Alcatraz Island: Tour the historic prison and learn about its history.

Drive Time from hotel: ~50 minutes.

Cost: $50-$70 per person (includes ferry).

Pier 39 & Fisherman’s Wharf: Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy sea lion sightings, and shop for souvenirs.

Drive Time from hotel: ~50 minutes.

Cost: Free to walk around; dining and attractions vary

Golden Gate Bridge & Park: Walk or drive across this bridge and explore nearby trails and gardens.

Drive Time from hotel: ~50 minutes.

Cost: Free to walk around, toll varies to drive across

Monterey Bay Aquarium: One of the world’s best aquariums.

Drive Time from hotel: ~1.5 hours.

Cost: $50 per adult, $30 per child.

17-Mile Drive & Carmel by the Sea: Scenic drive with breathtaking ocean views and charming shops in Carmel.

Drive Time from hotel: ~1.5 hours.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Classic amusement park with rides, games, and a sandy beach.

Drive Time from hotel: ~50 minutes

Cost: Parking $$ varies by parking lot, Free entry into the Boardwalk; ride tickets ~$1-$8 each or ~$50 for an unlimited wristband.

Santana Row (San Jose): Upscale outdoor shopping and dining destination with a vibrant atmosphere.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: Free to walk around

Valley Fair Mall (Santa Clara): A premier shopping destination featuring luxury brands and popular retailers, plus diverse dining options.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park: Stunning hiking trails through ancient redwood forests.

Drive Time: ~1 hour.

Rancho San Antonio Preserve: Popular local hiking spot with scenic views and a farm.

Drive Time: ~15 minutes.

Cost: Free.

Mission Peak (Fremont): A challenging hike with panoramic views of the Bay Area.

Drive Time: ~40 minutes.

Cost: Free.

Shoreline Lake Park (Mountain View): A scenic park with boating, picnicking, and walking trails.

Drive Time: ~20 minutes.

Cost: Free.

Half Moon Bay State Beach: Beautiful coastal views and picnic areas.

Drive Time: ~50 minutes.

Cost: $10 for parking.

Cupertino Memorial Park: A family-friendly park with walking paths and picnic areas.

Drive Time: ~5 minutes.

Cost: Free.

Stan’s Donuts (Santa Clara): Legendary donut shop known for its fresh, warm donuts. It’s a Bay Area must!

Drive Time: ~15 minutes.

Cost: $2-$5 per donut.

Marugame Udon (Cupertino): Japanese udon noodles made fresh daily in an open kitchen.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $10-$20 per person.

Duan Chun Zhen (Cupertino): Authentic Taiwanese beef noodle soup and other specialties.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $15-$25 per person.

Kura Revolving Sushi (Cupertino): Enjoy sushi served on a revolving conveyor belt in a lively atmosphere.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $15-$30 per person.

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar (Cupertino): Casual dining with a variety of comfort food and craft beer options.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $15-$30 per person.

Aquis (Campbell): Known for its fresh Mexican fare and famous frozen margaritas known as swirls (even the zero-proof swirls are great). It’s a Bay Area must!

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $15-$30 per person.

Luna’s Mexican Kitchen (Campbell): Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine with organic ingredients. It’s a Bay Area must!

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $15-$35 per person.

Eureka! (Cupertino): Modern American eatery with gourmet burgers, craft beers, and cocktails.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $15-$35 per person.

Sweet Maples (Cupertino): Famous for its Millionaire’s Bacon and hearty brunch offerings.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $20-$40 per person.

Doppio Zero (Cupertino): Authentic Italian cuisine featuring Neapolitan pizza and handmade pasta.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $20-$40 per person.

Curry Pizza House (Cupertino): Fusion-style pizza combining Indian flavors with classic favorites.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $20-$40 per pizza.

Benihana(Cupertino): Iconic teppanyaki restaurant offering a fun, interactive dining experience.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $30-$60 per person.

Galpão Gaucho (Cupertino): Brazilian steakhouse offering an all-you-can-eat dining experience.

Drive Time: ~10 minutes.

Cost: $60-$80 per person.Pacific Catch