From Bayside to Coastside: California's San Francisco Peninsula in 10 Days

Experience the bayside and coastside charms of California’s San Francisco Peninsula on this 10-day road trip through Monterey, Half Moon Bay and Mountain View.

Country
Mexico
Duration
10 days / 9 nights
From
$4,940 /person
Book this trip

Your trip at a glance

Top Activities

Scouring for offshore whales at one of the world’s tallest lighthouses

Hiking Monterey Bay’s sprawling coastal trails for dramatic waterfront views

Touring an organic farm with a local farmer specializing in sustainable, small-scale agriculture

Meandering the blooming gardens of Filoli, a 654-acre Georgian estate

Visiting the Bay Area’s best flea, food and farmers markets

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Preview:

Beach Day and Pillar Point Harbor

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Overview

You’ve spent some time exploring the area’s best hiking trails, so this morning shifts focus from land to sea. Savor breakfast at your hotel before gearing up for a day at the beach of your choosing. Among the most popular options, Half Moon Bay State Beach stretches for four miles with four distinct beaches, while Mavericks Beach excels in big waves primed for surfing. Even if you don't surf, you'll have a front row seat to the action. When you’re done with the sand, head to Pillar Point Harbor, a working harbor just north of Half Moon Bay. Fishing boats, seafood markets and waterfront restaurants line the docks, so you can soak up the communal culture. Linger in the marina, watch fishermen unload the day’s catch and perhaps enjoy a meal of fresh seafood at one of the harbor’s rustic eateries. Halibut, anyone? (Breakfast)

Highlights

Half Moon Bay Beaches

Take a moment this morning to unwind at one of the beautiful beaches in the Half Moon Bay area. This otherworldly coastline features wide sandy shores, rolling dunes and dramatic ocean views, creating the ideal place for a peaceful walk, picnic and sunbathing session. Beaches vary, so you can choose between Half Moon Bay State Beach, Poplar Beach, Mavericks Beach and more. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, why not turn the morning into a full-fledged beach crawl and visit them all?

Pillar Point Harbor

With a bustling fishing industry and local seafood joints, Pillar Point exudes a colorful energy best experienced this afternoon. During your free time here, absorb the harbor’s fishing culture and waterfront vistas – and make sure to grab a bite to eat. Pillar Point excels in seafood, so depending on the season and the day, you can taste salmon, sea urchins or Dungeness crabs.

Accommodations

Seal Cove Inn (or similar)

Just south of San Francisco, Seal Cove Inn lives on the edge of the Pacific Ocean and provides a respite amid the cypress trees. The hotel’s suites range in size and style, but all offer the luxe comforts of a high-end hotel, from complimentary organic coffee to spa-inspired shower kits. Further enhancing the hotel’s attractions, an outdoor staircase offers direct and easy access to the beach, taking full advantage of the property’s coastal locale.

Location:

221 Cypress Ave, Moss Beach, California 94038

Phone:

+16507284114

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How it works

01

Fill out request form

Provide your ideal trip dates and details to be matched with one of our local planning experts.

02

Meet your expert

Schedule a call with your expert to confirm dates, pricing and any recommended edits to the itinerary.

03

Book your trip

Once your itinerary is set, it’s time to pay the deposit to secure your trip.

04

Take-off

Let the journey begin! Your expert will offer real-time support and concierge service while traveling.

Ready to Go?

Let our local experts plan your dream trip.

What's included

Included in the final price

  • Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
  • 24/7 on-the-ground support
  • On-trip concierge service
  • Personalized trip crafting
  • Entry and exit information and assistance
  • Accommodations for nine nights, with daily breakfast included
  • All activities and excursions mentioned in the itinerary
  • Rental car for 10 days
  • All guided tours mentioned in the itinerary

Not included in the final price

  • International flights tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Anything not mentioned or listed as optional in the itinerary
  • Meals, excluding breakfast

Ready to see the full itinerary?

Submit a free request to talk with our local experts.

Let's Go
Day 1:
Welcome to The San Francisco Peninsula!
Day 2:
Half Moon Bay: Trails, Farms and Craft Beer
Day 3:
Beach Day and Pillar Point Harbor
Day 4:
Spectacular State Parks and Magic of Monterey
Day 5:
Monterey's Marvels: Cannery Row to Point Lobos Park
Day 6:
Monterey's Markets and Marine Life
Day 7:
Onward to San José
Day 8:
California With an International Twist
Day 9:
Bayside By Way of Filoli and Burlingame
Day 10:
Until the Next Time!