Glass Beach, just 170 miles north of San Francisco in MacKerricher State Park, is named for the smooth and multicolored sea glass that frequently washes ashore. Beyond admiring the novelty of worn debris replacing sand on the shores, you can hike the many trails and visit the tide pools.

Glass Beach

Mendocino resembles a New England village more than a California beach town, with hidden gardens, towers, and Victorian buildings. Nearby you’ll find plenty of wineries and Mendocino Headlands State Park, the perfect place to hike cliffside paths or catch whale sightings from November to April.

Mendocino & the Northern Coast

Stinson is just an hour north of San Francisco, and one of the best places in Northern California to swim. It can really fill up on hot and sunny days, so for the best experience (and a shot at a parking spot), arrive early with plenty of water and snacks, and bring some shade.

Stinson Beach

Muir Woods National Monument, an incredible redwood forest, is a hiker's paradise where the main path branches into multiple easy-to-hike trails. Booking a parking spot in advance is required or you can park in the overflow lots and use the shuttle and transport options.

Muir Woods

Drive along bluffs that are unlike anywhere else in the state of California to the adorable town of Half Moon Bay, just 30 miles from San Francisco. Stroll the main street with cute boutiques and galleries, see the numerous historic sites, visit the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, and fans of tide pooling won’t want to miss the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve.

Half Moon Bay