Top Romantic Weekend Getaways Outside San Francisco

Head north and drive on the Royal Road, Highway 101, a scenic route from the Golden Gate Bridge toward the seafaring town of Muir Beach. On your left, the Pacific coastal route veers into breathtaking terrain lined with California coastal hiking and biking trails. Spend the better half of your day climbing one of the many trails, and then reward the calorie-busting workout by picnicking on Muir beach with sand between your toes. The humble Pelican Inn is the perfect place to cap off your adventures for the night. The cozy, stone-lit retreat is a local wedding venue favorite, making it enchanting for lovers, or those with a taste for legend and adventure. The Pelican was the name of the boat Sir Francis Drake sailed from England. Some say the little inn is haunted with history, but that just makes it even more appealing.

Two hours north of San Francisco in the heart of Mendocino County lies the Boonville Hotel, a little sanctuary of peace and quiet with an old country pace. This retreat offers simple pleasures for both travelers and honeymooners, who can take refuge in the quaint B&B atmosphere and the house-warming nature of a dedicated staff. The individually designed bungalow-style rooms are made from the redwoods that surround them, and they include a private entrance, a pet-friendly private yard and a porch with a hammock. In the morning, ditch your gadgets and walk tech-free along the grounds, enjoying fresh flowers and scenery. Then, take in the incredible wine selection. The signature wine room offers an eclectic array of local, regional and international wines at reasonable prices.

Enjoy a day in Calistoga at Indian Springs, known as one of the most original spas in California. The hot springs are over a century old, and as per ritual, guests are encouraged to enjoy the rare, 100% volcanic ash mud baths that are high in sulfur and believed to do wonders for the skin. The volcanic ash acts as an exfoliant to detox and destress the body. To supplement your relaxing experience, the Lodge also offers a varied selection of accommodations for its guests including historic cottages, bungalows and mission revival buildings built with comfort and adventure in mind.

If you are looking for unparalleled panoramic views of the Bay, then look no further than the Inn Above Tide, as it is just as it sounds: a charming hotel on the nook of a pier. The location is close to many Sausalito bars and restaurants, as well as chic boutiques and galleries. Be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary bicycles and ride along the waterfront promenade and the yacht harbor pathways. The Golden Gate bridge is only five minutes away, and just a few steps from the hotel is a ferry terminal that can get you to downtown San Francisco in approximately 20 minutes.

The unusual woven work of art by Big Sur artist Jayson Fann is the epitome of glamping, or luxury camping. The views are spectacular on the way to the Human Nest at Treebones, accessible by golf cart only. The little futon mattress inside this circular tree fort is comfortable, and there is plenty of space for two people with a weekend’s worth of belongings. On a clear night, enjoy views of a pitch-black sky against the clusters of stars.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.