15 Romantic Weekend Getaways From The Bay Area (+ Best Stays)
Not sure where to go for romantic weekend getaways from the San Francisco Bay Area? We currently live here and enjoy taking short trips to nearby destinations as a couple, so here are our top picks.
With so many places to choose from, it’s easy to feel spoilt for choice. By narrowing down the activities and dining options that are best for a romantic getaway, I hope to help you solidify your plans to go on that special trip.
We also found that where we choose to stay makes a big difference in our overall experience. Hence, I’ll also be sharing the best accommodations in each destination for you to enjoy time with your significant other.
Whether it’s an anniversary, a birthday, or any other special occasion, you’ll find just what you need here.
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Best weekend getaways from the Bay Area
If you’re in a rush, here are my top picks for the best destinations for quick getaways from the Bay Area.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Best for good food while being near the coast
- Charming beach town
Yosemite
- Best for adventurous couples who like nature
- Rewarding hikes with great views
That’s not all – read on for more!
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Distance from San Francisco: 2 to 2.5 hours
Carmel-by-the-Sea is the best for couples who want to have access to excellent dining, tasting rooms, and cafes while still being close to the coast. We love going there and it always feels like a romantic place because of the storybook-like cottages and courtyards.
Things to do on the weekend include dining out, exploring secret passageways, and having coffee at Carmel Beach while watching the sunset. Carmel is also very walkable and safe, making it an ideal weekend getaway. You can also book a relaxing spa day at Refuge Carmel.
Don’t forget to make a reservation for lunch or dinner at La Bicyclette – they have amazing French-Italian cuisine. For brunch, check out Stationaery which is a popular spot tucked away in a courtyard. There’s plenty of seafood restaurants and wine tasting opportunities too.
Where to stay in Carmel
You could stay in downtown Carmel which is often the most convenient, but might be slightly pricy.
📍Carmel Green Lantern Inn: Central location in Carmel makes it easy to walk to restaurants, cafes, and even the beach. Daily breakfast is provided with outdoor gardens and dining areas to enjoy too.
2. Big Sur
Distance from San Francisco: 2.5 to 3 hours
Big Sur is most well known for its rugged coastal cliffs, and sunsets here are beautiful. It’s great for a romantic weekend away because it’s so undeveloped, leaving you with a sense of solitude and closeness to nature. We even brought a couple here for their engagement and it was beautiful.
There’s lots to see and do on this Big Sur drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. My favorites include seeing McWay Falls at golden hour, hiking to Partington Cove, and enjoying secluded spots like Andrew Molera Beach.
Cafe lovers will enjoy Big Sur Bakery, but make sure to go early before they run out. For casual dining, we love going to Big Sur River Inn for their lively atmosphere and outdoor barbecue on the lawn. For a treat, consider Nepenthe or Sierra Mar which overlook the ocean for the most romantic view.
Where to stay in Big Sur
Big Sur hotels can seem expensive, but there are actually affordable lodging here that’s perfect for a weekend getaway.
📍Big Sur River Inn: This historic inn appeals to nature enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing retreat along the Big Sur River. You can even sit on the Adirondack chairs in the creek, which is a highlight for many guests who stay here.
3. Napa Valley
Distance from San Francisco: 1.5 hours
When you think of a romantic weekend getaway in the Bay Area with wine, there’s no place better than Napa Valley. If you’re a food or wine lover, Napa Valley is going to be like Disneyland.
I recommend wine tasting when you visit Napa Valley, either through a small group tour or by booking directly with wineries you know you want to visit. You could also walk around downtown Napa to check out boutique shops and tasting rooms. Make sure to also drive the Silverado Trail for a scenic ride.
Besides that, there are lots of amazing restaurants, especially in the Yountville area. French Laundry might be hard to get a spot at, so why not try a more casual French dining alternative – Bistro Jeanty. We also really love Bouchon Bakery which we bought for breakfast before starting our wine tour.
Where to stay in Napa Valley
Napa Valley isn’t a big area, so where you stay would depend on the wineries and restaurants you want to visit. Here’s where we stayed and would happily recommend it.
📍Napa Winery Inn: An affordable stay that’s just 10 minutes from both Yountville and downtown Napa. The rooms are really spacious and there’s complimentary breakfast provided.
4. Half Moon Bay
Distance from San Francisco: 45 minutes
Half Moon Bay is a popular weekend getaway in the Bay Area because it’s got a long stretch of beaches without having to get too far away from the city. You could even cruise down on an e-bike tour.
There are lots of coastal walks here, with some great tide pools at J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. During winter, Mavericks Beach is a popular spot for watching surfers ride the huge waves. Another idea is to have a drink or afternoon snack at the Ritz Carlton while watching golfers play.
Don’t miss Sam’s Chowder‘s lobster roll and clam chowder when you’re here. Another great spot for casual dining is Dad’s Luncheonette which is served straight out of a train caboose. I would also love to try Pasta Moon‘s farm-to-table style Italian cuisine when we celebrate our next special occasion.
Where to stay in Half Moon Bay
Imagine not having to drive back in the evening and get stuck in traffic. Staying in Half Moon Bay gives you the chance to experience the coast without the crowds.
📍Cypress Inn: Fancy a cozy inn overlooking the ocean across the street? This is right along the Coast Trail with easy access to Miramar Beach. You can even get your breakfast delivered to the room to enjoy with a view.
5. Point Reyes National Seashore
Distance from San Francisco: 2 hours
Spend the weekend at Point Reyes National Seashore if you like seeing wildlife, walks along the beach without crowds, and oysters. It’s a quiet getaway that allows you to unplug as a couple, with several great photo spots like the Cypress Tree Tunnel.
Start your trip there by visiting the Point Reyes Lighthouse – a great spot for whale watching. There are also gorgeous trails to hike, including Chimney Rock Trail and Tomales Point Trail. Wildlife here includes elk and deer roaming around near Elk Reserve, and Elephant Seals that come ashore in the winter.
You can also enjoy fresh oysters by driving over the Tomales Bay where there are lots of restaurants overlooking Point Reyes, such as The Marshall Store.
Where to stay in Point Reyes
Point Reyes’ beauty lies in its undeveloped nature, so most of the accommodations will be located in nearby towns.
📍Lodge At Marconi: This accommodation offers comfortable cabin-style rooms, with easy access to hiking trails and nearby restaurants. With a fire pit in the common area, you’ll get to enjoy a cozy night out under the stars.
6. Lake Tahoe
Distance from San Francisco: 3.5 to 4 hours
Whether it’s dining at our favorite pizza place with live music, or hanging out at a snow-covered beach in winter, we always feel so refreshed after a trip to Lake Tahoe. It’s the perfect destination to plan a special occasion, especially when you can charter a yacht for a sunset cruise.
You’ll definitely need to see the sunrise at Emerald Bay State Park at least once, and go on a short hike to Eagle Lake nearby. If you’re visiting in fall, see fall colors at Fallen Leaf Lake and Rainbow Trail which also has the salmon run in October. Without a doubt, summer is a great time to try water sports among many other activities.
If you’re looking for a lively pizza place, head over to Base Camp Pizza at Heavenly Village. We also love spending quality time together at Cuppa Tahoe over coffee. There are also several breweries here including South Lake Brewing Company.
Where to stay in Lake Tahoe
The best area to stay in Lake Tahoe for the weekend is South Lake Tahoe if you want to be close to amenities.
📍The Landing Resort and Spa: Want to experience luxury without the price tag of other lakeview resorts? Each room has a stone gas fireplace, heated toilet seats and a spa tub. You can also go for a full service spa, and enjoy the heated swimming pool.
7. Santa Cruz
Distance from San Francisco: 1.5 hours
Known for its surf culture, this laid back coastal town is a great destination to unwind as a couple. Sunsets have been amazing each time we’ve been there, which is probably why we have such a positive memory of Santa Cruz.
Check out the amusement park rides on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, visit the colorful beach resort town of Capitola, or see the arch rock at Natural Bridges State Beach. West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz is also a great place for a walk with coffee in hand. While you’re here, why not try a surf lesson?
The best thing to eat at the beach is ice cream – Penny Ice Creamery and Marianne’s Ice Cream stand out in Santa Cruz. If you like seafood, try the fish tacos from Mijos Taqueria in Capitola.
Where to stay in Santa Cruz
📍West Cliff Inn: This historic house has a beautiful interior and is walking distance from the pier. It also enjoys a good view of the coastline. Some rooms even have a fireplace and an outdoor hot tub, perfect for a romantic weekend getaway.
8. Yosemite National Park
Distance from San Francisco: 3 to 3.5 hours
Yosemite National Park is ideal for adventurous couples who enjoy a challenging but rewarding hikes. Winter is also a great time to visit because it’s much quieter, and you might even see snow blanketing the valley floor. If you don’t want to drive, Yosemite tours from San Francisco are available too.
For a romantic weekend to Yosemite, take some pictures at the iconic Tunnel View just before you enter the valley. If you’re thinking to take it slow, you could walk along Cook’s Meadow Loop and Mirror Lake. Alternatively, take on a variety of activities with this ideal one-day itinerary. Sunsets from 7,000 ft elevation like Glacier Point and Sentinel Dome will also make your trip extra memorable.
Curry Village is a great area for dining, with ambient lighting that makes it feel cozy. If you want to get a bit more fancy, The Ahwahnee hosts their annual Bracebridge dinner during the holidays – with costume performances with every course.
Where to stay in Yosemite
If you’re coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, the most convenient town to access Yosemite from is Groveland, located along Highway 120.
📍Rush Creek Lodge: With an on-site bar, restaurant, and hot tub for adults, Rush Creek Lodge is the perfect stay to relax your sore muscles after your hikes. As you look out of the balcony you’ll see the forest surrounding the lodge, creating a tranquil experience.
9. Sausalito
Distance from San Francisco: 30 minutes
Sausalito reminds me of Europe, with the hillside homes and the yacht-filled waterfront. It’s perfect for finding good restaurants and uncrowded places to hangout without going too far.
To get there, you can either take the ferry from San Francisco, or drive across the Golden Gate Bridge. Stop by the Golden Gate viewpoint at Battery Spencer while you’re there, to take a classic photo against the skyline. You could also go kayaking or simply relax on the dock and watch the world go by.
We really enjoyed dining at Bar Bocce which has a fire pit in the middle of the seating area. The pizzas and sides were really tasty and there was plenty of parking. It’s also convenient that Equator Coffee is located right across the street.
Where to stay in Sausalito
It’s nice to get out of the busy San Francisco streets, or even for a change of environment to be near the water.
📍Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa: This boutique hotel has a view of the harbor and the San Francisco skyline, the ideal stay for a romantic weekend. There’s also a full-service spa, a restaurant downstairs, and is just steps away from boutique shops nearby.
10. Pescadero
Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour
Pescadero is a quiet stop along the Pacific Coast Highway that’s relatively affordable and laid back.
If you like animals, make sure to stop by Harley Farms Goat Dairy and then head downtown to go shopping and soak in the old town charm. Besides that, make a stop at Pigeon Point Lighthouse or drive to Año Nuevo State Park to see elephant seals.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Pie Ranch, and take the chance to support a local ranch. One of the must-try dishes here include Duarte’s Tavern‘s signature half-and-half artichoke soup. You can also check out the historic Arcangeli Grocery Co which sells partially baked Artichoke bread that you can finish at home.
Where to stay in Pescadero
📍Costanoa Lodge and Camp: Whether you prefer cabins, glamping tents, or camping, you’ll enjoy your time here with close access to the beach and hiking trails. There are lots of amenities here, including a spa and wellness center, a bar, and a restaurant.
11. Mount Tamalpais
Distance from San Francisco: 1 hour
Some of the best drives and mountaintop views in the San Francisco Bay Area are found in Mount Tamalpais. With rolling hills and ocean views right below, it’s perfect for a couple’s getaway.
There are lots of great hikes in the Mount Tamalpais area, such as the trail to Cataract Falls and even to Muir Woods. East Peak Loop also has amazing views of San Francisco on a clear day. You’ll find some of the best views at Trojan Point and Ballou Point, so why not enjoy a picnic there as the sun sets.
In summer, there are certain Sundays where you can get a pancake breakfast at West Point Inn after a short hike. You can also find cafes and restaurants in Stinson Beach and Mill Valley.
Where to stay in Mount Tamalpais
📍Mountain Home Inn: If outdoor dining with a mountain view is your thing, this rustic mountain inn is perfect. You’ll have easy access to various trailheads and there’s free parking on site. Some rooms even have a wood fireplace and a patio overlooking the sea.
12. Monterey
Distance from San Francisco: 2 hours
Monterey is a great destination to get a mix of stunning coastal views and cozy seaside restaurants. It’s also where you might find lots of marine wildlife just off the shores – which is why whale watching tours are so popular here.
If your idea of romance involves learning new things, spend a few hours at the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. The Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row also offer great insight into the history of Monterey. In my opinion, the 17-Mile Drive is the scenic coastal drive that brings the whole trip together.
Some of the best food in Monterey is found near Cannery Row and around Pacific Grove, such as Passionfish. There are also plenty of cafes, including Captain + Stoker, and First Awakenings.
Where to stay in Monterey
Pacific Grove is the ideal location for a romantic weekend getaway from the Bay Area.
📍Spindrift Inn: Gorgeous rooms near Cannery Row with some rooms that enjoy the ocean view. Complimentary breakfast is provided with morning delivery to your room. It’s also very close to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Lassen Volcanic is less crowded than other national parks so you get to enjoy the scenic landscape at your own pace.
Bumpass Hell Trail is the most popular hike here as it takes you to geothermal steam vents and doesn’t take too long. I also love the scenic drive through the park in summer where you’ll pass by Helen Lake and Emerald Lake. Manzanita Lake is also great for kayaking and has a great view of Lassen Peak.
If you’re planning to start from the north entrance, Deja Vu Restaurant in Redding serves a great brunch. You can also get coffee at Theory Coffee Roasters just down the street. After you’ve spent the day exploring, treat yourselves to a date-worthy meal at Highlands Ranch Resort.
Where to stay in Lassen Volcanic
📍The Village at Highlands Ranch: Surround yourself with majestic peaks as you relax in these cozy cabins near the park’s southern entrance. Bike rental is also available, and you can dine at the on-site restaurant if you want to eat nearby.
14. Morro Bay
Distance from San Francisco: 3.5 to 4 hours
For a low-key weekend getaway, visit Morro Bay for a time of wildlife spotting and enjoying seafood. Morro Rock is also a volcanic plug rock, a prominent feature in the backdrop during your stay here.
The Embarcadero is a great place to hangout, where you’ll see people fishing and looking for sea otters from the pier. Kayaking in the bay is also a popular activity since the water is calm. You could also stop by Hearst Castle in San Simeon as you drive down the coast, or hike the nearby Black Hawk Hill trail for views of the coast.
There are lots of amazing seafood in Morro Bay since they get sourced directly from local fishing boats. Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant has really fresh oysters and we enjoyed their hearty clam chowder. You could also try seafood tacos from Taco Temple.
Where to stay in Morro Bay
📍Inn At Rose’s Landing: Stay close to the Embarcadero and enjoy the view of Morro Rock from here. Some rooms have a fireplace and even a private balcony to enjoy the cool sea breeze. Rooms are modern and clean to ensure a comfortable stay.
15. Sequoia National Park
Distance from San Francisco: 4.5 hours
Sequoia is best for those who want to marvel at huge trees and enjoy a relaxing time in the forest. Most people know about the trees, but overlook the scenic towns with great overnight stays near the park.
For first timers, check out the General Sherman tree as it’s the largest by trunk volume. If you’re visiting in summer, Moro Rock trail (not to be confused with the one in Morro Bay) is one of the best hikes in Sequoia. You can also drive through Tunnel Log just for fun. We enjoyed our winter trip to Sequoia where we mostly spent time hiking around Congress Trail and Big Trees Trail.
While there isn’t much food in Sequoia, Three Rivers nearby has plenty of dining options. In the morning, Sequoia Coffee Co and Kaweah Coffee Roasters are great for coffee. For dinner, The Gateway Restaurant and Lodge are great for the riverside atmosphere.
Where to stay in Sequoia
The town of Three Rivers is just minutes away from the Ash Mountain entrance, so it’s the best gateway to Sequoia in my opinion.
📍AutoCamp Sequoia: Go glamping in style with AutoCamp. The “rooms” come with the luxurious standard of a hotel, but the rustic nature of traditional camping as they’re housed in airstreams. You could also hang out in the common areas where there’s a fire pit.
Conclusion
There are plenty of weekend getaways for a romantic trip from the Bay Area – whether you’re looking for some adventure, luxurious experiences, or good food.
If you’re planning a trip during winter, make sure to look up any road closures due to rain storms (especially in Big Sur) or snow in the mountains. In addition, plan your hiking trail in advance with the right winter gear. You can also expect some deals on accommodation during this off-season, so it’s still an excellent time to go for a trip.
Hopefully this has helped to inspire some ideas on ways to create lasting memories with your significant other. Do check back for updates to this article as we explore more places in California. Meanwhile, how about a road trip?