When I need a quick break from the Bay, I’ve found that the best escapes are just a drive away. These getaways from San Francisco have given me everything from sunshine-filled wine tastings to misty hikes along rugged cliffs. Whether I’m chasing romance, a bit of adventure, or just some quiet charm, these spots always deliver a weekend that feels miles away—even when they’re not.

Highlights:

  • Sip and stay in Napa Valley & Sonoma – I’ve spent lazy afternoons wine tasting and unwinding at beautiful inns.
  • Wander Carmel-by-the-Sea – The storybook streets and beach walks make this one of my favorite places to slow down.
  • Escape to Lake Tahoe – I’ve hiked, kayaked, and cozied up by the fire in every season here.
  • Marvel at Big Sur – The cliffs and redwoods still take my breath away, no matter how many times I go.
  • Relax in Healdsburg – With farm-to-table meals and riverside picnics, this town always leaves me refreshed.

Unique Weekend Getaways from San Francisco:

The Mendocino Coast - 2 hours and 45 minutes from San Francisco

Pius Lee/stock.adobe.com

The Mendocino Coast - 2 hours and 45 minutes from San Francisco - Explore rugged cliffs and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.                                    

Monterey & Carmel - 1 hour and 50 minutes

beketoff/stock.adobe.com

Monterey & Carmel - 1 hour and 50 minutes - Stroll charming streets and savor fresh seafood by the coast.                                    

Sausalito - 25 minutes from San Francisco

The Inn Above Tide

Sausalito - 25 minutes from San Francisco - Enjoy waterfront dining and admire scenic bay views.                                    

Weekend Getaways from San Francisco: Yountville - 1 hour

Toms/stock.adobe.com

Weekend Getaways from San Francisco: Yountville - 1 hour - Savor fine wines and explore charming vineyards.                                    

Wilbur Hot Springs - 1 hour 50 minutes

Wilbur Hot Springs

Wilbur Hot Springs - 1 hour 50 minutes -                                    

Chateau du Sureau - 3 hours 30 minutes

Chateau du Sureau

Chateau du Sureau - 3 hours 30 minutes - Indulge in luxury and savor a romantic, European-inspired escape.                                    

Lake Tahoe - 3 hours and 20 minutes Getaway from San Francisco

AlessandraRC/stock.adobe.com

Lake Tahoe - 3 hours and 20 minutes Getaway from San Francisco - Enjoy outdoor adventures and admire stunning alpine scenery.                                    

MacArthur Place in Sonoma, a Romantic Getaway - 1 hour

MacArthur Place

MacArthur Place in Sonoma, a Romantic Getaway - 1 hour - Relax in luxury and explore nearby vineyards.                                    

Wilbur Hot Springs

Wilbur Hot Springs

Wilbur Hot Springs -                                    

Little River Inn - 3 hours

Little River Inn

Little River Inn - 3 hours - Enjoy oceanfront charm and savor a romantic coastal retreat.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)