Top spots from Oakland to San Francisco to the Pacific coast – plus a locals’ tip for Golden Gate Bridge viewing
San Francisco is renowned for its cable cars, foggy weather, and hilly landscapes. However, having lived here for five years, I’ve discovered there’s much more to the city than meets the eye.
I hail from Iowa, where life is quieter, and I’ve also experienced the hustle and bustle of New York City. The Bay Area, however, strikes the perfect balance for me—offering the amenities of a vibrant city alongside the tranquility of a small town, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural scenery.
Despite recent negative publicity, San Francisco and its environs feel like a year-round sunny playground to me, despite the occasional traffic snarl. If I were to offer a friend an insider’s guide, here’s what I’d recommend they explore.
Day 1: The Jewels of Oakland
While I adore San Francisco, my home for the duration of my time here has been on the east side of the bay, in the lively and warmer city of Oakland, which I find more vibrant and enjoyable. Generally, I recommend renting a car when visiting the Bay Area. While most activities in San Francisco are easily reachable by public transportation, having a vehicle grants you simpler access to the stunning destinations surrounding the city.
Begin your day on Piedmont Avenue, a hub of noteworthy attractions. Start with a bagel or doughnut from the vegan cafe Timeless Coffee, then take a leisurely stroll to the charming plant shop Crimson Horticultural Rarities just down the block. Across the street, Spectator Books offers an impressive array of books, particularly focusing on local authors. Vintage stores line the street, with Mercy Vintage standing out; here, I once stumbled upon a fabulous wool skirt adorned with hand-stitched ducks. Don’t miss the picturesque flower stand in an alleyway on the same street, where you can meet Luna, the shop dog.
After your shopping excursion, take a leisurely stroll around Lake Merritt. Often referred to as “the Jewel of Oakland,” this lake is a beloved gathering spot. On weekends, you’ll find locals picnicking along the shores, food and craft stands, and abundant wildlife. The lake’s full perimeter is 3.1 miles (5km). I suggest beginning at the pergola on the north end and meandering past the bonsai garden toward the Oakland Museum of California, just a short walk from the lake, where you can spend the afternoon immersed in art.
After visiting the museum, consider a visit to Lion Dance Cafe in downtown Oakland. This award-winning, farm-to-table restaurant features a rotating menu of Teochew-Singaporean and Cali-Italian family recipes. Since they don’t accept reservations or preorders, be prepared for a wait – but it’s worth it! While they offer sit-down dining, I suggest ordering your food to go and driving to Joaquin Miller Park for a stunning panoramic view of the sunset over the bay. If you arrive before dark, take a moment to admire the majestic redwood trees in the park as well; they’re truly awe-inspiring.
Day 2: Souvenirs & Splurges
If you’re starting your day in Oakland and planning to visit San Francisco, taking the ferry is a fantastic option. Park your car at Jack London Square and board the ferry bound for the Ferry Building in San Francisco. If it’s a Saturday, you’ll be greeted by a bustling farmers’ market offering a variety of local fruits and vegetables. On any day, the Ferry Building houses numerous food stands and shops. Don’t miss Reem’s, a popular Arab street food vendor known for its signature man’oushe varieties (homemade flatbread). Additionally, you’ll find the Fog City Flea Trading Post, a charming spot for vintage clothing, jewelry, and San Francisco-themed souvenirs, inside the building.
Board a train to the Mission District, a personal favorite neighborhood in San Francisco. Along Valencia Street, explore vintage shops and stores showcasing goods from local artists. A standout is Paxton Gate, an oddities shop offering a range of items from crystals and candles to teeth and taxidermy. While in the Mission, venture into one of the street-art-filled alleyways for a free outdoor gallery experience.
For a view of the Golden Gate Bridge without the tourist crowds, skip the typical bike tours and head to Lands End, which I consider the city’s most beautiful location. Take an Uber there and explore the Sutro baths, a historic public recreation center from the late 1800s. Although the baths are no longer in operation, the ruins remain, providing a picturesque spot to enjoy the sunset.
For a luxurious dinner experience, consider Nari, a Thai-Californian restaurant located within the Hotel Kabuki in Japantown. After your meal, explore the nearby Japan Center malls, where you can shop for quirky toys and indulge in soft-serve matcha or sesame taiyaki ice cream (served in a fish-shaped pastry) at Uji Time Dessert. To end the evening, head to Do Re Mi Music Studio just across the street, a karaoke venue offering private rooms that you can rent by the hour.
Day 3: Hit the Road
Living in the Bay Area offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes, making for countless day trip options from Oakland and San Francisco. However, if I had to pick a favorite, it would be Bodega Bay – a breathtaking unincorporated area in Sonoma County along the coast.
Take a leisurely drive up Route 1, making stops along the way, including Point Reyes Station, to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and numerous hiking trails and beaches. Look out for seals along the shoreline. I highly recommend staying at the Lodge at Bodega Bay, offering a luxurious yet affordable experience with room rates starting at $280. As a birding enthusiast, this location is a dream, overlooking a protected nature preserve teeming with wildlife. Unwind in the hotel’s infinity hot tub, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or indulge in its spa services. The on-site restaurant is also excellent.
While in Bodega Bay, you can visit the church where the classic Hitchcock thriller “The Birds” was filmed. Since you’re in wine country, consider exploring some local vineyards if that interests you. I always make a point to drive a bit farther up the coast to Jenner, a quaint beachside town with excellent hiking trails and kayak rentals. Don’t miss Cafe Aquatica, where you can enjoy a coffee while overlooking the water and listening to occasional live music. Despite spotty cellphone service, sitting by the water where the river meets the Pacific Ocean, watching seals play on rocks, and observing kayakers float by will make you feel far removed from life’s responsibilities. Surprisingly, you’re less than a two-hour drive from San Francisco.
