California is the ultimate playground for road trippers. The Golden State has no shortage of awesome road trips, scenic drives, and epic vista points featuring everything from mountains, forests, beaches, jumbo rocks, and endless rugged coastlines.
Tired of the usual Golden Gate Bridge snapshots and Lands End hikes? It’s time to swap familiar views for hidden gems beyond San Francisco.
Just drive a few hours by car and you can find yourself sipping world-class wine in Anderson Valley, feasting on fresh dungeness crab in Bodega Bay, or hiking through surreal volcanic landscapes at Lassen Volcanic National Park.
If there’s one thing I can say about California for sure, it’s that this state boasts some of the best weekend getaways in all of the United States.
Whether you’re after a foodie escape, a nature-filled adventure, or a laid-back small-town vibe, these weekend getaways will have you exploring the best of California’s lesser-known magic—all within a few hours of the Bay Area.
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Table of Contents
1. HALF MOON BAY
The quaint little seaside town of Half Moon Bay, CA may be only a short drive from San Francisco, yet has a completely different feel from what the big city offers. Once you get past the winding two-lane road, you’ll be greeted by a variety of nurseries, charming shops, restaurants, world-class golf courses, and quaint bed-and-breakfasts.
When in HMB, you can’t ignore the pristine beaches. The Half Moon Bay coastline is made up of multiple state beaches, including Surfers’ Beach, Dunes Beach, Venice Beach, and Francis Beach. Perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, frolicking, or building sandcastles!
For dining and shopping, Main Street is where it’s at. Take a few moments to browse through all the local gift shops, clothing boutiques, bookstores, and home decor shops. Then, get in line for Barbara’s Fishtrap (serving up the freshest fish in the area) or Sam’s Chowder House (known for their lobster rolls and creamy clam chowder). For another great meal, head to Pasta Moon Ristorante, serving up delicious Italian fare.
If you’re traveling with younger children, Lemos Farm is a must.
Pro Tip: Got more time in the day? Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach, CA is an epic, local-favorite spot to go tide pooling!
Where To Stay In Half Moon Bay: Oceano Hotel and Spa Half Moon Bay Harbor
2. RUSSIAN RIVER / GUERNEVILLE
Tucked along the Russian River, Guerneville has long been a favorite escape for hippies, artists, and the LGBTQ+ community seeking a break from San Francisco, just 75 miles away.
Expect retro and nostalgic charm no matter where you go. For a true Guerneville experience, grab an inner tube and drift along the Russian River — the stretch from Sunset Beach to Johnson’s Beach is a scenic, six-hour float where the pace is as lazy as the river itself.
Prefer land adventures? Head to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, where hiking trails weave through towering ancient trees, offering a calm and cool escape from the summer heat.
After your outdoor adventure, head to Main Street to enjoy all the trendy coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries, dive bars, and diners. Don’t miss Guerneville 5 & 10, where you’ll find old-fashioned candy, vintage toys, and other fun gifts.
Grab chorizo tacos from the beloved Guerneville Taco Truck, or treat yourself to mushroom mac and cheese at Boon Eat + Drink. Wine lovers won’t have a thing to worry about — there are handfuls of wineries and tasting rooms to choose from.
Where To Stay In Guerneville: There are too many swoon-worthy accommodations in town. For Airstream glamping, go for AutoCamp Russian River. For boutique luxury, the reimagined Dawn Ranch, Highlands Resort, or The Stavrand are total winners.
3. MENDOCINO
Located about 3 hours north of San Francisco sits the relatively undiscovered gem that is Mendocino County.
With over 90 miles of Pacific coastline, various state parks, countless redwood trees, and a treasure trove of things to do, the Mendocino Coast makes for the perfect weekend road trip from the San Francisco Bay.
Though a lot of the drive is on windy terrain, the cliffs, crashing waves, and adjacent green wilderness make for an unforgettable road trip.
Stop at Van Damme State Park before heading into the Victorian-esque town of Mendocino. Trust me when I tell you that this little village will be quaint, sleepy, and romantic all that the same time! You’ll come across spas, boutiques, gift shops, and chocolate shops, all of which tend to close around 5pm.
After the shops close, take a stroll on the trails overlooking the cliffs as well as through the neighborhood to see all the houses with impeccably groomed colorful gardens.
You could easily spend a day exploring the town’s numerous art galleries, but if you visit only one, make it the Mendocino Art Center.
For breakfast or lunch, check out the popular local hangout, the Goodlife Cafe, serving an irresistible range of homemade soups, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Have dinner at Fogeater Cafe, a cheerful vegetarian restaurant, or Cafe Beaujolais, serving up French cuisine in a Victorian farmhouse (a fine dining staple here).
Where to stay in Mendocino: Agate Cove Inn or Headlands Inn Bed and Breakfast
4. BODEGA BAY
Bodega Bay is jam-packed with hiking and biking trails that offer those stunning Pacific Coast views that California is known for. It’s also one of the West Coast’s premier whale-watching spots!
Whales can be spotted almost all year long, but the best chances will be during primary migrations (October through April). Interested in horseback riding? Well no-brainer, the coastal views of Bodega Bay make for a wonderful backdrop.
Bodega Bay and the surrounding area is also a foodie’s paradise — fresh oysters and seafood are not to be missed here. Make sure to stop at Bodega Bay Oyster Company on your way in/out of town to try some of the freshest oysters in the area.
If you’re not looking for anything fancy or fishy, check out Drakes Sonoma Coast Kitchen for breakfast, or head to Spud Point Crab Company for their famous crab chowder.
Where To Stay In Bodega Bay: The Inn at the Tides (mid-priced option) or The Lodge at Bodega Bay (splurge option)
5. POINT REYES / MARIN COUNTY
Point Reyes is the perfect day trip from San Francisco, especially if you love cheese, oysters, mead, and wildlife. Better yet, we recommend a whole weekend stay to really indulge in the tranquil atmosphere this area so naturally exudes.
Hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and clamming are just some of the activities that attract local day-trippers.
Start your day trip to Point Reyes National Seashore at Point Reyes Lighthouse, perched on the western headlands. If you want to get up close and personal, climb down a few hundred steps to check it out, then climb right back up.
Next, catch a glimpse of the many California elephant seals over the sea cliffs anywhere along the seashore. Want to see herds of elk in their natural habitat? Take a hike to the Tule Elk Reserve beginning at the Tomales Point Trailhead.
In the summer to early fall, you can catch the Point Reyes Farmers’ Market, running on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm at Toby’s Feed Barn. It’s not the largest farmer’s market, but it sure is a great opportunity to check out the local artisans, dairy farm products (cheeses and butters), and bakeries.
Follow up your trip to Point Reyes National Seashore with a visit to nearby Tomales Bay! The main reason to visit is for the oysters–these things thrive in the terrain of Tomales Bay. Hog Island Oyster Company is the best spot for fresh and irresistible oyster dishes.
Where To Stay At Point Reyes: Olema House
6. NAPA VALLEY
Despite the fact that Napa Valley is a world-class wine region, there are actually a ton of other things to do here other than wine taste.
The sunny weather, relaxed atmosphere, foodie culture, and extremely friendly people are what keep families, wine lovers, couples, locals, tourists, and even the non-drinkers coming back year after year!
Families traveling with kids can also enjoy activities such as the Safari West wildlife compound and seeing California’s Old Faithful Geyser in all its glory.
To see Napa from a different perspective, you can hop onto horseback, hop on a wine train, or hop aboard a hot air balloon! Yes, the hot air balloon riding opportunities in Napa and Sonoma are seemingly endless!
Where To Stay In Napa: Grand Reserve at The Meritage (splurge option) or The Bergson (affordable and cute!)
7. SONOMA
Sonoma, Napa’s more laid-back little sister, is a treat to explore. Sonoma County is packed with cool things to do and is home to 60,000 acres of vineyards and more than 400 wineries, spread over 18 distinct wine regions all catering to different tastes.
Spend a few hours exploring the different wineries near Sonoma, including the picturesque Viansa Winery (pictured above and below), Robledo Family Winery, and Roche Winery & Vineyards. There are obviously hundreds of other wineries worth checking out, but these are some of our top recommendations.
The historic Sonoma Plaza offers a postcard-perfect start to your adventures. There are so many local boutiques, tasting rooms, hotels, bars, restaurants, home decor shops, olive oil shops, and more dotted along the square. Our favorite stores include Figone’s Olive Oil, Sign of the Bear, Chateau Sonoma, and The Corner Store.
For an unmissable lunch/dinner spot, look no further than El Molino Central, the best restaurant for Mexican food. If you’re stuck on what to order, get the chicken mole tamales, pork tamales, the chile relleno plate, or the fish tacos. Better yet, get all of it.
Where To Stay In Sonoma: The Lodge At Sonoma Resort or El Dorado Hotel
8. HEALDSBURG
Cruise up to Healdsburg, CA, a town offering a less touristy but equally memorable wine country experience.
Healdsburg is structured similarly to the city of Sonoma, with its historic downtown dotted with art galleries, tasting rooms, eateries ranging from super-casual to fine dining, boutiques, and kitschy antique shops.
The town is a food lover’s dream, with farm-to-table dining at restaurants like SingleThread Farm (a three-Michelin-star experience blending Japanese and California cuisine) and Barndiva, known for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes.
Other recommended options for eats include Chalkboard (small plates), Bravas (tapas), and Madrona Manor (for that special occasion fine dining meal).
Wine enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice with world-class tasting rooms in town and nearby vineyards in the Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley.
For an added adventure, drive just 20 minutes to Northern California’s most hidden gem, Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife preserve often called the “Sonoma Serengeti.”
Where To Stay In Healdsburg: H2hotel, Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza or Hotel Les Mars (if it’s in your budget!)
9. SACRAMENTO
If you’re ready to trade in wine country for gold country, head to Sacramento, CA.
This capitol town is best known for its Old Town, The California State Railroad Museum, and the Sacramento Zoo. The city of Sacramento deserves at least an entire weekend of exploration (and even then you’ll barely scratch the surface).
Start at Old Town Sacramento (Old Sacramento State Historic Park) where you’ll immediately be transported back into the Gold Rush era, then continue your trip back in time at The California State Railroad Museum, one of the most popular museums in Sacramento.
To continue learning about the rich history of California, check out the California State Indian Museum. To get a taste of art, head for the Crocker Art Museum, where you can find works of art in the museum dating from the Gold Rush to today.
And sitting right in the heart of Sacramento is the California State Capitol Museum, where you can learn all about California’s history. Not only is it a museum, but it also acts as an active government building. You can opt for a guided tour around the museum or explore the building on your own.
Where To Stay In Sacramento: Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
10. BOONEVILLE
Boonville offers the perfect blend of rustic charm, gastronomy, and quiet wine country experiences. This underrated destination is an ideal getaway for those seeking a slower pace while indulging in some of Northern California’s best food and drink.
Wander through downtown Boonville, where you’ll find charming shops like The Mercantile for unique gifts and local goods. For lunch, head to Pennyroyal Farm, where you can enjoy a wine and cheese pairing made from their own grapes and goats, followed by a farm tour.
If you’re in the mood for a picnic, grab a sandwich at Lemons Market in Philo and take it to Hendy Woods State Park, home to two must-see virgin redwood groves—Big Hendy and Little Hendy—and the peaceful Navarro River.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong with Lauren’s or The Boonville Hotel’s Table 128. And if you’re up for a road trip the next day, hop in your car for a 40-minute drive to explore the coastal towns of Elk and Mendocino.
Stay: The Boonville Hotel for laid-back chic. For an even more luxurious stay, base yourself in Elk at Sacred Rock Inn, the Mendocino Coast’s award-winning accommodation.
11. FORT BRAGG
Fort Bragg is a classic Northern California seaside town that’s built for weekend fun.
Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach is a great place to start your exploration. Seemingly covered in gems, the beach floor is the result of decades of broken bottles, windows, and car taillights littering the area. These useless particles have naturally transformed into beachcombing treasures covering the beach. Hike down the smaller cliffs to the main parts of Glass Beach to check out the sea life and tidepools that exist here.
The downtown area by Main Street is the best spot to grab breakfast/lunch. We love Eggheads Restaurant, a fun family-owned restaurant adorned in Wizard of Oz photos and murals. Follow up your meal with a stroll through town, popping into the various gift shops, boutiques, and general stores.
Explore MacKerricher State Park if you want to see seals and migrating whales. Stop at photo-worthy Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park and the sprawling Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens as you explore the surrounding area.
Where To Stay in Fort Bragg: Inn at Newport Ranch for the ultimate escape from reality. Surrounded by epic ocean views and redwood trees, the property consists of over 20 miles of private trails perfect for strolling, hiking, or horseback riding.
12. SANTA CRUZ
Santa Cruz is no doubt one of the best beach/surf towns in the USA. The city is not only home to the retro Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, but it’s also the epitome of laidback vibes, featuring surf, redwood forests, mountains, and all-around happy outdoor culture.
In fact, one of the coolest outdoor things to do here is situated within the Santa Cruz Mountains… riding the Roaring Camp steam train through the towering redwoods.
While on the beachier side of Santa Cruz, you need to hit the beach at least once. The two most popular (and busiest) beaches in Santa Cruz are Main Beach and Cowell Beach.
From there, head on over to a more hip part of town, downtown Santa Cruz. This is Pacific Avenue to be exact, and here you will find a variety of vintage shops as well as modern apparel and gift stores, eateries, bars, and coffee shops.
For nature lovers, Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Natural Bridges State Beach are not to be missed.
With so many terrains to explore all in one place, it’s no wonder there are so many cool things to do in Santa Cruz. Discover the 30+ best things to do in town in our Santa Cruze travel guide.
Where To Stay In Santa Cruz: Sea & Sand Inn or West Cliff Inn – A Four Sisters Inn
13. CAPITOLA
As the West Coast’s oldest beach resort, Capitola, CA sure is worth a visit. This little resort town located just minutes from Santa Cruz offers a wide variety of trendy beachfront stores, restaurants, and museums.
Aside from enjoying the warm sand and sun at Capitola Beach, take some time to stroll through Capitola Village, being sure to enjoy the ambiance, eateries, and shops.
Planning a visit in the summer? Be sure to check the city’s event calendar! During the summer months, a variety of special events are hosted at the beach, including free family movies, art shows, and a twilight concert series.
Where to stay in Capitola, CA: Inn at Depot Hill or Capitola Hotel
14. MONTEREY
The seaside town of Monterey Bay may look sleepy, but that might just be due to the overcast skies that frequent the area. Don’t fret because they’re actually a lot to do here!
Highlights include the Monterey Bay Aquarium (often considered one of the best aquariums in the world), Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
If you are yearning for that quintessentially Norcal scenic drive, the 17-Mile-Drive has got you covered.
While in Monterey, you definitely cannot miss walking down Cannery Row, the setting of two John Steinbeck novels. Here, you’ll notice many warehouses that used to be sardine canneries now serve as home to popular restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Whale watching, sailing, kayaking, golfing, and biking are also popular activities to do here. We love Monterey so much that we created an entire Monterey travel guide to showcase some of the best things to do in town!
Where To Stay In Monterey: Spindrift Inn or Intercontinental The Clement Monterey Hotel
15. CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
Carmel will be one of the cutest little towns you’ll ever lay eyes on.
This quaint and romantic seaside village is chock-full of hidden courtyards and passageways, cute shops, galleries, cafes, wine bars, and restaurants. You will not be able to resist the charm that the town of Carmel carries, evident the minute you step out of your car.
Take advantage of the wine tasting opportunities by spending a night or two here. For wine, check out Talbott Vineyards in Carmel or Folktale Winery in Carmel Valley. For food, explore the gastromonic scene on a food and wine walking tour.
Though it’s just 2 hours away from San Francisco, you will feel worlds away.
Where to stay in Carmel, CA: L’Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux or The Hideaway
16. BIG SUR
Just over two hours south of San Francisco is a 90-mile stretch of coastline known as Big Sur. In my opinion, this is one of the prettiest road trip experiences in all of California.
To get the most out of Big Sur, you’ll want to spend the night so you can enjoy a full day of exploring hidden beaches, vista points, and state parks. Notable spots include Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Keyhole Arch Rock at Pfeiffer Beach (an unmissable sunset spot).
Some other outdoor activities include hiking Manuel Peak at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, hunting for jade at Sand Dollar Beach, wandering through redwood groves at Limekiln State Park, and going for a horseback ride along the beach.
17. PASO ROBLES
About 30 miles east of the PCH in Central California, you will find the quaint little town known as Paso Robles. Paso Robles just happens to be one of California’s fastest-growing and up-and-coming wine regions!
Spanning across several blocks in the downtown area, you’ll find wine tasting rooms, artisan gift shops, and gourmet shops selling quality items such as olive oil and soaps. If you have the time, make a pit stop in the center of town and allocate ~2 hours to peruse the shops, grab some wine (Justin Winery is great), and hang out by the tree-lined town square.
If you have more time to wander outside of town, head to the surrounding areas to explore the many other picturesque wineries and estates. Paso Robles has great weather, so it’s almost always ideal for sipping and eating al fresco style!
If you’re here during the night, be sure to check out Bruce Munro’s Field of Light at Sensorio. This immersive art installation is comprised of an array of over 58,800 stemmed fiber-optic lightbulbs, gently illuminating the landscape in morphing colors.
Where to stay in Paso Robles, CA: Oxford Suites Paso Robles or Adelaide Inn
18. LAKE TAHOE
Lake Tahoe is the ultimate playground, offering year-round fun for families and adults alike.
Unlike most lakes, Tahoe boasts pristine beaches perfect for picnics, swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. In summer, enjoy swimming, kayaking, hiking, or even mountain biking through scenic trails. Come winter, the lake transforms into a snowy wonderland with world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
For restaurants and creature comforts, be sure to check out the main towns of Incline Village, South Lake Tahoe, and Stateline.
Where To Stay In Lake Tahoe:
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort (Incline Village, NV side) – Featuring a 24-hour casino, various bars/restaurants, a year-round outdoor heated pool and 2 hot tubs
- Basecamp Tahoe South (South Lake Tahoe, CA side) – modern rooms, stylish rustic furnishing, and a rooftop hot tub! S’mores are available to guests.
19. RENO
Reno may look a little rough around the edges these days, but I assure you there are some really cool spots here if you’re willing to explore past its surface!
Midtown Reno is a neighborhood we recommend checking out–it sure has character and soul. This neighborhood, conveniently located between South Virginia Street and Holcomb Ave, features an eclectic range of businesses from one-of-a-kind restaurants to mom-and-pop shops. Some of Reno’s best-kept secrets are in Midtown!
While you’re here, be sure to grab a tiki drink or two at Rum Sugar Lime (RSL). They have such eclectic tropical drinks! Next door is Melting Pot World Emporium, Reno’s coolest counter-culture store since 1996.
Back towards the downtown area, be sure to grab dinner at Liberty Food and Wine Exchange (we got a truffle oil mushroom pizza and a black seafood pasta, both completely delectable) followed by cocktail drinks at Blind Dog Tavern. Looking to grab a pint instead? Head to The Eddy, a super lively beer garden in downtown Reno.
Where to stay in Reno, NV: The Peppermill Resort Spa Casino is one of the best casino resort hotels in Reno!
20. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
California is so lucky to be the home of this iconic National Park. You’ve probably already heard of Yosemite, known for its majestic rushing waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and granite cliffs more massive than one could imagine.
Yosemite holds many natural wonders including its crown jewels Yosemite Falls, Vernal Fall, Half Dome, and El Capitan. At this jack-of-all-trades national park, you can take a hike among ancient sequoia trees, ride bikes with incredible rock formations as your backdrop, soak in the Merced River, and even catch glimpses of baby bear cubs!
I’ve been going to Yosemite since I was a kid and to this day I keep going back, so I know you are going to have a wonderful time here.
While Yosemite is certainly worth an entire weekend or even longer, we understand that some people might not have that much time to spare. Check out our 1-day Yosemite National Park itinerary here!
Pro Tip: If you’re an avid hiker, try snagging permits to hike Half Dome, one of the most epic hikes in all of California!
Where To Stay For Yosemite: Outside the park, one of my favorite lodges is Sierra Sky Ranch in Oakhurst.
21. LASSEN VOLCANIC NATIONAL PARK
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of California’s lesser-known national parks, due mainly to its obscure location in Northern California, but it is also one of its most fascinating! Lassen belongs to the Cascade Mountain Range and is considered one of the largest plug dome volcanoes in the world, last erupting in 1921.
Despite its name, Lassen doesn’t only feature bubbling pits of lava and volcanos—it has some awesome water attractions, too. This park has everything from volcanic summits to geothermal areas and stellar waterfalls!
It is a must-visit when passing through this part of California, especially if you happen to be driving by during the season when everything is more accessible (June/July to October/November).
While Lassen is open year-round, 24 hours a day, many facilities are only open for the summer season and road access is limited in the winter months. Notable landmarks worth stopping by here are Bumpass Hell (3-4 mile roundtrip hike), Kings Creek Falls (2.4-mile roundtrip hike), and Sulphur Works.
Where To Stay For Lassen Volcanic NP: Village at Childs Meadow
22. BURNEY FALLS
Without question, Burney Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the entire state. Located in the Cascade Mountains 40 miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, you’ll find a large, ever-flowing set of falls fed by the melt of the surrounding mountains.
The 129 ft waterfall draws many road trippers and adventurers to McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park all year round, even when the rest of the waterfalls in California have turned into small trickles in the summer.
There is a short 1-mile hike you can take after soaking in the beauty of the falls. The end of the trail leads you to the bottom of Burney Falls where you can experience the majestic falls up close.
This weekend trip from San Francisco is probably the most remote one on here, but you can pair it with a visit to Lassen Volcanic NP to kill two birds with one stone.
Where To Stay For Burney Falls: Green Gables Motel & Suites
Destinations Further Away From The SF Bay Area
SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK / KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are two parks that are separate and adjacent but administered as one by the National Parks Service.
At Sequoia National Park, aptly named for its giant sequoia trees, some of the best things to do include gazing at the General Sherman Tree, hiking on trails including Big Trees Trail and Tokopah Falls Trail, and taking in spectacular views atop Moro Rock.
Kings Canyon National Park, named for the deepest canyon in North America, features terrain similar to Yosemite Valley and is home to the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world (Redwood Canyon). At Kings Canyon, explore the sequoias at Grant Grove, feel the mist of powerful waterfalls on your skin including Roaring River Falls, Mist Falls, and Grizzly Falls and hike on the Big Stump Trail.
Where To Stay For Sequoia NP: Corral Creek Lodge or Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK
Joshua Tree National Park provides a nice contrast to California’s coastal destinations and is a wonderful longer, weekend trip from Northern California. This park is famous for its otherworldly terrain, covered with whimsical Joshua Trees as well as its massive boulder formations.
You may have also heard that Joshua Tree is a rock climber’s paradise, and with good reason. Once you lay your eyes on the jumbo rocks dotted across the park, you’ll easily understand why.
Aside from climbing, there are many other features of the park to enjoy, including beautiful desert vistas, epic camping and stargazing, wildflowers in the springtime, educational walks, and family-friendly hiking.
You can even explore the park on a half-day Joshua Tree jeep tour.
Where To Stay For Joshua Tree NP: Pioneertown Motel – for the ultimate desert vibes!
MAMMOTH LAKES
If you’re looking to explore the Eastern Sierras a bit more, then the year-round adventure haven of Mammoth Lakes is not to be missed. Mammoth Lakes has got everything from gondola rides to hiking, mountain biking to snowboarding/skiing, ziplining to beer tasting, and even Shakespeare plays and outdoor movie nights.
This might be a farther away weekend trip from San Francisco, but it’s well worth the effort and the drive.
Mammoth Lakes is a great jumping-off point for a fun weekend of adventure, camping, the outdoors, and good eating. You’ll find many amenities in this town, as well as so many cool sites nearby like Devil’s Postpile, Rainbow Falls, Minaret Vista, Hot Creek Geological Site, Earthquake Fault, and Wild Willy’s Hot Spring.
If you’re a fan of hot springs, there are SO MANY in the Mammoth area! Check out this list of the best hot springs in Northern California while you’re at it!
Where to stay in Mammoth Lakes, CA: The Village Lodge – Featuring direct access to a gondola and ski elevator at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, the Village Lodge condos are surrounded by mountain views. The property features a heated outdoor pool, 5 hot tubs, and 3 gyms, as well as free WiFi. Rooms are huge and come fully equipped.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
San Luis Obispo is a pleasant university town with a historic Spanish mission in the middle of downtown. If you’re interested in learning more about California’s mission history, visit Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.
Centered around the old mission lies the historic downtown area of SLO. What you’ll find here (on Higuera Street) is traditional Spanish-style buildings housing various restaurants, shops, and cafes. If you’re looking for entertainment for the kids, check out San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum or San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum.
SLO is a great place to discover before continuing to nearby towns like Pismo Beach! Check out my jam-packed road trip itinerary from the Bay Area to SLO for more inspiration on this weekend trip idea.
Where To Stay In San Luis Obispo: Madonna Inn
LOMPOC
Guess what the main attraction is at Lompoc? You guessed it, wine tasting (like much else in Central California)! Lompoc is a popular getaway destination for not only wine lovers but also history buffs and art enthusiasts.
Lompoc is home to one of the oldest structures standing in California – La Purisima Mission, founded in 1787! Today, this is the most extensively restored mission that exists, with 10 original buildings furnished to transport you back to the era. You can take a self-guided tour of the church, living quarters, and gardens.
Old Town Lompoc is another gem, where you can take a stroll while soaking in that small-town charm. Keep your eyes peeled for the ~40 custom murals in the area. Other Lompoc attractions include a wild horse sanctuary (Return to Freedom) and a missile and satellite launch facility.
Where To Stay In Lompoc: Embassy Suites by Hilton Lompoc Central Coast or Sideways Inn
SANTA BARBARA
Santa Barbara! How can anyone not love the Mediterranean atmosphere of Santa Barbara, CA? After all, the city’s nickname is the “American Riviera”.
To kick off your weekend in SB, head over to State Street for top-notch shopping, great restaurant options, and lively nightlife as the sun sets on the town. If you’re looking for ice cream, you need to stop by McConnell’s. Our one and only recommendation is the Cookies and Cream (prepare to be mindblown by the power of the flavors).
When in Santa Barbara, don’t miss the opportunity to eat some fresh strawberries or uni (sea urchin)! Both strawberries and uni from Santa Barbara are world-famous.
Local Tip: Head over to Leadbetter Beach if you’re looking to just float along merrily in the ocean. The lack of waves at this beach is absolutely perfect for families and children– and people who just don’t want to be dodging waves left and right.
Where to stay in Santa Barbara, CA: One of the best bang-for-your-buck options is the oh-so-stylish La Playa Inn.
Read Next: 30 Fun Things To Do in Santa Barbara (Other Than Wine Tasting)
SOLVANG
Solvang is literally something out of a fairytale, or at least out of the United States anyway. Who knew you could find a Danish town smack dab in the middle of California?
Solvang was founded by Danish immigrants who wanted a feeling of familiarity after immigrating to the USA, and we’re so glad it’s here.
Downtown Solvang is a charming mix of Danish-inspired shops, bakeries, and cozy cafes. Be sure to stop by the Danish Pastry Shop for authentic pastries, then grab a meal at The Red Viking, which serves hearty Scandinavian fare like herring and meatballs, or head to Succulent Cafe for fresh farm-to-table dishes.
Since this town is fairly small with the main attractions condensed across a few cross streets, allocating three to four hours to explore should be enough.
While you’re in the area, mosey on over to the tiny town of Los Olivos, CA. It’s tiny, but it’s a cute place to explore nonetheless.
Where To Stay In Solvang: Wine Valley Inn or Mirabelle Inn & Restaurant
LOS OLIVOS
Los Olivos is the definition of small-town charm. Though it is less than 3 square miles in size with just about 1,100 residents, this town should not be skipped over.
Spend the day strolling around the quaint city center or book a tour for a jam-packed day of wine and beer tasting. If you’d rather explore and go tasting on your own, that’s easy too! Throughout the few blocks that make up downtown Los Olivos, you’ll find a wide array of tasting rooms and craft breweries.
For food, enjoy a rustic barbecue lunch at R-Country Market (the Santa Maria tri-tip sandwiches are a not-to-be-missed weekend special) or head to Los Olivos Café & Wine Merchant for more of a fine dining experience.
Don’t leave without visiting The Los Olivos General Store, a great place to find souvenirs, trinkets, local goods and handmade crafts.
Pro Tip: Los Olivos pairs really well with a day trip to Solvang as they are right next to each other.
OJAI
There is something truly magical about Ojai, California. This laidback Southern California community boasts a strong Spanish and Western feel. For decades, it’s served as a haven for artists, writers, bohemians, health enthusiasts, and celebrities looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Upon arrival, you’ll begin to notice its mystical charm, almost like Sedona in Arizona. If hiking/biking, Spanish-style buildings wrapped in bougainvillea, wine tasting and health-conscious eateries are your thing, Ojai will be the perfect weekend retreat for you.
If you’re looking for adventure, don’t miss a bike ride on the 9-mile Ojai Valley Bike Trail or a quick hike on the Piedra Blanca Formations Trail.
Downtown Ojai is worth spending an hour or two alone. You’ll know you’re here when you see the Spanish-style bell tower inviting you to the town’s center. It’s a great place to grab a meal or drink and spend some time after a day of hiking or biking.
Be sure to carve out at least two hours to browse for home goods and artisan gifts. Ojai is jam-packed with cute specialty shops such as Fig, Summer Camp, In The Field, and deKor & Co.
Where To Stay In Ojai: Ojai Valley Inn & Spa
CATALINA ISLAND
Live out your island dreams for a few days on Catalina Island, located just west of the Southern California coast. Simply hop on a one-hour ferry ride from the mainland to get to the quaint seaside town of Avalon on the island.
Catalina Island has a wonderful zipline eco-tour that boasts epic views of the island. If you’re looking to spend more time on the water, you can see marine life on a glass-bottom boat tour.
Did you know that Catalina Island is also home to bison? These amazing animals were brought to the island during the 1920s for filming and they never left! Take a bison expedition eco-tour to view them and more of the wildlife on the island.
Where to stay on Catalina Island, CA: Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel or Hotel Atwater
PALM SPRINGS
Palm Springs is nothing if not unique. This Southern California desert city has had a long association with the rich and famous of Hollywood and continues to prove as a great escape from the hustle and bustle of more metropolitan cities such as Los Angeles.
Its neighboring areas are equally as unique and quirky and are definitely worth paying a visit if you’re in the desert area.
If you can manage to tear yourself away from sunbathing by the pool for a day or two, you’ll find a world of eccentric art, spectacular hiking trails, and unique architecture in the deserts of Southern California. When I lived in LA, I absolutely love long, weekend trips to Palm Springs. There’s simply so much to see, do, and eat!
A weekend trip from San Francisco to Palm Springs can be manageable if you catch a Thursday or Friday evening flight there instead of driving. If you’re looking to explore this artsy hipster town, check out my post on the coolest things to do in Palm Springs!
Where to stay in Palm Springs, CA: The Westcott, The Monkey Tree Hotel, or The Avalon
SAN DIEGO
The sunny beach city of San Diego needs no introduction. In my opinion, San Diego deserves at least 3-4 days to properly enjoy.
From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the scenic waterfront of San Diego Bay, and from laid-back beach neighborhoods to bustling craft breweries, San Diego offers an incredible variety of activities.
Not sure where to start? I’d recommend exploring downtown San Diego first. There are also a few vibrant San Diego neighborhoods to explore, including Mission Beach, Little Italy, the Historic Old Town area, the Gaslamp Quarter, and La Jolla.
Traveling to San Diego as part of an extended vacation or even just for a weekend? We’ve got you covered on your perfect San Diego itinerary. Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego, CA.
Where To Stay In San Diego: The US Grant or Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego
Looking for more road SF-based guides? These may be helpful:
- 25 Best Things To Do In The San Francisco South Bay, California
- 60+ Free and Affordable Things To Do In San Francisco, California
- 3 Days In San Francisco, CA: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
- 50 Exciting Things To Do In Berkeley, CA (From A Local’s Perspective)
- 24 Best Stops Between San Francisco to Los Angeles: PCH Road Trip
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