(content by Rankcastle)
San Francisco, one of the best cities to visit in the world, (ranked 36th out of 100 cities) according to Forbes, has many tourist activities to offer. Want to explore famous museums, sample delicious cuisine at great restaurants, or take in mesmerizing sights from beautiful viewpoints? You can do it here and it would be so easy to be trapped within its limits. However, beyond San Francisco’s 7×7 radius, adventure awaits. Not too many miles outside the Golden City, you’ll find picture-perfect coastal towns, dog-friendly beaches, wine regions with tasting rooms, historic sites, and hiking trails cutting through redwood forests and national parks. Whether traveling solo or in a group to explore Alcatraz Island or see Pier 39 Sea Lions, you can spice up your trip with day tours outside the busy city. Read on to discover 3 awesome day trips you can take from San Francisco.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Approximately one hour north of The Golden City, Point Reyes National Seashore offers a mix of magnificent natural beauty, plenty of wildlife, and adventure. You’ll roam on long stretches of sandy beaches like Drakes Beach and hike on trails like the Chimney Rock trail, where you can watch whales and elephant seals. Or you could enjoy a longer hike on Tomales Point trail, which spans 10 miles and provides amazing views of the Pacific ocean and Tomales Bay. Other things you can do include visiting the lighthouse, walking to the famous Point Reyes shipwreck behind Inverness stores, and taking a walk through the Cypress Tree Tunnel. At Tomales Bay, get active kayaking, watch Tules Elk at Tomales Point, or go camping. If you’re a foodie, sign up for a tasting or farm brunch at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company, Station House cafe, or at the Ostellia Stellina for pasta and pizza.
Sausalito
Whether living or visiting, a break from the hustle of San Francisco to somewhere with a slower pace is something you’ll likely crave. Why not drive or take a ferry ride to Sausalito, a seaside community with an artsy vibe? There are many fun activities to do in Sausalito, from taking the boardwalk to checking out the Marine Mammal Center (largest marine mammal hospital in the world). Hike in Marin Headlands and go on art walks through galleries and studios to discover modern and traditional art styles.
Also, take historic tours at the Sausalito Historical Society exhibit and World War 2-era Marinship shipyards. After a long day of excursions, relax at a comfy inn or luxe hotel with breathtaking sights of the San Francisco Bay. The best accommodation experience is enjoyed when you book a Sausalito hotel that matches your taste in advance. Early bookings get you a discount and ample time to organize tours to nearby attractions. Don’t forget to view houseboats at Waldo Point Harbor, kayaking, sample wines, and dine at waterfront restaurants.
St. Helena in Napa Valley
Between Castiloga and Yountville on Highway 21 sits St. Helena, an ideal getaway for delicious wine, art explorations, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, and hot-air balloon rides. The walkable main street features galleries, tasting rooms, and boutiques that sell everything, from olive oil to chocolate. During your trip, explore the Robert Louise Stevenson Museum (a literary fans museum), book a private wine and food tasting experience at Clif Family Enoteca winery or have a picnic lunch paired with a bottle of wine at V. Sattuni. You can also savor views or play outdoor games at the private cabanas and lawn while sipping your Sauvignon Blanc at Charles Krug winery. Make sure you get a bite of pastries, especially the legendary English muffin at the local bakeries.
For the ultimate San Francisco vacation experience, combine the city’s must do activities with day trips into nearby areas. Day tours outside the city are enriching with a combo of fast-paced culture, historical sites, and natural beauty. While there are plenty of places you can go, top, amazing ones include Sausalito, Point Reyes National Seashore, and St. Helena.
