Cheat sheet to picking a weekend getaway from San Francisco
Weekend coming up and can't decide where your next getaway is going to be? With a plethora of destinations around San Fran to choose from, it can be a bit tricky to pick one. Luckily, LifeIsOutside has got you covered. We hope this cheat sheet helps make things easier!
Places you can drive to
0-3 hour drive:
HALF MOON BAY: 'Live, Work & Play' is the motto of this tranquil coastal town, just a 45 minute drive from San Francisco. Half Moon Bay is an unexpected charm because of the myriad of activities it offers to the people who visit. With the Pacific Ocean looming in the background, picnicking, surfing, swimming, camping and just sightseeing are great ways to keep yourself engaged. The town is famous for fresh produce of monstrous pumpkins and the annual Art & Pumpkin festival that is held here.
NAPA VALLEY: Renowned as one of the premier wine producing destinations in the country and also the world, the picturesque region in and around Napa Valley allows you to soak in scenic landscapes dotted with more than 400 wineries and hundreds of vineyards. The viticultural heritage of Napa Valley is unrivalled by any other destination in the world and if you are a wine lover, this is truly the ideal destination for you.
BODEGA BAY: An easy on the eye, two hour drive north of San Francisco takes you through the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, untamed natural terrains, small attractive towns and finally the beautiful seaside charm of Bodega Bay. Surrounded by marine and regional parks, the natural beauty of the bay attracts leisure seekers from every part of the country. Miles of sandy untouched beaches is exactly what's needed for an ideal rejuvenating holiday experience.
SANTA CRUZ: The Surf City of Santa Cruz is a watersport haven, housing numerous world class beaches and providing a plethora of activities to choose from, ranging from sailing and yachting to diving and surfing on the sun kissed azure of the mighty Pacific. Explore the marvellous redwoods, pristine beaches, Santa Cruz boardwalk, great art galleries and museums. Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal town with a metropolitan vibe that only fascinates you.
SONOMA: Just an hour's drive away, north of San Fran, lies this significant wine region that holds great importance when it comes to vino culture and history. Sonoma is northern California's pampered child, with a wide range of activities and facilities to enjoy in and around the region. You can spend a whole day tasting wine at the umpteen wineries here or hike through the magisterial redwood forests, the choice is yours. Sonoma is widely considered as the birthplace of wine-making in California and you shouldn't miss out experiencing the many age-old, vintage wines the region offers.
SANTA ROSA & HEALDSBURG: Separated by just a 20 minute drive, Santa Rosa and Healdsburg are two fascinating townships adorned by stunning architecture, lovely calm
atmospheres, vast measures of vineyards, and glamorous state parks and reserves surrounding the region. Healdsburg has been continuously awarded as one of the top ten small towns in the country and Santa Rosa is well known for its rich heritage and concentration of historic buildings from the early 20th and late 19th century.
SACRAMENTO: California's capital city is often overlooked and overshadowed by the urban vibe of Los Angeles and San Francisco, two of the greatest west coast cities. But being the oldest city in the state, Sacramento is historic and cultural heritage resonates almost everywhere here. Known for its extensive tree canopy (largest in the USA), cultural diversity and amazing hippy vibe, 'Sac' is America's most diverse city. So, add this wonderful destination to your bucket list, pack your boot and drive away!
MONTEREY & CARMEL BY THE SEA: The neighboring cities of Monterey & Carmel-By-The-Sea are exceptional California holiday destinations waiting to be unearthed of the stunning natural wonders they possess. With an assortment of picturesque golf courses, irresistible uncrowded beaches, unique array of art galleries and museums, and rich marine life, this region is unmissable for any nature lover. The arts and music scene here is a remarkable addition to the beautiful natural surroundings.
BIG SUR: Flanked by the Santa Lucia mountains on one side and the ferocious Pacific on the other, Big Sur is arguably one of the most jaw dropping and panoramic places to visit from San Francisco (150 miles south) and is a part of Los Padres National Forest. Mammoth cliffs, a rocky coastline, fierce waves, soaring mountains and towering bridges beautify this precious gem of a destination, leaving 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.
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK: Yosemite is literally heaven on Earth. Milky waterfalls, magnificent verdant valleys, colossal sequoias and hilly peaks that offer you undisturbed breathtaking views of valleys below are not to be missed. It is cuddled on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges and is approximately 170 miles from the Fog City. The region serves as a perfect getaway for backpackers, families, solo-trippers or a random road trip. The valley is ideal for activities like hiking, climbing and camping, so snap your boots on and get going! Nobody forgets Yosemite after visiting it.
3-6 hour drive:
LOS ANGELES: A city of a million dreams, that's what Los Angeles is. Located at a 6 hour drive from San Fran, 'The City of Angels' has achieved the tag as one of the greatest cities in the world due to its ethnic diversity, rich history, bustling metropolis and an exciting waterfront scene. Often billed as 'The Creative Capital of the World', it is home to Hollywood and offers a stunning glimpse into the film industry. It also houses more number of museums and art galleries than any other city in the world. This is a city that will leave you nostalgic once you leave its heavenly abode.
LAKE TAHOE: If there's a perfect picnic destination in the world, then you need not look further than Lake Tahoe. Situated at the border of California and Nevada, it is a tourist hotspot known for its abundance of adventure activities, ranging from camping in the wild to hiking the unexplored and untamed wilderness of nature in the national parks surrounding the lake. Also, if you have had enough of nature, go to the Nevada side of the lake and take a chance where gambling is legal in towns such as Stateline, Incline Village and Crystal Shore.
RENO: One of the oldest gambling capitals in the United States, Reno is attached with the 'The Biggest Little City In The World' tag due to its big city charm spread over a considerably small area. Set on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, it is approximately a four hour drive away from 'Frisco. There are countless number of activities spanning from downtown shopping and gambling to countryside skiing and whitewater rafting to keep you engaged throughout your stay.
PASO ROBLES: Paso Robles is a historically and culturally rich city situated on the edges of southern California, boasting a myriad of rejuvenating hot springs, sport arenas, marvellous wineries, miles of lush green vineyards and a nimble downtown area sprinkled with boutique shops and piquant restaurants. It is easily accessible from San Francisco through the scenic U.S Route 101 which leads all the way to L.A. Paso is a relaxing quaint little city with a lovely charm of its own!
MENDOCINO: It can't get any better than a medley of rugged coastlines, serene esplanades, beautiful waterfront cafes and umpteen cliffs that take your breath away. Surrounded by the roars of the majestic Pacific on three sides, Mendocino is unrivalled when it comes to natural beauty. The road from San Fran to Mendocino treats you with paths passing through untouched Redwood forests, verdant vineyards and soaring hills. It takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach this gem of a Californian adventure.
ASHLAND: Only 15 miles from California lies Ashland in the bordering state of Oregon. A cultural hotspot and a city that has very well held onto its esteemed heritage, Ashland is a soothing, mellow city perfect for a family getaway or a backpacking trip. The winter season here attracts a lot of crowd because of snow covered mountain slopes nearby that allow for a wide range of activities including snowboarding, skiing and other snow related sports. If you?re an art-lover, this is the place for you, for it has been awarded consecutively in the top ten for 'The 100 Best Small Art Towns In America'.
KLAMATH FALLS: Klamath Falls is just a 6 hour picturesque drive north of San Francisco. From unparalleled hiking trails, cycling paths and exotic golf courses to a diverse array of wildlife in and around Klamath's proximity, visitors are in for a treat. A must visit site near the town is the famous Crater Lake National Park which is only 40 miles away, known for its eye-striking azure colour, the lake and its surroundings.
SANTA BARBARA: Nestled right in between the soaring Santa Ynez mountains and the grand sky blue of the Pacific, Santa Barbara is an extremely charming west coast fantasy that is said to resemble the French Riviera because of its Mediterranean feel. Santa Barbara is located south of San Francisco, at a distance of 530 km and a 6 hour drive. This city awes you with gorgeous cliffs, lively beaches, yummy restaurants, thriving urban districts and flourishing art communities.
MAMMOTH LAKES: Mammoth Lakes has an exceptional alpine hill station vibe to it, surrounded by acres and acres of untouched forest lands. Though the region is a year round tourist destination, the winter months receive more than 200 inches of snowfall every year and this provides a fantastic platform for sports and activities like snowboarding and skiing on the multitude of peaks the region offers. Mammoth Lakes is a trip you will never forget!
OJAI: Ojai's picturesque location nestled in the Ojai Valley which is about 15 km long and 3 km wide, fenced amidst soaring mountains and hills that extend as far as the horizon, is a sight to behold. The region is known for its growing tourism inflow, thanks to the recreational activities it offers such as spiritual retreats, hiking trails and loads of sightseeing to do with the Los Padres National Park bordering the city to the north. Wine is also a great reason to visit Ojai!
SAN LUIS OBISPO: Located on the west coast, equidistant from 'Frisco and L.A, San Luis is an enjoyable three and a half hour drive from San Francisco. The tranquil town is well known for hiking, trekking, rock climbing and well preserved natural beauty with the Santa Lucia mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. The Pacific coast is not very far away (20 km west) and the rugged coastlines, rocky cliffs and magnificent beaches are a great addition to your trip. San Luis Obispo is also rich with history and culture and it is certainly worth a visit!
6 hours and above:
MALIBU: Surrounded by three state parks on three sides and the vast blue of the Pacific on the other, Malibu lies on the scenic Pacific Coast Highway - Route 1 and is accessible easily by road (6-7 hours) from San Francisco. With a myriad of tranquil beaches to compliment the unforgettable sunsets the place has to offer, the place is a rejuvenating haven. Also, the beaches here are a surfer's paradise. You can enjoy a variety of delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront cafes and restaurants.
PALM SPRINGS: Southern California's desert resort city, Palm Springs holds a glamorous appeal for its hot springs, golf courses, tennis courts & fantastic mid century-modern architecture that attracts art enthusiasts from the region and beyond. The multitude of outdoor activities that Palm Springs offers is unrivalled, from horseback riding overlooking the majestic mountains in the background to the surrounding Coachella Valley that offers biking, hiking, swimming and other memorable ventures.
BIG BEAR LAKE: Big Bear is a quaint little resort town within the San Bernardino National Park, at a distance of 470 miles south of San Francisco, a journey of well over 7 hours worth undertaking. This resort community treats you with stunning attractions at every corner, ranging from the tranquil Big Bear Lake to the magisterial San Bernardino mountains which provide a dramatic scenery as the backdrop. The seasons here don't matter as nature offers its best all year round. Activities like camping, trekking, hiking, skiing, zip-lining, swimming, etc. are famous here.
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK: Joshua Tree is a location where two distinct elevations of the same desert ecosystem collide to form spectacular landscapes, one of the higher Mojave desert and the lower Colorado desert being the other. Named after the rare and native Joshua tree species, the park covers an area of more than a thousand square miles and is an adventurer's hotspot. Primarily known for rock climbing on magnificently placed boulders, the region is also known as a stargazer's haven because of the pollution-less environment.
IDYLLWILD: Idyllwild is California's well renowned mountain resort town that attracts thousands of tourists each year for its alpine attractions such as hiking, skiing, horseback riding and numerous walking trails that allow you to get lost in mother nature's well seasoned beauty. Rock climbing here on the Suicide Rock and the Lily Rock is a magnet for professional as well as beginners. The idyllic town of Idyllwild is a fantastic mellow trip away from the hubbub of daily commotions.
BORREGO SPRINGS: At a distance of 500 miles and a drive of about 9 hours from San Fran, Borrego Springs is a placid village settlement surrounded by California's largest desert state park covering more than 600,000 acres - the Anza-Borrego State Park. It has been designated as an 'international dark sky' community because of the exceptional night sky views and is a hub for professional and amateur astronomers. Known for its quiet & calm environment, the town is flocked by tourists all year round who want to rejuvenate and relax.
LAUGHLIN: The third most visited city in Nevada after Las Vegas and Reno, Laughlin is an entertainment, gaming and gambling hub. The small city is located on the borders of Nevada, Arizona and California on the shores of the great Colorado river at a distance of 600 miles from San Francisco. Though it is lined with casinos and gambling resorts, the city also serves as a family destination as outdoor activities such as water skiing, swimming, boating and RV parties are famous here.
LINCOLN CITY: Visit Oregon's scenic west coast to experience beautiful landscapes and uncover a city rich in history and cultural heritage. Lincoln City possesses 7 miles of pristine sandy beaches and offers a calm pleasant climate all year long for tourists and holiday-goers. Steady Pacific breezes and lovely tide conditions make kite flying and surfing popular activities here. There are also a variety of entertainment venues here to refresh yourself. So catch up at one of the many bars or take a walk along the beach, the choice is yours!
LAS VEGAS: It is hard to argue against the fact that the city of Vegas terms itself as 'The Entertainment Capital of the World'. The city's monstrous charm doesn't seem to disappoint visitors, Sin City's adrenaline pumping appeal is unrivalled. From mega money casinos, gambling resorts and grand theatres to a bustling nightlife, exotic food scene and shopping arenas, Las Vegas is the quintessential getaway! It is reachable from San Francisco in 8-9 hours via road and is definitely worth your diesel.
DISNEYLAND, ANAHEIM: Arguably the most sought after entertainment complex in the world, the park attracts more than 650 million visitors since it first opened 60 plus years ago. Located at Anaheim, just south of L.A and a 7 hour drive from San Francisco, Disneyland is a must visit for its euphoric rides, child-like aura and a world of never ending fantasy. 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!
PORTLAND: Oregon's capital city is also one of its most charming. Portland is one of the cleanest and most environment friendly cities in the country due to its endless park areas, bicycle trails and one of a kind farm-to-table dining scene. Historic landmarks dot the cityscape which treats you with a stunning skyline adorned by numerous bridges over the Willamette river, hence deriving the name of 'Bridgetown'. The port city has a very flattering culture and the Guardian named the city's music scene as one of the most vibrant in the country.
THREE SISTERS, OREGON: The dormant volcanic mountains of the Three Sisters peaks are a stunning spectacle, a trip you must undertake at least once in your lifetime. Located in the remote wilderness of Oregon, they are a 9-10 hour scenic drive from 'Frisco. The sheer magnificence of the North, South and the Middle Sister peaks are famous among climbers, mountaineers and scramblers. Views in and around the region of the three closely amassed peaks are brilliant to say the least!
Places you can fly to
Short flights (0-2 hours):
PHOENIX: Though Phoenix is one of the largest cities in the country, its appeal is unmissable. The capital of Arizona state is a 1 hour 50 minute flight from 'Frisco. The sunny city is surrounded by scattered mountain ranges on all sides and is a bustling cosmopolitan city in the heart of the state. Consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in the country, it is known for its vibrant culture, flourishing nightlife, mesmerizing architecture, widely spaced roads and a plethora of sport attractions.
SEATTLE: One of the biggest port cities in the country, Seattle is a northwestern delight known for its gorgeous location. 'The Emerald City' boasts a plethora of cultural attractions, main one being the ever active music scene that has been the home to legendary artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. It is also home to some world renowned attractions such as the Seattle Great Wheel, which is one of the biggest in the country and the iconic Space Needle. Cruise tourism is also a thriving industry here.
CANNON BEACH: Cannon Beach, Oregon can be rightfully called one of the best beaches in the country for its tranquil, picturesque atmosphere. The beach area is one of Portlanders' favorite getaway destinations as the city is only an hour and a half away, with the Portland International Airport being the nearest major airport to the beach. However, a short flight from San Francisco can also bring you to this charming destination. 9 miles of sandy coastline provide the ultimate calmness you were always looking for. The Haystack Rock along with the two Needle Rocks protruding from the sea add to the never ending heavenliness of the region.
Long flights (2-4 hours):
MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK: As one of the oldest national parks in the country, Mount Rainier National Park is a visual treat for anyone who sets foot in its vicinity. With hundreds and thousands of acres of untouched forests, verdant valleys and enormous glaciers, Mount Rainier stands out as the most scenic highlight of the park. At 14,000 feet above sea level it is a sight to behold. The snow capped volcanic mountain offers mountaineering, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling and other winter sports. This national historic landmark is a must visit!
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK: It is safe to say Yellowstone is one of the most striking and picturesque locations on Earth. Spread over Idaho, Wyoming and Montana, it is reachable from San Francisco by a 3 hour flight to the Yellowstone airport in Montana. The greatness of the oldest national park in the country and the world cannot be explained in words and can be only experienced if you set foot here. From hundreds of thunderous thermal geysers and lovely sub-alpine forests to tranquil alpine lakes and majestic waterfalls, this is the perfect place to digest the wonders of mother nature.
LAKE CHELAN: Situated right on the edge of the Wenatchee National Forest, Lake Chelan is a fantastic picnic destination to bring out the adventurer in you. The nearest major airport to Lake Chelan is the Pangborn Memorial Airport in Wenatchee, 50 miles away. The lake seems more like a river because of the narrow valley and scenic fjord like landscape it portrays. A myriad of enjoyable activities can be undertaken any time of time year, ranging from boating, swimming, fishing and water skiing to sightseeing in and around the cultural attractions of the quaint little town of Chelan.
WHATCOM FALLS PARK: 240 acres of pristine forest area, cobblestone bridges, placid waterways, quaint little picnic spots and splendid walking trails adorn this enchanting park area. Whatcom is located in Bellingham, Washington and is accessible by air from 'Frisco to the Bellingham International Airport from where the park is just a 15 minute drive away. Whatcom Falls are a great getaway destination away from the noise and unwanted commotions of daily life and is well worth a visit.
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK: The superlative topography and panorama of the Olympic National Park is like a box of chocolates waiting to be opened! The World Heritage Site offers stunning sights of meetings of land and sea, with Mount Olympus as one of the most scenic features of the park. Three distinct ecosystems - the sub alpine forests, temperate wilderness and rugged Pacific shores encompass and beautify the surroundings of the area. It is magical throughout the year, so you shouldn't particularly break your head about when you are visiting.
FRIDAY HARBOR, SAN JUAN ISLAND: Right at the border with Canada, lies this exotic seaport bustling with life and rich in history and cultural heritage. Friday Harbor is the ideal vacation for a weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation. The nearest airport to Friday would be in Victoria, Canada but on the US side, Bellingham, Washington serves as the nearest major airport in the country from San Francisco. The tiny little port town can be covered by walking and if that isn't enough you can always hire mopeds, bicycles and shuttles for rent!
PORT TOWNSEND: The historic port city of Port Townsend is a walk back into time. The 19th century Victorian architecture is still prominent to this day in many parts of this fascinating city and hence has been declared a U.S. Historic Landmark District. The nearest major airport is Seattle which is about a 2 hour drive away. The town is rich in artistic culture and is home to a vibrant waterfront scene and annual festivals that attract people from the region and beyond. Port Townsend is a tension-free destination with a lovely charm.
TUCSON: A spirited and lively city of diverse cultures, historic architecture, recreational areas, sparkly art galleries, museums and a vibrant culinary culture, Tucson is one of Arizona's most wonderful cities to spend time in. There are so many outdoor activities to do here, from horseback riding to hiking in the wilderness. Also, the Sonoran desert provides a dramatic backdrop to the city with five majestic mountain ranges. You can reach Tucson from San Francisco is just over a couple of hours via air. Definitely do not miss the Mission San Xavier Del Bac, which is one of the most beautiful structures revered throughout the country.
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK: Miles of extraordinary combinations of colored desert landscapes make Grand Canyon National Park undoubtedly one of the best scenic locations on Earth. It can be reached from San Francisco by a 3-4 flight to the park's designated airport. This UNESCO World Heritage Site doesn't need a second thought while being mentioned as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The 277 mile long sight of the canyon is truly an unforgettable sight, with nature at its pristine majestic best.
So, now that you have a better idea, what are you waiting for? Plan and book your perfect weekend getaway from San Fran and be prepared for everything these destinations have in store for you!
