We love Stinson Beach which is 30-45 minutes from the hotel and where we got our engagement pictures done! There are a ton of hiking trails up Mt Tam, kayaking, biking, and a couple of cute restaurants. You can also see redwoods on the way there. Just the drive is worth it.
Pt. Reyes National Seashore is only 30 minutes from our house. In December you might even be able to catch some elephant seals in their breeding grounds. There are also a ton of hiking trails and a cool light house. Pt. reyes has some of the most beautiful beaches near San Francisco. The town of Pt. Reyes Station has some good restaurants and Cowgirl Creamery.
Sausalito is just 20 minutes from the hotel. From there you can shop, go to a ton of seafood restaurants and visit one of our favorite tasting rooms, Madrigal. The manager Patricia is the best. You can also take the ferry from Sausalito to San Francisco.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area has a ton of hiking and scenic overlooks, just 20 minutes from our house.
Great redwoods and an easy, flat hiking trail. Need to prebook parking if you want to go.
One of the most popular breweries in CA, just 15 mins from our house.
Closest place to catch the ferry to San Francisco.
Sonoma is the closest wine region to our house. With more affordable wineries than Napa, a friendlier feel and a very cool downtown, it is a must go.
Only 30 mins-1 hr depending on which wineries you want to go to, Napa Valley is one of our favorite destinations. Wineries we like: Madrigal Chimney Rock Cuvaison Justin Phelps Domaine Carneros Artesa Darioush Hall Rutherford Hill Quintessa (do the ATV tour) Stag's Leap For Lunch: Oakville Grocers Palisades Deli Buster's BBQ Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch
The famous home of Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger.