Bay Area Staycations

Pam Dela Cruz • August 4, 2023

Living in San Francisco means being surrounded by an endless array of charming and diverse getaways. Whether you’re looking to go wine tasting in Napa or enjoy a mountainous escape in Tahoe, there are plenty of nearby weekend escapes. Here are a few of the getaways near the Bay Area so that you can make the most of a weekend staycation.

Bolinas

Drive time from San Mateo: Under 2 hours


Off nearby Highway 1, this tiny coastal town is known for keeping a tight grasp on its little-known hamlet. In fact, residents are rumored to have ripped down or changed road signs so that no nosy visitor could get a peek at their homes. But when you do find this beachside California oasis, you’ll be rewarded with beckoning waves on the namesake beach, organic beer with fresh seafood, and an artsy atmosphere that’s tough to leave.

Mill Valley

Drive time from San Mateo: 1 hour


The Marin Headlands is known for its unique geology, its fog-swept coastal prairie ecosystem, and its many chapters of history. Dramatic cliffs of oceanic rock offer sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and the foghorn frequently resounds over the misty lagoon and rolling hills of coyote brush and sage, great places to hike.


Discover for yourself what Herb Caen referred to as "the best-kept secret in the Bay Area." Nature Friends Tourist Club is tucked away on the side of Mount Tamalpais overlooking Muir Woods is a jewel that somehow eludes notice from locals, yet draws travelers from all over the world.

Treasure Island

Drive time from San Mateo: Less than 1 hour


Treasure Island is an artificial Island made for the Golden Gate International Exposition in 1937, the same time the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge was opened. It's located off of Yerba Buena Island. This gem of an island offers a bustling urban winery scene and popular flea markets. Plus, there are killer views of the gorgeous San Francisco skyline along Avenue of the Palms to strike a pose against.

The Coastside

Drive time from San Mateo: Less than 1 hour


Spend a fabulous day biking on the Coastside Trail. It is a segment of the California Coastal Trail and runs parallel to the Pacific Coast along what used to be the Ocean Shore Railroad. Start at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay and follow the trail through wetlands, past beaches, and with panoramic Pacific views up to Moss Beach. Grab a quick drink and bite to eat at the haunted Moss Beach Distillery before heading back to the Ritz-Carlton.


Enjoy uninterrupted sunset views over the Pacific Ocean, sip on California beers and wines, and warm up by a fire pit at this outdoor venue at the Ritz Carlton's Ocean Terrace. No reservations are required but they do close the terrace for private events so it's best to call ahead.

Forestville

Drive time from San Mateo: 2 hours


While not technically in the Bay Area, it's just a quick drive away to escape from the summer fog to a sunny weekend in the Russian River Valley. Forestville is "where the river meets the redwoods." Nestled amongst the redwoods and vineyards, the Michelin-starred Farmhouse Inn offers superb dining and accommodations. There are wineries galore in the surrounding area, plus numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. A night or two here cures all and you can come home feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

Drive time from San Mateo: 2.5 hour


With its fishing, boating, dining, camping, wine tasting, and sightseeing, the "Delta" is a rich and often overlooked destination. There isn’t a place filled with more character, culture, and charm! Spend a day on the Delta Loop: A 'well-kept secret' from the Bay Area with sunshine and cheap beer.

In creating this blog, we gathered information from several different sources.

cheftravelguide.com, sf.gov, atlasobscura.com, thrillist.com, secretsanfrancisco.com, sfgate.com, traillink.com, bontraveler.com, visitcadelta.com, Yelp.com

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