10 Most Memorable Day Trips from San Francisco by Car
When I moved to San Francisco, the thing that I was excited for the most was how many day trips I could do outside of this city. In the last 3 years of living here, I’ve done quite a bit of traveling and each time I cross any one of the bridges and venture out somewhere new, I fall in love with the Bay Area even more.
If you’re looking for some dreamy places to visit outside of the San Francisco Bay Area, here are 10 places that you should keep on your radar.
Best Car Rental Platform
All of these places are accessible by car, however if you don’t have one, I recommend using DiscoverCars for renting a vehicle to travel!
1. Most Loved Bay Area Bay Trip: Bodega Bay, California
Bodega Bay is easily one of the most memorable day trips you can take outside of San Francisco. Here, you’ll fall in love with the rugged coastline and serene beauty that this destination has to offer. You can have the yummiest oysters (and just seafood in general!!), go to viewpoints and watch the waves of the Pacific Ocean crash against the cliffs and beaches, and do numerous outdoor activities like hikes and whale watching.
You can also venture into town and visit all of the iconic places where Alfred Hitchcock filmed “The Birds.” I highly recommend that if you’re a film junkie like I am.
2. Best Day Trip from San Francisco: Petaluma
Petaluma is truly quite special. This town has rows and rows of beautifully preserved Victorian homes and a fun downtown filled with numerous boutiques and restaurants. You can easily spend a day here shopping, exploring local art galleries, and eating your heart away. On a sunny day, you can also have a picnic next to the Petaluma River and explore the local museums to learn more about their rich agricultural history.
3. Breathtaking Day Trip from SF: Point Reyes
Point Reyes is the type of destination that will capture your heart. With dramatic views of the ocean, expansive wildlife habitats, and the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse, you’ll have a memorable day exploring this small town. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and dress warm! You can spend the day hiking through lush meadows, spotting elk or whales, birdwatching, and walking through its cute little downtown area. Don’t forget to pop into their local grocery store to try their buffalo milk ice cream! It’s a real treat.
4. A Popular Bay Area Day Trip: Half Moon Bay
Just 45 minutes south of San Francisco is the beautiful coastal town of Half Moon Bay. Known for its crescent shaped shoreline, family and dog friendly beaches, and a charming main street, this is the perfect day getaway for couples, groups of friends, and even for solo travelers. If you’re big on surfing, you can head to the Mavericks for giant waves, and you can also check out the tide pools and do some fun coastal hikes. Another activity you can do is go horseback riding along the coast!
Also, Half Moon Bay is known for their annual Pumpkin Festival, however if you can visit any time during the autumn season, I definitely recommend checking out their pumpkin patches and sunflower fields.
5. A Fun Day Trip Near San Francisco: Sausalito
Just 15 minutes away from San Francisco and across the Golden Gate Bridge is the oh-so-gorgeous beach town of Sausalito. With its super posh Mediterranean vibe and waterfront restaurants/boutiques, this is such a great place to spend the afternoon at. You can take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, sip on some coffee at one of the many cafes (my personal favorite is Suzette), or rent a kayak to paddle its waters. This is such a picturesque town and there’s so much to do! You also have gorgeous views of the San Francisco skyline, creating the perfect backdrop for all your pics.
6. A Cool Place to Go from San Francisco: Healdsburg
If you’re craving some wine, the best place to go to for a day trip outside of San Francisco is Healdsburg. This small town nestled in Sonoma County is FILLED with numerous tasting rooms, boutiques, and restaurants. No matter what time of the year you decide to visit, you’ll always have a wonderful time at Healdsburg.
Watch my travel guide to Healdsburg
7. The Perfect Day Trip in St. Helena
If you’re seeking another wine getaway, a must-add to your list is St. Helena, located in the heart of beautiful Napa Valley. St. Helena is world renowned for its jaw-dropping wineries, exceptional dining, and wide array of galleries/artisan shops. This is a dreamy place for all food and wine connoisseurs.
8. A Fun Outdoorsy Day Trip Outside of San Francisco: Guerneville
Set along the Russian River, Guerneville is a laid-back town that serves as a gateway to redwood forests and river adventures. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll love what Guerneville has to offer. Here, you can rent a canoe, go fishing, or hike through the towering trees at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. After a day of outdoor activities, you can unwind at one of the local eateries or wineries.
9. A Simple and Fun Day Trip in the Bay Area: Pacifica
Just 35 minutes south of San Francisco, Pacifica is a hidden coastal gem known for its sandy beaches, scenic hiking trails, and popular surf spots. Perfect for those seeking a laid-back beach atmosphere, the town also features the historic Pacifica Pier and a cultural arts scene. Be sure to check out Mori Point for breathtaking ocean vistas.
10. Warm & Sunny Day Trip in the Bay Area: Morgan Hill
About a 30 minute drive south of San Jose, Morgan Hill is an up-and-coming destination with a relaxing rural ambiance. You can try out their local wines, explore Anderson Lake County Park, and find marvelous places to bike and go horseback riding. Surrounded by golden hills and sunny skies, this beautiful town has a lot to offer for those seeking a warm escape from San Francisco.
10 Day Trips in the Bay Area
Wherever you decide to go this season, I hope you have a safe and happy trip!
