the gorgeous wildflowers.

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