Best Weekend Getaways from San Francisco
Planing a weekend getaway from San Francisco? What a dream! I’ve found that weekend getaways from San Francisco are the perfect mix of rugged coastlines, forests, hidden wine-country gems, and small towns, ideal for couples wanting to step away from the city buzz and reconnect.
Since choosing where to stay sets the scene, here are some of the most unique and romantic escapes I came across on my recent four week road trip that I hope you’ll love for your next NorCal weekend away.
1. The Mendocino Coast - 2 hours and 45 minutes from San Francisco
This place took my breath away with its rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and wild beauty. I thought that it was the most stunning destination and one of my absolute favorite weekend getaways from San Francisco!
Simply driving along Highway 1, I felt like every curve revealed another spectacular view, and it was impossible not to stop all the time along the way and take it in. The mix of ocean mist, redwoods, and charming coastal towns made the whole trip feel like something out of a dream.
During my visit, I stayed at the Brewery Gulch Inn for two care-free days, and it quickly became one of my favorite parts of the trip.
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, the inn felt both secluded and welcoming, with warm wood interiors, crackling fireplaces, and huge windows that framed unforgettable sunsets. Waking up to the sound of the waves and enjoying breakfast with a view of the ocean was pure magic.
I loved exploring Mendocino Village, with its Victorian buildings, art galleries, and cozy cafés. It had a laid-back charm that made me want to slow down and savor each moment. Walking through the bluffs at Mendocino Headlands State Park gave me some of the most joyful views I’ve ever experienced, and it reminded me why the coast feels so special.
Further along, I hiked among towering redwoods and walked along secluded beaches where it felt like I had the shoreline all to myself. That mix of forest and sea is unusual and unforgettable here.
- Location Map
- Location: Northern California, along the Pacific Ocean, approximately 150 miles north of San Francisco
- Scenery: dramatic ocean cliffs, redwood forests
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was stopping for lunch at Mendocino Cafe which serves amazing dishes prepared with organic ingredients.
2. Monterey & Carmel - 1 hour and 50 minutes
This town swept me off my feet with its coastal beauty, charming village streets, and endless opportunities to relax!
In fact, I've never met anyone who hasn't loved wandering through downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, where fairy-tale cottages, boutique shops, and art galleries paint such a perfect small town picture. Just mentioning that we're planning a weekend getaway to Carmel earned us a few envious glances!
Add to that the air that smells of the ocean mixed with pine, and it instantly sets the tone for a magical escape. I easily recommend Carmel-by-the-Sea for your most special trip like an anniversary, birthday or small town honeymoon.
Monterey and Carmel are just 11 minutes apart by car so you should go to both in one weekend! My stay at Quail Lodge made the trip even more memorable. Set against the hills, the lodge is a peaceful retreat. Our romantic room for two days was spacious and bright, with a private patio that had a garden view (I really re-set here, finally!). The whole atmosphere was calm, refreshing, and designed for true relaxation.
One of my favorite moments was spending the afternoon by the lodge’s pool, soaking in the sun while looking out at the golf course and the Carmel Valley beyond. In the evening, I enjoyed a delicious dinner onsite at Covey Grill that celebrated fresh California flavors.
We had a wonderful time on Carmel Beach, where the white sand and crashing waves created a spectacular backdrop for long walks. Driving along the nearby 17-Mile Drive added even more breathtaking views, including rugged cliffs to ocean vistas.
- Location Map
- Location: Central California coast, about 120 miles south of San Francisco and 75 miles south of San Jose
- Scenery: rugged coastline, sandy beaches
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was waking up at Quail Lodge and enjoying coffee surrounded by garden views.
3. Sausalito - 25 minutes from San Francisco
This place captivated me the moment I arrived with its waterfront charm and sweeping views of San Francisco Bay! I loved that you don't have to drive far for this awesome weekend getaway, just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco! Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, it felt worlds away from the city because it was calm, a place where we could enjoy wonderful views.
My stay at the Inn Above Tide was unforgettable. Our romantic room for two days was incredible, with floor-to-ceiling windows that made you feel like you were about to step into the ocean.
The inn’s thoughtful touches, from wine and cheese in the evening to breakfast delivered to my room, made the experience even better. I found myself lingering on the balcony, just soaking in the peaceful rhythm of the tides. I really recommend slowing down here and not over-scheduling your weekend with too many local activities.
In Sausalito, we checked out art galleries, boutiques, and stopped at Firehouse Coffee & Tea for our morning and afternoon caffeine fix.
From here, you can ride the ferry into San Francisco and see Alcatraz and the Golden Gate from the water.
- Location Map
- Location: Northern California, just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, along the Marin County shoreline
- Scenery: panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and skyline, waterfront promenades
What I loved best:
My personal favorite was our amazing room with a view at the Inn Above Tide.
A downside? I found it challenging that parking was limited here and spaces filled up fast.
4. Crescent City
This is an exciting long weekend getaway from San Francisco (but be prepared for the 6.5 hour drive!). What I love most is that get a complete change of pace in just a day’s drive, along with some pretty incredible scenery during the drive itself. Tucked along the rugged northern coastline, Crescent City is remote and wild and incredibly scenic, complete with awe-inspiring redwoods at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
At the coast, Crescent City’s shoreline was just as unforgettable. I spent hours exploring tide pools, watching the waves crash against Battery Point Lighthouse (only accessible at low tide!), and strolling along the beaches.
- Location Map
- Location: Far northern California, near the Oregon border, along the Pacific coast
- Scenery: rugged coastline, towering redwoods, rocky beaches, lighthouses
What I loved best:
My highlight was rugged beauty that was raw and unique, a complete contrast to the bustle of my daily grind.
5. Wilbur Hot Springs - 1 hour 50 minutes
This Northern California gem gave me one of the most peaceful and restorative getaways I’ve ever experienced. Tucked away on a private nature reserve, it felt like stepping into a sanctuary where time slowed down and the outside world disappeared, just what I was looking for this weekend!
The centerpiece, of course, was the hot spring flumes. Soaking in the mineral-rich waters while looking out at rolling hills and oak trees is what you go for!
My room for two days was simple but comfortable. I could tell that it was designed to encourage rest and connection with the surroundings.
Meals at Wilbur Hot Springs were community-oriented, with a shared kitchen where people pitched in and prepared and enjoyed food together. I thought that it was such a unique experience.
- Location Map
- Location: Northern California, in Colusa County
- Scenery: secluded natural hot springs, wildlife
What I loved best:
Walking along the trails on the property was a highlight. I wandered through meadows, spotted wildlife, and found myself pausing often just to take in the scenery. It felt joyful to reconnect with nature in such an intentional way.
6. Castello di Amorosa, Calistoga
Visiting this exceptional castle felt like stepping straight into a Tuscan fairytale from a different era and I was so glad I picked it as my weekend getaway from San Francisco! This authentically built 13th-century–style castle is truly incredible! You walk across the drawbridge, through the stone courtyard and explore from there...
We drove north from Napa in about forty minutes, the road winding through vineyards and low hills before reaching Calistoga.
You can explore the many levels of the castle, including a grand banquet hall, vaulted wine cellars, hidden passageways and towers with a view of the valley.
- Location Map
- Location: Calistoga, Northern California, in the Napa Valley wine region, about 75 miles north of San Francisco
What I loved best:
You can do wine tasting, nibble on different foods, and purchase wine to take with you. I though that it was cool how this place is both a functioning vineyard and a unique tourist attraction.
7. Napa
It's not possible to talk about the best weekend getaways from San Francisco without mentioning this famous place, and we drove here in just 30 minute from our home base at Castello di Amorosa.
I loved how Napa's the kind of weekend getaway where I can slow down, go wine tasting, go for a quick 60-minute massage, go on a bike ride...or I just relax with vineyard views if I'm tired.
I recommend checking out Oxbow Public Market which greets you with the scent of wood-fired pizza and citrus.
In addition, Brix Restaurant & Gardens offering farm-to-table Californian fare was lovely when Chris and I celebrated a romantic occasion.
Later, we started the afternoon with wine tasting at Matthiasson Winery surrounded by grapevines and olive trees.
Kale Wines is a lovely stop as well and I always try to work it into our Napa itinerary.
If you are on a family getaway (or have a sweet tooth like me!), Sweetie Pies Bakery is a must-visit for slices of cake, muffins and cookies.
You should also check out Brie Napa Valley for cheese and provisions to bring home with you.
- Location Map
- Location: Northern California, in the heart of Napa Valley
- Scenery: rolling vineyard-covered hills, riverfront downtown, world-class wineries
What I loved best:
Napa Art Walk was my personal highlight. I think it's a true local gem, it's completely free, and I think you shouldn't skip it (you heard it here first)!
8. Hotel Valencia Santana Row - Under 1 hour from San Francisco
This Silicon Valley hotel completely won me over with its stylish mix of Mediterranean flair and modern amenities. Only an hour away by car, I thought it was absolutely perfect for a luxury weekend getaway from San Francisco. Set right in the heart of Santana Row, it felt like I had stepped into a lively European village, with chic shops, cafés, and restaurants all just outside the front door.
Hotel Valencia Santana Row itself had an elegant vibe, with arched doorways, wrought-iron details, and warm colors that made the space feel both inviting and sophisticated
My room for two days was spacious and comfortable, with a private balcony where I could look out over the bustling Row. It was the perfect balance of energy outside and calm retreat inside, which made it easy to enjoy both relaxation and excitement during my stay.
The rooftop bar, Cielo, quickly became one of my favorite spots for sunset watching over San Jose. The on-site restaurant also offered delicious meals that felt thoughtfully crafted and perfectly matched the hotel’s stylish vibe.
- Location Map
- Location: San Jose, California, within the upscale Santana Row shopping and dining district, about 45 miles south of San Francisco
- Scenery: vibrant urban setting
What I loved best:
What Chris and I appreciated the most was the location. Being able to step outside and immediately explore Santana Row’s boutiques, coffee shops, and nightlife was so convenient and exciting.
9. Lake Tahoe - 3 hours 20 minute from San Francisco
Ending November here was an inspired choice, though I was glad we came over a long weekend because the drive took a while from San Francisco and once we arrived, I never wanted to leave - it was so lovely here!
The snow season was just getting started so the crowds were light which was what I was hoping for.
We wandered through the lively Heavenly Village, hopped on the gondola with my husband and son for the views, and warmed up by the firepits while live music filled the air. Just note that snow coverage can really vary depending on the year, so checking the forecast and then going on a last minute trip is best!
- Location Map
- Location: Northern California and western Nevada, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, about 200 miles northeast of San Francisco
- Scenery: alpine lake surrounded by pine forests
What I loved best:
For me, this place is the absolute best kind of getaway...a place where nature, fun, and tranquility blend seamlessly into an experience I’ll never forget.
10. Mammoth Lakes - Nearly 6 hours from San Francisco
September was absolutely magical in this alpine wonderland and a world (and 6 hours!) away from San Francisco. I found serene trails free from the summer rush, crisp mountain air, and fall foliage just starting. Every lakeside reflection and winding mountain road felt like a living postcard (truly!).
We drove here as a part of a longer road trip in Northern California, and spent five unforgettable days surrounded by peaks, lakes, and the cozy mountain-town atmosphere.
I started my morning a sunrise over Convict Lake, then hiked the Mammoth Crest Trail for sweeping views of the Ritter Range.
- Location Map
- Location: Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, California, about 330 miles east of San Francisco and 310 miles north of Los Angeles
- Scenery: dramatic mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, hot springs, volcanic formations, ski slopes at Mammoth Mountain, and easy access to nearby wilderness areas and Yosemite’s eastern entrance
What I loved best:
I explored the Lakes Basin by bike, stopping at Lake Mary and Twin Lakes, where early fall colors painted the shorelines in gold and rust. The trip ended perfectly with a soak in one of the area’s hidden natural hot springs.
For me, Mammoth Lakes is one of the best weekend getaways from San Francisco. It's relaxing, peaceful, and a favorite escape that I can’t wait to return to!
Craving more ideas in NorCal? Check out these romantic getaways.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
