Berkeley has so many beautiful places to visit and offers so many things to do, but every so often I find myself needing a getaway that’s a little further away. Whenever I do, I try to pick somewhere that is close enough for a quick day trip but still feels far away enough to change up the pace of my everyday life. If that sounds like your cup of tea, you’re going to love this list of weekend day trip ideas!
Marin County
A Bay Area classic, Marin County is home to beautifully scenic hiking trails and viewpoints. Its natural beauty is truly something to behold and is guaranteed to take your breath away — or maybe be a breath of fresh air. It’s also home to a variety of cute coffee shops and brunch spots that you can stop by on your way.
Stinson Beach
In the warmer months, Stinson is lovely to make a trip to for a day, tanning and hanging out in the sun. However, even when it starts to cool down, it’s the perfect spot for a bundled up beach picnic or to enjoy a pretty sunset in the evening before dinner.
Walnut Creek
I went for brunch and shopping in Walnut Creek recently, and I had the time of my life. There are a collection of lovely shops and so many restaurants to choose from, and my friends and I had so much fun walking around the outdoor shopping district. I love to be able to shop while still spending time walking outdoors instead of cooped up in an indoor shopping mall, which can feel claustrophobic to me.
Mount Diablo
This beautiful mountain has hiking trails galore and some of the best views around. The sunsets are absolutely beautiful here, and you can even make a stop at the summit visitor center and observation deck. Spend a day hiking the various trails, and then stop to watch the sunset as the conclusion of the perfect weekend day.
Hopefully, these ideas will give you something to look forward to the next time you feel like you need a day trip getaway, or maybe they will inspire you to explore other places around the Bay Area. Whichever way you choose, here’s to happy weekend day-tripping for all!
