Day Trips from San Francisco

Location:

Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California Hwy 1, San Francisco, CA 94123

Highlights:

Stretching across more than 80,000 acres of California coastline, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is one of the most breathtaking and diverse urban parklands in the world. It’s a mix of wild nature, rich history, and iconic views—all within reach of the city.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, nature lovers, families, hikers, and anyone exploring the San Francisco Bay Area.

What We Love:

From Alcatraz to Muir Woods to scenic coastal trails, there’s something for everyone—plus stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge from every angle.

• Explore iconic landmarks like Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods National Monument, and the Presidio of San Francisco, each offering unique insights into California’s natural and cultural heritage.
• Discover over 1,200 species of plants and animals, protected across 59 miles of shoreline and diverse ecosystems from cliffs to beaches to forests.
• Step back in time at the Nike Missile Site or historic coastal forts that tell the story of centuries of West Coast defense, exploration, and settlement.
• Hike or bike through scenic trails with sweeping ocean views and plenty of spots for picnics, photography, and quiet reflection.

Distance from Downtown San Francisco:

Just minutes away by car, bike, or public transit—it’s an urban escape that feels a world away.

How to Get There:

Enter via various access points across San Mateo, San Francisco, and Marin Counties. For central access, head to the Presidio or Crissy Field. Check the NPS site for area maps and trail info.

Phone: 415-561-4700 — Map

If you're a history lover, don’t miss this in-depth video about Alcatraz—a compelling look into one of the country’s most legendary prison islands.

Location:

Sausalito, CA (just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco)

Highlights:

Elegant, artistic, and full of maritime charm, Sausalito feels like a Mediterranean harbor town nestled at the northern foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. With stunning bay views, eclectic shops, and an easy ferry ride from San Francisco, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, artists, photographers, day-trippers from SF, seafood lovers, and anyone who enjoys harbor towns with character.

What We Love:

The ferry ride with panoramic views, the houseboat communities, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, and the peaceful waterfront strolls with postcard-worthy scenery at every turn.

• Arrive by ferry from San Francisco for a relaxing and visually spectacular journey with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the city skyline, and Sausalito’s colorful hillsides.
• Wander along the historic waterfront, pop into quirky boutiques and art galleries, and enjoy a seafood lunch at a dockside café where the catch is as fresh as the view.
• Explore the unique floating homes at the north end of town—over 400 creative and colorful houseboats clustered together like a village on the water.
• Learn about Sausalito’s WWII shipbuilding history and its transition into a haven for creatives and bohemians in the decades that followed.
• Hike or bike into the nearby Marin Headlands to see sweeping coastal views and some of the world’s oldest redwoods, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Distance from San Francisco:

About 10–15 minutes by car or 30 minutes by scenic ferry—ideal for a half-day trip or romantic dinner escape.

How to Get to Sausalito:

Drive or take a ferry from the San Francisco Ferry Building. Parking is available downtown, or enjoy the town car-free by ferry and foot.

Location:

Muir Woods National Monument, 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Highlights:

Step into a cathedral of nature just 12 miles north of San Francisco, where ancient coast redwoods rise skyward and silence reigns. Muir Woods offers a quiet escape from the city into one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests on Earth—humbling, peaceful, and unforgettable.

We Recommend This For:

Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, families, and anyone who wants to experience the awe of towering redwoods up close.

What We Love:

The hushed reverence of the redwood groves, the mossy trails, and the sense that you’ve stepped into another world—one ruled by trees older than the Golden Gate Bridge itself.

• Hike along six miles of peaceful trails through dense redwoods and along the cool waters of Redwood Creek. Trails are a mix of boardwalk, asphalt, and dirt paths up canyon walls.
• Wander short loops or extend your adventure into Mount Tamalpais State Park for more rugged routes and expansive views.
• Watch for bobcats, deer, owls, coyotes, and even banana slugs—this serene forest is a hidden home to all kinds of wildlife.
• Feel the magic of nature’s grandeur as towering redwoods, some over 600 years old, stretch sky-high around you.

Distance from San Francisco:

About 30–45 minutes north by car. Shuttles are available from Sausalito with reservations.

How to Get to Muir Woods:

Drive to 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, but note: parking is limited and must be reserved in advance through the park website. No public biking or horseback riding is allowed on trails.

Phone: 415-388-2595 — Map

Location:

Half Moon Bay, CA (about 45 minutes south of San Francisco)

Highlights:

Nestled along the dramatic Northern California coast, Half Moon Bay is a charming seaside town known for its coastal beauty, artistic soul, and quirky seasonal traditions like pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms. It’s perfect for a relaxing weekend or a scenic day trip.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, nature lovers, surfers, artists, foodies, and those craving a laid-back coastal escape from the Bay Area hustle.

What We Love:

The rugged coastline, the mellow beach town vibe, and the chance to hike, surf, and explore history all in one small, scenic destination.

• Stroll the picturesque Half Moon Bay State Beach or watch elite surfers tackle the massive waves at Mavericks off Pillar Point.
• Hike scenic trails on Montara Mountain for sweeping ocean views and peaceful pine forests just north of town.
• Explore the historic downtown, where you’ll find the Methodist Episcopal Church and the Robert Mills Dairy Barn, or venture to the eerie remnants of Purissima Village, the coast’s only ghost town.
• Visit local galleries and meet creatives from the Colony of Coastside Artists, a group of local artisans that showcase the area’s deep artistic roots.
• Relax with a meal at one of the town’s many seaside restaurants, or tee off at world-class golf courses overlooking the Pacific.

Distance from San Francisco:

Around 45–60 minutes by car via Highway 1 or 92—a scenic and relaxing coastal drive.

How to Get to Half Moon Bay:

Take Highway 1 for breathtaking coastal views or approach from the east via Highway 92 through the redwoods. Parking is plentiful downtown and near the beaches.

Romantic Day Trips from San Francisco:

Location:

Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada Mountains, California

Highlights:

Yosemite is one of the most iconic national parks in the world—and for good reason. From its massive granite cliffs to waterfalls that thunder hundreds of feet down, it’s a place that feels like a dream come to life. Whether you're hiking, wildlife-watching, or just soaking in the views, it’s a trip you’ll never forget.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, nature photographers, families, bucket-list adventurers, and anyone who craves vast, breathtaking wilderness.

What We Love:

The epic views from Tunnel View, the awe of seeing El Capitan up close, peaceful walks among ancient sequoias, and the chance to unplug and reconnect with nature in one of the most majestic places on Earth.

• Stand in awe of Half Dome, El Capitan, and the iconic Tunnel View overlook—Yosemite’s granite giants are unforgettable in every season.
• Chase waterfalls like Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, and Vernal Fall, especially during spring runoff when they’re at full power.
• Wander among giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, where you can walk beside trees that have stood for thousands of years.
• Explore Yosemite’s hiking and biking trails, from easy meadow strolls to challenging climbs that reward with panoramic views.
• Stay awhile in Yosemite Village, where you’ll find lodging, restaurants, shops, museums, and visitor centers to help enrich your trip.
• Watch for wildlife like deer, marmots, bobcats—and yes, even black bears if you’re lucky and respectful of the rules.

Distance from San Francisco:

About 4 hours by car—perfect for a weekend getaway or part of a longer Northern California adventure.

How to Get to Yosemite:

Drive via Highway 120, 140, or 41 depending on your entry point. Reservations are required during peak seasons. Lodging inside the park fills quickly, so plan ahead or explore options in nearby towns like Mariposa or Oakhurst.

Location:

Point Reyes National Seashore, 1 Bear Valley Rd, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Highlights:

If you’re looking to escape the city and breathe in some coastal wilderness, Point Reyes is a must. With rugged cliffs, sprawling beaches, and windswept trails, this peninsula preserve is one of the Bay Area’s most awe-inspiring outdoor destinations.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, photographers, geology lovers, beachcombers, and anyone seeking a serene and scenic day trip from San Francisco.

What We Love:

The dramatic meeting of land and sea, the sheer diversity of wildlife, and the rare chance to walk along the mighty San Andreas Fault—plus quiet beaches where you can feel totally off the grid.

• Explore 71,000+ acres of wild landscapes—from rocky bluffs to sandy shores to misty coastal forests, all less than two hours from San Francisco.
• Spot over 1,500 species of flora and fauna, including elephant seals, tule elk, bobcats, whales, and rare birds.
• Hike to the Point Reyes Lighthouse for dramatic ocean views or take the Earthquake Trail near the Bear Valley Visitor Center to learn about the park’s place along the San Andreas Fault Zone.
• Stand on two tectonic plates at once—the Pacific and North American plates—and marvel at how the 1906 earthquake shifted the landscape by 20 feet.
• Relax on quiet beaches like Limantour or Drakes Beach, great for wildlife viewing, picnics, and sunsets.

Distance from San Francisco:

About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car—ideal for a full-day trip or a peaceful weekend escape.

How to Get to Point Reyes:

Drive north on US-101, then take Sir Francis Drake Blvd or Highway 1 toward Point Reyes Station. Start your visit at the Bear Valley Visitor Center for maps, restrooms, and ranger tips. Parking is free throughout the park.

Phone: 415-464-5100 — Map

Location:

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, 18220 CA-1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Highlights:

Perched along the stunning Mendocino coastline, these gardens are a true “garden by the sea.” With dramatic oceanfront cliffs, fern-filled canyons, and an explosion of color year-round, it’s one of the most peaceful and breathtaking spots on the North Coast.

We Recommend This For:

Garden lovers, photographers, birdwatchers, ocean lovers, and anyone needing a dose of natural beauty and calm.

What We Love:

The blend of lush gardens and salty sea breeze, the ever-changing blooms, and the chance to spot whales from the bluffside Cliff House—it’s a peaceful coastal retreat that feeds the soul.

• Wander through 47 acres of coastal forest, wildflower meadows, fern canyons, and formal gardens—all just steps from the Pacific Ocean.
• Marvel at year-round floral displays including rhododendrons, camellias, dahlias, roses, irises, and ferns—there’s always something blooming!
• Relax at the Cliff House, perched above the crashing waves, where you can look for migrating gray whales during the season and soak up panoramic views.
• Stroll shaded forest paths, explore alongside bubbling streams, and breathe in the cool ocean air.
• Visit any time of year—thanks to Mendocino’s mild coastal climate, the gardens are gorgeous in every season.

Distance from San Francisco:

Roughly 3.5 hours north by car via scenic Highway 1—perfect for a weekend nature escape.

How to Get to Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens:

Take Highway 1 north toward Fort Bragg; the entrance is well-marked just before you reach town. Ample parking is available on-site, and pets on leashes are welcome!

Phone: 707-964-4352 — Map

Family-friendly Day Trips from San Francisco:

Location:

Stinson Beach, 1 Calle Del Resaca, Stinson Beach, CA 94970

Highlights:

Looking for a quick coastal escape from the city? Stinson Beach is an absolute gem just north of San Francisco—think soft white sand, swimmable surf, and laid-back beach town vibes. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

We Recommend This For:

Families, couples, sunbathers, swimmers, volleyball players, and anyone craving a classic California beach day with a scenic twist.

What We Love:

Lifeguarded swimming, mellow town strolls, afternoon windsurfing, and the feeling of soft sand under your feet as you walk for miles along the shore. Plus, the nearby trail access into Mount Tamalpais makes it a two-in-one beach and hiking day.

• Swim in the gentle surf (with lifeguards on duty in summer months) or just relax along miles of pristine white sand.
• Play beach volleyball, kayak the coastline, or take advantage of ideal conditions for windsurfing and hang gliding when the afternoon breeze rolls in.
• Picnic with friends or family at one of the well-equipped picnic areas—perfect for BBQs and oceanfront lunches. Dogs are welcome on leash!
• Rent gear or take a surf lesson from one of the local beach shops, which cater to all experience levels.
• Hike from the beach into Mount Tamalpais State Park, with trails that climb through coastal forests to incredible panoramic views.
• Visit the nearby Stinson Beach town center for relaxed dining, cool cafés, and unique beachside shops.

Distance from San Francisco:

About 45 minutes to 1 hour by car via Highway 1—be prepared for a scenic and winding drive along the coast.

How to Get to Stinson Beach:

Drive north on CA-1 from San Francisco, past Muir Beach. Parking at the beach is free but can fill up fast on weekends—arrive early or come midweek for a quieter experience.

Phone: 415-868-1922 — Map

Location:

Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey Peninsula, Central California Coast

Highlights:

Dreamy, whimsical, and wrapped in ocean breeze—Carmel-by-the-Sea is a romantic coastal village where fairytale cottages meet white-sand beaches. It’s perfect for couples, art lovers, and anyone craving a peaceful seaside escape with European charm.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, artists, history buffs, wine and food enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxing, picturesque coastal getaway.

What We Love:

Carmel’s storybook streets, its galleries and boutique shops, cozy wine rooms, and the mix of historical beauty and ocean views—all packed into a walkable, welcoming village that feels like a step back in time.

• Wander the colorful European-style streets lined with hidden courtyards, galleries, and fairytale cottages—Carmel is filled with charm and artistry around every corner.
• Relax at Carmel Beach, where surfers ride the waves and sunsets light up the sky. For a scenic walk, follow the Scenic Bluff Path to Carmel River State Beach.
• Explore history at the Carmel Mission Basilica—a beautifully restored 18th-century mission with museums, gardens, and a peaceful vibe.
• Dive into the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve nearby, where you can hike, birdwatch, or explore marine life from scenic trails and dive entry points.
• Indulge in fine dining, cozy cafes, and romantic wine tastings—Carmel is famous for its food scene and hidden wine rooms.

Distance from San Francisco:

Around 2 hours and 15 minutes by car—ideal for a weekend retreat or romantic day trip along the coast.

How to Get to Carmel-by-the-Sea:

Take US-101 or scenic Highway 1 south to Carmel. Park in one of the designated village lots (many streets are unmarked and residential). The town is best explored on foot!

Location:

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271

Highlights:

Looking to stand among giants and get lost in wilderness wonder? These two neighboring parks offer everything from sky-scraping sequoias and epic alpine hikes to peaceful campsites and deep canyon views—it’s nature at its most humbling.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, campers, nature lovers, photographers, families, and anyone craving deep solitude and giant trees.

What We Love:

The massive General Sherman Tree (the largest living tree on Earth!), the serene alpine lakes, and that surreal moment when you realize the forest feels cathedral-like in its stillness and scale.

• Explore over 800 miles of trails across 800,000 acres—from easy paved walks to backcountry adventures beneath towering sequoias and along canyon rims.
• Camp beneath the stars in one of many scenic campsites, or join ranger-led programs for night sky talks, nature walks, and wildlife education.
• Marvel at ancient giants like the General Sherman Tree and the towering Grant Grove—walking among them feels like entering another world.
• Discover Crystal Cave, an underground marble cavern filled with dramatic rock formations and guided mystery tours (reservations required).
• Relax by alpine lakes, dip your feet in icy streams, and breathe deep the fresh scent of pines, wildflowers, and freedom.

Distance from San Francisco:

About 4.5 to 5 hours by car—perfect for a weekend nature escape or multi-day camping trip.

How to Get to Sequoia & Kings Canyon:

Drive southeast from the Bay Area via I-5 or Highway 99 to Visalia, then take CA-198 to the park entrance near Three Rivers. The scenic Generals Highway connects both parks. Note: tire chains may be required in winter.

Phone: 559-565-3341 — Map — Watch Video