Weekend & Day Trips from San Jose, CA

Location:

Half Moon Bay, CA

Highlights:

Craving an easy getaway from San Jose? Just hop in the car and in under an hour, you’ll be breathing in salty air and wandering stunning beaches in Half Moon Bay.

We Recommend This For:

Nature lovers, surfers, beachgoers, and anyone who wants a scenic coastal escape without going far.

What we Love:

Sweeping ocean views, relaxing hikes, vibrant wildlife, redwood forests, charming downtown shops, and that iconic bowl of chowder at Sam’s Chowder House.

• Explore miles of coastal trails, wetlands, and open countryside—perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
• Swim and sunbathe at Miramar Beach, known for its inviting sand and laid-back vibe.
• Surf the waves at Surfer’s Beach, a local favorite just north of town.
• Shop along historic Main Street or wander Pillar Point Harbor for seaside charm and local finds.
• Dine on fresh seafood and ocean views at Sam’s Chowder House, famous for its chowder and laid-back ambiance.

Distance from San Jose:

It’s about a 50-minute drive, depending on traffic—perfect for a day trip or spontaneous weekend away.

How to Get to Half Moon Bay:

Take CA-92 West straight through the hills. Once you cross the winding summit, you'll descend into the heart of Half Moon Bay. Simple, scenic, and totally worth it.

Location:

Alameda, CA

Highlights:

If you're itching for a breezy day trip packed with quirky charm, jump in the car—Alameda’s just over an hour from San Jose and feels like a world away. Island views, museums on aircraft carriers, and waterfront tastings? Yes, please.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, beach lovers, families, foodies, and anyone who enjoys laid-back island vibes with a dash of the unexpected.

What we Love:

Walkable neighborhoods, fascinating museums, waterfront recreation, plus artisan spirits and pinball nostalgia all rolled into one coastal adventure.

• Stroll around downtown Alameda for boutique shopping, local eats, and people-watching in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
• Tour the historic USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum, where you’ll walk the decks of a WWII aircraft carrier and learn about naval history, space missions, and more.
• Play your way through the Pacific Pinball Museum, a colorful arcade that’s fun, educational, and pure retro magic.
• Taste craft spirits at Spirit’s Alley, a repurposed naval base now buzzing with artisan distilleries and tasting rooms right on the waterfront.
• Watch or try your hand at kiteboarding and windsurfing at Crown Memorial Beach, a top U.S. spot for wind sports with gentle waves and great views.

Distance from San Jose:

About 1 hour and 10 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

How to Get to Alameda:

Take I-880 North toward Oakland, then exit onto 23rd Avenue. Cross Park Street Bridge onto Alameda Island. From there, follow signs to downtown or your chosen waterfront destination.

Location:

Pescadero, CA (Ano Nuevo State Park)

Highlights:

Want to see massive elephant seals up close without traveling far? Less than 90 minutes from San Jose, Ano Nuevo is one of the coolest places to experience raw coastal wildlife in California—especially during seal breeding season.

We Recommend This For:

Wildlife enthusiasts, hikers, families with older kids, and nature lovers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

What we Love:

The unforgettable sight of elephant seals lounging and bellowing, interpretive trails through wild dunes, and a historic ranch-turned-Marine Education Center filled with coastal lore.

• Witness the incredible migration of over 10,000 elephant seals that arrive from December through March to breed, raise pups, and spar along the shore.
• Spot other coastal wildlife like California sea lions, otters, seabirds, and even coyotes in the wild terrain.
• Hike up to four miles roundtrip (no vehicle access) to reach the prime seal viewing spots—comfortable shoes and layered clothing are a must!
• Explore the Marine Education Center, housed in an 1800s dairy ranch, for insights into the park’s natural and cultural history.
• Discover the historic lighthouse ruins and keeper’s quarters tucked among the dunes for a dose of maritime heritage.

Distance from San Jose:

Expect the scenic drive to take about 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions along Highway 1.

How to Get to Ano Nuevo State Park:

From San Jose, take CA-85 South to CA-17 South, then CA-1 North toward Pescadero. Turn left at New Years Creek Road and follow signs into the park. The visitor center is your starting point.

Location:

Berkeley, CA

Highlights:

If you’re in the mood for world-class culture with a chill neighborhood vibe, Berkeley makes for an ideal day trip from San Jose. You’ll find amazing eats, historic scenery, and the energy of a top university town—all less than 90 minutes away.

We Recommend This For:

Art and culture lovers, university tourers, garden and architecture fans, foodies, and curious wanderers.

What we Love:

A campus designed by a legendary landscape architect, a botanical garden tucked in the hills, street performances, indie bookstores, and everything from haute cuisine to funky cafes.

• Explore the 178-acre UC Berkeley campus—designed in part by Frederick Law Olmsted—featuring historic buildings, redwoods, and sweeping bay views.
• Wander the UC Botanical Garden, a 34-acre treasure trove of rare and native plants nestled in the hills.
• Soak in culture at the Berkeley Art Museum & Pacific Film Archive and catch a performance at Aurora Theatre Company, part of a vibrant arts scene with over 100 organizations.
• Dine and sip your way through Fourth Street, packed with stylish shops, wine bars, and top-rated restaurants.
• Experience the mix of intellectual energy, activism, and creativity that gives Berkeley its unique buzz and laid-back sophistication.

Distance from San Jose:

About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

How to Get to Berkeley:

Take I-880 North toward Oakland, then merge onto I-580 West and transition to I-80 East. Exit at University Avenue and follow it into downtown Berkeley or up to the UC campus.

Location:

Bodega Bay, CA

Highlights:

If you’re dreaming of salt air, coastal cliffs, and quiet beaches, Bodega Bay is a serene and soulful getaway. It’s a bit of a drive from San Jose, but the ocean views, fresh seafood, and artistic charm make every mile worth it.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, seafood lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat along the Northern California coast.

What we Love:

Rustic elegance, barefoot beach walks, harbor seal cruises, cozy seafood shacks, and local galleries filled with coastal-inspired crafts.

• Browse locally owned boutiques and artist-run galleries for unique handmade treasures and gifts.
• Walk barefoot along picturesque beaches that stretch beneath windswept cliffs and tidepools.
• Set sail on a bay cruise to spot harbor seals and get a fresh perspective of the shoreline.
• Dine on fresh local chowder at a seaside luncheonette, or splurge on a Michelin-starred meal with a view.
• Fish, sail, or paddle—Bodega Bay is a laid-back hub for fishing charters, kayak tours, and sailing adventures.

Distance from San Jose:

It’s about a 2 hour and 30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Expect winding coastal roads and stunning Pacific views along the way.

How to Get to Bodega Bay:

From San Jose, take US-101 North to Petaluma. From there, follow Bodega Avenue west to Valley Ford Road, which connects directly to Highway 1 North. Bodega Bay is right along the coast—watch for signs as you near the water.

Location:

Bodega Dunes Beach, Bodega Bay, CA

Highlights:

If you’re craving a windswept walk on a wild California beach, Bodega Dunes is your dream spot. Just a 2.5-hour drive from San Jose lands you at the edge of the Pacific—quiet, scenic, and surrounded by rolling dunes and wildlife.

We Recommend This For:

Beachcombers, birdwatchers, hikers, horseback riders, and campers looking for a peaceful, natural coastal escape.

What we Love:

Vast open sand, remote trails, protected dunes, picnic-perfect views, and spotting the rare Western Snowy Plover from an ADA-accessible boardwalk.

• Roam the quiet beachfront, perfect for solo walks, meditative moments, or family exploration.
• Hike out to Mussels Point or north toward South Salmon Creek Beach for a longer adventure.
• Ride on trails throughout the dunes that are open to horseback riders—a rare find right by the coast.
• Stay overnight at the Bodega Dunes Campground, which includes restrooms, BBQs, and picnic tables near the surf.
• Access the beach easily with an ADA-compliant boardwalk leading to an ocean-view platform.
• Spot the Western Snowy Plover, a federally threatened species that nests right here in the dunes—please tread carefully.

Distance from San Jose:

About 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Ideal for a long day trip or weekend beach-and-camp combo.

How to Get to Bodega Dunes Beach:

From San Jose, take US-101 North to Petaluma. Exit onto Bodega Avenue heading west. Continue on CA-1 North to Bodega Bay, then follow signs to the entrance at 3095 California 1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923.

Location:

Capitola Village, Santa Cruz County, CA

Highlights:

Looking for a sweet seaside escape that’s easy on the drive but rich in charm? Just about 45 minutes from San Jose, Capitola’s colorful waterfront cottages, beachfront boardwalk, and laid-back coastal vibe make it an instant favorite.

We Recommend This For:

Beach lovers, couples, families, and anyone craving coastal sunshine, ocean views, and a dash of California history.

What we Love:

A postcard-perfect beachfront, California’s first beach resort history, pastel-painted shops, oceanfront dining, and colorful tiles that tell stories along the sea wall.

• Wander through Capitola Village, a former 19th-century tent camp turned lively, colorful beach town along Monterey Bay.
• Discover local heritage at the Capitola Historical Museum and learn about Camp Capitola, California’s first official beach resort founded in the 1870s.
• Dine at Paradise Beach Grille, an oceanfront gem overlooking scenic Soquel Creek.
• Shop your way through quirky boutiques and gift stores in the colorful seaside village and along the beachfront boardwalk.
• Relax at Capitola State Beach, or just kick back on the sea wall decorated with hand-painted tiles created by local artists and residents.

Distance from San Jose:

Approximately 45–50 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Perfect for a spontaneous coastal day trip.

How to Get to Capitola Village:

Take CA-17 South to Santa Cruz, then exit onto CA-1 South. Take the Park Avenue exit and follow signs toward Capitola Village. Parking is available near the beach and downtown.

Location:

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Highlights:

Want to wander cobbled lanes, stroll by the sea, and feel like you’re in a storybook village without leaving California? Just under two hours from San Jose, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a magical mix of white sand beaches, charming architecture, and coastal serenity.

We Recommend This For:

Families, art lovers, coastal hikers, foodies, and anyone who enjoys unique shops, rich history, and ocean views all in one place.

What we Love:

Fairytale-style cottages, fine wine and food, coastal hiking trails, tucked-away art galleries, and stunning sunsets over the Pacific from Carmel Beach.

• Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea, a walkable village with a distinctly European vibe and no street addresses—just hidden courtyards and whimsical charm.
• Learn about local history at the Carmel Mission, founded in the 1700s, and admire its architecture and gardens.
• Stroll the Scenic Bluff Path for breathtaking ocean views along Carmel Beach.
• Indulge in wine tasting or coastal cuisine—grab a free map from the Visitor’s Center to hit the best tasting rooms and restaurants.
• Visit Whalers Cabin inside Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where trails lead through cypress groves to rocky coves and wildlife sightings.

Distance from San Jose:

Just under 2 hours by car, depending on traffic. A perfect all-day adventure with scenic stops along the way.

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

Take US-101 South to CA-156 West toward the Monterey Peninsula, then merge onto CA-1 South. Exit at Ocean Avenue and follow it straight into Carmel’s quaint village center.

Location:

Gilroy, CA

Highlights:

If you’ve got a love for garlic or just want a quirky, flavorful day trip, Gilroy is only about 40 minutes from San Jose. This small town packs big charm with garlicky eats, murals, music, and a whole festival dedicated to its famous bulb.

We Recommend This For:

Food lovers, garlic fans, history buffs, and anyone looking for a fun and fragrant local experience.

What we Love:

Garlic in everything from fries to ice cream, live music in a small-town square, history-rich murals, and a summer festival that makes your taste buds dance.

• Stroll through historic downtown Gilroy to browse antique stores, handmade goods, and garlic-themed eats.
• Follow the Historic Paseo walking tour and discover murals that celebrate the town’s farming heritage.
• Jam out to free live music every Thursday night in downtown during the warmer months—family-friendly and festive.
• Use the Road to Garlic Map to find must-visit garlic stops like shops, restaurants, and quirky roadside attractions.
• Visit in late July for the legendary Gilroy Garlic Festival, where garlic reigns supreme—from pasta and fries to BBQ and even desserts!

Distance from San Jose:

About 40–45 minutes south by car, making it perfect for a half-day adventure or evening concert escape.

How to Get to Gilroy:

Take US-101 South directly to Gilroy. Exit at Leavesley Road or 10th Street to head straight into the downtown area for shops, restaurants, and the garlic trail highlights.

Location:

Glen Ellen, CA (Jack London State Historic Park)

Highlights:

Looking to trade city bustle for forest trails and stories of a legendary adventurer? Just under two hours from San Jose, Jack London State Historic Park blends scenic hiking with the fascinating life of one of California’s boldest literary icons.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, hikers, writers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a peaceful day in the Sonoma countryside with cultural depth.

What we Love:

Crumbling ruins with powerful stories, historic trails, wildlife-rich forests, and the quiet gravitas of London’s gravesite under towering trees.

• Walk through the Wolf House ruins, London’s dream home that tragically burned before completion, yet still stirs the imagination.
• Step into Jack London’s cottage, filled with original furnishings and insights into his life as a writer and rancher.
• Explore miles of scenic hiking, cycling, and horseback trails through redwoods, meadows, and vineyards.
• Relax by the small lake London built with a stone dam, or spend time birdwatching in peaceful, undisturbed nature.
• Join one of the docent-led weekend tours to get a deeper look at London’s legacy, writing, and rugged lifestyle.

Distance from San Jose:

Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes by car, through scenic wine country roads—ideal for a day of discovery and serenity.

How to Get to Jack London State Historic Park:

Take US-101 North toward Santa Rosa. Exit onto CA-12 East to Glen Ellen, then follow London Ranch Road to the park entrance at 2400 London Ranch Rd, Glen Ellen, CA 95442.

I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

• Q: What destinations can visitors explore on a day trip from San Jose?
• A: Day trips from San Jose take visitors through the valley and beyond into San Francisco’s Bay Area and Marin County to the north, or south along the Pacific Coast.
• Q: What wine regions can visitors explore near San Jose?
• A: Visitors can enjoy the wine-growing regions of Napa and Livermore, known for their breathtaking vineyards and picturesque landscapes.
• Q: What types of landscapes can visitors experience on day trips from San Jose?
• A: Travelers can experience breathtaking beach and mountain landscapes, offering a perfect mix of nature and adventure.
• Q: What urban experiences can visitors enjoy near San Jose?
• A: Visitors can explore the contemporary bustle of San Francisco or visit smaller rural towns such as Gilroy, known as the Garlic Capital of the World.

Best Time for Day Trips from San Jose, California:

• March to May – Spring brings wildflower-covered hills, coastal breezes, and great weather for hiking and garden strolls.
• June to August – Summer is perfect for beach towns, redwood trails, winery tours, and outdoor festivals.
• September to October – Warm days and golden light make fall ideal for scenic drives, apple picking, and harvest season fun.
• November – Cooler but calm—great for museums, cozy cafés, and quiet coastal walks.
• December to February – Winter brings misty forests, festive towns, and peaceful nature escapes in the Bay Area and beyond.

Map:

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