Discover The Hidden Beauty of the Bay Area

Published by Mauricio Segura in Bay Area · 23 November 2023

BAY AREA

Discover The Hidden Beauty of the Bay Area

By Mauricio Segura

San Francisco, the city of hills, cable cars, and undeniable charm, is not just about Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Beyond the iconic landmarks lies a realm of hidden gems and secret escapes that beckon the adventurous souls eager to explore the outskirts of this vibrant city.

1. Tiburon and Angel Island

A mere 45-minute drive from the bustling heart of San Francisco, Tiburon Peninsula and Angel Island offer a tranquil retreat. Here, where the streets are lined with quaint diners and charming bakeries, you can embark on a leisurely walking tour or hop on a bike to explore at your own pace. Dive into the history of Angel Island Immigration

Station, a poignant reminder of the many immigrants who once traversed the Pacific to reach San Francisco. Enjoy the sunset over the bay along Tiburon's picturesque shoreline and revel in the town's fast ferry services, chic retail outlets, and vibrant cafes.

Places to visit in Tiburon - Angel Island:

Angel Island - Tiburon Ferry
Sausalito Visitors Center
Blackie's Pasture
San Francisco Bay Model
Tennessee Valley Trailhead
Vista Point
Bay Area Discovery Museum

2. Skyline Boulevard, Woodside

Venture 35 minutes south from San Francisco, and you'll find yourself immersed in the woodlands and cool mountainsides of Woodside. Feast your eyes on panoramic ocean views and indulge in BBQ and burgers at Alice's Restaurant. Then, head to Thomas

Fogarty Winery for a sip of signature wines in a romantic wood-paneled gazebo. Seeking inner calm? Jikoji Zen Center, founded by Steve Jobs' mentor, offers a serene space for meditation or a contemplative stroll. Woodside, an intentionally small and upscale neighborhood, beckons with Michelin-starred pubs, cycling trails, and a touch of old-world charm.

Places to Visit in Woodside, Skyline Boulevard:

Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
Alice's Restaurant
Thomas Fogarty's Winery
Jikoji Zen Center
Filoli
The Stanford Shopping Center
Rodin Sculpture Garden

3. Los Gatos

A 50-minute drive southeast takes you to the affluent yet charming town of Los Gatos, nestled at the foot of the Santa Cruz mountains. Stroll through streets adorned with Michelin-starred restaurants, popular bistros, and old-school candy shops, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Once an arts colony, Los Gatos maintains its cultural allure, attracting musicians, painters, and writers. Explore green spaces, mountain bike trails, and visit the New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum to delve into the city's mining history. A blend of affluence and small-town charm, Los Gatos is perfect for brunches, teas, and a leisurely exploration of California's quieter side.

Places to Visit in Los Gatos, CA:

El Sereno Open Space Preserve
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum
English Camp Loop
Vasona Park
Mount Umunhum
New Museum Los Gatos
Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad

4. Point Reyes

For those craving a break from city life, Point Reyes, a 1 hour 45 minutes drive north, offers a sanctuary of nature preserve along the Pacific Coast. Marvel at the lofty lighthouses, witness the bustling colony of elephant seals, and enjoy the dramatic

drops and habitats for local wildlife. Point Reyes Safaris and West Marin Food and Farm Tours let you savor the finer things in life. Explore horseback riding trails with Point Reyes Arabian Adventures or soak in the sights while sunning on a private boat with Tomales Bay Sailing. Whether you seek awesome adventures or slow-paced activities, Point Reyes is the ideal destination for a rejuvenating day trip or a quick weekend escapade.

Places to Visit in Point Reyes, CA:

Tomales Bay Sailing
Point Reyes Arabian Adventures
Bear Valley Visitor Center
Chimney Rock - Point Reyes National Seashore
Cowgirl Creamery
Point Reyes Books
Earthquake Trail
Heart's Desire Beach
Marconi State Historic Park
Toby's Feed Barn

San Francisco's wild escapades offer mental room for reflections, wide-open spaces for explorations, and activities that transport you into a whole new world. From watching seals and trekking trails to meditating and wine tasting, these adventures provide the perfect balance to the hustle and bustle of city life. So, whether it's a day trip or a weekend getaway, San Francisco's outskirts promise a delightful escape for everyone. Customize your tours, soak in the captivating views, and indulge in the local delicacies – there's something for every explorer in and around the City by the Bay.

While the encapsulating coastline and access to the boundlessness of the Pacific Ocean are reasons enough to bring you to the many 'wild escapades' around San Francisco, they provide you with enough mental room for reflections, wide open space for explorations, and activities that will transport you into a whole new world. Watching the seals, trekking the trails, meditating and wine tasting events are all wonderful activities to help you refocus and rebalance from the business of city life.

So, is San Francisco the Right Place for your Family Day-Trip?
You can personalize your own tours to take you around beaches, ferry terminals and magnificent mansions, enjoy ancapsulating views of the Pacific Ocean and bay area, stop by famous restaurants and cafes for delicious local delicacies. There's something for everyone ranging from wineries to award-winning cheesemakers.