How To Plan an Unforgettable Northern California Road Trip

We have lived in Northern California for over a decade now. Alysha has resided here her whole life apart from four years in university, whereas Matt has called it home for close to 10 years at the time of writing.

There are such incredible numerous activities, sights, and places to explore in Northern California that we’re STILL finding new locations even though we`ve traveled all around the northern half of the state in the time we’ve lived together.

Northern California holds special significance for us. We met in San Francisco in 2014, and lived there together for almost a decade, including three years living as a married couple. During that time, we took as many weekend getaways as our schedule allowed to explore the abundant natural beauty that Northern California has to offer.

  • Bus – The Autostradale 143 bus runs at regular intervals between the airport and the city and takes approximately one hour. The bus is the most affordable option, with tickets costing €10 one-way or €16 round trip (you have to purchase the round trip ticket upon arrival and use it when you depart).

The coastal stretch between Point Reyes and the Oregon border has ascended to the foremost position on our list of preferred California locations, uniting spectacular coastal vistas, expansive sandy beaches and towering coastal redwoods proximate to said beaches.

It’s WILD.

And we enjoy it, which is why it’s featured so prominently in this Northern California itinerary.

In this guide, we’re going to give you all of our community knowledge – and we do mean all of it, this is a lengthy one! – in an effort to help you plan an phenomenal Northern California road trip.

We`ve gathered a wealth of expert opinions on numerous topics. From the finest hiking paths to explore, which magnificent redwood reserves to visit, and some unique accommodations, you`ll find it all contained within the guide below.

Grab a coffee (and maybe some Bailey’s?) and let’s get planning!

P.S. We even have a more extensive road trip recommendation that takes you over to Lassen National Park and Lake Tahoe if you have some additional time available – but we’d recommend having at least three weeks to do all of that.

a car parked on the side of a road near trees

a man and woman standing next to each other on a bridge
a person walking down a path on a sunny day

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need For This Road Trip?

We believe spending a minimum of 7 days would be needed to properly experience the entire stretch of coastline from San Francisco up to the redwood forests near the Oregon border. Allocating 10 days would provide even more flexibility.

With 3-5 days, we’d recommend residing in and around San Francisco and exploring the city doing a couple of day trips from San Francisco to places like Point Reyes, the Marin Headlands, and Muir Woods.

At the bottom of this guide, we offer example itineraries of 7 and 10 days to provide a starting point for crafting your own trip.

The Road Trip Route

Let’s talk about the route we’re recommending.

We’d strongly advise staying relatively close to the shoreline, and we think the most distinctive part of Northern California is the stretch from San Francisco north to the Oregon boundary.

You’ll encounter towering coastal redwoods, endless sandy beaches, wine country regions, and more within Northern California. It’s one of our favorite areas within Northern California, and the best part is that it’s basically accessible throughout the year.

There are more than a few places in Northern California that are inland that are worth a visit, for sure, but it’s a significantly long way from the coast to areas like Lassen, Yosemite, or Lake Tahoe.

With less than two weeks, we’d focus on the stretch between San Francisco and Redwood National and State Parks (basically the Oregon border).It will take you between 4 to 6 hours to drive from the coast to Yosemite or Tahoe, and it`s not worth the time and effort unless you have three weeks or more.

If you’re fortunate enough to have three weeks, we’d add on a weeklong trip to Tahoe and Yosemite, but that’s almost a completely different Northern California trip than the one we’re talking about here. We have details on how to add those two spots at the very end of this guide.

We would commence our trip by heading north up the coast along Highway 1, pausing at places near San Francisco for example the Marin Headlands, Mount Tamalpais, and Muir Woods.

Continue north along Highway 1 all the way to the Oregon border, where you will find some of the best redwood trees in the state, and then make your way back south to Mendocino.

From there, end your trip with some well-earned wine country relaxation. Travel inland from Mendocino through the Anderson Valley – our favorite wine region in California, sorry Napa – and hop on 101 to Healdsburg, which is a super charming little town in Sonoma for even more wine choices.

Return any rental vehicles (if used) and end with a day or two in San Francisco before heading home.

Here’s what that route appears in a graphical form.

As one is able to see, that trip would require 16 hours of driving (and with stops added, the duration would be even longer).

For that reason, if you only have 5-10 days, we’d focus on the stretch from SF to Mendocino, and reserve the northern redwoods for later, which cuts out about 8-9 of those hours. There are plenty of redwoods to be explored in and around Mendocino, don`t worry!

Do You Need a Car for This Road Trip?

Yes. Completely yes. There is genuinely no way to do this road trip without a car. Public transportation is basically nonexistent.

We do want to bring one consideration to your attention as you plan.

Finding a place to park your vehicle in San Francisco is very difficult. We say that you will end up spending money on parking one way or another, whether it’s using a parking structure or getting tickets for violating the various street restrictions and rules for street cleaning around the city.

If renting a vehicle, we strongly recommend either collecting it after your time in San Francisco or returning it before your stay in the city.

If that is not possible, our next recommendation is to leave your vehicle parked in a garage where you won`t need it in the city, as it will often end up restricting you more than helping you. Use public transportation or rideshares like Lyft to get around within the city.

Trust us – we resided there for nearly ten years and both of us opted to do without vehicles because parking was such a challenge.

11 Amazing Stops for Your Northern California Road Trip Itinerary

Now, let’s dive into our top picks for stops to include in your trip.

While the highlighted destinations in this guide represent our top selections, it is crucial to appreciate opportunities to discover other beloved spots not featured. Leave flexibility to explore independent favorites and deepen your engagement with the region!

A great example is the stretch along Highway 1 between Bodega Bay and Mendocino. Along the way, you’ll pass Jenner, Timber Cove, Gulala, and more. And they’re all amazing! But if I included literally ever stop, this guide would be five times as long.

Certain places – like the Marin Headlands – are best experienced as brief stops on your journey to your next overnight stay. For those spots, you’ll find additional details describing the area and our favorite activities and sights nearby.

Certain places – such as Mendocino – are worth overnighting (or longer), where you`ll find more extensive guidance on attractions, accommodations and things to do.

Some details regarding San Francisco are provided as the final destination of this itinerary, as we generally prefer having city time at the end of a road trip rather than the beginning for a more relaxing conclusion.

Important Note: These stops are listed in an order that could be encountered on a 7-10 day road trip looping from San Francisco to Trinidad and back. However, you may need to rearrange them depending on the details of your specific trip.

The Marin Headlands

a mountain range with mountains in the distance

Drive time from San Francisco International Airport: 40 minutes / 22 miles

The Marin Headlands are the region just across the Golden Gate Bridge, renowned for rolling hills and coastal bluffs which provide spectacular views of the bridge and ocean.

Spending half a day exploring is worthwhile, though there`s plenty to fill an entire day trip from San Francisco before beginning your road trip in earnest further north along the coastline.

Here are a few of our favorite stops.Β 

Battery Spencer and Battery Wagner: Two of the best locations for viewing the Golden Gate Bridge in the headlands area (though the peak of Hawk Hill is also an excellent choice), they`re close enough that one can walk between them. Be prepared, however, for difficulty finding parking.”

Kirby Cove: From Battery Wagner, walk along the trail to Kirby Cove, providing another excellent perspective of the bridge from waterside. There’s also a truly competitive campground down here that books months in advance like nearly every California site these days, but deserves consideration.

Point Bonita Lighthouse: Located on the southwestern-most tip of the headlands is Point Bonita, where visitors can find an intriguing lighthouse that requires crossing a narrow suspended walkway to access. The approximate one-mile roundtrip hike from the parking area to the lighthouse is predominantly level ground.

a view from the top of the stairs of a lighthouse

The Coastal Path / Miwok Loop: If you’re looking for a great, longer hike, head to Rodeo Beach (which merits a stop in its own right) and do this hike up to the heights overlooking the ocean, then down around the backside with a stop at an old tower with great views. For a shorter version that just focuses on the coastal views, this shorter route would be a good alternative.

a large body of water with mountains

What about Muir Woods? As we were developing this guide, we decided that we don’t think Muir Woods merits a stop for a couple of factors. One, the permitting system (you need an advance reservation these days) makes things more complex and time consuming. Two, it’s the most crowded redwood grove in California, so you’re not going to find the serenity and tranquility we relate to the redwoods. Last, you’re going to multiple FAR BETTER redwood groves further up the coast. So, with all that in mind, we’d skip it here. It’s a great, easily accessible choice for people not traveling further up the coast, but if you’re tailing this road trip, that’s not you!

Mount Tamalpais

a family posing for a picture with their dog

Drive time from the Marin Headlands: 30 minutes / 18 miles

Looking for a stop on the way to Point Reyes from San Francisco? We recommend pausing in Mt. Tamalpais State Park! Grab some coffee and take a brief hike to stretch your legs before continuing your drive.

We enjoy stopping at Equator Coffee for a quick coffee before a morning hike. There are in fact a couple places near Mt. Tamalpais – one along Highway 1, and one in the heart of Mill Valley – we like the beach shack along Highway 1, and it’s a lovely drive from there up to Mt. Tam.

We wouldn’t recommend staying the night here, but it’s a worthwhile stop on your way out of the city heading up the coast, and there are two hikes here worth taking.

  • Hike to the East Peak: There are two routes for accessing this hike. The brief version is a short 0.6 mile trek from the parking area that`s perfect for getting some fresh air and light exercise after sitting in the car. Wonderful views of the city and bay are rewarded! The longer approach is to park at the Mountain Home Inn along the Panoramic Highway and ascend to the East Peak from there, which is closer to four miles.”
  • Cataract Falls: The hiking route referred to as the Cataract Falls Trail is roughly 3.3 miles in length. Due to the stunning waterfall at the endpoint, visitor numbers can be substantial during peak periods or weekends, so prepare for crowds.

Point Reyes National Seashore

a large body of water with a beach next to it

Approximate travel time from Mt. Tamalpais to the Lighthouse: 1 hour and 15 minutes / 39 miles

Around 30 miles north of San Francisco, Point Reyes is a stunning peninsula that brings together wooded ridges and rolling hills. It’s a natural sanctuary with miles of gorgeous routes and hikes to be explored.

Things to Do at Point Reyes

a man standing on top of a rock with a camera

Hikes in Point Reyes: Here are three hikes in Point Reyes worth tackling while you’re in the area. If you’re searching for incredible coastal views, do the hike out to Tomales Point (it’s out and back, so you can simply stop and turn around when you’re ready to head back).

  • Alamere Falls (13 miles): Deep within the Phillip Burton Wilderness, you will encounter a magnificent 40-foot tall waterfall that spills onto the shore before flowing into the Pacific Ocean.
  • Tomales Point (9.7 miles): For a chance to see Tule Elk and sweeping coastal vistas.
  • Summit of Mt. Wittenberg(4.1 miles): Moderate hike including a decent elevation gain (1,299 ft.) and plentiful shade.

Cheese at Cowgirl Creamery:We`ve come this far without discussing cheese, but it`s time to do so! If you enjoy artisanal organic cheese, don`t miss Cowgirl Creamery. When you stop by, you`ll find more types of cheese than you were aware of, and each is more delicious than the last. Try their Mt. Tam – it`s a favorite for a good reason among both locals and visitors.

Sample Some Mead at Heidrun Meadery: Not very familiar with mead? It’s wine crafted from honey rather than grapes. Delicious, right? Heidrun Meadery is a former dairy farm that has been converted into a bee forage oasis with beautiful pastures, gardens, and a greenhouse. Heidrun Meadery produces unique Champagne-style mead that is light, dry, delicate, and refreshing.

Bovine Bakery: Bovine Bakery is a perfect stop after hiking to refuel. Or something. Make a visit here to sample the pastries – like their bear claws. They are Alysha’s favorite and we believe they’ll be yours too (NOT GLUTEN FREE!).

Shuck Your Own Oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co: Looking for a novel experience? At Hog Island Oyster Co., you can purchase oysters to open yourself! Even better, bring some wine (or mead!) and make a picnic of it.

Explore Limantour and Drakes Beaches:Point Reyes has multiple pleasant sandy shorelines for you to investigate – plan for fog by wearing some warm layers and you’ll be able to appreciate the natural beauty of this coast. Limantour Beach is a narrow beach where you can view wildlife while walking along the sand. Harbor seals often hang out just offshore and shorebirds feed along the beaches in the fall. Drakes Beach is located up against white sandstone cliffs and has a Visitors Center and a bookstore on site.

a person walking on a beach with a surfboard

Cypress Tree Tunnel: The Cypress Tree Tunnel features Monterey cypress trees planted in 1930 that now form a tunnel that can be driven through. It’s a brief stop to capture a few images on the way to or from another activity.

Explore the Lighthouse:Constructed in 1870, the Point Reyes Lighthouse was employed to forewarn maritime travelers of the Point Reyes cape during nighttime navigation. Retired since 1975 but remains a scenic destination for visitors. It can become windy and cool out near the lighthouse, so ensure you bring extra layers of clothing.

a lighthouse sitting on top of a lush green hillside

Where to Stay in Point Reyes

  • Finest Views: Principal (panoramic perspectives overlooking the town and of the Minster), Grays Court (some rooms afford close views of the Minster), Hilton (magnificent outlooks of the city walls), Queens Hotel (panoramas overlooking the River Ouse)
  • Rice Trotters: This fast-casual eatery offers a solid lunch option. They also do not use gluten in any dishes. You pick your base of either rice or salad then select your primary dish featuring flavors from global cuisines in different stews.

Mendocino & Fort Bragg

a man standing on a beach next to a body of water

Travel duration from Point Reyes Station: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes / 136 miles

Mendocino, on the Northern California coastline, is peak California coastal beauty. Highway 1 passes directly through the center of town, and on one side of the road you’ll find the towering redwood groves of Russian Gulch State Park, and on the other, a series of coastal bluffs with impressive oceanic panoramas.

In other words, it’s magical.Β 

The towns of Mendocino and Fort Bragg themselves are also fun.

Mendocino consists of at least 72% inns, however there are some nice spots to eat and drink in town, numerous fun shops ranging from plants to local art and home items, and there’s a beautiful headlands trail that leaves right from the edge of town.

Fort Bragg is significantly less picturesque, but don`t let that deter you from visiting. It offers many worthwhile attractions in its own right, and is arguably more lively than Mendocino thanks to breweries, coffee shops, and a more down-to-earth atmosphere.”

What to Do In and Around Mendocino and Fort Bragg

There’s a diverse variety of activities and sights to partake in and view in Mendocino, from wine sampling to coastal hiking, so you’ll need to carefully select and narrow down from the list below contingent on your interests.

Russian Gulch State Park: There are essentially two halves of this state park – the coastal half, where you’ll find an excellent trail according to an external link that takes you around the point and out onto the headlands, and the redwood section which is on the other side of the highway. We enjoy the brief four mile hike according to an external link to the waterfall, where an impressive 36-foot waterfall can be witnessed. This hike descends sharply down into a canyon surrounded by various types of ferns along the trail and towering redwoods overhead. There`s also a nice beach – Russian Gulch Beach – directly under the bridge that is worth stopping at. If you`re looking for a longer hike, the loop trail according to an external link takes you through the redwood forest, to the aforementioned waterfall, and back along a different fern-filled trail.

a dirt road leading to a body of water

Point Cabrillo: You`ll need to walk around half a mile to reach the red-roofed lighthouse overlooking this coastal area, but it`s worth the effort. Along the walk are some amusing informational signs that appear to keep kids engaged and interested. The lighthouse itself was constructed in 1909, and now runs automatically, meaning you can actually reside in the keepers quarters, a fun twist. On the ground floor of the lighthouse is a gift shop where you can find items like postcards and souvenirs. In spring and fall, this is a great place to spot gray whales from shore (in summer, coastal fog often makes seeing tricky most days).

a lighthouse in the middle of a grassy field

Ten Mile Beach: This Northern California beach offers more than just attractive sand and surf. The Ten Mile Beach is a nature reserve that is home to over 90 types of birds, seals, and river otters. It is located 10-15 minutes north of Fort Bragg, making the journey worthwhile.

Explore the Mendocino Headlands: Mendocino Headlands State Park is a 7,400-acre wildlife corridor of staggering seaside cliffs, panoramic views of the ocean, and beaches. Big River Beach is a popular spot for picnicking and surfing, but there are also many trails to walk and uncover. Here`s the main one, which we’ve trekked and enjoyed.

a large body of water with mountains

North Coast Brewing Co: Beer aficionados, we haven’t forgotten about you! North Coast Brewing Co serves barrel-aged brews, a menu of delicious fare with generous portions, and even has live Jazz during peak times.

Breakfast at the Good Life Cafe: Looking for a place to stop in for breakfast? Good Life Cafe serves fair-trade coffee, juice, and organic bites to eat with plenty of gluten free and vegetarian options. You can enjoy your breakfast on the outdoor patio or take it to go for a morning picnic on the beach.

Glass Beach: While you’re in Fort Bragg, make sure you check out Glass Beach, a beach covered in beautiful sea glass. Keep in mind it’s illegal to take any sea glass home with you, but it’s still worth a visit to this unique beach that was actually created due to years of dumping refuse near the coastline.

a woman sitting on a rock with a frisbee

Where to Stay in Mendocino

It is important to note that lodging in Mendocino tends to be very expensive, more so than average.

This recommends staying to the south of Mendocino along the scenic coast near the village of Little River, which offers equally beautiful scenery and commonly lower price accommodations.

Here are some good options both in and around Mendocino and down near Little River.

If you’re seeking lodging directly in the heart of Mendocino, we would suggest the Blue Door Inns, a contemporary hotel (much of the B&Bs in Mendocino appeal more to the `lived-in, antiquated` appeal, and this place has a decidedly more modern style) with 19 rooms spread across three properties in Mendocino.

Included with your accommodations are breakfast delivered to your room and an afternoon wine and cheese picnic. Of the three properties, the JD House and Packard House appeal most to us, which seem a little more relaxed and laid back.

If staying just outside of town doesn’t bother you, we’ve got two great options for you.

First is Mendocino Grove, which offers glamping at its finest (and has been on our list for years, but we’re always passing through in the winter on our annual Seattle to San Francisco road trip, which means they’re closed for the season).

The campground uses a layout of platform tents organized into small clusters with shared outdoor spaces between, with most tents sleeping two people and some accommodating four to six.

Some tent areas are dog-friendly, and each tent comes equipped with its own fire pit for roasting marshmallows. In common spaces, activities like bocce ball and hammocks are available for downtime when exploring isn`t happening.

There’s also a bathhouse for warm showers, which could be appealing if you like camping but not the dirty part afterward.

As two individuals who spent most of 2020 and 2021 on a never ending road outing around the Western US, we came to value shower accessibility as a key facility after several two week periods with no showers.

Another excellent option is the Brewery Gulch Inn, which is situated just south of town perched atop a bluff with splendid coastal perspectives.

It presents somewhat differently than most areas, with more communal spaces such as a dining hall and living room (featuring a wonderful four-sided fireplace!) comprising ten rooms constructed around those regions. Accommodations are spacious and comfortable, including seating zones and fireplaces. It’s costly (extremely expensive truly), but a novel take on a coastal inn.

We stayed in the area previously, and it’s a perfect blend of proximity to Mendocino, but very quiet at night (unless you count the roosters in the morning).

Our two selections here are the Seafoam Lodge, which has recently undergone renovations and offers both hotel-style rooms and standalone bungalows for visitors, and the Andiron Seaside Inn and Cabins, which presents a similar concept while situated on a farm.

Eureka

a car parked next to a wall with graffiti on it

Travel time from Mendocino: around 3 hours / 145 miles

On your way up to Trinidad, which we think should be your next overnight stop, you will pass through the town of Eureka, which is peak Humboldt County in our minds.

This location represents your last readily-accessible source for major amenities – there is a Costco (as well as a Costco gas station, offering among the most affordable fuel prices locally), a Safeway supermarket, and other similar facilities.

Additionally, when you visit Eureka, a few places you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Humboldt Cider Company: Excellent – and we truly, genuinely mean that – hard cider. We’d argue it’s some of the highest quality in California. We ensure we stop here each time we drive through the vicinity. They have a taproom in downtown Eureka, which we visited on our last trip and boasts an incredible selection of their ciders on tap (along with some local beers that are difficult to find elsewhere), and a cider garden up the hill outside of town, which is weekends only at the time of writing and has a fantastic outdoor area.

a woman sitting at a table with a cup of coffee
a bar that has a lot of tables in it

In our view, spending 3 days in Florence is a better amount of time. It’s enough to fully experience the major sites and even take a day trip elsewhere in wider Tuscany. If you haven’t already, check out our 3 day Florence itinerary.

The Dick Taylor Craft Chocolate business in Eureka is a delightful place for chocolate aficionados. It features a wide range of chocolates from around the globe alongside their own brand of chocolate, which visitors can watch being made through a window to the production facility located right in the tasting room. They also provide hot chocolate and drinking chocolate at the bar, though the chocolate chai drink stood out as the clear top choice for us (the sipping chocolate was also excellent, but that chocolate chai…so tasty). Plus, free samples are included!

a coffee cup sitting on top of a wooden table
a bottle of wine sitting on top of a wooden table

Remarkable Murals: Eureka is renowned as an artist`s haven, and walking around town confirms this fact. There`s a great gathering of street art situated in Eureka, mostly on the sides of buildings, and if you’re up for a brief stroll to stretch your legs, we`d suggest this independently guided tour of Eureka’s murals.

a painting of a car on the side of a building

Trinidad

a person sitting on a rock with a surfboard

The drive time from Eureka was approximately 25 minutes over 20 miles.

Although Trinidad is a small coastal town approximately 25 minutes from Eureka, there are plenty of activities available, like some of the finest beaches along the Northern California shoreline.

We think it’s a better home base for the Northern California coast than Eureka, too, because it’s approximately 30 minutes closer to the parks that make up the complex that is Redwood National and State Parks.

Here are some of our recommendations:

Trinidad State Beach: A worthwhile stop when combined with the above trail, this beach is walkable from the same trailhead and features nice sandy beaches with Oregon Coast-like attributes thanks to the many towering rock formations jutting out from the ocean just offshore. Pewetole Island is the largest and most impressive.

College Cove: This is a secluded stretch of beach just north of Trinidad State Beach with views of the tree-covered Pewetole Island. You must do a brief and simple little hike to get there, which significantly cuts the crowds compared to other nearby beaches. Dog friendly.

Sue-Meg State Park (Formerly Patrick’s Point State Park): This is a very small park (1 square mile) with tidepools and plenty of beautiful flora having a possibility to see seals, sea lions, and whales. It’s definitely worth hiking the rim trail, which takes you surrounding the exterior of the head where you’ll find numerous stunning views. Don’t miss the climb to the top of Wedding Rock, which was potentially our favorite view in the park.

a person standing on top of a dirt hill

a large rock sitting on top of a rocky cliff
a large rock sitting on top of a rocky beach

Moonstone Beach County Park: This location is popular among surfers and families since young children can play safely in the slow-moving river current.

The hike is brief and suitable for all ability levels, with amazing views as a rewardβ€”definitely worthwhile. It is important to note that the land is owned by the Makah Tribe, requiring a separate recreation permit.

a large body of water with mountainsa woman sitting on a bench overlooking a body of water

Where to Stay in Trinidad

We stayed at the View Crest Lodge in Trinidad, which is near the redwood forests and shoreline and offers charming rustic cabins for rent (we enjoyed our time there, as a matter of fact).

Rooms are roomy, some have full kitchens, which we appreciate because we’re usually cooking for ourselves, and our room had a deck with an ocean view.

Plus, we could hear the sea lions barking from our bed!

a woman standing in front of a window looking outa bed room with a white bedspread and pillows

We also considered the Emerald Forest Cabins, which are situated just north of the city of Trinidad and were our secondary choice.

Preference for a vacation rental, to have more space?

Connect here to see all your accommodations in Trinidad.

Redwood National & State Parks

a person walking down a path in the woods

Travel time by vehicle from Trinidad to Crescent City (furthest northern point): 1 hour 20 minutes / 60 miles

This section of the California shoreline has unique qualities. On our last outing where we were coming from an itinerary along the Oregon Coastline back to San Francisco, we were traveling along a stretch of 101 just south of the Oregon boundary, winding our way through the towering trees.

Typically, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks are visited together as they are merely 62 miles apart, allowing exploration of both scenic locations on a single trip.

In this less-visited (mostly because it’s somewhat difficult to access) part of Northern California, you’ll find towering redwoods that are several thousand years old that are tucked away just off the beautiful California coastline.

The property offers an overnight experience that is quite unique and well worth considering.

So specifically what areas are included under the designation of β€œRedwood National and State Parks?”

It’s a complex falling under the purview of the National Park Service, but incorporating a couple distinct California State Parks, like Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, among others.

These parks were brought under the NPS after activism by the Save the Redwoods League, who fought to preserve the best example of coastal redwoods in the state against the desire of logging companies.

It’s worth bearing in mind that these lands once belonged to Indigenous Americans in the past.

For thousands of years prior to the arrival of European settlers, several tribes in Northwest California considered this area their home, with both the Yurok and Tolowa peoples having ancestral lands within the park boundaries.

The British explorer named Jedidiah Smith, for whom one of the state`s parks is designated, was the first European to explore the northern coastline. A subsequent gold rush occurring in the 1850’s brought about conflict amongst the Indigenous tribes inhabiting the region, and led to the forced removal (and murder) of thousands of individuals so that the new arrivals could search peacefully for gold.

Not a great look, America.Β 

As you experience the natural splendors around you, remember this sentiment.

With all that stated, here are some worthwhile stops in Redwood National and State Parks.

Things to Do at Redwood National and State Parks

The reality is, you could probably spend a full two weeks exploring the Redwoods. But since we’re working through a full itinerary, we’ve compiled the best destinations below, at least according to our experience.

We recently spent a couple of days exploring the redwoods in this neck of the woods (see what we did there?) for basically the initial time, and it was breathtaking despite the pouring rain the whole time.

UPDATE 2022: We recently returned and can affirm it remains spectacular!

Fern Canyon: One of the most distinctive, picturesque spots in the redwoods, Fern Canyon is accurately its name: a small-scale valley blanketed in ferns. Note: 4WD / higher ground vehicles are preferred here – there’s a handful of areas in the road which will present somewhat of a challenge for a sedan. You can park at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground and hike around, connecting to the Fern Canyon Trail through the Miner’s Ridge trail, which is approximately a 7 mile hike.

a path that leads to a forest filled with plants

Big Lagoon: Perfect for water activities like sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, swimming, as well as camping.

Trillium Falls: A 2.6 mile long trail that loops through ancient redwood woods containing a scenic waterfall.

Howland Hill Route: 10 mile long dirt road where one can drive amidst the redwoods. Allow approximately one hour to take this scenic drive.

Stout Memorial Grove: A brief but breathtaking 0.9 mile loop along Howland Hill Road. Parts of Return of the Jedi and Jurassic Park: A Lost World were shot nearby – look out for ewoks!

a man walking through a forest filled with trees
a young boy standing on top of a wooden bench

Where to Stay at Redwood National and State Parks

There are also some remarkable camping areas here – like Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, a small campground situated on the coastline, and Elk Prairie Campground, which neighbors an open field where elk often congregate. These spots take reservations, but you will need to book ahead as they fill up extremely fast.

If you’re not camping, you’ll want to base yourself in Trinidad as your home location for exploring this area, because it offers the best selection of hotels and other amenities.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at the View Crest Lodge, where we stayed during our most recent trip. A nice house rental in Trinidad provides another suitable option.

Avenue of the Giants

a blue car is parked on the side of the road

The drive time from Trinidad to the northern extent of Avenue of the Giants is approximately one hour and 55 miles.

The Avenue of the Giants is a 31 mile scenic pathway that will take you through Humboldt Redwoods State Park along the original Highway 101. It displays the tremendous redwood forests of Northern California in their full grandeur.

After tackling Avenue of the Giants, it’s worth taking a little time to explore the rest of Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

Specifically, we greatly enjoyed the Bull Creek Westside Loop, which is a relatively straightforward three mile hike passing through forest floors cloaked in ferns, going under towering redwoods.

a wooden bench sitting in the middle of a forest

It’s a nice break from the drive, and gives you a chance to stretch your legs, see some gorgeous trees, and have a snack or lunch break (which is what we did here).

The Anderson Valley (Philo & Boonville)

a row of wooden benches in a grassy area

Travel time by vehicle from the southern end of the Avenue of the Giants: 2 hours 20 minutes / 124 miles

Through multiple visits now, we continue to debate whether Anderson Valley merits classification as California`s finest wine growing area, so impressed have we become during each trip.

It`s a valley situated between Highway 101 and the coastline, and as soon as you leave the highway and follow the winding road into the lowlands, you`ll start to see its appeal.

Giant oak trees smack in the center of vineyards. Rolling green (for at least three weeks a year these days) hills in the background with wineries scattered across the valley floor.

There are two β€œtowns” – and I use that term loosely because they’re more just a grouping of buildings along the road – Philo and Boonville. Boonville has more going on, and would be a nice place to stay, but the area surrounding Philo is undoubtedly in our opinion the best part of the Anderson Valley.

If possible, we’d strongly advise spending a night in the valley.

What to Do in the Anderson Valley

Below are some of our preferred attractions and sights to experience in this relatively hidden gem located in Northern California.

Wine Tasting in the Anderson Valley: If you enjoy wine, you`ll find plenty to sample at the local vineyards!

  • One of our preferred options is Navarro Vineyards near Philo, a family-operated vineyard that has been generating wines and grape juices since 1974. Their gewurztraminer and dry riesling are consistent selections in our household, and we always bring back a bottle or six for Penny, a family acquaintance who appreciates both of those wines.
  • We also admire Roederer Estate and Scharffenberger because sparkling beverages are exceptional. Both are recognized for bubbly wines, and Scharffenberger is more affordable for those aiming towards an economic spending level (which aligns with our tendencies). Obtaining a tasting of five differing sparkling wines give you a trial, and do not overlook the rose!

a row of wine glasses sitting on top of a table

Entrance fees and passes for parks. You’ll be needed to pay a charge when present in any of the national parks along this itinerary. You have two choices – obtaining a pass for the number of days it is necessitated for, or procuring a Discovery Pass, which provides access to all national parks in Canada for a full annual period. At a high level, the arithmetic for the Discovery Pass proves out if spending 7 days or additional in the parks ($10.50 per day, $72.25 for an annual pass) though there are some permutations regarding family passes that may alter the arithmetic in your precise instance. You can obtain both versions at the park entrance stations, or order in advance online.

a wooden path leading to a forest filled with trees

a tree in the middle of a forest
a wooden bench sitting in the middle of a forest

a wooded trail leading to a forest filled with trees

Boonville: At the eastern edge of the valley nearby Boonville, here are three attractions you should not overlook. Beer enthusiasts should visit Anderson Valley Brewing, who have a nice tasting room in town that is currently transforming into an outdoor β€œbeer park” complete with seating outside, an 18 hole disc golf course, and a small music venue. Pretty interesting! Second is Pennyroyal Farm, which serves wine but is really a stop to see the goat cheeses and partake in a farm visit. It’s a genuine operational farm, which means there’s lots of outdoor space and farm animals. Last, but not least, is Disco Ranch, a hip wine bar in the heart of Boonville known for featuring a wide array of local and international wines for you to sample. They’re served alongside snacks like canned fish and cheese platters, which creates an enjoyable experience! We heard about this place from a friendly tasting room associate, and she highly, highly recommended stopping by if you love wine.

Apples and Cider: We favor local hard ciders over wine in this region, as the valley has been a leader in apple cultivation for over a century. Gowan`s operates one of the oldest orchards, with a roadside stand brimming with seasonal apples and their homegrown ciders that we enjoy sampling. On a past visit, my mother-in-law tried half a dozen varieties herself. You can either purchase individual glasses or a flight of six. Their `tasting area` couldn`t be more laid back – just some chairs amidst century-old trees. Another farm runs a small market selling preserves and freshly pressed juices along the route to Hendy Woods as well.”

a woman sitting on a bench in a park

The Bewildered Pig: There`s not much in terms of eating and drinking establishments around here, but The Bewildered Pig is our preferred option – we went there for my birthday several years ago, and it was excellent. It offers elaborate tasting menus but remains reasonably priced (and the cuisine doesn`t feel overly elaborate, if you understand what I mean). It`s 10-15 minutes west of Philo, towards the coast.

Where to Stay in the Anderson Valley

Unfortunately, there aren’t a whole lot of places to stay in the Anderson Valley. It’s pastoral, which means no big chain hotels (which to be honest, is not a bad thing at all). There are three places that stand out in our minds.Β 

The Apple Farm: This location allows individuals to reside within an apple orchard. Staying here would undoubtedly be an engaging experience that is difficult to forget. They offer a selection of accommodations – some cozy, some more spacious – directly amidst their apple trees. It is best to make a reservation well in advance, if possible. They additionally conduct a fun β€œstay & cook” experience, but it is presently unavailable.

The Indian Creek Inn: Comparably fresh and in an excellent spot in the valley, this represents a nice place to pass a night. They have 15 spaces, each with access to a shared kitchen (which we appreciate, since we often prepare our own meals on the road). It`s set back from the roadway, so you`ll have the ability to immerse yourself in the tranquility and calm that comes with the valley. No TVs in the rooms, which we believe is a good thing, but some may disagree.

The Madrones: This setting is akin to an estate directly out of Italy in architectural style and general atmosphere. The location is superb – within walking distance of a couple places (including Scharffenberger, if you’re up for a brief roadside stroll). It comprises part hotel-style rooms, part standalone cabins (dubbed β€œthe Brambles”), and would offer a magnificent accommodating base (though they do necessitate a two night stay, in some cases).

Healdsburg & Sonoma Wine Country

a field filled with lots of green and yellow flowers

Travel time from the Anderson Valley: 1 hour / 50 miles

It`s true that many who visit San Francisco want to experience Napa Valley due to its reputation for quality wine production.

While technically that might be accurate – Napa is renowned for its bold, oak-influenced reds and Chardonnay – it’s also the most expensive and complex, with reservations necessary almost everywhere and tastings that cost $40 for three small portions. And that’s before you even get to the $400 per night hotel room you’ll need to book!

We`ve visited Napa multiple times previously, but we`d propose Sonoma – specifically the Dry Creek Valley around Healdsburg – as a preferable alternative.

Healdsburg itself is a charming little town with good cuisine and tasting rooms around the main square. Just outside of Healdsburg, you’ll find a plethora of smaller wineries who are serving some of the less famous varietals – pinot noir and sauvignon blanc, for example – at a much more affordable price.

The central point is, Healdsburg, far and away, is our most loved wine country stop in California

Things to Do in Healdsburg

Evaluating local wines: Let me put it this way – while touring Healdsburg, you likely won`t run out of tasting rooms within the city or nearby Dry Creek Valley region. There exist an almost limitless number of spots to select from. Some favorites of ours include the following. Wine tasting costs are less than half of those just a few miles to the east in the most renowned wine district in the United States, Napa Valley. Plan on paying $15-$20 to sample 5-6 wines, and don`t hesitate to share tastings between two people (that is generally what we do).

  • Bansheeis our favorite tasting room where we went. We served their rose at our wedding ceremony!
  • On my initial trip, I was working with a limited budget while traveling together with my younger brother. We stayed at the Clink Hostel, situated across the water from the core of Amsterdam. We enjoyed our time there, but it was somewhat less convenient due to needing the ferry into the city center.

  • The Truett Hurstwinery has an excellent Gewurztraminer and a wonderful patio. We have visited there multiple times, including once with my mom, and she still talks about her experience there.

Here are some other spots worth visiting in Healdsburg beyond the numerous tasting rooms of local wineries.

Acquire Some Picnic Provisions: Can you tell we enjoy a good picnic? Stop by Oakville Grocery or Dry Creek General Store to choose up some supplies and locate a nice place to stop for a picnic in between wineries (or at one of the wineries you stop at – most allow it).

Noble Folk for Ice Cream: Desiring ice cream? You can`t fail at Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar. It doesn`t only feature ice cream and pie (though that suffices), but also cookie sandwiches, cupcakes, and French macarons. (Not GF).

Flying Goat for Coffee: Our favorite cafe in Healdsburg is Flying Goat for a great cup of coffee.

Tilted Shed Ciderworks: If you want a break from wine tasting, we highly recommend Tilted Shed Ciderworks. Their primary focus is on vintage ciders and they use freshly harvested apples for their small-batch ciders. When we stop by we always pick up a couple extra bottles to take with us.

Where to Stay in Healdsburg

Generally, residing in wine country is costly. Healdsburg is notably less expensive than Napa, which is partially why we have you stopping here instead.

Here are three potential lodging options for you that are centrally located downtown and perfectly situated for exploring the city over an afternoon period.

  • Hotel Healdsburg: An appealing hotel situated right in the core of all the action in Healdsburg. Just outside your entrance, you’ll discover tasting areas, restaurants, and more. It’s a fantastic place to stay, particularly on a brief trip.
  • Retreats at Healdsburg: Appreciate your very own private cabin in Healdsburg, complete with a small deck to enjoy your morning cup of coffee or afternoon glass of wine (why not both?).
  • H2 Hotel: Contemporary hotel with every amenity you could imagine. It’s just a block or two south of the main square. We’ve gotten drinks at the bar in the lobby, and dreamed about staying here next time we’re in Healdsburg.

San Francisco, CA

people riding on the back of a tour bus

Travel period from Healdsburg to downtown San Francisco: 1 hour 30 minutes / 70 miles

No Northern California itinerary is complete without including San Francisco, the city where flights will arrive and likely depart. With its renowned cuisine, architectural highlights, and unique atmosphere, everyone should experience this locale

We`ve placed it at the end of the itinerary since we like having a day or two in the city to relax before heading home after road trips. However, it`s easy to flip it around and start here after landing.

Having lived in San Francisco for a decade, we have strong views on what travelers to the city should experience and avoid. More importantly, what activities and sights they should steer clear of.

Here are some additional San Francisco travel guides to deepen your exploration of one our world`s most cherished cities, aiding formulation of an incredible trip to the bay city.

What to Do in San Francisco

a city street with tall buildings and a clock tower

Explore an iconic transportation hub and marketplace in San Francisco: The Ferry Building is a terminal for ferries and a landmark. Inside the Ferry Building Marketplace, you’ll find farmers markets on specific weekdays, along with food and local shops. Heath Ceramics offers simple, timeless ceramic pieces. If you’re craving something sweet, we recommend Dandelion Chocolate or Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream. Of course, we can’t forget the coffee! Stop by Blue Bottle Coffee to grab a cup of their specialty coffee to sip as you wander.

Cross the renowned Golden Gate Bridge on foot: You can`t tour San Francisco without checking out the iconic Golden Gate Bridge! Seeing it from afar is great, yet walking over it is even better. It encompasses around 1.7 miles each way, requiring approximately an hour to complete the return trip. Be sure to verify the conditions beforehand and pack multiple layers since fog, chilliness, and gusts characterize roughly 50% of the occasions.

Experiencing the eats and drinks of the Mission District: The Mission District offers a bounty of dining and drinking options to sample. Those seeking beer can make their way to Zeitgeist, a renowned beer garden with an outdoor patio for relaxing with beer, cider or wine. ForThose in search of sustenance can head to Burma Love and immerse themselves in Burmese cuisine replete with gluten-free selections, or venture to Little Star Pizza to savor some of San Francisco`s finest pizza (though not at all gluten-free, we should note).

Hike the Lands End Trail: This 3.4 mile hike presents coastal scenery, beautiful views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge, and removes you from the city for a bit of fresh air. It can become rather busy on weekends, though, something to note. More info here.

Explore Golden Gate Park: On the western edge of San Francisco, you’ll discover Golden Gate Park which spreads over 1,000 acres and essentially stretches all the way to the coastline. We recommend the California Academy of Sciences Museum, which represents one of the largest museums of natural history in the world. The De Young Museum is perfect for art enthusiasts and you can’t forget to visit the Buffalo Paddock which has been home to small herds of bison since 1899.

Picnic at Dolores Park: Pack up a blanket, some food, and head to Dolores Park for a picnic. You’ll enjoy the San Francisco skyline while relaxing and getting some fresh air. Don’t miss Bi-Rite Ice Cream, which is just across the street!

a man standing on top of a lush green field

Where to Stay in San Francisco

As you will just be in San Francisco for a night or possibly two nights, we would advise staying as centrally located as possible. For most travelers, that means the Nob Hill neighborhood (which has more charm) or the Union Square area (which is more centrally located and conveniently connected through transportation, but with less charm).

We stayed at the Petite Auberge hotel in the Nob Hill neighborhood, which is a small French-style bed and breakfast located in a prime area with a delightful complimentary breakfast and happy hour each day (you may also want to consider their sister hotel the White Swan Inn a brief walk away, which we are eager to stay at soon!).

a bedroom with a large bed and a large window

We also feel strong affection for the CitizenM Hotel situated in Union Square, which is a completely new hotel from our most loved hotel chain on the planet (you can read about our stay in their Seattle hotel to understand why we claim that). The rooms provide a level of comfort comparable to any hotel room we`ve remained in, and are flawlessly designed for a good night`s sleep.

The rooms at the hotel are small in size, but the staff have chosen to provide larger communal spaces on the ground floor like a living room area where guests can socialize more comfortably than being alone in their rooms.

One caveat: All rooms come with one king bed (no two-bed options), so this might not be the best option for families with small children who want to be in the same room.

Whatever activities you engage in, avoid remaining lodged in Fisherman’s Wharf! It’s the least compelling region of the city, and it’s persistently packed with travelers. It lacks the charm held by the rest of the location, and we’d scarcely recommend even visiting, let alone dwelling there.

Putting it Together: Sample Northern California Coast Itineraries

Now that we’ve covered our top stops, let’s talk about how to put it all together. We’re going to give you a 7 and 10 day version of an itinerary that you can use as a base for planning your own trip.

A note on San Francisco: Our preference is having San Francisco as the final destination of your trip because we enjoy having a relaxing city stay at the end following extensive driving durations. You may prefer starting your journey with a day or two in San Francisco, but it ultimately depends on personalized inclination.

7 Days in Northern California

With a seven day trip planned for Northern California, we could experience the coastline stretching from San Francisco to Mendocino, and spend a couple nights wine tasting in the vineyards before ending with one day exploring San Francisco prior to your flight home.

In this iteration, wine tasting experiences are prioritized over exploring Redwood National and State Parks.

  • Day 1: Leave San Francisco, Marin Headlands, and drive to Point Reyes
  • Day 2: Exploring Point Reyes and driving to Mendocino
  • Day 3: MendocinoΒ 
  • Day 4: Drive through Anderson Valley to Healdsburg
  • Day 5: Experiencing Wine Tasting in Healdsburg
  • Day 6: Travel from Healdsburg to San Francisco
  • Day 7: Exploring San Francisco and Departing Home

10 Days in Northern California

With a time period of 10 days, you can comfortably visit both the redwood forests as well as the wine region. In this plan, you’ll have quite a long drive back down to Healdsburg from Trinidad, but we think the excursion is worthwhile.

  • Day 1: Leave San Francisco, Marin Headlands, and drive to Point Reyes
  • Day 2: Exploring Point Reyes and driving to Mendocino
  • Day 3: Visiting Mendocino & Fort Bragg
  • Day 4: Day Excursion to the Anderson Valley from Mendocino
  • Day 5: Drive Mendocino to Trinidad (stop in Eureka)
  • Day 6: Trinidad & Redwood National and State Parks
  • Day 7: Drive to Healdsburg
  • Day 8: Sampling Wine Tasting in Healdsburg
  • Day 9: Journey from Healdsburg to San Francisco
  • Day 10: Explore San Francisco and Journey Home
a wooden bench sitting in the middle of a forest

a young boy standing on top of a wooden bench

Adding Lassen and Lake Tahoe (3 Weeks or More!)

If you’re lucky enough to have three weeks, we’d add on a weeklong trip to Lassen National Park and Lake Tahoe.

It will take some time by road, but spending a couple days exploring Lassen and 3-4 days enjoying the amenities of Lake Tahoe would make for a lovely conclusion to the trip showcasing two very different scenic sides to Northern California.

The benefit of this version of the itinerary is that you do not have to return to San Francisco to fly home. We would fly out of Reno if concluding your trip in Lake Tahoe. That means you will need to spend a day or two in San Francisco (if wanting to see it) at the beginning of your trip.

Another thing to be aware of here is that this route is really only feasible from late spring to fall. Otherwise, you’re going to encounter road closures and snow and ice on mountain passes.

Here is a suggested itinerary spanning 3 weeks that includes visits to Lassen and Lake Tahoe.

  • Days 1-3: San Francisco & Day Trip to scenic Marin Headlands
  • Days 4-5: Point Reyes
  • Days 6-7: Healdsburg and Sonoma County Wine Country
  • Days 8-10: Mendocino & Anderson Valley
  • Days 11-13: Trinidad + Redwood National + State Parks
  • Period of time spanning day fourteen to sixteen: Lassen National Park (includes a driving day)
  • Days 17-21: Lake Tahoe

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Estimated driving time from Trinidad: 3 hours 45 minutes / 197 miles

a body of water with rocks and a waterfall

If we are asked, Lassen National Park is highly underrated! But that could be because of the incredible National Parks in California, like Yosemite and Death Valley.

Don’t overlook Lassen with its steaming fumaroles (openings near a volcano where hot sulfurous gasses escape) and crystal clear lakes. Bumpass Hell is the largest hydrothermal area in Lassen, with foul-smelling pools of mud pots, boiling springs, and bright turquoise pools. It’s a short hike along a boardwalk that is suitable for all ages.

Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Some of our most enjoyed pursuits in Lassen included the following.

Popular trails in Lassen Volcanic National Park: The park offers many options for hiking, but two routes we especially enjoy are:

  • Cinder Cone (4 miles): This challenging path leads up to the summit of Cinder Cone Volcano, rewarding hikers with breathtaking scenic views. While each step up through the ash deposits is roughly offset by sliding back down the loose surface, the gradual incline makes the trek more taxing than anticipated.
  • Lassen Peak(5 miles): This route takes you to the top of Lassen Peak and starts at the parking area around 8,500 ft in elevation and ending at about 10,500 ft with spectacular views at the summit.
  • Kings Creek Falls Trail (2.7 miles): Moderate, mostly forest route with a stunning waterfall at the end.

Take a Dip in One of Lassen’s Lakes: Find an opportunity to cool off with a swim or set up a lunchtime picnic at one of the nearby lakes.

a lake with mountains and a mountain range

  • Lake Helen: Sparkling blue glacial lake located at approximately 8,200 ft in elevation just south of Lassen Peak for a wonderful view while relaxing by the water.
  • Summit Lake: Smaller lake ideal for swimming with two campgrounds for those seeking to camp.
  • Manzanita Lake: Numerous activities available like swimming and kayaking. You can even camp or rent a cabin for those who want to remain.

Where to Stay in Lassen National Park

Camping will likely be your best option for lodging inside the park. Here is a helpful resource for finding the perfect camping spot. We stayed at Manzanita Lake campground, and it was a stunning area set around a wonderfully scenic lake.

If camping isn’t your preferred outdoor lodging activity (or you didn’t bring the necessary camping gear), then consider staying in Mill Creek, which is located approximately thirty minutes south of the national park. Highlands Ranch Resort is a ideal choice, with their comfortable accommodations and spacious family suites that can house nearly any group size.

Lake Tahoe

Travel time from Lassen: 3 hours 20 minutes / 185 miles

We MUCH prefer the lake’s western side (the California side) to the eastern side, the Nevada side. The stretch between Truckee and Emerald Bay State Park is our favorite location and is where we became engaged!

That’s where we recommend you spend your time.

Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe

a man sitting on a rock near the ocean

There are plenty of hikes to choose from in Lake Tahoe, but we wanted to share a few of our preferred options.

Echo Lakes (5.3 miles): Sun-drenched trail in South Lake Tahoe offering beautiful vistas as you hike up to Echo Lakes.

Eagle Lake (2.4 miles): A reasonably short hike rated as moderate difficulty, best undertaken from May through September due to snow and ice cover at other times.

Rubicon Trail (9 miles): the hike along Lake Tahoe`s shore features magnificent perspectives of the lake. The preferred route involves trekking from Emerald Bay to D.L. Bliss State Park then returning to avoid the overcrowded parking at D.L. Bliss (though Emerald Bay`s lots aren`t much better).

Mount Tallac(10.9 miles): More challenging hike with a 3,300 ft elevation gain and a fairly consistent uphill climb. The views are spectacular!

a woman sitting on a rock looking at the water

Other Things to Do in Tahoe

In addition to hiking, Lake Tahoe offers many activities for adventure lovers.

Emerald Bay State Park: With numerous hiking routes and scenic overlooks, Emerald Bay State Park is strongly recommended when you’re in Tahoe. Even if you simply head here for the gorgeous sunrise panoramas over the lake, it’s entirely worthwhile.

Ziplining at Tahoe Treetops Adventure Park: Searching for a bit more thrill and adrenaline? Head over to the Tahoe Treetops Adventure Park where there are a total of 10 courses for beginners through advanced. If you prefer to exert less effort, you can also just do a zip line tour without the obstacles.

Rent water vessels: Explore Lake Tahoe using rented watercraft! Many locations offer kayak rentals, and some companies provide guided kayaking excursions on the lake as well. We advise considering either Tahoe Adventure Company or Clearly Tahoe.

Explore Truckee: Truckee is a compact, historic town just north of the California side of Lake Tahoe. It’s a great location to stop on your way in or out of Tahoe. Here are our proposed stops if you want to spend an hour or two acquiring a coffee or a beer and investigating.

  • Coffeebar: Described as an β€œinclusive Italian cafe experience for all,” how could you go wrong grabbing a coffee here?
  • Alibi Ale Works: Craft brewery with imaginative food and live music.
  • Word After Word Bookstore: Great little local bookstore with a cool downstairs reading area worth stopping by.

Relish the Shorelines: The beaches shouldn`t be overlooked! Tahoe has some truly spectacular shorelines, below are our recommendations with most located on the north side.

D.L. Bliss State Park: Situated on the western (California) side of Lake Tahoe this shore is spectacular and commonly filled by mid-morning during the busy summer months. It also features the Rubicon Point Light, the highest elevation lighthouse in the US.

King’s Beach: Spacious sandy coastline with picnic tables and pine trees.

Secret Cove: Quiet to miss from the road and needing a little work to arrive, but completely worthwhile with a small cove of bright emerald waters.

Sand Harbor: Pleasant beach with rock structures and an easy walking trail.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

If you weren`t already aware, Lake Tahoe is enormous, so choosing where to stay will certainly impact your trip experience.

In general, there are three major areas.

First is the area known as the West Shore, which is where we usually reside because it’s a convenient location between South Lake and North Lake Tahoe. There are many remarkable lodgings on Airbnb on the West Shore (like this one). If you prefer a hotel, look at Basecamp Tahoe City, which is modern, affordable, and a great starting point for exploring Tahoe.

Following that is South Lake Tahoe, which has the most commercial development. It’s near Heavenly Ski Resort and the casinos on the Nevada side. You can find the ideal Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe here, or look at Basecamp Tahoe South, the sister hotel to the one in Tahoe City.

The North side of Lake Tahoe includes both Incline Village and Truckee. We’d recommend staying near Incline Village and Kings Beach rather than Truckee, which is a little bit further from the lake. This is the closest part of the lake to Reno, which is where you’ll be flying out of. Airbnb is going to be your best bet in this area.

When to Do This Northern California Road Trip

Part of the rationale behind crafting a guide to this specific road trip was the fact that it remains largely accessible throughout the year. For instance, a modified form of this was undertaken in February, and while a bit damp in places, it was mainly pleasurable and accessible (and incredibly tranquil, which was appreciated).

If your road trip includes additional stops further inland, such as Lake Tahoe, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Yosemite, you’re likely to encounter locations that are only accessible somewhere between June through October usually.

This coastal road trip is accessible year round, with the notable exception of the early summer, when β€œJune Gloom” sets in and the coast is shrouded in thick coastal fog most days.

It’s unintuitive for most individuals, but spring and autumn are far and away the best times to embark on this road excursion.

Spring brings wildflowers, slightly warmer temperatures, and blooming plants and trees of many kinds up and down the coast.

Fall is the best season weather-wise, and you’ll experience the magic of September and October in Northern California, which are warm and sunny almost without exception.

Winter ushers in tempestuous climate, with crashing waves lapping the numerous beaches spanning this itinerary, which could be seen as an asset, contingent on individual interests. It’s the perfect environment for igniting the hearth in one`s lodging and unwinding by the flames with an engaging book or catching up on a show, venturing outside amid interruptions in the weather to do some exploring. All in all, we’re fortunate, and the weather in winter really isn’t that unsatisfactory after all.

Where to Start and End Your Road Trip

The plane provides travelers with the most options for visiting St. Croix for a day trip or, ideally, even longer. Ultimately, the experience of traveling by seaplane might be the highlight of your entire trip to the USVIs!

Flying Into Northern California

If flying in to start your road trip, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a convenient starting and ending point for your loop up the coast and back down through the wine region. You`ll make one large circuit.”

Travelers could also arrive at Oakland International Airport (OAK), but fewer flight routes are accessible. Examine both to review alternatives and pricing – they`re roughly equal distance from San Francisco (a slight advantage goes to SFO)

We will say that Oakland is a much less stressful option, with less fog (meaning fewer delays) and fewer people.

Be sure to book the earliest flight into SFO, and the latest flight out on the way home to give yourself as much time as possible on your road trip.

Whatever you do, don’t fly into San Jose (SJC), which is about two hours south of San Francisco, and will add a bunch of unnecessary driving time.

Flying Out

If you only have a brief amount of time, such as 7-14 days, it really does not make logical sense to travel as far east as Tahoe.

Instead, a Northern California coastal road trip looping up then back down through wine country is recommended. In that scenario, you`d want to fly into and out of the same airport (book a roundtrip flight).

If you have over two weeks and you’re including Lake Tahoe, the most convenient place to depart from is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO).

It`s approximately an hour`s travel from both the South Lake and West Shore regions, somewhat nearer to Truckee and Incline Village at the north end of the lake.

To do that, you’ll need to book a one-way car rental, which will be more expensive but completely worth it to avoid the 4-6 hour trip from Lake Tahoe to SFO.


That’s all folks!

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about me

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

Join us on our journey!

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