It might be an unpopular opinion, but I think the Bay Area, California is one of the most beautiful and diverse areas to explore. And, I feel lucky to live here. Within a few hours of driving, you can access the majestic coast, the wine region, national and state parks galore. There are so many bucket list experiences here and the options of things to do and activities in the area are endless!
Here are our top 7 unique bucket list experiences that are close to the Bay Area:
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(1) Hike to Alamere Falls
Alamere Falls is a majestic waterfall cascading straight onto the beach and into the ocean in Point Reyes. It does take a bit of hike and a little climbing (~13 miles roundtrip) to get to but it’s so worth it! Hike the falls in the morning and have some grilled oysters and smoked fish at The Marshall Store near Tomales Bay.
(2) Experience a bioluminescence kayak tour in Tomales Bay
On dark, moonless nights, you can kayak through the bay lit up with flickers from blooms of bioluminescent “dinoflagellates”. It’s a memorable and magical experience to see Tomales Bay light up at night! You can book your tour through Blue Water Kayaking.
(3) Float 2000 feet up above the vineyards in a hot air balloon
Fly 2000 feet up above the Napa vineyards and farmlands in a hot air balloon with a silhouette of San Francisco in the distance and the clouds floating above the bay. Afterwards, take a short drive to neighboring wineries for some wine tasting! It was an incredible experience and highly recommend for a special occasion!
(4) Canoe or float down the Russian River
Rent a canoe from Burke’s Canoes or bring your own tubes and floaties and float down the Russian River in Sonoma County. If you plan to diy it and bring your own tubes, the city has a Regional Parks River shuttle that can bring you back to your car for a nominal fee in the summer. Plan to bring a trusty cooler filled with snacks and water and a waterproof dry bag and spend the next few hours lounging, swimming, hanging out with your friends and meeting new friends along the river.
(5) Kayak Elkhorn Slough
Another incredible kayaking adventure is to kayak through Elkhorn Slough in Monterey. Watch mama otters cuddling their pups, eating abalone or playing. Spot different variations of birds perching along the shore. It’s an incredible experience to silently watch and have such an up close and personal viewing of nature doing their thing. Check out our experience kayaking Elkhorn Slough.
(6) Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
If you’re in San Francisco, a must do activity is to walk or bike across the famous Golden Gate Bridge, ideally during a clear and sunny day. You get an up close and unique perpective of the bridge itself and views of the city and the bay. You can bring your own bikes, rent them or do guided bike tour.
(7) Visit and explore Yosemite National Park
If you’re willing to drive a bit further, visit and explore the many trails in Yosemite National Park (check out out our winter guide to Yosemite). You will get views of epic water falls and rock formations. Yosemite is a photographer’s dream!
What are some other epic bucket list experiences near the Bay Area that you love?
