Here's a list of local spots near San Francisco that are perfect for afternoon/day trips - that I highly recommend! Hope you enjoy and can check these all of your bucketlist!
Famous park just outside of San Francisco. Be sure to book well in advance and get a parking pass as well. Fun with friends, family, or solo adventures as well
Muir Woods National Monument
Very popular for city dwellers looking to get out of the city and hike, bike, camp, and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay Area
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Laid back beach town with a charming town atmosphere. Perfect for a daytime beach day and picnic plus dinner before heading back to the city
Stinson Beach
Hotspot for dramatic coastline views, hiking, wildlife viewing, and beaches
Point Reyes National Seashore
A unique and small town located in Marin where you can enjoy beaches, explore the lagoon, surf, hike, visit many local art galleries, and enjoy the quaint tight-knit downtown community. Known for Bolinas Beach and the Bolinas Lagoon as well as the Bo...
Bolinas
Cute waterfront town just a stones throw away from the city (first few exits off the Golden Gate Bridge), you can also take a ferry for the day from the ferry building. Lots of cute shops, cafes, and restaurants to eat at
City of Sausalito
Great seafood spots to eat at here and the town is very charming. You can also take a ferry here from the San Francisco ferry building. Highly recommend eating at Sam's Anchor Cafe or Malibu Farm or the Bungalow Kitchen
Town of Tiburon
Coastal beach town close to Santa Cruz known for their colorful shops and the beach. Be sure to get there early as it gets packed on the weekends
Capitola
Famous for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk during the summer months, beaches, and surfing. Lots of great cafes and shops and restaurants to explore as well. Check out downtown Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point, and spots like Humble Sea Brewing Co, Bad Anima...
Santa Cruz
World renowned wine region in Northern California about an hour and a half drive from San Francisco. Numerous wineries and tasting rooms. There are lots of great charter buses and tours to book wine tastings for the afternoon as well as hotels for ov...
Napa Valley
Another Northern California wine country destination. Offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Napa Valley. Lot's of famous and popular wineries here like Gundlach Bundschu, Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, Larson Family Winery, Cline Family Cellars, and more
Sonoma Valley
Coastal town famous for it's beaches, coastal trails, and farms (pumpkin farms in the fall during Halloween season!). Some recommendations for food: Sam's Chowder House, Dad's Luncheonette, drinks at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach Distill...
Half Moon Bay
Coastal town with stunning scenery and attractions. Famously known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium, very family friendly
Monterey
Picturesque coastal town famous for their bed and breakfasts, quiet neighborhood walking distance from the beach. Great for romantic getaway or a slow family vacation
Carmel
Amazing park for exploring ancient redwood forests with various hiking trails
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Famous island park that offers hiking, biking, stunning views, camping, kayaking and more. Be sure to check the website for more information and park rules as there are strict guidelines when visiting