If you are looking for the best day trips from San Francisco, then you are in the right place!
San Francisco is an exciting city. Full of life and unique attractions, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular destination.
The area surrounding San Francisco is filled with charming towns, epic ocean views, outdoor adventures, and amazing wineries.
Below are some of the best San Francisco day trips that you don’t want to miss.
Before you head on your road trip, check out these awesomethings to do in the Bay Area with kids.
Incredible Day Trips from San Francisco
Bolinas / 30 miles
Spend a day at Muir Woods National Monument, Point Reyes Samuel P Taylor State Park, and other outdoor adventures.
Silicon Valley / 50 miles
Head to Palo Alto, Redwood, and Cupertino to see some of the world’s largest technology firms. Here you’ll see the headquarters of Google, Facebook, Apple, and other tech giants. While there, stroll through the campus of Stanford University.
Half Moon Bay / 50 miles
Drive along the Pacific Coast Highways to enjoy the stunning views and laid-back beach towns. Go in October and you can visit the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival.
Hike your way through the Point Reyes National Seashore and enjoy the dramatic cliffs and ocean views.
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Napa Valley / 70 miles
No matter the time of year, a visit to Napa Valley is a good idea. Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the numerous wineries in the area.
Sonoma / 70 miles
The weather is amazing from June to October. Perfect to enjoy the sandy beaches or taste your way through the local wineries.
Sacramento / 90 miles
The state capital is laid back and a bustling city. In September they have a local Farm-to-Fork Festival.
San Juan Bautista / 100 miles
Enjoy the rich history of California. Visit the Mission San Juan Bautista that had been open since 1812.
Carmel-by-the-Sea / 120 miles
A charming village that gives off European vibes with its Swiss-inspired shops and restaurants. The town has amazing restaurants, markets, and wine-tasting rooms.
Gualala / 120 miles
A perfect destination to spend the day hiking, fishing, or playing a round of golf. Visit the Salt Point State Park Pygmy Forest to see miniature versions of cypress and redwood trees.
Sierra Nevada / 140 miles
What once was a booming during the gold rush is now a historic city. Visitors can enjoy strolling the downtown district or on a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Nevada City / 150 miles
A day surrounded by mountains, forests, and fresh air is a good excuse to visit Nevada City. Visitors will enjoy the downtown historic district that has classic western buildings, local dive bars, and shops.
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Big Sur / 150 miles
Take a stroll to the Point Sur Lighthouse in the Point Sur State Historic Park. You will enjoy the views of one of the most iconic stretches of coast in the world. It’s picture-perfect!
Mendocino / 160 miles
Visit the Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park. The lighthouse was built in 1909 and is on a hiking path that leads you to Frolic Cove with a shipwreck from the 1850s.
Yosemite National Park / 170 miles
Visit the famous El Capitan and Cathedral Rock mountains. The summer is the busiest season, so to avoid the crowds, it’s best to go during the other months.
Leggett / 180 miles
Don’t want to deal with the crowds in Yosemite? Then head to the Smithe Redwoods State Reserve and Standish-Hickey Recreation Area where you’ll see some massive Coastal Redwoods.
Lake Tahoe / 190 miles
No matter if you go for a summer vacation or for a winter ski session, Lake Tahoe doesn’t disappoint. There are plenty of gorgeous beaches, hiking trails, and ski resorts to explore while in town.
Redding / 220 miles
Located on the Sacramento River and close to the Lassen Volcanic National Park, visitors will enjoy the scenic views throughout this town.
San Luis Obispo / 230 miles
Visit Mission San Luis Obispo, which is one of the oldest in California dating back to 1772. Along with the mission, the town had great beaches, shops, restaurants and wineries.
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