Top 33 Day Trips Near San Francisco for 2025 Adventure

San Francisco is one of those magical cities – a bucket list holiday destination in the US, guaranteed to make you feel like you are stepping into a movie set. Whether heading to the curvy Lombard Street or museum hopping between the Palace of Fine Arts and California Academy of Science, there are many things to do in San Francisco.

Although it doesn’t have a quaint downtown area, instead featuring super-sized skyscrapers and a constant buzz, San Francisco is an exciting place to visit. San Francisco is a brilliant spot in Northern California, and we can see why you want to visit so much. Consequently, why would you like to leave, even just for a day trip? These 33 best-day trips from San Francisco will answer that for us.

33 Best Day Trips from San Francisco

If you have plenty of time in San Francisco, a day trip should definitely be on your agenda. The city is ideally situated to provide you with a launchpad to explore the surrounding area. You could head off to the Santa Cruz Mountains or nip to the Golden Gate Bridge on an extended day trip. There are numerous options for day-tripping from San Francisco. Here are your top 33 choices.

Planning Your Trip to San Francisco?

Below are some of the top tours for day trips from San Francisco. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting California!

Top Day Trips and Tours from San Francisco:

• Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco (Most Popular)
• BEST 17-Mile Drive, Carmel and Monterey Day Trip from San Francisco (Our Favorite)
• The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour (Likely to Sell Out)
• Combo Tour: Alcatraz Island and San Francisco Grand City Tour (Best Deal)
• Small Group Giant Redwoods and Russian River Wine Country Trip (Do Not Miss)

1. Monterey

What do sardines and John Steinbeck have in common? Monterey is a coastal city south of San Francisco. It is a perfect day trip destination, offering a more compact feel than its larger neighbor. The city embodies coastal living, with charming gift shops and plenty of seafood restaurants. Its best attractions include the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, always buzzing with over-the-water activities and cultural events.

At just a 2-hour drive each way, it is a feasible day trip if you rent a car. You’ll be driving through the San Francisco Bay Area, enjoying a selection of little waterfront towns and cities as stop-over points. This pretty seaside spot is ideal for ocean lovers and those wanting a little bit of whimsical seafront living for a day.

• Distance from San Francisco: 2-hour drive

2. Sonoma

Sonoma is a historic city to day trip to, increasingly tempting for wine lovers since it’s nestled in the wine-tasting region of Sonoma Valley. Colonial buildings pepper the historic downtown, and the Mission San Francisco Solano adds a touch of religious history. However, there are over 10 wine-tasting houses within walking distance of the city center if you prefer to indulge in some vino. Sonoma beautifully blends history with wine, making it a picturesque day trip. It is just an hour’s drive north of San Francisco or a 2.5-hour bus ride if you’d prefer to enjoy a drink while visiting.

Sonoma isn’t just an adult paradise; the city features Sonoma Train Town Railroad, an amusement park with a miniature train taking guests to a model town, making it a family-friendly day trip.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour’s drive or 2.5-hours by public transport

3. Sausalito

Sausalito is a dreamy beach community and a vibrant spot for a day trip if you stay in San Francisco for a few days. The most impressive aspect of the city is its neighborhood of floating homes and brightly colored artwork. You can visit Sausalito to admire its unique architecture and simply stroll around the city center for a day. The views of the San Francisco Bay Area and its iconic bridge are spectacular. Plus, if you’re seeking adventure, you can catch the ferry across to explore more.

San Francisco visitors are likely day-tripping to the Golden Gate Bridge anyway, making Sausalito an easy detour. You can combine it with visits to the bridge and Golden Gate National Recreation Area, especially if you want to stop for a meal since Sausalito has some excellent waterfront eateries.

• Distance from San Francisco: 30 minutes by ferry

4. Oakland

Sitting nestled among various neighborhoods in East Bay, Oakland is the largest East Bay city in the San Francisco Bay Area. For many, it is the ‘Brooklyn’ to San Francisco’s ‘New York.’ Oakland offers trendy vibes, street art murals, Victorian architecture, and a vibrant hospitality scene filled with restaurants and bars. Moreover, the nightlife here is thriving.

You can catch the ferry directly to Jack London Square, a chic marina featuring a beautiful waterfront promenade. If you want a car-free day trip from San Francisco city center, Oakland is an ideal choice.

• Distance from San Francisco: 13 minutes by ferry

5. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a day trip that appears on almost every itinerary for San Francisco. However, don’t let its mainstream allure put you off. This notorious prison was once home to some of the most feared criminals in US history, including Al Capone. Surrounded by fierce waves, rumored sharks, and intense surveillance, escaping from this island prison was near impossible and often fatal. Fortunately, this prison is now retired and accessible as a tourist destination and fascinating museum. Just hop on a regular ferry, and you’ll explore with an informative audio guide.

The ferry ride takes less than an hour, providing stunning views as you travel parallel to the Golden Gate. Tickets are slightly pricey, totaling around $35+ per person for the ferry, entrance, and audio tour; however, the experience is undoubtedly worthwhile. Alcatraz Island is notorious and legendary in criminal history.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour

6. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a stunning alpine lake split between Nevada and California. Known as the largest alpine lake in North America, it attracts watersports enthusiasts in the spring to fall, while ski lovers flock here in winter. There are numerous activities to pursue in Lake Tahoe, making it a firm favorite among day trip options for San Francisco visitors. Plus, if you’re inclined to gamble, it’s conveniently accessible for crossing the Nevada border.

Lake Tahoe is about a 3.5-hour drive from San Francisco, traversing through Sacramento and Tahoe National Forest or Eldorado National Forest. If you can manage multiple drivers in a rental car, this can be a feasible day trip when you rotate driving duties. Plus, if you leave early enough, you’ll enjoy an entire day filled with outdoor activities.

• Distance from San Francisco: 3.5 hours by car

7. Berkeley

Berkeley is a hub of education and academic prestige. If you wish to visit one of the most esteemed educational institutions in the US, this is an ideal day trip from San Francisco. As expected, there are many museums, including the Berkeley Natural History Museum and Lawrence Hall of Science. Additionally, the Berkeley Art Museum is worth visiting, alongside beautiful parks where you can soak in some lush greenery. Berkeley provides a cultural experience that serves as an underrated day trip from San Francisco.

Berkeley is easily accessible from San Francisco, taking just 20 minutes by car or 45 minutes via public transport.

• Distance from San Francisco: 20 minutes by car or 45 minutes by public transport

8. Reno

Reno is another cross-border option and a fantastic chance to venture into Nevada from San Francisco. Who wouldn’t want to visit two states in one trip? By car, Reno is one of the closest destinations in Nevada, taking just 3.5 hours one way. You can easily rotate driving with a companion and squeeze a Reno trip into your itinerary.

What should entice you to visit, though? First, Reno is affectionately known as ‘the biggest little city in the world,’ showcasing a variety of attractions, including the Nevada Museum of Art, National Automobile Museum, and the Fleischmann Planetarium. Reno is also a more budget-friendly alternative to Las Vegas, making it an ideal day trip destination for a fun outing.

• Distance from San Francisco: 3.5 hours by car one-way

9. Turtle Bay Exploration Park

The 300-acre Turtle Bay Exploration Park is a splendid non-profit day trip destination. Surrounded by forests and scenic river trails, it offers indoor attractions as well. The park features a museum, a botanical garden, a wildlife center, and forest camps. If you fancy a day trip packed with diverse attractions in one location, Turtle Bay Exploration Park provides all the convenience you need. It is about a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from San Francisco, but the range of activities justifies the trip. You pay a single entrance fee for access to everything.

If you have multiple drivers insured on your rental car, we recommend taking the route via Sacramento, which makes a great stopover. This drive is a bit longer at 4 hours, but it integrates two attractions into one impressive trip.

• Distance from San Francisco: 3-4 hours depending on your route

10. Big Sur

If you’ve already explored the best road trips from San Francisco, you’ll know about Big Sur. This stretch of central Californian coastline provides one of the most dramatic drives in the US, with highways carved into cliffs overlooking countless stunning beaches and coastal towns. The 4.5-hour drive to the Big Sur Lookout is exceptionally popular, yielding a 9-hour round trip, but the breathtaking views are well worth the effort. Skirting the edge of the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park ensures you’ll enjoy California’s most scenic landscapes.

Key stops along the way include Gamboa Point, Bixby Creek Bridge, and hiking the Partington Cove trail. Henry Miller Memorial Library is another fantastic attraction on your journey, hosting regular readings and live music.

• Distance from San Francisco: 4.5 hours by car

11. Drive the Skyline Boulevard to the Silicon Valley Vista Point

Skyline Boulevard is the most scenic drive from San Francisco city center. For anyone who might hesitate at the thought of a lengthy road trip to Big Sur, Skyline Boulevard is the perfect alternative and is just a 2-hour round trip—much more manageable than 9 hours straight on the road. Must-see attractions along the way include Pulgas Water Temple, Filoli Historic House & Garden, and several nature preserves. You’ll be able to stop and see various sights as you go. Ending at the renowned Silicon Valley Vista Point, this mini road trip offers a light introduction to the beautiful nature surrounding San Francisco.

Embrace the experience of a road trip in northern California; it’s exciting to rent a car and explore. This is an excellent day trip from San Francisco if you want an introduction to road tripping.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour by car

12. Sebastopol

Sebastopol offers one of the most uniquely named day trips from San Francisco. While its name’s origin is still a mystery, it is also known for being a film set location in the hit Netflix series, 13 Reasons Why. Sebastopol invites tourists to enjoy wine tasting in Sonoma Valley alongside quirky attractions like Florence Avenue’s Trash Art and the West County Museum. Walkable and full of character, it serves as an excellent alternative to the more commercial Sonoma.

Sebastopol is just an hour and 15 minutes drive from San Francisco or 2.5 hours by public transport, making it easily accessible for a half or full day experience.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car or 2.5 hours by public transport

13. Pescadero

This small town south of San Francisco is often overlooked, making it a unique day trip option. What makes this spot special? Aside from the famous Duarte’s Tavern, the town offers easy access to the Sequoia Audubon Trail, attracting numerous visitors. This flat, family-friendly trail is prime for bird watching and exploring beautiful tide pools. Trail alternatives include the Pescadero Marsh Trail and hiking to Historic Nunziati Trout Ponds. Pescadero is nestled within stunning yet lesser-visited nature preserves, showcasing classic scenery.

It’s an easy hour drive south of the city. Pescadero represents one of the shortest yet rewarding day trips from San Francisco; a rental car is necessary, but arranging one for the day is straightforward.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour by car

14. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a well-known destination. While we recommend an overnight stay to truly enjoy your visit, it’s possible to condense your trip into just a few activities if you’re limited on time. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the highlight; this amusement park features magnificent rides along a mile of sandy beach—perfect for a carefree coastal getaway. Be sure to check out the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, a quirky attraction located nearby.

Santa Cruz is easy to reach, located only 1.5 hours away by car. For those needing public transport, it remains feasible with just a 2.5-hour journey.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1.5 hours by car or 2.5 hours by public transport

15. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a place of real beauty, with various attractions nestled within the park. Key highlights include Sea Lion Cove, where you can observe sea lions basking in the sun from a beautiful vantage point. If you seek wildlife encounters, Point Lobos offers more than outdoor trails. You may also spot sea otters and seals, turning Point Lobos into an ethical, open-air zoo. Bring binoculars and a camera for a full day of wildlife enjoyment.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is just a 2-hour and 20-minute drive from San Francisco, making it a feasible and enjoyable day trip for animal enthusiasts.

• Distance from San Francisco: 2 hours and 20 minutes by car

16. Los Gatos

Los Gatos represents one of the shortest day trips from San Francisco. Named ‘the cats’ after the bobcats that once roamed the Bay Area, Los Gatos is a delightful area to explore before reaching the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. With Vasona Lake County Park, numerous wineries, and Victorian-era architecture, it offers an appealing mix of trendy and wholesome experiences. For aesthetic photos and a coffee at a family-friendly café, Los Gatos is the perfect choice.

Situated only an hour from San Francisco by car, it stands among the most convenient options for day trips from the city.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour by car

17. San Jose

San Jose is undeniably cool, home to a hub of technology and innovation. From being the site of the world’s first radio broadcasting station to ongoing advancements, San Jose offers a glimpse into cutting-edge tech development. Mount Hamilton houses the world’s third-largest optical refracting telescope, and the historic downtown area features attractions like the Winchester Mystery House. For a day trip filled with various activities, San Jose is an excellent choice, just a short drive from San Francisco—about 30 minutes!

• Distance from San Francisco: 30 minutes by car or an hour by train

18. Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

For nature lovers seeking adventure in a 1,400-acre reserve filled with giant redwood trees, Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve makes for an incredible day trip from San Francisco. With 6 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails meandering through fir and redwood forests, it’s a perfect destination to encounter nature’s majesty. This day trip remains one of the closest redwood sightings available within an hour’s drive of the city center.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour by car

19. Mount Tamalpais State Park

Mount Tamalpais State Park demonstrates that you don’t need national parks to experience extraordinary nature. State parks can be equally impressive, and sometimes even better. This park features breathtaking redwood groves and a 2,571-foot mountain offering panoramic views. Mount Tamalpais State Park is popular for outdoor enthusiasts looking for hiking and biking trails, representing an ideal destination for exploration. Be sure to lace up your hiking boots for a day brimming with excitement.

It’s also just a 50-minute drive away, perfect for those aiming for hikes along ridges and mountains.

• Distance from San Francisco: 50 minutes by car or 1 hour and 40 minutes by public transport

20. Sierra Nevada Mountains

The Sierra Nevada Mountains are an epic day trip choice from San Francisco. This expansive mountain range extends over 250 miles, leading to some of the highest peaks in the Los Angeles area. Renowned for its diverse landscapes, including national parks like Yosemite, the Sierra Nevada Mountains appeal to individuals seeking hiking, mountain biking, or climbing adventures. You can opt for a guided tour or venture there independently by renting a car.

Your choice of destination in the Sierra Nevada Mountains depends on your preferences, as different areas offer unique activities. As a general rule, plan for at least a 4-hour drive one way to reach popular destinations in the mountain range, and consider booking an organized tour to simplify your travel experience.

• Distance from San Francisco: 4 hours by car

21. Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is a substantial preserve covering 71,000 acres, located just a 2-hour drive from San Francisco. Thankfully the park’s proximity means you may find yourself returning to discover the attractions you might have overlooked initially. It’s home to a massive colony of elephant seals and renowned as one of the best wildlife spotting sites near San Francisco.

• Distance from San Francisco: 2 hours by car

22. Yosemite National Park

You might already be familiar with Yosemite National Park. Although it’s well worth a long travel day, it’s a challenging drive from San Francisco, taking nearly 5 hours to reach the main visitor center. However, there’s a simpler alternative: to join a guided tour. This allows you to enjoy all the major attractions, along with Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome, while avoiding the stress of an extended drive.

• Distance from San Francisco: 5 hours by car

23. Steep Ravine Trail

If you’re looking for an adventurous hiking experience, the Steep Ravine Trail in Mount Tamalpais State Park is your answer. This exhilarating trail features wooden bridges, rustic ladders, and windy routes alongside picturesque waterfalls. You’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking old-growth redwoods as you explore this 1.5-mile trail, making for a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.

• Distance from San Francisco: 55 minutes by car or 2.5 hours by public transport

24. Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is one of California’s best beaches, offering outstanding natural beauty. The beach follows a dramatic coastline, adjacent to the town with a few local shops, including surf and kayak rental opportunities. Concerning beach days, Stinson Beach is spacious and convenient—just one hour away by car. Its waves can be tumultuous, making it better suited for surfers rather than swimmers, though both beach-goers and surfers will find joy here.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by public transport

25. Angel Island State Park

Make the most of your time in Angel Island State Park for the best views of the San Francisco skyline. This ferry-accessible island tops the list for day trips from San Francisco, featuring a range of hiking and biking trails with one primary road circling the island’s perimeter. Upon arrival at the main ferry landing, renting a bike allows you to explore the area in just half a day. Treat yourself to a snack at the Angel Island Cafe afterwards, stopping by beaches and the Fort McDowell ruins throughout your journey.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour and 20 minutes by public transport (including a 45-minute ferry)

26. Carmel by the Sea

Carmel by the Sea is known for its whimsical cottages and underwater experiences. Despite its city designation, the area maintains a seaside town atmosphere, with enchanting cottages tucked away on numerous streets. The most famous are the Hansel and Gretel Cottages on Torres Street; however, you could spend hours searching for the loveliest. Equally enjoyable are the local shops and the white sand beach available to visitors.

Although it’s 2 hours from San Francisco by car, Carmel by the Sea presents an exceptional day trip opportunity filled with beachside magic.

• Distance from San Francisco: 2 hours by car

27. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach stands as a stunning coastal destination, famed for its natural rock bridge formations. At low tide, you can marvel at these structures up close. Additionally, the beach is an excellent location for wildlife watching—keep an eye out for whales, starfish, butterflies, various sea birds, and adorable seals. Plan to go rock pooling (best at low tide), and don’t forget your camera for documenting these encounters.

A delightful day trip enriched with wildlife adventures awaits you at Natural Bridges State Beach, which even David Attenborough would commend!

• Distance from San Francisco: 1.5 hours from San Francisco

28. Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument is renowned for its towering giant redwoods. Who doesn’t appreciate these magnificent trees? Within this park, you can behold them in their hundreds. Start your visit at the visitor center to garner insights and directions to optimal routes and attractions. The parks provide amazing hiking options, with certain trails also suitable for strollers.

Located just 45 minutes from San Francisco by car, Muir Woods National Monument constitutes a straightforward day trip. You’ll even get to traverse the Golden Gate Bridge—a truly dream-worthy experience!

• Distance from San Francisco: 45 minutes by car or 2 hours by public transport

29. Napa Valley

Napa Valley, neighboring Sonoma Valley, contests with its wineries for superiority. The rolling hills provide picturesque vineyard tours on horseback, often featuring hot air balloons overhead. A visit to Napa Valley is highly recommended, and organized wine tours are available for a seamless experience. After all, you want to drink responsibly and avoid any DUI risks.

Napa boasts a slightly more upscale atmosphere compared to Sonoma, leading to slightly higher prices. Nevertheless, at about 1.5 hours from San Francisco by car, it remains within a reasonable range for day trips.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1.5 hours

30. Castle Rock State Park

Castle Rock State Park is among the finest day trips from San Francisco if you yearn for a vast 5,242-acre park featuring hiking trails, dramatic sandstone climbing opportunities, and sprawling forests, including redwoods. The park is located just outside Los Gatos and provides an easy drive from San Francisco. Here, you can embark on specific hiking trails or attempt climbing if you’re daring enough and equipped with the right gear. For a fun challenge, Castle Rock represents a scenic escape from the city.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1.5 hours by car

31. Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular attractions in the city and often prioritized for photography upon visiting. This iconic Art Deco suspension bridge spans 4,200 feet and is painted a captivating bright red. For a full day trip, consider walking, cycling, or driving across it—if possible, do all three! Walking is best if you’re comfortable with the sometimes windy conditions.

Accessing the Golden Gate Bridge takes only 50 minutes from San Francisco city center via public transport or just 20 minutes by car. Ensure that you allocate at least 30 minutes to walk across the bridge while taking photos and another 20 minutes to ascend to one of the viewpoints. A round trip could take over half a day, especially if you explore the Marin Headlands!

• Distance from San Francisco: 20 minutes by car or 50 minutes by public transport

32. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is another beloved choice for day trips from San Francisco, featuring unassuming charm and home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the region. Its coastal trailhead connects a series of sandy beaches. The California Coastal trailhead spans 1,200 miles but can be tackled in smaller sections. If you explore Half Moon Bay, try the coastal trail from Manhattan Beach to Pillar Point Beach. This 2.5-hour hike showcases the beauty of the city’s beaches, offering a stunning escape.

Accessing Half Moon Bay is straightforward—just a 45-minute drive south along the Cabrillo Highway makes this locale easy to reach.

• Distance from San Francisco: 45 minutes by car

33. Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains round out this guide as one of the best day trips from San Francisco. This mountain range stretches from the urban outskirts south of San Jose, encompassing areas like Los Gatos and Monterey Bay. For those who appreciate tranquil natural settings, the Santa Cruz Mountains are a delight, bursting with beautiful redwoods interspersed with land for wineries and hiking trails. Choose to explore by foot or mountain bike—either option will provide a lovely escape!

The mountains are about 1 hour and 40 minutes from San Francisco, making it easy to rent a car or arrange a trip there. Moreover, the route passes through trendy Los Gatos and picturesque coastal towns along the San Francisco Bay.

• Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour and 40 minutes by car

Best Day Trips from San Francisco: FAQs

How fabulous do those 33-day trip ideas look? Your options are excitingly endless if you have a few days or more in San Francisco. Admire redwoods, visit island prisons, or ride horseback through rolling hills before indulging in some wine tasting. However, before selecting any amazing activities, check out these top FAQs.

What is a day trip from San Francisco?

There are over 30 popular day trips from San Francisco, such as Napa Valley, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the Muir Woods National Monument.

What other places to visit near San Francisco?

Consider visiting Carmel by the Sea, Napa Valley, Yosemite National Park, Angel Island, or Point Reyes National Seashore.

Can you do a day trip to Lake Tahoe from San Francisco?

Yes, Lake Tahoe is a feasible day trip from San Francisco. However, it’s advisable to stay overnight due to the many activities available.

Where can I travel for one day?

There are more than 30 places near San Francisco you could venture to for a day, including Angel Island, San Jose, and Mount Tamalpais State Park.

To Conclude

San Francisco is perfect for sightseeing and exploring various attractions. However, venturing out for day trips is definitely worthwhile. Experience nature preserves, keep an eye out for native animals like the San Francisco garter snake, or enjoy an amusement park overlooking sandy beaches. Switch things up entirely with a visit to a different city, like San Jose. Anyone visiting San Francisco should seriously consider taking a day trip—especially if they plan on staying in the city for more than 72 hours.

Plan Your Next Trip to San Francisco with These Resources

When considering where to stay in San Francisco, you’ll be dazzled by the number of boutique hotels and scenic neighborhoods available. San Francisco is a cornerstone of our travel adventures, so explore our existing resources to secure the best accommodation for your needs. Your selection of accommodation and neighborhood significantly influences your trip; therefore, be sure to research thoroughly, not only your day trips.