Day Trips from San Francisco by Train, Bus, or Car: Wine Country, Redwoods & More
San Francisco is a fantastic city, but sometimes, you just need to get away for a day. Luckily, with easy access to wine country, towering redwoods, and scenic coastal towns, you don’t have to go far for a change of scenery. Whether you prefer a relaxing train ride, a convenient bus trip, or the flexibility of a car, there are plenty of unforgettable day trips just a short journey from the city.
From sipping world-class wine in Napa Valley to wandering among ancient redwood forests, here are the best destinations for a quick escape. Grab your travel bag and get ready to explore!
Napa Valley – World-Class Wine by Train or Car
For a luxurious and stress-free trip, hop on the Napa Valley Wine Train, which departs from Napa and offers a scenic, vintage rail experience through the heart of wine country. Along the way, enjoy gourmet meals, wine tastings, and vineyard views without having to drive. If you prefer a DIY approach, driving up Highway 29 lets you stop at top wineries like Domaine Carneros and Castello di Amorosa at your own pace.
Best time to visit? Fall (September–November) offers harvest season excitement, while spring (March–May) brings lush green vineyards. Most wineries require reservations, so book ahead for popular tastings. If you’re short on time, Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa is a great place to sample local wines and artisan foods in one spot.
Muir Woods – Ancient Redwoods Just a Short Bus Ride Away
A visit to Muir Woods National Monument feels like stepping into another world. Just 12 miles north of San Francisco, this protected forest is home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, many over 1,000 years old. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Muir Woods Shuttle from Sausalito (reachable by ferry) or driving via Highway 101. Parking is limited, so shuttle reservations are recommended.
The park’s well-maintained trails range from short, easy loops to longer hikes that connect to Mount Tamalpais State Park. Arrive early to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before crowds arrive. And don’t forget to look up—walking beneath these towering giants is a humbling experience.
Sausalito – A Waterfront Escape via Ferry or Bike
Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito is a charming waterfront town with a Mediterranean feel. The best way to get there? Take the Golden Gate Ferry from the Ferry Building for a scenic ride across the bay. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike in Fisherman’s Wharf and ride across the bridge, then return by ferry.
Once in town, stroll along Bridgeway, where you’ll find art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront restaurants. Grab a seafood lunch at Scoma’s or enjoy coffee with a view at Bar Bocce. If you have extra time, visit the unique Houseboat Community, where colorful floating homes line the docks.
Monterey & Carmel – Stunning Coastline and Marine Life by Car
A road trip down Highway 1 to Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most scenic day trips from San Francisco. It takes about 2.5 hours by car, but the coastal views along the way make it worth the drive. Stop in Monterey to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to sea otters, jellyfish, and interactive marine exhibits.
Continue south to Carmel, a charming seaside town known for its storybook cottages and white-sand beaches. Take a stroll along Carmel Beach, explore the art galleries on Ocean Avenue, or drive the famous 17-Mile Drive, which winds through Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress. Sunset here is magical, so plan to stay a little longer if you can.
Santa Cruz – Laid-Back Beach Vibes by Car or Bus
For a fun and relaxed coastal getaway, head to Santa Cruz, about 1.5 hours south of San Francisco. The town is known for its classic beach boardwalk, surf culture, and redwood parks. You can drive down Highway 17, or take a Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Bus if you don’t want to deal with parking.
Don’t miss the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park with rides, arcades, and oceanfront views. For a more nature-focused trip, head to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where you can hike among giant redwoods just a short drive from downtown. Surf lovers should check out Steamer Lane, one of California’s most famous surf spots.
Point Reyes – Coastal Beauty and Wildlife by Car
Nature lovers will love Point Reyes National Seashore, a rugged stretch of coastline just 1.5 hours north of San Francisco. Driving is the only way to get here, but once you arrive, you’ll find a mix of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and wildlife encounters. The area is home to elephant seals, tule elk, and migrating gray whales in winter and spring.
Top spots include the Point Reyes Lighthouse, perched dramatically on a cliff, and Drakes Beach, where you can see massive elephant seals lounging on the sand. Stop by Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station for some of California’s best artisanal cheese before heading back to the city.
Sonoma – A More Laid-Back Wine Country Experience by Car
If you love wine but prefer a quieter, less touristy alternative to Napa, head to Sonoma County. Just a one-hour drive north, Sonoma offers charming town squares, historic sites, and incredible wineries without the big crowds.
Start in Sonoma Plaza, where you can visit the Mission San Francisco Solano, the last and northernmost Spanish mission in California. Then, explore wineries like Buena Vista Winery (California’s oldest) or Gundlach Bundschu, which has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. If you have time, drive out to Sonoma Coast State Park for stunning ocean views.
