15 Not to Miss San Francisco Day Trips

Below, I’ve curated a list of my favorite San Francisco day trips. Whether you’re visiting San Francisco with kids during the warmer months, looking for indoor activities close by, or seeking year-round outdoor fun, these 15 day trips are excellent choices for anyone visiting the San Francisco Bay area.

San Francisco is a great place to visit, with its bustling waterfront, iconic Golden Gate Bridge, beautiful Victorian houses, and unique food scene. But did you know the treasure trove of amazing things to see and do just outside the city?

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Day Trips North of San Francisco

1. Muir Woods National Monument

Take a short drive about 35 minutes north of San Francisco to Marin County, home to Muir Woods. The park is home to the last old-growth redwood trees, the tallest trees in the world. It’s one of the prettiest places in Northern California.

Muir Woods boasts miles of hiking and biking trails with amazing views of the surrounding forest and the Pacific Ocean. For families, try the Stinson Beach Trail. You can start this hike by stopping by the Muir Woods Visitors Center and then strolling along the boardwalk in Cathedral Grove.

After the boardwalk, the path connects with the Ben Johnson Trail and finally the Dipsea Trail to Stinson Beach, offering amazing coastal views the whole way. The trail is rated as easy, but keep in mind that it’s an out-and-back trail that’s over 4 miles one way!

2. Sausalito

Sausalito is a charming waterfront town just a ferry ride away from San Francisco, making it an easy and fun family day trip.

This small town is known for its stunning Bay views, walkable streets, and relaxed vibe. One of the top kid-friendly attractions is the Bay Area Discovery Museum, packed with hands-on exhibits, outdoor play areas, and creative STEM activities.

One of my favorite things to do is simply stroll along the waterfront, watching boats and grabbing ice cream at Lappert’s. Then, take time to explore the Sausalito Boardwalk, spot sea lions, or rent bikes for a scenic ride along the bay! 

Finally, end the day with a ferry ride back to San Francisco at sunset for unforgettable Golden Gate Bridge views.

3. Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is a stunning coastal escape only an hour north of San Francisco. The park is famous for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, fascinating historical landmarks, and incredible wildlife.

One of the most photographed spots is the Cypress Tree Tunnel, a magical canopy of cypress trees that leads to an old radio station.

Kids will love the Elephant Seal Overlook. This viewing area provides a safe and exciting way to watch elephant seals lounging, sparring, and even birthing pups in the winter months!

Hikers will enjoy the scenic trails leading to hidden beaches and coastal bluffs. With its mix of history, nature, and wildlife, Point Reyes is a fantastic place for families to explore the rugged beauty of California’s coast.

Point Reyes National Seashore has the Point Reyes Lighthouse which dates back to 1870 and offers stunning coastal views. The lighthouse and surrounding historic buildings give a glimpse into California’s maritime past.

4. Sonoma

California’s wine country might not be the first place that comes to mind for a family trip, but there are some great Napa Valley kid-friendly activities, especially around Sonoma.

Drive an hour north from the big city and you’ll find plenty to keep the kids entertained while parents can still enjoy the region’s beauty.

For little ones, TrainTown is a must-visit. It has a miniature railroad, a petting zoo, and amusement rides!

In downtown Sonoma, Sonoma Plaza is an open space for kids to run around. Find a park bench and take in the beautiful architecture while the kids play on the playground. Plus, you can visit historic sites like Mission San Francisco Solano, located just off the plaza.

For an outdoor adventure, Jack London State Historic Park is perfect. The historical site features easy trails, towering redwood trees, wildflowers in the spring, and historic ruins to explore.

Day Trips South of San Francisco

5. Palo Alto

Palo Alto, close to 35 miles south of SF, is one of the best day trips for families looking for a variety of things to do.

Home to Stanford University, the college town culture is alive and well here! It’s a necessity to stroll down University Avenue and enjoy the cute boutiques, coffee shops, and family-friendly eateries available to you.

There’s also the Junior Museum & Zoo just north of downtown. Or you can enjoy an afternoon on campus in The Arts District. This includes the historic Cantor Museum, The Anderson Collection, and the outdoor Rodin and Goldsworthy exhibits.

Where in the Palo Alto Area

Palo Alto is a favorite San Francisco day trip because of all the amazing opportunities to get outdoors! You’ll find a variety of terrains available to your family, whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or a more challenging hiking trail. Here are some of the best locations to check out:

• Baylands Nature Preserve – A flat, stroller-friendly trail with beautiful marshland views and tons of wildlife, including water birds and rabbits.
• Arastradero Preserve – This nature preserve offers gently rolling hills, oak woodlands, and grasslands with trails ranging from easy to moderate.
• Foothills Nature Preserve – A hidden gem with peaceful trails and a small lake (Lake Boronda). There’s also a picnic area, making it a nice spot for a half-day outing.
• Windy Hill Open Space Preserve – A mix of easy and more challenging trails with panoramic views of the Bay Area.
• Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve – Located just south of Palo Alto, this park is known for its spring wildflowers, local wildlife, and easy trails through oak woodlands and grasslands.

San Mateo County Coastline

San Mateo County stretches across the San Francisco Peninsula with a mix of coastal beauty, redwood forests, and charming small towns. A scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway reveals rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and breathtaking ocean views, while the Santa Cruz Mountains provide towering redwoods and peaceful hiking trails.

This diverse region is perfect for outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, and hidden gems that are perfect for easy day trips from San Francisco. Below are some of my favorites.

6. CuriOdyssey

CuriOdyssey in San Mateo is a fantastic spot for a great day trip, especially if you have younger kids and need a change of scenery! This hands-on science and wildlife museum located in Coyote Park is a blast with its interactive exhibits and an outdoor zoo featuring native animals. 

Close by, there’s also Coyote Point Recreation Area, which features a large playground, picnic spots, and scenic bay views. Just keep in mind that there’s a small entrance fee to access the rec area.

7. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County is another perfect place to get out of the big city.

With its great views of the Pacific Ocean and family-friendly beaches like Poplar Beach, it’s an ideal spot for kids to enjoy the fresh ocean air and explore tide pools!

In the spring and winter, there’s also a good chance of seeing gray whales migrating offshore. Gray Whale Cove State Beach is the perfect place for this.

In the fall, the area comes alive with scenic pumpkin patches, offering hayrides and corn mazes.

8. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

For more San Francisco day trips any time of the year, consider the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. It’s absolutely one of the best places for tide pooling all year round, with chances to see sea stars, crabs, and anemones up close at low tide. This is also an amazing ecotourism destination.

It’s a good idea to check the tide schedule before planning your visit if you’re set on exploring the reserve at low tide.

9. Pescadero

Looking for a laid-back day? Pescadero is a charming coastal town perfect for a relaxing family outing.

This is your chance to meet the friendly goats at Harley Farms Goat Dairy! While you’re here, you can also pick up delicious cheese and farm treats. Just down the road, Arcangeli Grocery is a must-visit for its famous fresh-baked artichoke bread and other local goodies.

Then, head to Pescadero State Beach to explore tide pools and enjoy a walk along the shore.

If you want to continue your journey from here, check out this San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.

Don’t Miss the Santa Cruz Beaches and Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beaches and Boardwalk offer the perfect mix of sun, surf, and classic seaside fun less than two hours from San Francisco, making them an ideal family day trip from San Francisco.

Whether you’re riding the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster or relaxing on a quiet beach, Santa Cruz is a fun and easy getaway for families by the coast.

10. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a California historical landmark, is packed with classic seaside fun. Enjoy arcade games and classic carnival treats, like funnel cakes and saltwater taffy.

You can ride the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, take a spin on the Ferris wheel, or enjoy kid-friendly attractions like the carousel and mini golf.

While you’re here, take a stroll along the boardwalk for live entertainment and vendors selling souvenirs and cotton candy. Plus, the boardwalk sits right on the beach, so you can easily switch between rides and playing in the sand.

11. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach is one of Santa Cruz’s most scenic coastal spots, perfect for families looking to explore beyond the busy boardwalk. This beautiful beach is great for tide pooling, and is home to gorgeous sea stars, anemones, and crabs.

In the fall and winter, the park’s eucalyptus grove sees seasonal monarch butterfly migrations, creating an unforgettable experience for any visitor. It’s also a great place to relax, build sandcastles, and even spot sea lions offshore! 

12. Mystery Spot

A great pitstop on your day trip from San Francisco to Santa Cruz is the quirky Mystery Spot. You’ll find it in the redwood forests just outside Santa Cruz. This tourist attraction is fascinating, being the location of a gravitational anomaly where the laws of physics seem distorted!

When you visit, you’ll observe how those around you appear to tilt at impossible angles, balls roll uphill, and you feel strangely off-balance. But don’t worry, it’s tons of fun!

The guided tour takes you through a small, slanted wooden cabin where these optical illusions happen, making it a fun and mind-bending experience for the whole family.

What Not to Miss in Monterey Bay

Just a few hours from San Francisco, Monterey Bay is a dreamy oceanside destination for families, with its stunning views, world-class attractions, and opportunities to get on the water.

The bay is best known for its diverse marine life and wholesome waterfront attractions. Here are just a few of my favorites for families.

13. Elkhorn Slough Reserve

If your kids get excited about seeing wild animals, take them for a day at Elkhorn Slough (pronounced “slew”). This beautiful estuary on the bay is most popular for its outdoor activities and wildlife sightings.

One of the most popular things to do here is take a safari boat tour, or you can rent kayaks at Monterey Bay Kayaks, located in Moss Landing. This wetland sanctuary is by far one of the best places to see groups of otters, seals, sea lions, pelicans, great blue herons, and more.

If you prefer dry land, there are several hiking trails around the reserve where you can explore grasslands, salt marsh, and woodlands. Start at the visitor’s center to learn about local ecosystems and then head to the trail.

There’s an accessible paved trail for strollers and wheelchairs, as well as a range of trails for different skill levels.

14. Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf

Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf are two of Monterey’s most iconic waterfront destinations, perfect for families enjoying a day on the bay.

Once the heart of the sardine-packing industry, Cannery Row is now a busy tourism center filled with shops, historic buildings, top-notch restaurants, and kid-friendly attractions. A must-visit stop is the Monterey Bay Aquarium, considered to be one of the best aquariums in the world.

Fisherman’s Wharf is also a family favorite. You can enjoy fresh seafood, souvenir shops, and scenic views of the bay. Take the kids to watch boats coming and going, spot sea lions lounging on the docks, and even hop on a boat for a whale-watching tour!

15. Pacific Grove

Pacific Grove is an adorable coastal town located just west of Monterey. It’s famous for its charming Victorian homes, quiet streets, and scenic coastline.

A visit here also offers easy access to nearby attractions as well as beaches like Lover’s Point and Asilomar State Beach.

But Pacific Grove is probably most popular with families for its Monarch Grove Sanctuary, where everyone can learn about the Monarch Butterflies that migrate there each year (October through January) and the efforts being made to keep them from extinction.

Looking for other destinations in Northern California? Don’t miss our favorite California road trip stops and California bucket list.