Monterey Bay
Less than 2 hours away from home, Carmel and Monterey offers just as much as the Mendocino Coast. Among the scenic ocean views and trails,These neighboring towns offer The famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and the Fisherman’s Wharf. But other than what we already expect to see from the area, They also offer other activities that brings you closer to nature. You can go from shopping during lunch hours in the downtown area and next you can be whale watching as you kayak down the Pacific coast. Carmel and Monterey offers a great variety of things for both the adventurous and laid back crowd. So if you do plan a weekend trip make sure you check in at the Monterey Bay Inn on Cannery Row, or some Airbnb locations in Carmel.
Capitola
A nice beach get-away within 80 miles of San Francisco, Capitola is a small beach town in Santa Cruz and offers family-friendly activities for all ages. Start your day by having breakfast Sweet Pea’s Cafe, They offer gigantic waffles! Enjoy the day paddle boarding at the Capitola City Beach, and enjoy dinner at Bella Roma Cafe for a nice Italian dinner. For those with pets, you can bring them over to the New Brighton State Beach. As for those who enjoy fishing, the city offers a fly fishing tour. Capitola is a great place for anybody, there are things to do with friends and family, or even for adventurous singles who just needs a break from the city.
Napa Valley
2 words. WINE. TRAIN. Spend a weekend with your friends or that special someone drinking wine on the Wine Train, and eating good food, what more can you ask for? Shopping? Attractions? Multiple day spas? It’s all there, and if that doesn’t sell you to stay in Napa Valley, then maybe a hot air balloon ride will. It’s a great city to unwind and forget about your adult responsibilities so pack up and take the 1 hour and 27-minute drive to forget the city for a hot minute. But don’t forget to make reservations before you leave. If Napa is booked you can always go to the other cities in the Wine Country.
Costanoa
Lake Tahoe is a bit out of reach, but for those who crave a bit of an adventure around nature, whether it be a hike, nature walks, even up to the most peculiar thing like mushroom identification tours. There’s something to do for the adventurous soul that the city keeps in shackles. If this sounds like something your alley you can book a room in Costanoa Lodge Resort. They offer different types of lodging from wood lodges, bungalows, even RVs and tents. While you’re at it, you can also book your activities on their website.
// Written by Myles Penaflor, Myles is an SF lifestyle image maker and writer. Images sourced from Nelson Minar, Mark Miller, Svein-Magne Tunli, James Daisa. Hero shot by Dronography. More adventures to be had and shared here. Need more in city recommendations? We know the Best of SF.
