22 Bay Area Road Trips to take this Spring (Within 5 hours from San Francisco)

Want to enjoy a beautiful Spring getaway, but don’t want to waste time traveling for hours together?

If you live in the SF Bay Area, you are super lucky because you have everything you need to have the most fantastic Bay Area getaway right around you within driving distance of a few hours.

Here is a list of SF Bay Area Spring getaways recommended by seasoned travelers and travel bloggers. We put together all the magical spots, just so you can pick your spot(s) and jump in the car right away.

Whatever you crave, a relaxing getaway or an adventure, a couple-of-hours trip or a full day trip, the options are amazing and right here in this list! Check out this list of magical Bay Area getaways within 5 hours around San Francisco towards all directions.

1. Filoli Gardens

Drive time from San Francisco: 30 Minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: $25 per adult
Parking fee: Free

Kara from Whimsy Soul blog says: Filoli Gardens looks like it should belong perhaps in the English Countryside, not just 30 minutes south of San Francisco. This historic mansion and gardens are open daily year round.

Springtime is the best time to stroll the property, as the gardens come to life with tulips, daffodils and wisteria. The holidays are another fun time to visit as the mansion is decked out with lights and Christmas trees, and guests can even attend a holiday High Tea party.

2. Half Moon Bay

Drive time from San Francisco: 45 Minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper blog says: Half Moon Bay is a lovely beach town along Hwy 1, nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The most popular attraction is its beaches – white sand sprawls along the shoreline below small cliffs while huge waves crash. On the tops of the cliffs, the ground is covered in succulents and wildflowers, especially in the spring.

If you’re an experienced surfer, Half Moon Bay has some great waves here. Otherwise, you can join a surf school for a lesson and be taught all you need to know to catch a wave.

After you’ve strolled along the beach or gone surfing, you can go on a short hike on the California Coastal Trail or check out Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park.

While you’re here, definitely check out the shops and food on Main Street. Cafe Capistrano has excellent Mexican Food and Cafe Society has the best pastries and coffee.

If you’re thinking of a weekend trip, the Ritz-Carlton is perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean below – it’s absolutely stunning. The famous Cowell-Purisima coastal trail starts right here. For a beautiful yet budget-friendly option, consider the Nantucket Whale Inn or the Mill Rose Inn.

3. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Drive time from San Francisco: 1 hour 15 Minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: Free. Tickets for rides should be purchased.
Parking fee: $25

Sage from Everyday Wanderer blog says: Santa Cruz is always a favorite day trip from San Francisco. While the City by the Bay is consistently 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, this college town on the beach is nearly always warmer and sunnier. 

Located about 90 minutes south of downtown San Francisco, I recommend heading straight for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Parking is $25 for the entire day, and there is plenty to see and do. Stroll along the sand and watch the surfers ride the waves.

Get out on the water by renting a boat, or book a fishing excursion, whale and dolphin watching trip, or scenic bay cruise. As the sun starts to set, the Boardwalk really comes to life. Whether you purchase a single ticket or buy a wristband, be sure to ride the Giant Dipper.

Now a National Historic Landmark, this nearly 100-year-old wooden roller coaster has appeared in several movies, including Sudden Impact, Dangerous Minds, and The Lost Boys. And before you head back to San Francisco, be sure to enjoy fresh seafood by grabbing dinner at Johnny’s Harborside or Riva Fish House.

4. Point Reyes National Seashore

Drive time from San Francisco: 1 hour 30 Minutes (North)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Trijit from Budget Travel Buff blog says: Located 42 miles north of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore is a large area of protected shorelines, diverse history, stunning beaches, coastal bluffs, scenic hikes, and an abundance of wildflowers.

If you are looking for a spring break destination from SF Bay Area, Point Reyes could be a perfect spot where you can find a quiet place to enjoy the trails and natural scenic views of the beach.

Mid-January to April is the best time when you can see the southern migration of the California Gray Whales. It is a great opportunity to watch mothers and calves close to the seashore. There are plenty of things to do in Point Reyes National Seashore.

You should not miss the hiking trails and especially during the spring season, the Chimney Rock Trail and Tomales Point Trail offer the best views with an abundance of wildflowers. California poppies, lupines, paintbrushes, iris, goldfields, and monkey-flower are some of the beautiful wildflowers typically seen in this area.

Point Reyes Lighthouse is another highlight in this area. You can take amazing pictures of the lighthouse from the observation deck or you can climb down 313 steps to access the lighthouse.

Also read: Whale-watching at Point Reyes

In winter-spring, elephant Seals nurse their young and you can see them right from the parking lot of Drakes beach. Sculptured beach and Limontaur beaches are gorgeous woth beautiful cliffs next to the shore. There are even tide pools you can explore at low tide.

5. Healdsburg

Drive time from San Francisco: 1 hour 30 Minutes (North)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Jenifer from The Evolista blog says: Busy city life is exciting and the San Francisco Bay Area has it all. But sometimes you just want to slow down and get back to nature. The perfect way to relax is a weekend of glamping in Healdsburg, just a short drive from the city.

Wildhaven Sonoma has safari tents set on the Russian River, right near the sprawling vineyards of Dry Creek Valley. There’s no need to rough it while getting a fun camping experience. These spacious tents have comfy queen sized beds, space heaters, electricity, fire pits for a fun evening outdoors and a patio where you can drink your morning coffee.

Fill your days with all the fun things to do in Healdsburg and Sonoma County. You can go wine tasting, kayaking on the Russian River or visit the charming Healdsburg Plaza. The best part about Wildhaven is that it won’t break the bank. Stay all weekend for the cost of one night in a hotel and glamping will add another dimension to your wine country weekend. 

6. Sacramento

Drive time from San Francisco: 1 hour 30 minutes (North-East)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Varies, mostly metered parking but some free lots

Mary from Bucket List Places blog says: One of the best getaways in Northern California is a trip to the state’s capital, Sacramento. Here, you can dive deep into California’s history and discover the more small-town feel that is distinctly different from the Bay Area.

Driving from San Francisco takes about an hour and a half, but if you’d rather not sit in 90 miles of traffic, you can also hop on a bus from San Francisco to Sacramento and arrive in under 2 hours.

No matter what subjects you’re interested in, Sacramento has a museum for you. The California State Capitol Museum is free to enter, while the California Museum, California State Railroad Museum, and California Automobile Museum each have ticket prices under $12.

Old Sacramento Historic Park is a business district which preserves the spirit of 1850s Sacramento during the Gold Rush. You can pop into gift shops, saloons, and restaurants while pretending you’re in the Old West. Plus, with the lovely spring weather, you can dine at restaurants’ outdoor patios. Red Rabbit Kitchen and Bar is a good bet for an excellent patio and menu.

To enjoy even more fresh air, you can walk or bike down the Jedediah Smith Trail, which begins in Discovery Park in downtown Sacramento. No matter how you spend your getaway, you’ll love exploring the hidden gems this city has to offer.

7. Carmel-By-The-Sea

Drive time from San Francisco: 2 hours (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Noel from Travel Photo Discovery blog says: One of the favorite places for a spring getaway from the San Francisco Bay Area is Carmel by the Sea, an easy and scenic drive from the bay area to this gorgeous coastal city in Monterey County.

The drive through Highway 101 is easy and beautiful driving through rural agricultural landscape and finally approaching the coastline areas and passing into Monterey and then Carmel. The small town vibe and European flare of this city in the historic district is really special and European in its appeal with unique storybook style architecture housing art galleries, bakeries and really cool locally owned boutique stores to browse and enjoy.

After strolling down the downtown district and having a great meal, you can walk it off along the gorgeous ocean beaches and walk down the oceanfront trails, visit the historic Carmel Mission or explore the fantastic wineries in the Carmel Valley area.

Or you can even explore further into gorgeous landscape and ocean areas around Point Lobos State Reserve and further down into the scenic Big Sur area with striking cliffsides that drop directly into the magnificent Pacific Ocean. 

Carmel by the Sea is a fantastic weekend getaway or even a nice long day trip if time is short or as a base to explore more of the region in detail for a longer stay. You can take it all in and explore all the fantastic attractions around the town and region or just opt for more simple pleasures in a getaway, nice meal and just exploring on your own time frame.

8. Monterey

Drive time from San Francisco: 2 hours (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: $1.50/hour in downtown Monterey

Rasika from Bae Area and Beyond says: Located just 119 miles away from San Francisco, Monterey is the perfect spring getaway from the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s a great place to go for a long weekend. The city has a lot to do, and you can easily fill your days with fun activities.

Monterey has two major attractions, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. The aquarium houses over 80,000 animals and plants. Cannery Row is home to restaurants, shops, galleries and hotels. Just outside downtown Monterey is Old Fisherman’s Wharf where you can go fishing, whale watching, take harbor cruises or just stroll along the waterfront enjoying the shops and restaurants.

Monterey’s mild spring weather is another reason why you should visit this vibrant city this spring. The climate here is perfect for exploring the area on foot or by bike. Plus once you’re done exploring Monterey, travel a little further around Monterey County for the many things to do nearby.

9. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Drive time from San Francisco: 2 hours (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: $10

Candice from CS Ginger blog says: One of the best getaways from San Francisco is to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, just south of Monterey. It is a quick two-hour drive south through San Jose and Monterey. Throughout Point Lobos, you will find a beautiful beach, stunning coastal views, and lots of opportunities to see wildlife.

There is a $10 fee for parking inside Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Parking can fill up because there are not a lot of parking spaces inside. There is overflow parking along the side of Highway 1, but you will have to walk for a bit to get out to the coastal hikes. If you find the parking lot full you can either come back later in the day or park along the road.

One of the best things to do there is exploring the Point Lobos hikes. It is a very family-friendly place to hike. Some of the best trails are the Bird Island Trail which takes you by China Cove, the South Shore Trail, and Sand Hill Trail to Sea Lion Point.

10. Pinnacles National Park

Drive time from San Francisco: 2 hours (South)
Entrance Fee: $30 for 7 days or Free with America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass.
Parking fee: Free

The newest National Park in California, Pinnacles National Park is a temple of majestic rocks in the middle of green fields around it in the Salinas Valley.

It doesn’t get even one fourth the visitors that go to Yosemite every year, but Pinnacles National Park is gaining popularity by leaps and bounds. The parking lots get full pretty early in the weekends and cars will be turned away if the lots are full (happens very early in the day in popular holiday weekends.)

There is so much to explore in this National Park like the Bear Gulch Caves, Balconies caves, Bear Gulch reservoir. Cave explorers, rock climbers, Condor (endangered species) eagle watchers, wildlife observers, everyone enjoys Pinnacles National Park!

Don’t forget to check out the Bear Gulch reservoir when you visit this park, one of the most peaceful areas in the Bay Area. Bear in mind that it can get very hot in this park in summers, so winter and spring would be the perfect time to visit. Check the Pinnacles National Park website before planning a trip to see if there are any area closures for Big-eared Bat breeding activity etc.

Also read: Bear Gulch Caves Hike With Kids – A must do in Pinnacles National Park

11. Big Sur

Drive time from San Francisco: 2 hours 30 minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Big Sur is a gem of California. This place has plenty to offer all the visitors. The serene ocean views, amazing forest hikes, camping, whatever you fancy, you can do it at Big Sur, submerged in natural beauty. Bixby Bridge is a famous photo-stop along the coastal drive. But apart from this majestic structure, there is so much to do in Big Sur.

Pfieffer falls, Pfieffer beach ($10 parking) with its purple sand and keyhole rock, McWay Falls, camping at the beautiful Big Sur campgrounds, every one of these things are a must do. Plan to spend at least a week here to really enjoy exploring so much natural beauty.

Hiking to the recently re-opened iconic wooden bridge in the middle of giant redwoods to reach Pfieffer falls is a lovely trail. There is a $10 parking fee to access this trail.

12. Yosemite National Park

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours (East)
Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle for 7 days.  or Free with America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass. An additional reservation is required to drive into Yosemite National Park during peak hours in the busy spring-summer months, and this costs $2
Parking fee: Free

James Ian from Parks Collecting blog says: Yosemite National Park is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States – and it’s an easy getaway from San Francisco.

The park is centered around Yosemite Valley, which is surrounded by dramatic – and iconic – granite peaks like El Capitan and, a little more distant, Half Dome. There are plenty of waterfalls, which are at their best in spring. These include the impressive Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls.

The Lower Falls can be seen from below from an easy trail from the Visitor Center. The top of the falls, and the Upper Falls can be seen from a trail that goes up the side of the valley. Another famous trail is the Mist Trail which takes you to several more beautiful waterfalls.  

If you prefer something less active, there is a two-hour Valley Floor tour to see the main highlights. There are also several stunning viewpoints, including Glacier Point and Tunnel View.  

If you visit Yosemite in the busy summer months without an overnight reservation inside the park, you’ll need to get a day use ticket to enter at peak times of the day. 

13. Mendocino

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours (North)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Mendocino is a place packed to the brim with natural beauty and serenity. So much to see here like the Mendocino Headlands, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, Van Damme State Park, Hendy Woods State Park, Jug Handle State Nature Preserve, Point Cabrillo Light Station, Pomo Bluffs Park, Point Arena Lighthouse, B Bryan Preserve (needs prior reservations), Bowling balls beach, Mackerricher State Park, Russian Gulch State Park.

In Russian Gulch State Park, Hendy Woods State Park, Van Damme State Park, there are miles and miles of basically under-explored trails. You will be sure to enjoy peace and relieved of all the stress out here in Mendocino.

Also read: Glamping in Mendocino

14. Stanislaus National Forest

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours (East)
Entrance Fee: $5 per day per vehicle, or included with $80 America the Beautiful Pass (gives you access to all U.S. National Parks and National Forests for one year)
Parking fee: Free

Sarah and Matt of Two Outliers blog say: Stanislaus National Forest is a perfect spring weekend getaway from the San Francisco Bay area for those looking to spend time outdoors while avoiding the crowds found in Yosemite National Park. Stanislaus offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking, fishing, biking, camping, and kayaking. 

One of the best hikes in the area is Sonora Peak, a challenging 6.5-mile hike that gains over 2000 feet of elevation for sweeping views of the surrounding rocky Sierra Nevadas. Stanislaus also offers many great backpacking routes, such as Bear Lake, Bell Meadow Trail, or Pinecrest Peak. A free wilderness permit is required for backcountry camping, but advance reservations are not necessary.

Pinecrest Lake is another awesome spot to spend the day swimming, kayaking, and hanging out at the beach area by the water. From Pinecrest Lake, you can take a 3-mile hike up to Cleo’s Bath, a waterfall that collects into a small pool, making the perfect place for a picnic! There is also a campground located at Pinecrest Lake with 200 campsites.

If you’re looking to get outside to enjoy the spring weather without the crowds of Yosemite, look no further than Stanislaus National Forest!

15. Paso Robles

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours 15 minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Alisha from Travel Today, Work Tomorrow blog says: Escape to the Central California Coast for a magical getaway in Paso Robles. The area is known for its world-class wine, charming downtown, and inviting hot springs. Paso Robles is located along Highway 101, between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

One of the best times to visit Paso Robles is during the spring months. The rolling vineyard hills are dotted with blooming wildflowers, and the bright green buds are starting to grow in the vineyards.

There are over 200 wineries across Paso Robles. However, a winery that will be sure to impress is Daou Family Estates. The estate sits perched on top of Daou Mountain and boasts some of the best views in Paso Robles. Besides their jaw-dropping views, Daou produces award-winning wine and a Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals the very best in the world.

After a day of wine tasting, be sure to visit downtown Paso Robles and enjoy a meal at one of the many incredible restaurants. A favorite is Thomas Hill Organics, a farm-to-table restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio oasis.

Paso Robles has so much more to offer than just wine, such as the unique experience at the Field of Light at Sensorio. Paso Robles is a must-visit destination in California and the perfect getaway location from San Francisco. 

16. Cayucos

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours 30 minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: No entry fee for beach access
Parking fee: Free Parking at Cayucos State Beach and Main Street area

Pafoua from Her Wanderful World blog says: Cayucos is a small coastal town located 3.5 hours south of San Francisco. The town is a great getaway for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some time by the ocean.

There are several things to do in Cayucos, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, and whale watching on the Cayucos Pier which is best to go during March-April. The town also has a few restaurants and shops, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two.

One of the best things about Cayucos is its dog-friendliness so you can bring your furry friend for some water fun. From Cayucos State Beach, you can walk to the restaurants lining the ocean for some delicious seafood at Duckie’s or waffles and tacos at the Hidden Kitchen. Make sure to check out the antique shops Remember When 1 & 2 to see if you can find some vintage treasure!

If you’re looking for a spring getaway from San Francisco, Cayucos is a great option. The town has so much to do, there is something for everyone, and is just a short drive away. So, put on your swimsuit and sunscreen and head to Cayucos for some fun in the sun.

17. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours 45 minutes (North)
Entrance Fee: The park is free, except for the Williams Grove Day Use Area, which is $8 per vehicle. Parking fee: Free

Jessica from Uprooted Traveler blog says: Within its impressive footprint, boasting 17,000 acres of ancient coastal redwoods, Humboldt Redwoods State Park offers the largest remaining contiguous old-growth redwood forest on the planet.

While 95% of the planet’s redwoods have been lost to logging, the trees within the park, which tower some 300 foot above the mossy forest floor below, have lasted hundreds or even thousands of years (some are even up to 1,600 years old), despite the scars that industry has left on this part of California.

If you want to get up close and personal with these ancient giants and are looking for a great hike through the Redwoods here, check out the easy but nonetheless stunning 0.5-mile Founders Grove, where enormous redwoods stretch out in every direction. If you’re, instead, looking for something a bit more under-the-radar, try the Homestead and Big Trees Loop- unlike some of the other groves in the park, there’s limited primeval ferns and other undergrowth here, so that all you can see is, well, really big trees!

18. San Luis Obispo

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours 40 minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Daria from The Discovery Nut blog says: San Luis Obispo is one of the best places to visit in Central California and a perfect getaway from San Francisco located 231 miles away.

Although San Luis Obispo is often missed by travelers who travel from Southern California to Big Sur, the city offers plenty of things to keep you busy for a couple of days.

From the gorgeous downtown with plenty of historic landmarks like Mission San Luis Obispo to beachside towns Pismo Beach and Avila Beach and the wine country in Paso Robles, you will not get bored while spending your time here.

There are many hotels in San Luis Obispo for all budgets and types of travelers, many of which are within walking distance from the city’s downtown. From the historic Madonna Inn where you can stay on one of the neatly decorated rooms and try the famous cakes to modern accommodations like Hotel San Luis Obispo, there are tons of cool places to stay here.

19. Avila Beach

Drive time from San Francisco: 3 hours 45 minutes (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free street parking or $6 paid parking lot

Shannon from Traveling Teacher Girl blog says: Avila Beach is one of the top Spring getaways from the San Francisco Bay area. Avila Beach is a cute beach town located approximately four hours south of San Francisco. There is limited street parking available in town, or a paid parking lot available for $6 per day. 

The weather in Avila Beach in Spring is typically in the high 60’s, making it the perfect temperature for strolling through the town and exploring its shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Some dining options include Blue Moon Over Avila for beach front views, or Mission Pizza for a more casual take-out option. For wine tasting, be sure to visit Peloton Cellars.

Just a few minutes from town is Pirates Cove which offers gorgeous sunset views of Avila Beach.During a road trip to Avila Beach, be sure to also stop by Sycamore Mineral Springs which has heated mineral spring hot tubs available to rent for between $22.50-$27.50 per person. Advanced reservations are required.

20. Pismo Beach

Drive time from San Francisco: 4 hours (South)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

The Pismo beach city has so many things to do. The beach itself is remarkable. It has shallow waters for quite a stretch where little ones have fun. The water is clear and you can enjoy amazing views from the pier going into the ocean.

If you feel that spending the day soaking in the sun gets a bit boring, go on one of those ATV tours along the amazing Oceano Dunes. These ATV rides on the sand dunes are scheduled to be closed by 2024 to preserve the dunes for wildlife.

Rent a buggy if you have little ones and make sure you have a child seat with you to take young kids along on the ride. The Dinosaur Caves park and Monarch Butterfly Grove are a few spots that are must visit when you are at Pismo beach.

Also read: 7 places to visit in California this summer

21. Avenue of the Giants

Drive time from San Francisco: 4 hours (North)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Williams Grove Day Use Area is $8, the rest is free

Katy from A Rambling Unicorn blog says: If you’re looking for an incredible spring getaway in Northern California, you can’t beat the Avenue of the Giants. Located a 4-hour’s drive from San Francisco, this scenic byway is a gorgeous 31-mile stretch of road in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

The highlight of the Avenue of the Giants is the forest of majestic coastal redwood trees. These magnificent trees are among the largest beings on earth and sometimes grow to over 300 feet tall. The park protects some of the last remaining stands of old-growth redwood trees, many of which are visible at viewpoints conveniently stationed along the drive.

The Avenue of the Giants auto tour begins near Garberville and ends just south of the town of Rio Dell. While there are 8 official stops on the scenic drive, be sure to also stop by Founder’s Grove which features the 346-foot-tall Founder’s Tree.

The area is also home to a number of kitschy tourist attractions that are fun to visit, such as the Shrine Drive-Through Tree and the Sasquatch-themed Legend of BigFoot gift shop.

22. Shasta Trinity National Forest

Drive time from San Francisco: 4 hours 40 minutes to Mt Shasta (North)
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking fee: Free

Sophie and Adam from We Dream Of Travel blog say: While the mighty Mt. Shasta looms far too majestically over the Northern California region to be considered any kind of secret or hidden gem, most visitors only admire it from the freeway as they drive past. What most passersby never realize is that the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is a destination unto itself. 

Tucked away within this national forest is an endless expanse of pristine nature to explore.  Here you can discover a plethora of waterfalls, hot springs, and unbelievable viewpoints.  Among them, the most impressive and notable stops on your Shasta itinerary should include Mossbrae Falls, Castle Lake, and the Shasta Caverns.

It is an ideal spring getaway for the adventure seekers who need a breath of fresh air and idyllic views, as well as a day away from the Bay Area bustle, Shasta-Trinity deserves a spot near the top of the bucket list.  In springtime, you’ll still find snow-capped mountains without the difficulties of snow on the ground, and the snow-melt helps to create roaring waterfalls.

Also read: The best hidden gems of USA

Enjoy and safe travels!!