A Northern California Road Trip: San Francisco to Mendocino

Once you've landed in San Francisco, it's time to hit the ground running. First stop?

• The Ferry Building for a well-deserved lunch. It's a food lovers paradise with local vendors offering artisanal goods and fresh California cuisine. Then, dive into some of San Francisco’s top sights:

• Fisherman’s Wharf for a taste of the touristy but fun waterfront scene.

• Snap photos of the Golden Gate Bridge — its majestic silhouette never disappoints. Drive down the famous curves of Lombard Street, or swing by Presidio Park for great views and serene landscapes. Stroll around Union Square for some quick shopping or people-watching. Don’t miss the nostalgic vibes of the Full House Houses for a classic San Francisco snapshot.

• This jam-packed day offers a perfect introduction to San Francisco's energy and landmarks before setting off on the road trip. Spend the night at the cute Palihotel San Francisco, or stay at the one Hotel San Francisco for views of the Ferry Building.

• Kick off Day Two with a trip to Sausalito, just across the Golden Gate Bridge. This picturesque village feels like a slice of Europe nestled in California. Grab breakfast at the Sausalito Bakery Café, then enjoy strolling through its charming streets lined with boutiques and galleries.

• In the afternoon, make your way to Muir Woods for an unforgettable hike through towering redwoods. Depending on your energy, choose a trail that ranges from 30 minutes to two hours. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a side trip to Stinson Beach for some beach time. End your day with a relaxing stay at Olema House, a tranquil escape near the park.

• Day Three takes you north along Highway 1 with a morning stop at Point Reyes National Seashore. The sprawling park offers dramatic coastal cliffs, expansive beaches and historic sites like the Point Reyes Lighthouse and the haunting Point Reyes Shipwreck. For wildlife lovers, the Tomales Point and Tule Elk Reserve is a must. Enjoy lunch in Point Reyes Station, a small town known for fresh, local food.

• Continue your scenic drive through Bodega Bay, a small fishing village. Stop at beautiful trails like the Pinnacle Gulch Trail and overlooks like Arched Rock and Duncan's Cove. Arrive at Timber Cove Resort in the evening, where you can dine at their oceanfront restaurant and unwind after a day of exploration.

• In the morning, leave Timber Cove and make your way up the coast. Stop at Salt Point State Park for a scenic hike or picnic. Continue through the small towns of Gualala and Point Arena, where the Point Arena Lighthouse provides stunning panoramic views.

• By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Mendocino. This artsy town is known for its galleries, shops and the breathtaking Mendocino Headlands State Park. After wandering the coastal trails, finish your day by driving to Fort Bragg and checking into The Inn at Newport Ranch. Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner, featuring locally sourced ingredients and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Settle in for the night in one of their luxurious rooms.

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Inn before heading into Fort Bragg to ride the famous Skunk Train for a scenic ride through towering redwoods. Make a stop at Russian Gulch State Park for an invigorating hike to the dramatic waterfall or coastal cliffs. You can also visit the Cabrillo Lighthouse for more postcard-worthy views.

• In the afternoon, take the inland route back through wine country and charming small towns like Navarro and Booneville. Stop by Philo Apple Farm or grab a treat at Paysanne Ice Creamery in Booneville. Arrive in Healdsburg by early evening, a picturesque town in the heart of Sonoma County’s wine country. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Healdsburg’s renowned restaurants, such as Barndiva or Bravas Bar de Tapas. Spend the night at Hotel Healdsburg, a charming hotel set on the western edge of Healdsburg's historic town plaza.

• On your final day, make your way back to San Francisco, but don’t rush — there are plenty of stops along the way! Explore Occidental or Sebastopol for unique boutiques, farm stands and tasty eats. Visit the historical town of Petaluma, known for its Victorian architecture and quaint downtown. If time allows, stop at Strawberry for a scenic stretch before heading back to the city.

You can either take a flight home in the afternoon or spend one last evening soaking in the San Francisco vibes.