The Mendocino Coast is one of northern California’s best-kept secrets
Need some rest and relaxation? You don’t need to go far from home to enjoy these scenic destinations.
- Mendocino Coast
Less than three hours away from SF you’ll find the Mendocino Coast, where the landscape gives way to secluded beaches, flat headlands, and vast sea caves. Go for a walk along the shoreline, admire the scenery, and go for a refreshing dip. Keep an eye out for whales and sea lions, which can be seen on rare occasions.Hit the downtown area, which is lined with brightly painted Victorians, specialty stores, galleries, and restaurants. Shop for locally made clothes and accessories at 707 Apparel, treat yourself to a massage at Bamboo Garden Spa, and buy eco-friendly skincare products at Bella Mia.
- Nick’s Cove
Visit Nick’s Cove in Tomales Bay for a change in scenery. Located just 90 minutes from SF, this idyllic spot on the Pacific Coast offers a variety of outdoor activities in a serene environment. You’ll also find rustic accommodations with breathtaking views and modern amenities.Nick’s Cove Restaurant & Oyster Bar, an acclaimed restaurant, serves seasonal California cuisine. Try their crab macaroni and cheese, have some freshly shucked oysters, and sample their extensive wine list.
- Monterey & Carmel-By-The-Sea
These beach communities are just two hours away from SF. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium along Cannery Row to see sharks, jellyfish, and other marine creatures. Explore trails that command stunning views of the ocean. Drop by Venture Gallery to see a wide selection of paintings, pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.Go surfing at Carmel Beach, where the white sand and clear waters will blow you away. Shop for vintage furniture at S. Adamson Antiques & Interior, and visit The Soiled Doves Bath House for bath and beauty products.
- Napa Valley
Home to world-class wineries, Napa Valley is just an hour away from the city. Go on a wine tour, ride a hot air balloon, or have a picnic at any of the scenic vineyards. The town of Napa alone lists 190 wineries that offer a unique wine tasting experience. Sample the finest wines and see how the bottles are produced.Buy artisanal chocolates, gourmet cheeses, and fresh roasted beans at Oxbow Public Market. Watch live performances at Uptown Theatre Napa, where concerts and comedies are staged regularly.
- Yountville
Also located in Napa County, about an hour north of SF, this town has a rustic charm that few places in California can match. There are numerous wineries in the area, but the local art galleries are also worth visiting. Aerena Galleries showcases the works of established and rising artists, while North Bay Gallery is synonymous with contemporary paintings and vineyard watercolors. - Sausalito
This city in Marin County is just a 30-minute ferry ride away. Visit the Sausalito Yacht Harbor, one of the finest pleasure-boat harbors in the country. Marinship, a busy waterfront area, has a nice swimming beach where you can soak in the rays and enjoy the water.Caledonia Street, the city’s most vibrant retail strip, is lined with stores that sell clothing, accessories, and handmade jewelry. It’s also filled with restaurants that serve Indian, Thai, and Japanese cuisine.
Living in SF gives you access to all these fantastic weekend destinations. If you’re interested in local real estate, contact Mike and Bern Homes here.