Lying in the heart of the state of California around 165 miles from San Francisco, Yosemite is an American treasure unlike any other. Only people who have visited Yosemite know that it's easier to feel, than to explain. The area holds jaw-dropping scenery with its deep gorgeous green valleys, milky waterfalls, polished domed monoliths, giant sequoias and narrow canyons. Yosemite is situated on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, covering an area of over 3000 square km. It makes for a formidable family weekend getaway to immerse yourself in nature's unperturbed nirvana. Make time to visit Tioga road, one of the most scenic highways in the country, cutting through the formidable high country. Stop by the tranquil Tenaya Lake and treat yourself with spectacular views from Olmsted Point. The valley is open year round for hiking, climbing and camping, so snap your boots on and get going! Nobody forgets Yosemite after visiting it.

San Diego is California's pampered child. With a long history, stretchy sandy beaches, ideal climate, exotic nightlife and low crime rates, 'America's Finest City' has a calm atmosphere for a city of its size. It is 808 km from 'Frisco, a drive of about 8 hours. If you are looking for a placid break from the busyness of a big city in a big city, then San Diego should be your home for the weekend. Sip on some classic beer from local breweries, take a cruise and go whale spotting or pay a visit to one of the many amusement parks and zoos in the city. San Diego doesn't fail to keep you engaged in one activity or the other.

Flanked by the Santa Lucia mountains on one side and the ferocious Pacific on the other, Big-Sur is arguably one of the most breathtaking and panoramic places to visit from San Francisco. It is approximately 150 miles to the south of the Fog City, and is a part of Los Padres National Forest. Rocky cliffs, rugged coastline, fierce waves, soaring mountains and towering bridges beautify this precious gem of a destination and tend to leave its visitors speechless. You can stop anywhere on the Big-Sur section of the Highway 1 and enjoy "one of the most stunning meetings of land and sea in the world", as New York Times described it. The view over the Bixby Creek Bridge emanates on a different frequency, allowing you to soak in the raw, unspoiled work of mother nature.

The supreme granddaddy of all amusement parks in the world is a 7 hour drive at a distance of 660 km from San Francisco. Disneyland is located to the south of downtown Los Angeles and serves as a perfect family getaway. No better and exciting place comes to mind if you wish to have a fun-filled weekend, doesn't matter if you're 18 or 80. Southern California's delightful hot-spot treats its visitors with live cartoon characters, miniature trains, euphoric rides and classic movie set-ups - from Pirates of the Caribbean to Star Wars, you name it. This is a must-see destination and is more than a worthy contender to be up on your bucket-list. Disneyland is a stop for all ages!

Residing between the imposing Santa Ynez mountain range and the mighty Pacific, this city awes you with gorgeous cliffs, lively beaches, yummy restaurants, thriving urban districts and flourishing art communities. Visit the early 19th century church of Mission Santa Barbara and immerse yourself in its Greco-Roman styled architecture or visit Stearns Wharf for a low-key outing overlooking the harbor and the mountains on the opposite side. Santa Barbara is located south of San Francisco, at a distance of 530 km and a 6 hour drive. This city of great charm is the perfect laid-back weekend holiday and is definitely worth a visit.

You don't have to sacrifice a lot of your time to experience and relish Northern California's famous wine haven. Located at a distance of just 45 miles from San Francisco, Sonoma is undoubtedly one of California's best kept secrets as one of the finest wine-growing regions in the world. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, you get 'em all! Live music, hospitable locals and lots of wine drinking make this wine country an amazing weekend getaway prospect, with 'Frisco just an hour away. It is home to the largest plaza in the state today with over one hundred shops, tasting rooms and wineries to discover. The vivid vineyards engrave a memorable image in your mind and are utterly refreshing. Sonoma is a destination not to be missed!

At a distance of approximately 115 and 120 miles from San Francisco lie Monterey and Carmel respectively, quaint spectacular coastal towns just a couple hours drive away. Carmel-by-the-sea is famously known for its attractive scenery and rich artistic history. Splendid natural countryside and more than half the population's line of work related to aesthetic arts makes this quiet town an extremely hospitable destination for tourists and travellers. And just like its seaside counterpart, Monterey is an ocean lover's paradise. Known for its bountiful marine life, the town is sought after by scuba divers for contemplating the variety of animals found in the deep blue of the Pacific. The two towns are 4 miles apart from one another and are easily accessible by car, bus or you can even walk!