Kelsey is a freelance writer based in Southern Virginia. She enjoys traveling with her family to destinations from national parks to amusement parks and loves sharing tips and stories from along the way.
San Francisco may be a bustling hub of culture and innovation, but it’s surrounded by some of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders. These tours aren’t just about escaping the concrete jungle; they’re about reconnecting with the wild, rediscovering the rhythm of the earth, and returning with tales of towering trees, vineyard sunsets, and coastal vistas.
These top-rated nature and wildlife tours are sure to show you a different side of this city- check them out!
Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour (Return by Bus or Ferry from Sausalito)
Step into the hushed groves of Muir Woods National Monument, where ancient redwoods reach skyward, and time seems to stand still. Prices for this verdant escape start around $96, offering a soul-stirring experience that an overwhelming majority of travelers recommend. Wander among these silent giants and let the misty air and the gentle crunch of the forest floor underfoot transport you to a world away from city clamor. Read more reviews here to sense the tranquility you’ll find.
Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco
Embark on a journey into the heart of Northern California’s wine country with the Napa and Sonoma full-day tour. Starting around $160, this excursion is a feast for the senses, sprinkled with notes of vintage charm and the bouquet of world-renowned vineyards. Sip on fine wines under the golden sunshine as travelers commend the ease of exploring without the burden of choosing a designated driver. Dive into the reviews to uncork more traveler tales.
Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
Feel the grandeur of Yosemite National Park as you stand beneath the towering Giant Sequoias. With prices starting around $219, this small-group tour saves time without scrimping on wonders, packing a panorama of iconic landmarks into a single day. Reviews echo with praise for the convenience and the awe-inspiring sights, painting a picture of an adventure that’s as profound as the deep valleys of Yosemite itself. See more photos here and dream of the pristine beauty that awaits.
Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
For those pressed for time but with a thirst for adventure, the Yosemite and Giant Sequoias day trip is your siren call to the wild. Prices for this marvel start around $219, promising a full day of natural splendors, including the famed granite cliffs of El Capitan. Travelers rave about capturing the essence of Yosemite’s majesty in a single day, making it a precious addition to any San Francisco itinerary. Peruse more reviews here for a sneak peek at your potential journey.
Small Group Tour: SF, Muir Woods, Sausalito w/ Optional Alcatraz
Combine city sights with natural highlights on the SF, Muir Woods, and Sausalito tour, an excursion where urban culture and serene landscapes merge. With an enticing starting price of around $109, it’s a day of diversity, from the architectural marvels of San Francisco to the tranquil redwood cathedrals and the coastal charm of Sausalito. Reviewers appreciate the blend, citing it as an optimal way to relish the flavors of the Bay Area. Explore more reviews here to catch a glimpse of this multifaceted tour.
San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch
Combine the tranquility of Muir Woods with the gourmet delights of Wine Country on the Super Saver tour. Prices start around $179, inviting you to indulge in two quintessential Californian experiences in one seamless day. The itinerary charms reviewers with its efficiency and the added luxury of a gourmet lunch among the vineyards, making it both a treat for the palate and the soul. Discover what fellow travelers have to say here.
Aquarium of the Bay General Admission Ticket
Dive into the underwater world at Aquarium of the Bay, where marine life flourishes in the heart of the city. Tickets start around $30, offering a journey beneath the bay’s surface to witness its vibrant aquatic residents. Visitors often leave enchanted by the intimate encounters with sea creatures, making it a popular spot that could sell out—peek at the reviews to reel in more about this aquatic adventure.
Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive – Full Day Tour from San Francisco
Venture along the breathtaking 17-Mile Drive on this full-day tour that starts around $120. This coastal odyssey brings you face to face with the crashing waves and rugged cliffs of California’s shoreline. Travelers find themselves in awe of the picturesque scenery and luxurious ambiance of Monterey and Carmel, with many applauding the lack of driving stress. Pour through more reviews here to whet your appetite for this scenic sojourn.
Small Group Half Day Muir Woods and Sausalito Morning Tour
Greet the day among the giants with a half-day tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito. Setting out with the dawn, prices start around $79 for a narrated journey through these enchanting landscapes. The chorus of the woods and the seaside’s serenity strikes a chord with reviewers, who cherish the efficient exploration and the early return, leaving ample time for further discovery. Delve into the reviews here to envision the morning light filtering through the redwoods.
Small-Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco
Join a small-group tour to Yosemite and forge memories in the grandeur of nature. With prices starting around $199, you’ll unpack the park’s crowning jewels all in a day’s stride. Traveler endorsements highlight the intimacy of the small group experience and the splendor of Yosemite’s waterfalls and cliffs. Unwind with the reviews and let the stories of alpine adventures lure you into booking your own expedition.
Amazing Discoveries Await: 19 Day Trips From San Francisco
We’ve got some fantastic day trips to take from San Francisco. Our top 19 picks offer a little something for everyone, so let’s get going!
Scenic drives in California: Uncovering 12 Breathtaking Routes You Can’t Miss
Whether you’re chasing the sunset along the Pacific Coast Highway or meandering through the majestic Redwood forests, California’s scenic drives offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the American West.
6 Stunning Lakes in L.A.: Hidden Gems in Southern California
Follow along to find 6 of the best lakes in L.A. Whether it’s hiking, camping, fishing, or even jet skiing, the surrounding areas of Southern California have plenty of options for everyone.