A wonderland of red wines and redwoods
From world-class cities to world-class wines, Northern California has something for everyone. Walking the hills of San Francisco might leave your legs burning, but you'll need the workout after you eat a burrito the size of your head in the Mission. For a break from city life, indulge in some premium cabernets and chardonnays in idyllic wine country. Even the biggest nature lovers will be left speechless by the towering redwoods and spectacular beaches. Add to that some of the best weather in the country, and you might never want to leave.
From towering trees to trolley tours
The City by the Bay is a sightseer's dream. A Northern California vacation rental in San Francisco will leave you dodging cable cars and chilling out at the epicenter of 60s counterculture in Haight-Ashbury. You may just leave your heart there after you visit Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Northern California nature will leave you speechless, whether you're taking in the mountain vistas at Yosemite or craning to see the treetops at Sequoia and Redwood National Parks. If there's time left over, you can visit some of the best wineries and beaches in the country.
Hit the beach, then drink up in wine country
Just thinking of Northern California will have you heading for the wine rack. A Northern California vacation rental in Sonoma County or Napa Valley puts you on the doorstep of winery heaven. Better yet, tons of tour operators will handle the driving so you can fully enjoy yourself without having to worry about getting behind the wheel. Beach lovers are also in luck, because Northern California has some truly spectacular ones along the Pacific coast. If you're more of a city mouse, San Francisco and the surrounding areas offer more sightseeing options than you could ever want.
The weather's great, wish you were here
Talk to any Northern California native and you'll hear that the region has some of the best weather in the country. After one visit, many travelers tend to agree. The warmest temperatures come from June to October, when the daily highs tend to hover in the 70s. The rest of the year is usually wet but mild, with low temps only rarely dipping into the 40s. You'll typically only see any significant snowfall in the mountains. While the warmer months are generally sunny, any time of year can see a visit from the infamous Karl the fog.
Exploring the natural landscape of Northern California
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to appreciate the scenery, Northern California is a great place to get outside. Here are some of the area’s most enchanting sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Meadow Vista Park (12.8 mi / 20.6 km)
- Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (13.8 mi / 22.2 km)
- Folsom Lake (14.2 mi / 22.8 km)
- Granite Bay Beach (14.9 mi / 23.9 km)
- Sly Park Campground (19.2 mi / 30.9 km)
- Lake Natoma (20.7 mi / 33.3 km)
Transportation options to and around Northern California
Fly into Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF), the closest airport, located 38.7 mi (62.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you can also fly into Lake Tahoe, CA (TVL), which is 48.4 mi (77.9 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Auburn/Conheim Station, Colfax Station and Rocklin Station are the main stations in the area. You can see more of Northern California by catching a ride on the metro at Historic Folsom Station, Glenn Station or Iron Point Station.
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