Students can look forward to the long-awaited independence and freedom that comes with the dismissal of the school year.
It’s the perfect time to escape the confines of mundane San Ramon and dive into summer the right way.
Here are a few local spots students should add to their day-trip list this summer.
17-Mile Drive
Head 80 miles south to Monterey County this summer to experience the spectacular 17-Mile Drive.
Just as the name suggests, this 17-mile course will take visitors along the Monterey Peninsula with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
“One of the most scenic drives on the Monterey Peninsula, and quite possibly in the world,” describes seemonterey.com. “The famous 17-Mile Drive is a visually stunning stretch of roadway which hugs the Pacific coastline from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach”.
On this panoramic course, visitors can expect to see incredible amounts of wildlife and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay.
“[The Lone Cypress] Tree is to the Monterey Peninsula what the pyramids are to Egypt, what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris,” the Los Angeles Times wrote.
Pacifica State Beach
A little closer to home, yet still far enough to classify as a day-trip, is the Pacifica State Beach that everyone must visit at least once this summer.
Just off of the Pacific Coast Highway and 53 miles West of San Ramon, the beach also known as Linda Mar offers the perfect environment for beginner surfers and kayakers looking to start a new activity.
Besides the picturesque crescent-shaped pocket the beach is nestled in, the real highlight of the location is the Taco Bell sitting right on the sand. What more could you ask for?
“For me tacos are a comfort food and I’ve always loved the beach,” sophomore Gabrielle Williams said. “That makes [Linda Mar Beach] a wholesome place to visit.”
Half Moon Bay
If the tranquility of beaches is your perfect summer relaxation spot, the city of Half Moon Bay reflects this everywhere you go.
Located about 45 minutes south of San Francisco, on the peninsula, Half Moon Bay known for its gorgeous beaches and quaint town.
The beaches are perfect for leisurely walks and exploring tide pools. Challenging waves make it a common spot for advanced surfers as well.
In the town there is a historic Main Street teeming with charming shops and eateries.
“It’s where people come to embrace local culture, celebrating and revitalizing Half Moon Bay’s history through unique events, landmarks, and the heritage of this aptly named thoroughfare,” visithalfmoonbay.org emphasized.
Many of the restaurants pride themselves in their popular seafood dishes that include fresh, locally sourced seafood.
From watching the sunset on their beaches to walking around the town, a day in Half Moon Bay will expose visitors to all the gems of a seaside town.
Twin Peaks
Another type of picturesque view can be found at Twin Peaks Summit, from which the whole city of San Francisco, and the entire bay is visible.
It’s a viewpoint situated in the middle of a San Francisco residential neighborhood. From the parking lot, reaching the summit is about an hour hike. At the top are incredible views from an elevation of 922 feet.
“You can see many of San Francisco’s landmarks: the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, Transamerica Building, downtown skyscrapers and Market Street,” a blog named Fog City Secrets writes “Photographs just don’t do it justice.”
San Francisco
Those not interested in views of the city can try going into the city where they can see these famous sights up close.
Just an hour west of San Ramon is the Embarcadero, where visitors can walk along the piers to reach the Exploratorium and world-renowned Pier 39.
Pier 39, also known as Fisherman’s Wharf, has attractions that include tourist-favorite sea lions, amusement rides, restaurants, and novelty shops.
“From amazing views and a sea of sea lions to chowder bread bowls…a visit to San Francisco starts at PIER 39,” fishermanswharf.org said.
Attractions like the Exploratorium and California Academy of Sciences are also perfect for day trips with the family. In the Presidio, visitors can experience the Palace of Fine Arts, the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park.
“Stretch those calves, because boy are you about to get those steps in!” according to Time Out, an online guide to the world’s greatest cities.
Whether or not students choose to visit any of the spots, we hope everyone has an adventurous and prosperous summer filled with fun.
