Winter in the Bay Area is a season of quiet beauty—crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and just enough rain to make you crave a cozy escape. For anyone in San Francisco looking to get away for the weekend, winter is the perfect time to hit the road. The cooler months bring fewer crowds, stunning natural landscapes, and unique seasonal experiences, all within a few hours’ drive from the city.
Whether you’re seeking snow-covered mountains, dramatic coastal views, or a relaxing stay at a boutique hotel, these Northern California weekend getaways deliver. From Yosemite National Park to Carmel-by-the-Sea, we’ve curated the best destinations for a winter escape near San Francisco. Imagine sipping wine by the fire in Healdsburg, hiking under clear blue skies at Pinnacles National Park, or watching storms roll in from the cliffs of Big Sur.
Pack your weekend bag, charge your camera, and get ready to rediscover the magic of winter travel. Here are the best winter weekend getaways from San Francisco—perfect for road trips, romantic retreats, or last-minute adventures.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
There’s no better time to visit Carmel than winter, when the summer crowds have thinned, and the village feels like your own European fairytale. Stroll cobblestone streets, warm up with coffee at Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Co., or catch the dramatic waves at Carmel Beach during a winter storm. Stay at La Playa Carmel, where ivy-covered walls and ocean views make it impossible not to relax. Bonus: Nearby wineries in Carmel Valley offer cozy tasting rooms with big pours.
Lake Tahoe
For those craving snow, Tahoe delivers. The winter air is crisp, the ski runs are endless, and the après-ski scene is pure magic. Check into The Coachman Hotel in South Lake Tahoe for its mid-century vibes and nightly s’mores by the fire. Spend the day on the slopes or go for a winter hike at Emerald Bay to soak in the icy views. No snow? No problem—Tahoe’s alpine beauty is year-round.
Yosemite National Park
Winter in Yosemite is pure magic. With fewer visitors, snow-covered peaks, and frozen waterfalls, it feels like a completely different world. Stay at the iconic Ahwahnee Hotel for an upscale, historic experience or opt for a cozy cabin in Curry Village. Don’t miss a walk to Bridalveil Fall or a snowshoeing adventure in the meadows. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the famous Firefall phenomenon in February. Pro tip: Tire chains are often required, so plan ahead.
Pinnacles National Park
Winter is the best time to explore Pinnacles, with cooler temperatures and clear skies making it perfect for hiking and climbing. Less than two hours from San Francisco, this underrated park is home to dramatic rock formations, talus caves, and California condors. Spend the day exploring the High Peaks Trail, then stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the region. Stay nearby at Inn at the Pinnacles, a charming B&B with stunning vineyard views and proximity to the park’s east entrance.
Point Reyes National Seashore
If storm watching is your vibe, Point Reyes is your destination. This rugged stretch of Northern California coastline is at its most dramatic in winter, with crashing waves and moody skies. Cozy up at the Olema House, where wood-burning fireplaces and plush armchairs set the tone for a quiet retreat. Don’t miss the lighthouse during a break in the weather or a warm bowl of clam chowder at Station House Café.
Healdsburg
Winter is wine country’s best-kept secret. In Healdsburg, you’ll find empty tasting rooms, moody vineyards, and restaurants that feel a little more intimate when it’s cold out. Stay at The Madrona, a Victorian-era mansion turned boutique hotel, and make your way to favorites like MacRostie Winery for Pinot Noir or Unti Vineyards for something off the beaten path. End the day with a hearty meal at Valette—trust us, the bread is worth the drive alone.
Big Sur
Winter in Big Sur is for the dreamers. The road may be quieter, but the scenery is just as awe-inspiring. Book a room at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn, where rustic cabins and candlelit dinners create an unplugged, romantic vibe. Spend your days exploring the trails at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or warming up by the fire at Big Sur River Inn. Don’t forget to stop at Nepenthe for a hot drink with unbeatable views.
Sonoma Coast
The Sonoma Coast is moody and magical in winter. Think misty mornings, quiet beaches, and the smell of salt air everywhere you go. Stay at the Timber Cove Resort, perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, for the ultimate blend of rustic and luxury. Explore Fort Ross State Historic Park, enjoy a long lunch at River’s End in Jenner, or take a book and watch the waves roll in.
Mckenzie Bridge, Oregon
If you’re willing to drive a little farther, McKenzie Bridge is the ultimate winter escape. Tucked into the woods, it’s a serene, snow-dusted retreat with hot springs, hiking trails, and cozy cabins. Stay at Belknap Hot Springs Lodge, and don’t miss a soak in their steamy, riverfront pools.
