17 Best Road Trips From San Francisco, California (2024 Guide)

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Discover the most beautiful destinations in western USA with our guide to the best road trips from San Francisco!

Hoping to see more of Northern California and beyond during your visit to San Francisco? Consider a road trip!

Western USA is so vast, with incredible cities, towns, and wilderness areas spread out across an ever-changing landscape. Road trips from San Francisco are a great way to escape the city, hit the open road, and see the nearby wonders with your own eyes.

San Francisco is surrounded by world-class cities, including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Santa Cruz, Portland, and more. You can also find small coastal towns, stunning wine countries, and breathtaking national parks.

Road trip through towering redwood forests, drive along the Pacific Ocean, cruise through lush rolling hills, or take on a relaxing weekend road trip to a nearby lake, state park, or mountain range.

Road trips from San Francisco can showcase the best of California’s diverse scenery, whether you want to drive far into a neighboring state or just go for a short dive around the San Francisco Bay Area.

The destinations, such as Big Sur, Las Vegas, Napa Valley, or Yosemite, are all worthwhile destinations. But the scenic drives you’ll get to enjoy on these San Francisco road trips are half the fun!

Golden Gate Bridge Road Trips From San Francisco

From the beaches and boardwalks of Santa Cruz, to the iconic Nevada city of Las Vegas, there are plenty of long and short road trips from San Francisco to choose from.

Venture into the forests and mountains of Northern California, or head to the golden beaches of Southern California. Or choose one of the inland road trips where you can see volcanic national parks, mighty cities and alpine lakes.

For all of these road trips from San Francisco, you can easily pick up a rental car from the city. You can even get one at the airport and get right to exploring!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

1. Yosemite National Park

Distance from San Francisco: 167 miles
Driving time: 3 hours

As one of the most famous national parks in North America, Yosemite makes an amazing San Francisco road trip. It’s also a super popular day trip from San Francisco, so you can also choose a guided tour if you prefer someone else do the driving on your road trip!

A road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park offers an unforgettable journey through some of California’s most picturesque landscapes.

Entering Yosemite Valley, you’ll drive past towering sequoias, pristine alpine meadows, and awe-inspiring waterfalls. The peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range offer amazing hiking trails and scenic drives.

The road trip might include stops at iconic sites such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and the stunning Yosemite Valley. Or you can seek out the most scenic driving routes such as Glacier Point Road, Wawona Road, and Tioga Road.

A road trip through Yosemite is one of the best ways to escape the city and connect with nature outside San Francisco.

2. Lake Tahoe

Distance from San Francisco: 210 miles
Driving time: 3 hours and 45 minutes

Another one of the most popular road trips from San Francisco is Lake Tahoe. This breathtaking alpine lake on the border of California and Nevada is an easy road trip from the Bay Area, and you’ll pass right through California’s capital city of Sacramento on the way.

Once you arrive, consider spending a weekend in Lake Tahoe as there is so much to do in this gorgeous area! The crystal clear lake is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it an ideal location for swimming, boating, water sports, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and camping.

South Lake Tahoe is the most popular spot on the lake. An Emerald Bay sightseeing cruise is the best way to soak in all the natural beauty around South Lake Tahoe.

North Lake Tahoe is also amazing for water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding, or there are several ski resorts where you can hit the slopes in winter.

3. Point Reyes National Seashore

Distance from San Francisco: 37 miles
Driving time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Point Reyes National Seashore is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an easy road trip where you barely have to leave the Bay area.

From downtown San Francisco, just head north along the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you stop to get some amazing photos of the famous landmark. There are several scenic viewpoints and coastal walks that provide lovely views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

From there, continue north through Golden Gate National Recreation Area until you reach the seashore. You could even make another detour to Muir Woods National Monument along the way, which is known for its old-growth coastal redwoods.

Once you make it to Point Reyes, spend the day admiring the beautiful beaches, lush forests, and expansive grasslands. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including elk, elephant seals, sea lions, and numerous bird species, and drive through the Cypress Tree Tunnel for a picturesque photo.

The park’s historical sites, like the Point Reyes Lighthouse and historic ranches, offer glimpses into the region’s cultural past. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, whale watching, picnicking, and exploring the tide pools at Point Reyes.

4. Santa Cruz

Distance from San Francisco: 73 miles
Driving time: 1 hour and 35 minutes

Another one of the closest road trips from San Francisco is Santa Cruz, a vibrant coastal city known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and rich cultural scene.

The drive from San Francisco is straightforward. If you don’t mind a longer drive, you can take the coastal route that brings you through Half Moon Bay and Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

Upon arriving in Santa Cruz, enjoy the natural beauty and entertainment! The city is famed for its iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country. With a nostalgic mix of vintage rides, games, and family fun, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is perfect for people of all ages.

The city’s beaches, like Main Beach and Natural Bridges State Beach, are popular destinations for surfing, beachcombing, and tide pooling, drawing visitors from all over the world. Try some surf lessons if you want to immerse yourself in that California lifestyle, or treat yourself to some fresh seafood at a restaurant near the coast.

5. Big Sur

Distance from San Francisco: 147 miles
Driving time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Anyone looking for iconic San Francisco road trips has to consider the Pacific Coast Highway! This gorgeous coastal road, also known as Highway 1, trails all along the diverse coastline of California and beyond.

It’s a convenient road trip from San Francisco, and you can either drive it north or south! But if you’re unsure of where to end your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, Big Sur is a fabulous choice.

Big Sur is arguably the most beautiful destination along the Pacific Coast Highway. With remote, untouched beaches and miles of rugged, hilly coastline, Big Sur is a feast for the eyes.

A road trip from San Francisco to Big Sur could also take you through Santa Cruz, and the nearby towns of Monterey and Carmel by the Sea. Combine all of these into one amazing weekend trip if you want!

But driving through Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking road trips you can take in California. Don’t miss the picture-perfect Bixby Creek Bridge, the serene Pfeiffer Beach, and the majestic McWay Falls.

Those hoping to go hiking in Big Sur can check out Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Limekiln State Park, or Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Those wanting a bit of relaxation can seek out the Hot Springs at Esalen Institute or book a night at a cozy lodge in Big Sur.

6. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Distance from San Francisco: 236 miles
Driving time: 3 hours and 45 minutes

Another epic San Francisco road trip idea is Lassen Volcanic National Park. This geothermal wonderland in Northern California is home to some truly mind-blowing sights!

This diverse volcanic landscape includes steaming fumaroles, boiling springs, and bubbling mud pots. Bumpass Hell is one of the most popular geothermal areas, featuring a boardwalk trail that winds through hissing steam vents and vibrant, mineral-rich pools.

Lassen Volcanic National Park also has tranquil forests, serene alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. The abundant natural beauty makes the park an amazing spot for outdoor adventures like hiking, wildlife spotting, and even snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.

You can visit the area on day trips, but it’s almost a 4-hour drive from San Francisco so most would prefer to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park on a multiday road trip.

Explore more with our ultimate Northern California road trip!

7. Monterey and Carmel by the Sea

Distance from San Francisco: 120 miles
Driving time: 2 hours

If you’re looking to explore part of the Pacific Coast Highway without going all the way down to Big Sur, just do a road trip from San Francisco to Monterey!

Monterey is a charming city on California’s Central Coast known for its rich history and vibrant marine life. From touring the art galleries, to checking out the Monterey Bay Aquarium, to joining a whale watching tour, there are lots of fun things to do on Monterey.

To stretch the legs after your road trip you could even consider a guided e-bike tour around this beautiful part of California. Or just drive around and soak in all the sights. Monterey is home to the scenic 17-Mile Drive, which winds through picturesque landscapes and passes famous spots like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Just south of Monterey lies Carmel by the Sea, a quaint and picturesque village famed for its fairy-tale cottages, amazing restaurants, and pristine beaches. Explore both Monterey and Carmel by the Sea on a fun road trip from San Francisco! Both towns make great day trips or weekend getaways from the Bay area.

Find more amazing things to do in Monterey!

8. Napa Valley and Sonoma County Wine Country

Distance from San Francisco: 59 miles
Driving time: 1 hour

Those hoping to go wine tasting in the rolling vineyards of Northern California can take on a scenic road trip through Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

These two popular areas in California’s Wine Country offer some of the best wine tasting and picturesque views in all of North America.

A road trip through Napa Valley promises gorgeous countryside views and lots of world-class wineries to visit. Just around the corner lies Sonoma County, another top-tier wine tasting destination full of exquisite eateries, beautiful vineyards, and excellent tasting rooms.

Upgrade your weekend in wine country with a hot air balloon ride, a kayak down the Russian River, a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train, or a guided tasting with a sommelier. This is one of the best San Francisco road trips for anyone who loves wine, food, and quaint country towns.

9. Los Angeles

Distance from San Francisco: 383 miles
Driving time: 6 hours

One of the most popular road trips from San Francisco is Los Angeles. Whether you’re just making the drive to save money on a flight, or you’re taking a fun weekend trip down to the City of Angels, Los Angeles is a great road trip destination.

You can drive south from San Francisco along the rugged coastline, stopping in places we’ve already mentioned such as Monterey, Santa Cruz, or Big Sur.

Add on other Southern California destinations to your road trip, such as San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara. Or extend your road trip beyond LA and explore Palm Springs or Joshua Tree National Park. There are so many options for an exciting excursion to Los Angeles.

The attractions and activities in LA are world-famous, so there is no shortage of things to do when you arrive there. From the Hollywood Sign and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, to the Getty Museum, Griffith Observatory, and golden beaches like Venice, Santa Monica, or Malibu, Los Angeles is full of excitement!

Explore more of Southern California on these 16 Best Road Trips From Los Angeles!

10. Fort Bragg

Distance from San Francisco: 164 miles
Driving time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Explore the hidden gems of Northern California with a road trip up to Fort Bragg. Drive out of the city and explore the coastal beauty and marine life of Mendocino County.

Fort Bragg was initially a military garrison, but has evolved into a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The city’s most famous attraction is Glass Beach, where waves have polished discarded glass into colorful pebbles that create a unique and mesmerizing shoreline.

Nearby, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offers stunning displays of native and exotic plants, along with scenic coastal trails that provide breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Other adventures to have near Fort Bragg include canoeing down the Russian River, whale-watching off the coast, or riding the historic Skunk Train Railway through the redwood forests.

11. Pinnacles National Park

Distance from San Francisco: 123 miles
Driving time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Pinnacles National Park in Central California is a volcanic landscape known for its dramatic rock formations, known as pinnacles. It’s one of the coolest road trips from San Francisco!

Drive southeast out of the city, passing through San Jose and arriving at Pinnacles National Park.

The park offers over 30 miles of hiking trails that wind through its unique landscape, including the popular High Peaks Trail which provides stunning panoramic views of the distinctive rock formations.

The park’s Talus Caves, formed by fallen boulders creating passages and caverns, add an element of adventure for explorers willing to navigate their dark passageways.

In addition to its geological wonders, Pinnacles National Park is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and plant species. It is one of the few places where visitors can spot the endangered California condor, thanks to a successful reintroduction program.

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can also encounter golden eagles, prairie falcons, and a variety of other birds within the park.

12. Redwoods National and State Parks

Distance from San Francisco: 311 miles
Driving time: 5 hours and 30 minutes

Nature lovers looking for the best San Francisco road trips can head out to the Redwoods National and State Parks.

Located in Northern California near the Oregon border, this is the absolute best place to admire the famous coastal redwoods of the US west coast.

These parks include Redwood National Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Each national and state park protects nearly half of the remaining old-growth redwoods, which can soar over 350 feet and live for more than 2,000 years.

Walking among these ancient giants is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience, with popular trails like the Lady Bird Johnson Grove and the Tall Trees Grove offering intimate encounters with these towering trees.

A stunning spot to include in your road trips from San Francisco is the scenic drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and the Howland Hill Road. These routes showcase the grandeur of the coastal redwoods and the diverse landscapes of the region.

13. Half Moon Bay

Distance from San Francisco: 30 miles
Driving time: 40 minutes

Looking for road trips that don’t actually require much driving? Half Moon Bay is a lovely spot to visit that is right on the outskirts of San Francisco.

Known for its beautiful beaches, such as Maverick’s Beach and Half Moon Bay State Beach, the town is a favorite spot for beachgoers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts. Maverick’s Beach is particularly famous for its world-class surf breaks, attracting surfers from around the globe.

The town’s coastal trail provides scenic walking and biking routes along the bluffs, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including seals and migrating whales.

Half Moon Bay also hosts numerous festivals and is full of incredible restaurants, galleries, and areas of natural beauty such as Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. You can get here in just under an hour from San Francisco, making it one of the city’s top day trips!

14. Portland

Distance from San Francisco: 635 miles
Driving time: 10 hours

One of the more ambitious road trips from San Francisco is Portland, Oregon. This iconic city is about 10 hours away from San Francisco, so you may want to split your road trip up over a few days. But Portland makes for some lovely weekend getaways from San Francisco!

Head straight up the coast from San Francisco, exploring the highlights of Northern California along the way such as Glass Beach in Fort Bragg or Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Cross the border into Oregon and spend a weekend in the incredible city of Portland!

With its eclectic atmosphere and diverse attractions, Portland is full of fun things to do. Stroll through the galleries and cafes of the Pearl District, learn about the spooky history on a ghost tour, or feast at the local food trucks and craft breweries.

Explore the pristine parks and gardens, including Washington Park, Forest Park, or the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Explore the city from the water on a Willamette River cruise, or check out the highly-rated museums.

Portland is one of the best cities in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s one of the best road trips from San Francisco if you have a few days to spare.

Looking for more fun activities? Check out our list of the best things to do in Portland

15. Santa Barbara

Distance from San Francisco: 326 miles
Driving time: 5 hours and 10 minutes

One of the most popular San Francisco weekend getaways is Santa Barbara, a glorious coastal town in Southern California. San Francisco road trips to Santa Barbara can be done in a day, but you’ll want as much time as possible in this spectacular town.

Drive south from San Francisco and choose to stop at cool destinations on the way like San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach, or Solvang. Upon arriving in Santa Barbara, charming Mediterranean weather and vibes await!

Visitors can stroll along Stearns Wharf, glimpse into the past at the Santa Barbara Mission, or visit one of the many museums and galleries. Or head to the coast and try watersports at East Beach and West Beach.

Santa Barbara is also one of the best weekend trips from San Francisco for wine lovers! Instead of the usual Napa Valley trip, road trip down to Santa Barbara and try a guided wine tour through the top vineyards and tasting rooms of the Santa Ynez Valley.

16. San Luis Obispo

Distance from San Francisco: 232 miles
Driving time: 3 hours and 25 minutes

San Luis Obispo is a common place to stop on road trips down to Los Angeles or Santa Barbara, but it can be a nice road trip destination by itself as well!

It’s only 2.5 hours from San Francisco, making it an easy spot for weekend trips or even day trips. This charming city on California’s Central Coast is known for its friendly atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene.

The downtown area is lively and walkable, featuring boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, one of California’s original missions founded in 1772.

Farmers markets, bike trails, wineries, state parks, museums, hikes, and beaches are plentiful in San Luis Obispo, making it a lovely destination for road trips in California.

17. Las Vegas

Distance from San Francisco: 568 miles
Driving time: 9 hours

Last but not least on our list of amazing road trips from San Francisco is Sin City! The iconic Nevada city of Las Vegas makes an epic day trip or weekend trip from San Francisco. The driving distance is quite long, but the scenery along the road trip is worth the journey.

Pass through the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Yosemite Valley on your way out to Las Vegas from San Francisco. Take slight detours if you want to tour some incredible national parks along the way, such as Death Valley or Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park.

Watch the scenery transition from the lush forests of Northern California, to the high peaks of Central California, to the stark deserts of Nevada. It’s a wonderful drive, and there is endless excitement awaiting you in Las Vegas as well!

Spend your days soaking in all the vibrant energy that Sin City has to offer, from the casinos and nightclubs to the live shows and restaurants. Discover the excitement of Las Vegas by booking your night at one of their top-rated hotels or you can also venture outside the city to check out a historic gold rush town, state park, or national treasure like the Hoover Dam or Grand Canyon.

It’s no wonder why Las Vegas is one of the best weekend road trips from San Francisco!

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