If you're planning on staying local this holiday weekend, we've got five awesome day trip adventures you need to check out.
Head north and hit the Tomales Point Trail, a nine-mile out-and-back path that will take you to the very northernmost point of the Point Reyes National Seashore. One of the less-trafficked trails in the area, you can easily find yourself alone on the trail with only the elk to keep you company. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Try to go on a fogless day or after it's burned off. This way, you'll get sweeping views of Tomales Bay and the rugged cliffs lining the coast.
Explore Pinnacles National Park
Head south and explore one of the nation's newest national parks. Located just south of San Jose, you'll be blown away by the beautiful rock spires, caves, and stunning views. With multiple hiking options available to all skill levels, this makes for a perfect day trip. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Try to get there early and bring your camera. The park really shines in the early light and at dusk. The east entrance is open 24 hours.
You don't need to go all the way to Hawaii to find a secluded black sand beach—there's one just minutes across the Golden Gate. This under-the-radar gem features a mile-long stretch of black sand and sweeping views of the Bay Area. The hike-in nature of this spot tends to make it much less crowded than other beaches in the area. Learn more.
Inside Tip: On a sunny day, the small parking lot fills up, so plan on getting there before noon. Also, getting to the beach requires heading down 250 or so wooden steps, so keep the picnic pretty simple and don't pack a big cooler.
From 10 am to 4 pm daily, the Stow Lake Boathouse in Golden Gate Park lets you choose from their fleet of rowboats, pedal boats, and electric boats. We're fans of the old-fashioned row boat—it's not too strenuous and gliding around the calm waters of Stow Lake is a lot of fun. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Pack a backpack of snacks and drinks and have your own picnic on the water. That bottle of wine isn't going to drink itself.
Explore the Presidio's Hidden Treasures
Take a stroll through this beautiful oasis of light-filled forests, art installations, beaches, and sweeping views. This easy two-mile hike will take you past some of the Presidio's most amazing little gems, including Lover's Lane, Andy Goldsworthy's “Wood Line," and the Inspiration Point Overlook. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Try this on Sunday morning and then head over the Main Post Lawn to grab some food and drinks at Off The Grid's Presidio Picnic.
