There are a few days every year when almost every would-be traveller is bitten by the travel bug and realises that they are tired of spending their life inside their tiny office cubicle and would do anything to get out. If you are having one such week and all you want to do is to pack your bags, call your friends and just leave for somewhere, you are in luck. Because a short drive away from your super expensive yet tiny flat in San Francisco, lie some of the most perfect weekend getaways.
And if you’re thinking of travelling with a larger group, renting a charter bus or minibus out of San Francisco is the perfect way to make sure that everyone can enjoy the sites along the way, and no one takes a wrong turn and gets lost.
Just a short drive away from the hubbub of San Francisco, there are some hidden gems of weekend getaways that will not only soothe the sudden yearning to travel but also make sure you can get back in time for office on Monday. So, without further ado, here is a list of some perfect weekend getaway options that are that are far from home:
The Pigeon Point Lighthouse at Pescadero
If you have been pigeon-holed at your office and tiny apartment for too long, you may just pack an ample amount of beach clothes and towels and head to the Pigeon Point Lighthouse in Pescadero. It is only an hour away from San Francisco and allows you to explore the over a 100-foot-tall lighthouse that has guided ships to shore since the early 1870’s.
The Harley farms also boast of one of the most critically-acclaimed cheese ever and offer a tour that you may have to book in advance.
Also, take this chance to stay at one of Costanoa’s Tent Bungalows and head to Duarte’s Tavern for some evening drinks. Remember to feast on their exquisitely creamy artichoke soup and olallieberry pie or you will be missing out on some pure wholesomeness.
Cayucos
Cayucos is a good three and a half hours drive away from San Francisco but it is pretty worth it. Elephant seals visit the Piedras Blancas rookery twice every year so you can plan accordingly. But they are in no way this place’s only selling point.
The mellow little town is scented like the sea and, if you head to the Brown Butter Cookie Company, like sugar and spice and all things nice.
In San Simeon lies the Hearst Castle, which sprawls over a staggering 60 thousand sqft and one tour will have you falling deeply in love with the gorgeous indoor pool.
Also, don’t forget to partake of the local food because every dish served here is almost a delicacy bursting with flavours and the smokiness of sea salt.
Bolinas
An hour away from California is this beachy little town that is so well-loved by its inhabitants that they try to keep people away by tearing down road signs.
Considered one of the best places for surfing near San Francisco, Bolinas is perfect for the surfing-enthusiasts. Or if you are someone who likes to spend the evening at the bar, head directly to Smiley’s Schooner Saloon. The place has been around for over a century and a half, making it one of the oldest bars in California. It comes complete with darts and pool and check-cashing facilities, which is important because it’s the only one in town.
Remember to stay at The Grand Hotel that was never technically a hotel but became one when people wouldn’t stop asking for rooms to rent.
Williams
Located two and a half hours away from the heart of San Francisco, Williams, California comes down to two words: hot and springs. Let’s get this straight. If you are going to Williams, you are going to stay at the Wilbur Hot Springs Resort. If you don’t, why are even going?
The blissfully relaxing bathing space comes complete with bubblingly natural hot springs that come at three temperatures, the dry, the cold and the red-tiered deck for lounging purposes. And if that doesn’t sound relaxing enough, let professionals massage your worries away. Or attend yoga sessions where you shed away all the calories you gathered while drinking and relaxing at the poolside.
There’re obviously a lot of other road-trip destinations around San Francisco. However, these destinations hold special places in our collective hearts and a visit to one of these places will tell you exactly why. So, what are you waiting for? Check your calendar for the next long weekend, call your friends or your partner and get ready to escape the worries of city life.
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