Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in San Jose, United States

San Jose, United States, San Jose, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities

Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in San Jose, United States

1. Carmel-by-the-Sea

A picturesque seaside village offering charming cottages and art galleries. Enjoy scenic hikes and stunning sunsets.
  • Coastal Scenery: Offers breathtaking ocean views and cliffside walks.
  • Artistic Atmosphere: Known as an artists' colony, featuring numerous galleries and unique shops.
  • Pet-Friendly Destination: Many accommodations welcome pets, making it a perfect getaway for pet owners.

2. Monterey

Home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and historic Cannery Row. Explore marine life or step back in time with vintage architecture.
  • Marine Life: Offers a world-class aquarium showcasing diverse ocean species.
  • Historic Landmarks: Has numerous historic sites, including the John Steinbeck's Cannery Row.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features stunning coastline views and scenic drives along 17-Mile Drive.

3. Santa Cruz

Known for its iconic boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and Santa Cruz Mountains. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Beach Activities: Offers a variety of beach activities such as surfing, sunbathing, and whale watching.
  • Nature Preserves: Features numerous nature preserves for hiking and wildlife spotting.
  • Amusement Park: Home to the classic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with amusement rides and games.

4. Pacific Grove

Quaint coastal town known for its butterfly grove and rich birdlife. Perfect for nature lovers.
  • Butterfly Migration: Home to the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary during winter migration.
  • Rich Birdlife: Provides an opportunity to observe various bird species, especially at Lovers Point Park.
  • Scenic Beaches: Features several secluded beaches along its coastline.

5. Gilroy Gardens

A family-friendly theme park featuring gardens and rides based on the garlic industry. Perfect for a unique, fun-filled day trip.
  • Garlic Theme: Offers a unique theme centered around garlic and its role in the region's history.
  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Features rides, gardens, and activities suitable for all ages.
  • Educational Experience: Provides an educational experience about horticulture and the garlic industry.

6. Capitola Village

A vibrant coastal village with colorful beach cottages, boutique shopping, and a lively nightlife. Perfect for beach-goers and shoppers.
  • Colorful Architecture: Features picturesque, colorful buildings along the coastline.
  • Beach Activities: Offers beach activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, and surfing.
  • Shopping and Dining: Features boutique shops, restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene.

7. Santa Clara

Home to Levi's Stadium and California's Great America amusement park. Perfect for sports fans and thrill-seekers.
  • Professional Sports: Hosts San Francisco 49ers football games at Levi's Stadium.
  • Amusement Park: Offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions at California's Great America.
  • Convention Center: Home to the McEnery Convention Center, hosting events throughout the year.

8. Los Gatos

A charming town offering vineyards, hiking trails, and a vibrant downtown area. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.
  • Vineyard Tours: Features vineyard tours and tastings at nearby wineries.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
  • Downtown Vibe: Features a vibrant downtown area with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

9. Saratoga

Known for its upscale dining, wine tasting, and Mount Hamilton's scenic views. Perfect for foodies and nature lovers.
  • Fine Dining: Features numerous high-end restaurants specializing in gourmet cuisine.
  • Wine Tasting: Offers wine tasting at nearby vineyards and wineries.
  • Scenic Views: Features stunning views from Mount Hamilton and Hakone Gardens.

10. Morgan Hill

A charming town offering vineyards, hiking trails, and a historic downtown area. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and history buffs.
  • Vineyard Tours: Features vineyard tours and tastings at nearby wineries.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
  • Historic District: Features a well-preserved historic downtown area with museums and architecture.

11. Mount Hamilton

Offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and observatories. Perfect for nature lovers and stargazers.
  • Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the Bay Area from its mountain peaks.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels.
  • Observatories: Home to several observatories, offering stargazing opportunities.

12. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

A serene redwood forest offering hiking trails, camping, and picnic areas. Perfect for nature enthusiasts.
  • Redwood Forest: Features a vast stand of ancient redwood trees.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails, including a scenic loop through the redwood forest.
  • Camping and Picnicking: Provides campgrounds and picnic areas for enjoying nature.

13. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Features a waterfall overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Perfect for scenic drives and hiking.
  • Waterfall and Coastal Views: Offers breathtaking views of the coastline and McWay Falls.
  • Hiking Trails: Features a scenic hike to McWay Falls and coastal bluffs.
  • Scenic Drive: Located along the famous Pacific Coast Highway, offering a memorable drive experience.

14. Big Sur

Known for its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and scenic vistas. Perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude.
  • Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic coastline.
  • Hiking Trails: Features numerous hiking trails along the coast, including the famous California Coastal Trail.
  • Solitude and Serenity: Provides a peaceful and secluded atmosphere for relaxation and reflection.

15. Yosemite National Park

A world-renowned park featuring waterfalls, giant sequoias, and stunning vistas. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.
  • Natural Wonders: Features iconic landmarks such as Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and El Capitan.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including the famous Mist Trail and John Muir Trail.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, such as black bears, mountain lions, and deer.