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Day Trips from San Francisco

Day Trips from San Francisco

San Francisco California, USA Travel Guide

Sausalito

A charming waterfront town, around 8 miles (13 km) north of San Francisco.

Enjoy views of the city skyline, unique houseboats, and various art galleries.

Travel & Time

  • Ferry from the Ferry Building
  • Golden Gate Transit bus
  • Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Allow for a half-day to a full-day visit

Nearby Destinations & Natural Escapes

Discover more popular spots and stunning natural beauty just beyond the city limits.

Muir Woods National Monument

Approximately 17 miles (27 km) north of San Francisco.

Getting There & Time

  • Drive (parking/shuttle reservations needed)
  • Tour bus or shuttle service
  • Plan for a half-day visit

Napa Valley & Sonoma County

Around 50-60 miles (80-97 km) north of San Francisco.

Highlights & Travel

  • World-renowned wineries and vineyards
  • Fine dining and picturesque towns
  • Car a good choice, or wine tour buses

Coastal Wonders

Marin Headlands

  • Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Rugged coastal cliffs and scenic viewpoints
  • Beaches and hiking trails
  • Travel by car, bike, or limited bus service

Point Reyes National Seashore

  • Approximately 50 miles (80 km) north of San Francisco
  • Dramatic coastline and historic lighthouse
  • Elephant seal viewing (seasonal)
  • Hiking trails and oyster farms

More Day Trip Ideas

  • Berkeley:University campus, Telegraph Avenue.
  • Transport:BART (direct service).
  • Time:Half-day to full-day.
  • Distance:13 miles (21 km) east.
  • Monterey & Carmel:Aquarium, 17-Mile Drive, Carmel village.
  • Transport:Drive Highway 1 or Greyhound.
  • Time:Long full-day or overnight.
  • Distance:120 miles (193 km) south.

Important Travel Note

For popular tours and activities, consider booking experiences in advance to secure your spot.

Multi-Day Extensions

For longer trips, combine your San Francisco visit with these regional destinations.

Yosemite National Park

Iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.

Lake Tahoe

Beautiful alpine lake for skiing in winter, hiking and water sports in summer.

Highway 1 Coastal Drive

Classic road trip with stops at Big Sur and charming beach towns.

Yosemite Visit Details

Roughly 3-4 hours drive from San Francisco.

Planning your visit

  • A car is necessary for travel
  • Some tour buses operate during summer
  • A minimum of 2-3 days is a good idea

Lake Tahoe Visit Details

Also about 3-4 hours drive from the city.

Planning your visit

  • Access to the lake is by car
  • Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, water sports
  • A minimum of 2-3 days is a good idea

Wine Country & Coastal Drive

Wine Country (Napa/Sonoma):1-2 extra days for a relaxed tasting experience.
Stay options:Charming towns like Yountville or Sonoma.
Highway 1 Coastal Drive:This classic road trip needs 3-5+ days.
Major Stops:Big Sur, Hearst Castle, beach towns.
Cultural Excursions:Visit Oakland (BART) or Angel Island (Immigration Station).
Day Trip Suggestion:Consider a tour from GetYourGuide for ease.

Book Experiences Ahead

  • For seamless trips, pre-book activities and tours.
  • This is notably true for popular spots.
  • Consider Alcatraz and Muir Woods.
  • Booking early secures your spot.
  • Explore options with GetYourGuide.
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