California North Coast Day Trips

The California North Coast has everything any traveler could want; stunning natural beauty, fabulous beaches, ancient redwood forests, historical landmarks, and possibly the best wine country in North America.

One of the most significant advantages of traveling in NorCal is its easy access to every point of interest. Everything is connected with open roads that are easy on the eyes. Taking tree-lined highways that pass over rivers and quaint byways through vineyards and hills makes the journey as pleasurable as the destination. So get ready to hop in the car and experience the California North Coast.

Point Reyes Marin County

Point Reyes is a haven for those who love the outdoors. There are plenty of activities to indulge in, such as watersports, hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, walking trails, and tours catering to all kinds of nature enthusiasts. You can also find various restaurants, attractions, and hotels in the town, ensuring that you will never run out of things to do.

Tomales Bay

Tomales Bay in Point Reyes is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a peaceful day of boating and hiking by the water. Despite being close to San Francisco, this long, narrow strip of water offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You’ll find only one parking lot and a picnic area here, so arrive early to enjoy boating, hiking, and shucking oysters with the locals. It’s a great way to get away from city life quickly.

Bodega Bay

If you’re interested in pop culture history, visit the charming town of Bodega Bay. It’s most famous for being the primary filming location of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 horror classic, “The Birds.” However, Bodega Bay also boasts serene beaches, delectable locally caught seafood, and an 18-hole golf course with breathtaking ocean vistas.

Sonoma Coast State Park

Sonoma Park stretches over 11 miles along the coast from Bodega Head to Vista Trail. Parking is plentiful, and the many trails and paths are well-marked and easy to access. The terrain is varied; sandy beaches are interspersed with rocky outcrops that offer exquisite views. Seasoned hikers and rock climbers will find numerous challenging hills and cliffs to conquer.

Guerneville California

Guerneville, CA, is known for its hippie culture, promoting peace, love, and happiness. At thcity’s entrancety, a sign proudly declares it a “hate-free community,” and the residents certainly embody this sentiment. Perhaps it’s the delightful Russian River Valley red wine flowing through their veins, but if you’re seeking a laid-back and accepting atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home in the diverse and open-minded town of Guerneville.

Fort Ross State Historic Park

Besides the Fort and its magnificent structures, Fort Ross State Park offers picnic facilities and a campground. Picnic tables are located near the visitor center, the Call Ranch House, in the historic compound, and nearby Sandy Cove beach.

Salt Point State Park

If you’re a local Sonoma resident or a tourist, you should allocate some time to visit Salt Point Park. It’s located in Sonoma County, 97 miles north of San Francisco along Highway 1, and it’s worth spending a few hours or even days there.

Lake Sonoma

Lake Sonoma is approximately two hours from San Francisco and less than an hour from Santa Rosa. The lake is famous for boating, fishing, and camping activities. Nearly 100 boat-in campsites are situated around the lake’s shore, which can only be accessed by boat, as the name suggests.

Point Arena Lighthouse

The charming Point Arena lighthouse resides at the tip of a petite peninsula. It has safeguarded seafarers from the treacherous coastline and jagged boulders lining the Pacific Ocean for more than a century.

Clear Lake

Clear Lake State Park is a vast natural area spanning over 500 acres, offering a variety of activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, and boating. Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast Resort is an excellent option for those who prefer not to camp. Guests can choose to stay in one of nine themed railroad cabooses.

Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg is a small town situated on the stunning California North Coast with a great mix of history, natural beauty, and lively events. Depending on where you live, it can be a fun day trip or a perfect weekend trip from San Francisco Bay.

Avenue of the Giants

There’s a reason the Avenue of the Giants is on so many “Places to See Before You Die” lists. The 31-mile drive through the Humboldt Redwoods is one of nature’s most stunning masterpieces that cannot be captured in photos. It is effortless to navigate, boasts well-curated visitor information centers, and will delight severe hikers and casual passers.

Historic Ferndale

If you’re looking for historic charm, look no further than the tiny town of Ferndale, CA. An officially designated historical landmark site known for its well-preserved, candy-painted turn-of-the-century “gingerbread” Victorian houses, Ferndale is one of the most picturesque spots on California’s North Coast. It’s an excellent destination for a romantic weekend getaway. For a quick dose of history close to the San Francisco Bay Area, make your way over to

Fort Humboldt State Historic Park

There’s no shortage of towns and attractions for the history buff in your life. Fort Humboldt State Historic Park sits high above the scenic Humbolt Bay, providing epic views as you take in the area’s rich history. Founded in 1853 as a means for miners to protect themselves from attacks by Native Americans, the Fort Humbolt state historical park is now a museum, complete with a partially restored field hospital and a running steam engine, that details California’s rich and sometimes bloody past.

Eureka on Humboldt Bay

Eureka, CA, right on the coast of Humboldt Bay. Eureka boasts some of the most beautifully preserved Victorian homes, including the Carson Mansion. A Victorian Landmark that visitors can tour to learn more about the lumber industry in which California was built. While there, be sure to stop by the harbor port and see Eureka’s colorful fleet of fishing boats.

San Francisco Bay Area Day  Trip Ideas