If you're curious about exploring the area on a budget then keep reading. There are a multitude of places around San Francisco that offer things to do on a small budget. Save your money and explore these affordable places around San Francisco for fun!
1. Big Basin Redwoods State Park - Boulder Creek
Big Basin is California's oldest State Park, established in 1902, so it is a California Historical Landmark. Come for hiking and camping fun for the day or longer. If you want to visit Big Basin for the day it only costs $10 for parking.
2. Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is a great place to explore on a budget for hiking and natural beauty. Also, restaurants in downtown Half Moon Bay or along Route 1 don't cost anywhere near as much as San Francisco. All the hiking, beaches in Half Moon Bay are free and restaurants won't break the bank.
3. Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore offers visitors over 1500 species of plants and animals to discover. Also, take a walk out to the lighthouse on the Pacific Coast and enjoy the natural beauty of California. This is free.
4. Pescadero State Beach - Pescadero
Pescadero State Beach is off Route 1. Parking at this beach park is free and food prices are reasonable in Pescadero. Make sure to explore Downtown Pescadero as well.
5. Sawyer Camp Trail - San Mateo
If you're looking to get away and bike, hike, and get fit then the Sawyer Camp Trail is perfect. The Sawyer Camp Trail is a popular place for runners, bikers, walkers, and horse riding! This is completely free.
6. Stanford - Palo Alto
Check out the world famous Stanford campus in Palo Alto. You can see the main Quadrangle and Memorial Church for free. Visit and go up the clock tower, which has an observatory deck that is 250 feet tall and costs $4 for admission.
7. Sonoma Square - Sonoma/Napa Valley
Sonoma is great for its historical square, eating options, wine tasting, and elegant looking Mission. There is wine tasting that is free at Cline Cellars in Sonoma as well. The admission to the Sonoma Mission is $3.
8. Mount Tamalpais State Park - Mill Valley
Mount Tamalpais State Park is a wonderful park with great hikes. The view here is unforgettable and surely full of wonder and amazement. This is a free if you come to hike.
9. Muir Woods - Marin County
The Muir Woods National Monument is an old-growth coastal redwood forest. The Redwoods are stupendous and quite a sight to see. This short day trip from the city would cost only $10 for admission so beat the crowd and check out these redwoods and get a parking spot!
10. Alameda Point Antiques Faire - Alameda
Take a quick day trip and explore for some hidden treasures. Enjoy a great day and browse for vintage goods, jewelry, furniture, accessories, and more. Admission after 9 AM is only $5 so don't come early.
Have you been to any of these spots around San Francisco? Let us know. Share your suggestions too. If you want to stay in the city then check out 10 Unforgettable Attractions In Downtown San Francisco.
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