San Francisco has some of the most breath-taking day trip options in the United States that include the most majestic national parks to incredibly scenic coastal highways with gorgeous beaches, lakes and forests.

For those looking to spend quality time with the family, San Francisco is one of the best places to be with some great choices that’s fun for everybody.

Today, let’s explore some of those choices that are brilliant irrespective of whether you are a tourist or a local resident of the great city.

Our picks are family friendly, kid friendly and good for older folks as well.

Before we start, a quick note that you should choose the day trip based on the season as some attractions may be closed or not kid-friendly during winter.

Also, there are plenty of private as well as group tours available that are carefully curated to show you the best of each place within a day. These are ideal for tourists and visitors to San Francisco as that way you will not have to worry about transportation and planning out the day for the family.

Top 6 Best Family Day Trips from San Francisco Bay Area

Yosemite National Park with Giant Sequoias

One of the most famous and popular National Parks in all of United States, Yosemite National Park is only about 170 miles from San Francisco.

Although it takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach Yosemite National Park, it is possible to visit the place for a day trip.

There are organized tours that cover the best of Yosemite and make it a fun-filled day for the entire family.

If you have not been to Yosemite National Park before, this should be on top of your list as far as day trips from San Francisco is concerned.

The park has so much to offer that a lot of people prefer spending at least 2 to 3 days exploring the incredible sights, sounds, wildlife and natural wonders of the place.

Of course if you do visit Yosemite National Park, you must check out the giant sequoias trees that are a living wonder of the world.

These ancient trees, especially at the Mariposa Grove are some of the largest and oldest trees you will find anywhere in the world.

If visiting on your own and not part of a guided tour, it is advisable to check out the Yosemite National Park visitor center to get an idea of what to expect at the park including dining and restroom options.

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Muir Woods & Sausalito

Just north of San Francisco, only 17 miles away is the breath-taking Muir Woods National Monument.

The most famous residents of the park, the incredibly tall redwood trees with an average age of 600+ years, is a must-see for all.

The great thing about spending a day at Muir Woods is the fact that you are within some of the richest flora and fauna in the United States and at the same time, so close to the city with gorgeous views of San Francisco skyline.

Quite near to Muir Woods, is the artistic town of Sausalito. You should combine a visit to Muir Woods with Sausalito to make the most of your day with your family.

Sausalito is famous for its beautiful waterfront, superb views of San Francisco along with great dining options and things to do for the entire family.

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Silicon Valley Tour

I know what you are probably thinking right now. How is checking out a bunch of tech offices a fun family day trip?

Silicon Valley is of course much more than home to some of the biggest tech companies in the world. It is a place of innovation, where ideas come to life and the best minds of the country work together to build ground-breaking technology.

Spending a day and checking out what Silicon Valley has to offer helps you learn so much about the history and growth of San Francisco itself.

It is also a place to inspire kids and reinforce in them the idea of following their dreams.

Silicon Valley is about 39 miles from San Francisco and there are a number of group as well as private tours showing you the best of the region.

Remember, Silicon Valley is an entire region comprising of multiple cities. It is not simply an industrial hub or office complex.

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17 Mile Drive

The 17 Mile Drive is a popular day trip from San Francisco as it takes you through the absolute best of California’s coastline with superb scenic views, the stunning Pebble Beach and most famous golf courses.

There are a number of stops where you can have a lovely time on this iconic route and honestly, the coastal landscape is something that is just too gorgeous to describe in words. You just have to experience it for yourself.

Note that this is a paid toll route and hence you do need to pay an admission fee of about $11.25 for your car.

If you are on a tour, your tour cost will include the per person rate for tourist buses and vans to enter the 17 Mile Drive.

I do highly recommend going on the 17 Mile Drive day trip as it is one of the best ways to explore the surrounding areas of San Francisco and at the same time, experience the charming beauty of coastal California.

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Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe Family Day Trip from San Francisco

Located about 200 miles from San Francisco is the grand Lake Tahoe. This is another extremely popular destination for those looking for the perfect day trip or overnight stay.

Each side of this majestic lake has a story and a number of places to explore. The scenic views are also different based on which side of the lake you are on. Emerald Bay on the southwest of the lake seems to be a popular place with tourists as are the north and south shores.

Lake Tahoe is perfect for all kinds of travelers from those looking for more action like skiing, swimming, hiking or those looking for a nice quiet time admiring the magnificent views while checking out the best sightseeing spots around the lake.

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Avenue of the Giants – Redwoods National Park

Avenue of the Giants is located 225 miles from San Francisco and is totally worth the long drive.

This famous 32 mile highway runs through the Redwoods National Park and offers incredible views, flora and fauna and things to do on the way. Of course it is most famous for some of the largest and oldest Redwood trees in the world.

The trees are so huge that for a nominal fee, you can actually drive through one of them. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience.

The actual Avenue of the Giants highway drive will take you two and half hours as you go through some of the most breath-taking views in California. So with the drive from San Francisco, do keep in mind that this would be a full day trip.

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Final thoughts

San Francisco is blessed to be surrounded by such incredible natural wonders that you will need several trips to the city to cover just half of what it has to offer.

Based on the season, choose the day trip that appeals most to you and no matter which trip you choose, you will have a wonderful time.