San Francisco, well known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and lively cultural scene, has also become a gateway for some of Northern California’s most spectacular destinations. With serene nature escapes, historic towns, and coastal adventures galore, the areas around San Francisco have something for each traveler. Here are the top places to visit around San Francisco that are worthy of your itinerary.
Top 14 places to visit near San Francisco
- Muir Woods National Monument : Located just 12 miles north of San Francisco, Muir Woods National Monument is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This ancient forest is home to towering coastal redwoods, some of which are over 1,000 years old. Stroll along the well-maintained trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove are particularly awe-inspiring areas to explore. Muir Woods is a peaceful retreat from city life and offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature. Come early to avoid crowds and make use of the shuttle service if parking is full.
- Sausalito: Across the Golden Gate Bridge, there lies a quaint town named Sausalito. Characterized by Mediterranean charm, Sausalito is blessed with scenic waterfront views, quaint boutiques, and top-notch seafood restaurants. You can walk along the marina, admiring luxurious yachts and unique houseboats.
A visit to Sausalito wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Bay Model Visitor Center-a huge working hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta. You can also rent a bike and ride along scenic waterfront paths.
- Point Reyes National Seashore :About an hour’s drive from San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This protected area features rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush meadows. Visit the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse, dramatically perched on the edge of the coastline, for stunning ocean views.
Another highlight here is wildlife spotting. Be on the lookout for tule elk, elephant seals, and migratory whales. For those looking to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty, there are unforgettable experiences to be had on hiking trails like the Tomales Point Trail.
- Napa Valley and Sonoma County: Definitely to not be missed are the wine-enthused visits to Napa Valley and Sonoma County both located just over an hour outside of San Francisco where wine-tasting, fine dining, and scenic tours on the vineyards await discovery.
In Napa Valley, the towns of Yountville and St. Helena are perfect for indulging in fine dining and luxury accommodations. Sonoma County, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back vibe, with charming towns like Healdsburg and Sebastopol showcasing artisanal goods and farm-to-table cuisine. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a truly unique experience.
- Half Moon Bay: Half Moon Bay is a coastal gem with pristine beaches and scenery south of San Francisco. You might want to check out Mavericks Beach, where you can see the huge waves that make it a surfing destination. Half Moon Bay State Beach is a good spot for a picnic or just taking a walk on the beach.
Fall comes alive with pumpkin patches and the annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are hiking trails like Purisima Creek Redwoods that offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea: About two hours south of San Francisco, Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea make for an ideal weekend getaway. Monterey is world famous for its world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium and historic Cannery Row. Visitors will love a scenic drive along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, which offers breathtaking coastal views and landmarks such as the Lone Cypress.
Just a short drive away, Carmel-by-the-Sea enchants visitors with its charming cottages, art galleries, and white sandy beaches. This artistic town is perfect for leisurely strolls and romantic evenings.
- Santa Cruz: Santa Cruz, approximately 75 miles south of San Francisco, is a beach town that’s all laid-back. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an amusement park that has some pretty vintage rides and old arcade games. Surfers can’t get enough of Steamer Lane, which is probably the best surfing spot in this area.
For a more relaxed experience, visit Natural Bridges State Beach for its unique rock formations and seasonal monarch butterfly migrations.
- Mount Tamalpais State Park: Located in Marin County, Mount Tamalpais State Park is a hiker’s haven with miles of trails offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, Pacific Ocean, and surrounding valleys. Popular trails include the Dipsea Trail and Matt Davis Trail for those seeking a challenge.
Mount Tamalpais is also a great spot for picnics and stargazing, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers.
- Pescadero: This small, rural town lies nestled along the coast south of Half Moon Bay and is filled with a mix of outdoor activities and local flavors. For dramatic cliffs and tide pools, visit Pescadero State Beach, or for a peaceful hike among redwoods, head to Butano State Park.
The town itself boasts attractions such as Harley Farms Goat Dairy, where you can taste artisanal cheeses, and Duarte’s Tavern, which is known for its olallieberry pie.
- Berkeley: Just a short drive across the Bay Bridge, Berkeley is a lively city known for its academic and cultural vibrancy. The University of California, Berkeley campus is a highlight, featuring the iconic Sather Tower and botanical gardens.
Berkeley’s Gourmet Ghetto is the food lover’s paradise: from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries. Its arts scene is also thriving, with theaters, galleries, and live music venues.
- Angel Island State Park: Accessible by ferry from Tiburon, Angel Island State Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Once a U.S. immigration station, the island now serves as a recreational area with hiking and biking trails that provide stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, Marin County, and the Bay Bridge.
Visitors can also explore historical sites, such as the Immigration Station Museum, to learn about the island’s fascinating past.
- Alameda: Just across the Bay from San Francisco, Alameda is an underrated gem that combines small-town charm with diverse attractions. Monthly, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire is a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts. For beachgoers, Crown Memorial State Beach offers calm waters and picturesque views of the San Francisco skyline.
Alameda’s Spirits Alley, a collection of craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries, is perfect for an afternoon of tasting unique beverages.
- Pacifica: Only 15 minutes south of San Francisco, Pacifica is a coastal town known for its dramatic cliffs and excellent surfing spots. Pacifica State Beach is a favorite among surfers and beachgoers alike, while the Devil’s Slide Trail offers a scenic path along rugged coastal terrain.
Pacifica is also the best place to go when whale watching as it peaks during migration periods.
- Livermore Valley: Livermore Valley is a great wine region situated about 45 miles east of San Francisco. It provides an excellent alternative to Napa or Sonoma since it now boasts over 50 wineries, including Wente Vineyards and Concannon Vineyard.
Several annual events are also held within this region, including the Livermore Valley Wine Auction and Harvest Wine Celebration, which makes this region a great destination for wine enthusiasts.
Conclusion
San Francisco’s closeness to such a varied range of destinations makes it an excellent base for traveling around Northern California. You can go wine tasting, hiking, or just soaking in the scenic beauty; there are no shortages of fantastic places to visit near the city. Each destination has its own charm and experiences, making sure that your adventures outside of San Francisco are as memorable as your time within the city limits.
