33 BEST Places To Visit In The Bay Area (By A Local!) 2024

Are you staring at a map of the San Francisco Bay Area and feeling overwhelmed about which places to visit? I’ve had so much fun adventuring around the bay as a local, and here’s my insider’s guide to the top spots for your next trip.

When I first visited San Francisco as a tourist, I assumed that most of the Bay Area was just one big suburb. Now that I live here, I’m constantly finding new and fun places to explore.

Besides San Francisco, the Bay Area is known for having lots of natural spaces like hiking trails and beaches. You’ll also find the famous Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) running along the coast. This takes you to several charming beach towns within the Bay Area which are totally underrated.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant city atmosphere in San Francisco, eager to hit the trails, or looking to indulge in the finest wines from renowned wineries, there’s something special waiting for you in the Bay Area.

In this article, I’ll be sharing the best places to visit in the Bay Area, including many free and unique spots.

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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33 BEST Places To Visit In The Bay Area

If you’re in a rush, here are my top picks for the best places to visit in the Bay Area.

You can also click the image below for my saved map with all the places mentioned in this article.

The Bay Area can be split into 5 geographical regions, intuitively named:

• San Francisco
• Peninsula
• South Bay
• East Bay
• North Bay

People also sometimes include Santa Cruz because of its popularity and location just 1.5 hours away from San Francisco.

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1. Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf

If there’s one place you must go in San Francisco, that’s the quintessential Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf area.

This bustling waterfront is packed with shops and restaurants with a lively atmosphere that lifts your mood. It might be on the more touristy side, but it truly captures the vibrant spirit of the City by the Bay.

You can enjoy fresh seafood at Fog Harbor Fish House and watch the playful sea lions lounging on the dock nearby. Don’t forget to grab a classic sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder!

If you want to be in the heart of this bustling side of San Francisco, consider booking your stay at Marriott Vacation Club.

Overall, Fisherman’s Wharf is a safe area to stay in San Francisco because of its proximity to many tourist attractions.

• Parking: Pier 39 Parking Garage ($10-12/hour or $20-25/day by reservation, driving not recommended)
• Location: San Francisco
• Where to stay (top pick): Marriott Vacation Club – Check prices on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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2. Alcatraz Island

Stepping foot on Alcatraz Island feels like stepping back in time to the days when this infamous prison housed some of America’s most notorious criminals.

You can go on either a day or night tour, with an audio guide that will take you through the cellblocks. On this tour, you’ll learn about the living conditions and hear stories of the daring escape attempts. The exhibits are very engaging and you can imagine what it was like for the prisoners.

For example, we pretended to talk to each other via a glass screen, and stood in a dark cell while playing a game of flipping buttons. There’s a sense of intrigue and mystery surrounding this iconic landmark, and it’s definitely worth visiting.

For the best way to experience San Francisco and Alcatraz in one day, you can opt for combo tour that includes both a San Francisco tour and the audio walking tour in Alcatraz. Alternatively, enjoy the best of Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz with this tour.

• Parking: SP+ Parking ($30, driving not recommended)
• Location: San Francisco
• Where to stay (top pick): Omni San Francisco – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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3. Muir Woods National Monument

Looking for some big redwood trees without having to drive hours away from the San Francisco Bay Area? Muir Woods National Monument is the perfect place to visit to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the lush forest.

It is home to towering redwood trees that have stood for centuries – one of the rare old-growth forests untouched by the prolific logging activity in the past. There are multiple trails to explore depending on how adventurous you’re feeling.

If you’re visiting for the first time, the Main Trail is an accessible trail that is very popular for most visitors. It features gorgeous bridges and gentle walking paths that are wheelchair-friendly.

Do note that you will need to make reservations for parking. From our experience, the morning time slots get snatched up quite quickly in summer.

Alternatively, sign up for a half-day tour that includes exploring both Muir Woods and Sausalito, a charming seaside town.

• Parking: Muir Woods Overflow Parking Lot ($9.50, reservations required)
• Entrance fee: $15 per adult
• Location: North Bay

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4. Napa Valley

Feeling fancy? Raise a glass to a retreat to Napa Valley, where you’ll find rolling vineyards and world-class wineries.

It’s also a great place to visit for dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, including the French Laundry in Yountville. You can also check out the luxurious Napa Valley Wine Train for a culinary and wine journey across the landscape.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply appreciate the finer things in life, there’s something magical about sipping wine against the backdrop of sun-kissed hillsides. You can also shop at Oxbow Market, explore Castello di Amaros, and enjoy the Calistoga Hot Springs.

I recommend staying overnight in Napa Valley so that you can enjoy wine tasting without the need to drive back.

Alternatively, book a tour that takes care of transportation, like this one that includes 3 winery visits and a picnic lunch. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate a special occasion, Napa Valley might be the best choice.

• Location: North Bay
• Where to stay (top pick): Hotel Napa Valley – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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5. Sonoma

Just next door to Napa and slightly closer to San Francisco, Sonoma offers its own unique blend of wine country charm and laid back travel style. Hotels in Sonoma are also more affordable to Napa Valley.

Sonoma is the perfect destination for those looking for a more intimate and laid back wine-tasting experience. You can explore boutique wineries, stroll through the town square, and indulging in farm-to-table cuisine that showcases the region’s rich agriculture.

To enjoy the best of Sonoma, join a walking tour that includes 6 spots for food and wine tastings while learning about the local culture and history. The best part about this tour is that there are no additional wine tasting fees.

You can also go wine tasting experience via the Open Air Wine Trolley Tour which draws inspiration from San Francisco’s Cable Cars.

• Location: North Bay
• Where to stay (top pick): Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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6. Mount Diablo State Park

Believe it or not, Mount Diablo was once submerged underwater and got pushed up to its current peaks due to tectonic activity over the years.

Rising majestically over the East Bay, Mount Diablo offers sweeping panoramic views and you can see up to the Sierra Nevada and the Golden Gate Bridge on clear days.

You can hike up to the summit in the cooler seasons, explore waterfalls, or simply enjoy a scenic drive up to the peak where the Visitor Center is located.

Juniper Campground also offers a great spot for watching the sunset over the Bay Area. It’s defeinitely a great choice for winter camping in Northern California.

• Parking: Upper Summit Parking Lot
• Location: East Bay
• Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle

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7. Livermore

Livermore is a local hidden gem known for its thriving wine scene in a small town setting. It also has a vibrant downtown area full of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. If you enjoy shopping, be sure to check out the San Francisco Premium Outlets.

It is also connected to the rest of the Bay Area via train, making it easy to visit. With about 50 wineries in Livermore, it’s a great destination for wine tasting. There’s even a Livermore Wine Trolley experience too.

• Location: East Bay

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8. Computer History Museum

If you’re a tech geek, you need to visit the Computer History Museum when you’re in the Bay Area. It is located in Mountain View, the heart of Silicon Valley. This is where major tech companies are headquartered including Google.

The Computer History Museum has exhibits about the early computing machines to modern-day developments. It showcases how technology has evolved to impact society through its interactive displays.

You’ll also find iconic artifacts like the ancient abacus, and a demonstration of the IBM 1401 mainframe that processed punch-cards.

Whether you’re a tech professional or simply curious about the digital revolution, the Computer History Museum is a fun and educational stop. It also has a cafe, a gift store, and free parking.

• Location: Peninsula
• Entrance fee: $19.50 per adult
• Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm (Wednesday to Sunday)
• Where to stay (top pick): Ameswell Hotel – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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9. Gilroy

Gilroy is known as the Garlic Capital of the World, a charming agricultural town within the Santa Clara Valley in the South Bay.

Every time we drive past Gilroy there’s a distinct smell of garlic, and it’s no surprise that Gilroy embraces its culinary heritage with pride. You’ll find plenty of garlic-infused cuisine and lively festivals celebrating it too.

You can also indulge in a shopping spree in Gilroy Premium Outlets, which was where I scored an incredible Lululemon deal. In addition, Gilroy Gardens is a family-friendly themed park which also features some strange trees called the Circus Trees, and gorgeous gardens to enjoy.

• Location: South Bay

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10. The Mystery Spot

If you love quirky things, prepare to have your mind blown at the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz. Located in the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains, it seems like gravity has gone wacky here. Although I haven’t figured out why there are so-called gravitational anomalies, I believe most of it are just optical illusions.

On the guided tours, you’ll find yourself standing at crazy angles and see balls rolling uphill. It probably makes you feel a deep need to solve this mystery while you’re there.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a fan of conspiracy theories, the Mystery Spot is a fun place to visit in the Bay Area. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and pick up a bumper sticker.

• Location: Santa Cruz
• Entrance fee: $10 per person + $5 parking fee per vehicle

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Free Places To Visit In The Bay Area

The best part about adventuring in the Bay Area is that there’s so many free things to do and places to visit. Aside from paying for car rental and parking fees, you can fit in as many activities and destinations as you want without increasing your travel expenses.

11. Golden Gate Park

Switch up your San Francisco experience by immersing yourself in the lush greenery of the Golden Gate Park. It is a huge sprawling oasis in the city that’s almost impossible to cover in one day. There are plenty of outdoor spaces to relax, and sometimes even concerts and festivals happening through the year.

One of the best free things to do here is to take a leisurely walk at Stow Lake, to see the mini waterfall, and also to visit the Japanese Tea Garden nearby.

There are several paid tourist attractions within Golden Gate Park too, including de Young Museum, California Academy of Science and the Botanical Garden.

• Parking: Mostly roadside parking – we’ve previously parked at Martin Luther King Jr Dr
• Location: San Francisco
• Where to stay (top pick): Stanyan Park Hotel – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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12. Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest Chinatown in North America, featuring temples, bustling markets and traditional tea shops. One of the popular stores to check out is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory where you can see various shapes and sizes of fortune cookies which also smell so good.

If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine you’ll love stepping into this gem where Hong Kong Clay Pot, Delicious Dim Sum, and Boba shops are just a few minutes away from each other.

Overall, it’s worth a visit to immerse yourself in this atmosphere and to get a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the city. It truly feels like you’re in Asia, and you might even be able to get some discounted souvenirs too.

• Parking: Chinatown Parking Garage ($7/hour, driving not recommended)
• Location: San Francisco
• Where to stay (top pick): Omni San Francisco Hotel – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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13. Lands End

One of the first places I visited in San Francisco was Lands End, because I was drawn to the natural beauty of the rugged coast and the Golden Gate Bridge. It is tucked away from the rest of the city on the northwest corner of San Francisco, showcasing the incredible diversity of the city’s attractions.

You can hike from the Sutro Bath ruins at Lands End all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge Overlook, via the Coastal Trail and then along the Batteries to Bluffs Trail. This way, you’ll pass by several beaches including Seal Rocks Beach, Mile Rock Beach, China Beach, Baker Beach, and Marshalls Beach.

With its close proximity to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, it’s the perfect spot for the ultimate postcard-worthy shot of San Francisco’s most famous landmark.

• Parking: Lands End Main Parking Lot
• Location: San Francisco

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14. Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line

Hidden away in the Presidio of San Francisco, Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line is a creative outdoor art installation that uses natural elements.

It was created by a renowned British artist, Andy Goldsworthy, featuring a winding pathway framed by eucalyptus branches that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

As you meander along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest, and be treated to a peaceful and eye-catching landscape. This could be a nice place for a short walk after lunch, or to take a break from the busy city streets.

• Parking: Small trailhead parking at (37.792115, -122.448651), driving not recommended
• Location: San Francisco

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15. Treasure Island

Venture eastward across the Bay Bridge and discover Treasure Island, a man-made island with panoramic views of San Francisco and the surrounding bay.

It was originally built for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition, before becoming a Naval Base during the war, and is now owned by the city of San Francisco.

It has a scenic waterfront view looking toward San Francisco, a great spot for admiring the city skyline at night or watching fireworks. You can also take a ferry here to visit Gold Bar Whiskey Distillery Tasting Room, or dine at Mersea Restaurant.

Treasure Island is still developing its new housing and recreational spaces areas, so it’s a great chance to be the first to experience any new hidden gem spots.

• Location: San Francisco

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16. Battery Spencer

The best views of Golden Gate Bridge are arguably at Battery Spencer, as you’ll be looking at it from the Marin Headlands across San Francisco. Perched high on a bluff overlooking the bridge, you can see the city skyline and Alcatraz Island.

You’ll have to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge to get here, and though there’s a toll to pay for driving back south to San Francisco, it is completely free to visit. One of the best times to come here is during sunset, when the bridge is lit up by the sun’s golden hues.

The route to Battery Spencer follows a one-way road with only a small parking area. If you see that it might be crowded, consider stopping earlier at the Golden Gate Observation Deck or Golden Gate View Point to avoid having to leave due to lack of parking space.

• Parking: (37.829631, -122.483482)
• Location: North Bay

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17. Mount Tamalpais

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you should definitely check out Mount Tamalpais in the North Bay. Here is where you’ll find some of the best hikes in the Bay Area.

This includes seeing the impressive Cataract Falls especially in spring, and hiking from Stinson Beach up to the Panoramic Highway. There are even Mount Tamalpais hikes that connects you to Muir Woods, a convenient way to experience the incredible landscape.

Driving along the Panoramic Highway in Mount Tamalpais, you’ll come across some of the best sunset viewing spots on this side of the Bay Area. Some of my favorite places are Trojan Point and Ballou Point.

Although you don’t need to pay to visit Mount Tamalpais, you can enhance your visit by booking a stay at Steep Ravine cabins. This requires planning in advance because of how popular these cabins are and booking is done via a lottery system.

Alternatively, stay at the nearby Mill Valley Inn or Mountain Home Inn for a getaway from the city.

• Location: North Bay
• Where to stay (top pick): Mill Valley Inn – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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18. Pacifica

Pacifica is a located just south of San Francisco, and offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. With its rugged coastline, beaches, and dramatic cliffs, Pacifica is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers.

You can catch the waves at Pacific State Beach, walk along the Pacifica Pier, or walk along the scenic trails of Mori Point. If you’re looking for more hiking trails, consider Pedro Point, Devil’s Bunker, and Montara Mountain.

One of my favorite memories of Pacifica was having lunch at the Taco Bell on the beach, and then heading over to Soul Grind Coffee Roasters for a pick-me-up. I’ll definitely return to do some work at this cafe as I love the laid-back atmosphere at the coast.

• Location: Peninsula (coast)
• Where to stay (top pick): Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Francisco Pacifica – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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19. J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

If you’ve always wanted to get a glimpse into the rich diversity of marine life, visit J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve‘s tide pools at low tide. It is a protected area along the coast of Moss Beach, with a stunning beach scenery that is gorgeous at sunset.

You don’t even need to venture far to encounter intertidal tide pools where you’ll see plenty of anemone, small fish, shrimp, and mussels. I’ve never been able to see any octopus or starfish, but you might have a chance.

You can also walk along the top of the Bluff Trail to admire the coastal scenery under the Eucalyptus canopy. Try to see if you can spot the towering sea stacks in the distance as you watch the ocean from the Cypress Point Lookout. You might even see harbor seal pups from May to June as they come ashore with their moms to rest.

• Parking: Fitzgerald Marine Ranger Station & Parking
• Location: Peninsula (coast)

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20. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is just slightly south of Pacifica, and is a quaint coastal town that is popular among locals. With miles of beaches and a vibrant downtown, it’s worth taking a day trip from San Francisco, or even staying overnight here.

One of the most popular places to eat is at Sam’s Chowder, and I think you’ll really enjoy the oysters, clam chowder, and lobster rolls. For a more hearty and simple lunch, Dad’s Luncheonette makes amazing sandwiches from a train caboose.

Other free things to do in Half Moon Bay include walking along the Coastal Trail to explore the various beaches.

Whether you’re exploring the historic Main Street shops, indulging in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, or simply watching the sunset from the beach, Half Moon Bay is one of the best coastal retreats in the Bay Area.

• Location: Peninsula (coast)
• Where to stay (top pick): Quality Inn – Miramar Beach – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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21. Palo Alto

Palo Alto is known as the birthplace of Silicon Valley, with a charming downtown area and gorgeous tree-lined residential neighbourhoods. It is easily reached via Caltrain and is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Some of my favorite things to do in Palo Alto include visiting the famous HP Garage, grabbing coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee while relaxing in the courtyard, and having Salt & Straw ice cream. In addition, you’ll also find Ramen Nagi downtown, arguably one of the best ramen restaurants in the Bay Area.

If getting lost in a book store if your thing, Bell’s Books is a must-visit. It has a huge selection of classic books and a wide range of genres across its two floors. You could also drop by the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve to watch birds and enjoy a quiet time at the marshland.

• Location: Peninsula

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22. Stanford

The Stanford campus is huge and is a tourist attraction on its own, with museums, sculptures and gardens to explore. Besides being one of the world’s leading research institutions, Stanford also has a rich history as well as stunning architecture.

Some of the iconic landmarks to look out for are the Hoover Tower, the Memorial Church, and the Cantor Arts Center. The most impressive path to walk down is Palm Drive which is lined with the iconic Date Palms.

You can also choose to hop on the free Marguerite shuttle that takes you from the Palo Alto Caltrain station straight into the campus.

Stanford is like one big garden where students are very much used to visitors taking pictures at the Oval while they make their way to class.

There is also plenty of space to lay out in the grass to enjoy a warm sunny day if you want to. If you want to get some Stanford merchandise, pop by the Bookstore as your last stop.

• Parking: Visitor paid parking between 8am and 4pm from Monday to Friday ($4.46/hour or $35.68 daily)
• Location: Peninsula
• Where to stay (top pick): Creekside Inn – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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23. Windy Hill Open Space Preserve

There are many outdoor and hiking spaces in the Peninsula, and the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve stands out with its effortless vista views along Skyline Boulevard.

It’s perfect for a quick drive up to the Windy Hill Summit where you can take a short walk along Anniversary Trail and enjoy the view from a bench overlooking the Bay Area. If you look westward, you can even see the sea on a fog-free day, which makes for the perfect sunset views.

If you’re making a stop at either Palo Alto or Stanford and have some time to spare, consider taking a drive up to see it for yourself.

• Parking: Upper Spring Ridge Roadside Parking
• Location: Peninsula

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24. Mission Peak

Looking for a challenge? The Mission Peak hike is one of the most iconic and rewarding hikes in the Bay Area.

It is located in Fremont and is a popular local trail that offers views of the entire Bay Area, including Mount Diablo, Mount Tamalpais and even Sierra Nevada. There’s also the iconic Mission Peak pole that people take pictures with as proof that they’ve reached the top.

The trail is a 6-mile loop that takes about 4 to 4.5 hours to complete. It felt moderately challenging to me because of the relatively steep incline all the way to the top, but was enjoyable as I took regular breaks along the way.

You’ll be accompanied by cows grazing on the rolling hills, so just make sure to avoid getting too close to any calfs. With 2,152 feet of elevation gain, the best time to hike here is during winter or spring when the sun isn’t making you want to quit.

• Parking: Stanford Avenue Staging Area
• Location: East Bay

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25. Saratoga

Saratoga is a picture-perfect town in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, with beautiful homes and a wide variety of eateries. There’s a relaxing atmosphere here that’s perfect for spending a day at the cafe or visiting some gardens.

They take pride in celebrating events such as Halloween, and there were decorations all practically every single store I walked past on Big Basin Way. Saratoga is known for its Mountain Winery and the peaceful Hakone Estate and Gardens.

One of the best free things to do here is to hike up to the Villa Montalvo Lookout Point for a view of the South Bay. There are motivational quotes displayed along the way, making it an uplifting journey to the viewpoint. It is near the Montalvo Art Center, a non-profit that serves the community through regular events and activities.

• Location: South Bay

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26. Santa Cruz

Although Santa Cruz is not technically within the San Francisco Bay Area, it is still worth visiting since it is fairly close by. There are lots of free things to do in Santa Cruz for those who like outdoorsy activities.

Santa Cruz is known for its surf culture since the early days and you’ll definitely see locals surfing here. Head to West Cliff Drive to check out the world-famous surf spot, Steamer Lane.

While you’re here, drop by Shrine Coffee for some pastries and coffee. If you want to take the opportunity to learn surfing, check out this beginner’s class.

You can also stroll along the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the amusement park, and check out the shops at the Santa Cruz Wharf.

Don’t forget to also check out Natural Bridges State Beach which has a natural arch bridge that is especially photogenic at sunset, with excellent tide pooling opportunities along the rocks at low tide.

• Location: Santa Cruz
• Where to stay (top pick): Marea Sol Hotel – Check Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda
• Recommended surf lesson: Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz

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27. Berkeley

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a foodie looking for the next delicious meal, Berkeley has you covered.

Start your visit at the UC Berkeley campus, and admire historic landmarks like Sather Gate along with the beautiful botanical gardens. After that, you can explore more of the city’s vibrant arts scene by checking out the Berkeley Art Museum or catching a show at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre.

Berkeley is also well known for its wide array of dining options for all kinds of cravings, from cozy cafes to international cuisine. With its highly walkable streets and welcoming atmosphere, Berkeley is the perfect place to spend a day exploring this dynamic city.

Overall, Berkeley is also a great place to stay if you prefer to be outside San Francisco. It’s also more convenient for starting your California road trip to Lake Tahoe or Yosemite National Park.

• Location: East Bay
• Where to stay (top pick): Hotel Shattuck Plaza – Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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Unique Places To Visit In The Bay Area

For more hidden gems in the Bay Area, check out these unique places. Not many tourists (and sometimes even locals) know about these, so make plans to visit before they get too popular.

28. Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore stands out with its rugged coastlines and untouched beauty, just north of San Francisco. There are a myriad of hiking trails with wildlife sighting opportunities and amazing coastal views.

You can look forward to seeing various wildlife like deer, elk, whales, elephant seals, and more. Point Reyes Lighthouse is a must-see here, and is one of the best whale watching spots near San Francisco.

If you enjoy taking pictures of cool things, drop by the Cypress Tree Tunnel nearby. Don’t miss South Beach Overlook to see miles of an almost straight coastline.

Popular hikes in Point Reyes include the Tomales Point Trail, Chimney Rock Trail with a detour to the Elephant Seal Overlook, and the long hike to Alamere Falls. There are lots of things to do in Point Reyes, so make sure to bring lots of water and snacks along.

• Location: North Bay
• Where to stay (top pick): Limantour Lodge (formerly Hostel Point Reyes)- Check on Booking.com | Expedia | Agoda

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29. Pescadero

Pescadero is a quaint agricultural community located along the coast between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz with small town charm.

You can explore the historic downtown area, which surprisingly has good food at Duarte’s Tavern and coffee at Downtown Local. Artichoke is the main agricultural product here, and Artichoke bread is one of the highlights at the Arcangeli Grocery.

You can also visit the Harley Farms Goat Dairy and book a tour to meet the baby goats in spring, cows, peacocks, and other animals. Outside of downtown Pescadero, you can relax at the pristine beaches or indulge in local treats from Pie Ranch.

There’s also a lovely glamping site at KOA Costanoa to spend the night while visiting both Half Moon Bay and Pescadero.

• Location: Peninsula (coast)

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30. Filoli Historic House & Garden

Filoli Historic House & Garden is a stunning estate located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. With its lush gardens, picturesque architecture, and rich history, Filoli offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of California’s early 20th-century elite.

Whether you’re wandering through the manicured grounds, admiring the period furnishings inside the historic mansion, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through the formal gardens, Filoli is a timeless treasure that’s perfect for a relaxing day.

Here’s a fun fact – President Biden and President Xi Jinping had a diplomatic meeting in Filoli back in November 2023. There’s got to be something special about this place, right?

• Location: Peninsula
• Entrance fee: $36 per adult

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31. Google Visitor Experience

One of the newest additions to the vibrant Silicon Valley scene is the Google Visitor Experience. It was open in October 2023 and hosts free events for the local community.

For example, I attended a wreath-making workshop during the Christmas season – and it was free!

There’s a spacious cafe with relatively affordable prices just next door, a pop-up store, and a big Google store to get to know the latest products. Outside, you’ll find their iconic colorful bicycles in various parking spots which you’re free to use.

One of my favorite things about the Google Visitor Experience are the outdoor art installations. They were designed by the same people who created pieces for Burning Man, which are known to be impressive and eye-catching.

• Parking: Google Visitor Experience Parking – Alta Garage
• Location: Peninsula

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32. Ollie Mayer Hiker’s Hut

Did you know that you can hike to a hut in the Bay Area? The Ollie Mayer Hiker’s Hut is one of the coolest things I’ve come across while living here, and we went to check it out on a hike.

It was built in 1877 and can hold up to 8 people in this rustic cabin which is currently run by the Sierra Club.

Despite how it looks on the outside, the interior is very well maintained and it even has a complete kitchen. If you want to stay here, you’ll need to make reservations up to 3 months in advance.

You can also hike the Heritage Grove Loop Trail and make a slight detour to see this cool hut.

• Parking: Heritage Grove trailhead parking
• Location: Peninsula

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33. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is probably the best place to see huge redwoods trees near the South Bay.

Unlike most of the coastal redwoods you see in the Bay Area, there is a grove of old-growth trees that have been protected here. It was even visited by former Presidents Benjamin Harrison and Theodore Roosevelt, and remains a popular attraction today.

This state park is split into the northern (Fall Creek Unit) and southern sections. I highly recommend hiking the Fall Creek to Lime Kilns Trail.

This is a lovely trail that takes you through the lush forests and along the bubbling creek. You’ll also get to see remnants of the lime kilns which were used to process limestone in the past.

To see the big trees, head over to the southern section where you’ll find the Redwood Old Growth Loop. It is a flat and accessible trail that is really easy for people to enjoy. You can read more about my favorite hikes here.

• Location: Santa Cruz
• Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle

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Getting Around The Bay Area

There are just so many things to do in the Bay Area since it is so large. You probably can’t see them all in one trip, but you can optimize your travel route for convenience. Besides that, you can also consider your mode of transportation based on cost and safety.

Driving (Renting a car)

The most convenient but also most expensive way of getting around is by driving. Renting a car may cost almost $70 a day depending on vehicle type and insurance coverage.

It’s worth renting a car if you’re visiting places that are hard to reach by train or ride share.

For example, if you’re planning to visit Point Reyes, the most reliable way of getting there and back is by driving. That’s because it will be challenging to get a ride back when you don’t have any cell reception.

However, do be prepared for parking fees, crowded parking areas, and tolls when you’re crossing bridges. I don’t recommend driving if you’re only planning to be within San Francisco, as it creates unnecessary worry about car break-ins.

Public Transit (Getting around the Bay Area without a car)

The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is a convenient and efficient way to get around the Bay Area.

With stations located throughout the city and beyond, BART offers quick and easy access to popular destinations.

This includes downtown San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and the San Francisco International Airport.

Are BARTs safe?

Tourists tend to be surprised by how “unsafe” BART rides feel when they first make their way to the city. After a few times, they get used to it and learn to figure out if anything dodgy is going on.

I’ve definitely felt that way when I first arrived here, but have never witnessed anything unsafe going on. If this is a concern for you, consider taking ride share or driving.

Caltrain

If you’re planning to cover larger distances, such as from South Bay to San Francisco, Caltrain is a viable option especially during rush hour.

However, the train frequency is quite low, especially for the “baby bullet” that are much faster, so you’ll need to plan your schedule well. Compared to BART, Caltrains are more expensive but they feel more comfortable and safer.

Munis in San Francisco

Within San Francisco, the best way to get around is by bus, cable car, and muni metros. No matter which mode of public transit you choose, using a Clipper card is the best way to tap in and out.

If you want to learn more about how to get to San Francisco without a car, here’s another article that might be useful.

Ride-sharing and ride-hailing (Uber, Lyft, or Waymo)

If you’re just arriving with your suitcases from the airport and want to get to your accommodation quickly, it might be worth booking a ride-share for convenience.

Since there are lots of hills and slopes in San Francisco, I also recommend booking a ride to take you back to your hotel if you get too tired.

Ride-hailing via Waymo is a self-driving service that’s available in San Francisco – and yes, that means there’s no driver! Take this at your own risk, or if it’s a cool thing you must try.

The cost of ride-sharing in the Peninsula and South Bay is not much higher than taking Caltrains. Sometimes it makes sense to take an Uber or Lyft when you’re shuttling between the suburban neighbourhoods.

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FAQs About The Bay Area

Still unsure what to do? Perhaps you’re even curious about where you might want to live in future if you move to the Bay Area?

Here are some additional questions that I think you might have about the places to visit in the Bay Area.

What is the nicest part of the Bay Area?

The coast in the Peninsula, particularly Half Moon Bay and Pacifica, offers stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and a laid-back vibe that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Palo Alto is also highly regarded for its livability, with tree-lined streets, and plenty of hiking trails a short drive away.

Where to take tourists in the Bay Area?

You should definitely take tourists to Napa Valley or Sonoma wine country.

While San Francisco is undoubtedly the top destination for tourists in the Bay Area, experiencing these scenic and culturally rich destinations will enrich your trip.

Where is the most scenic place in the Bay Area?

The most scenic place in the Bay Area is the coastal Highway 1 drive. It takes you to the beach towns – Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, and Pescadero. It’s truly worlds apart from the busy city atmosphere in San Francisco.

The coastal scenery in the Bay Area is hard to beat – whether you’re just taking a drive, or hanging out at one of the beach towns. It’s no wonder the Ritz-Carlton decided to position itself right on these Half Moon Bay bluffs overlooking the sea.

What part of Bay Area is most walkable?

Berkeley is often cited as one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the Bay Area, with its pedestrian-friendly streets. You can easily explore the bustling downtown area and stroll through the historic neighborhoods like the Elmwood district.

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Conclusion: You’ll love the SF Bay Area

It’s clear that there are a ton of treasures waiting to be explored in the Bay Area. You have places like the iconic Pier 39, the serene Muir Woods and the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley. Each destination offers a different experience, and you don’t have to follow a cookie-cutter itinerary.

There are also a ton of free and unique places to visit in the Bay Area. That includes the lush Golden Gate Park in San Francisco or the rugged coasts of Point Reyes National Seashore.

I always recommend my friends to drive down Highway 1 towards Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, or Pescadero. California sunsets at the coast are spectacular and I hope you’ll have memories that keep you coming back for more.