As much as we love San Francisco, there are times we need to get out of Fog City. Why? Believe it or not, the winter attractions around San Francisco are fun, beautiful, and magical. There are many unforgettable places around San Francisco that are within varying distances, and alluring for every taste. Let’s explore these winter destinations around San Francisco now! Winter in Northern California has never been so filled with delight!

1. Point Reyes
Point Reyes, California, USA
Esther Lee/Flickr
During the winter, the views at Point Reyes around Chimney Rock and the Lighthouse are prime spots for whale watching. If you've never gone whale watching in Northern California, you've never lived! These animals are incredibly majestic, and something about them evokes pure awe.
2. Squaw Valley
Olympic Valley, CA 96146, USA
Squaw Valley Business Owner/Yelp
Squaw Valley is well known for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympic Games. Also, the Village of Squaw Valley will warm you and charm you with lots of stores and restaurants. If you have never heard of this adorable winter wonderland in Northern California, you're certainly in for a treat!
3. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, United States
Beau Rogers/Flickr
When you think of winter destinations, Lake Tahoe pops up immediately. Venture out to the mountains and rent a cabin, ski, chill out in the beauty of Tahoe, or just take a lovely drive. Near South Lake Tahoe, you'll find an epic winter mountain rollercoaster you've got to try!
4. Calistoga
Calistoga, CA 94515, USA
Sarahstierch/Flickr
Escape the crowds of the summer, and visit a wine town with a more relaxed appeal. Calistoga also has winter-themed spa treatments. Wine is of course always around here, and a geyser too.
5. Big Sur
Big Sur, CA, USA
Kimquyen L/Yelp
When people say California is one of a kind and stunning it is because of the magic of Big Sur. Big Sur is over two hours away from SF, but worth it. Expect mountain-meets-ocean beauty, incredibly scenic drives, camping, stylish hotels, spas, fine restaurants, majestic nature, and more. Unforgettable and out of this world! This iconic landmark in the United States is absolutely breathtaking.

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6. Mendocino
Mendocino, CA, USA
Harold/Flickr
Mendocino is an old seaside town full of charm and history. This is a perfect place for food, shopping, and a dreamy seaside escape from the city. This beautiful coastal town in Northern California is like something out of a dream.
7. Monterey
Monterey, CA, USA
Ida H/Yelp
The famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is found here as well as shops, seafood restaurants, and bars. The surrounding scenery is also incredible.
8. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park Road, Yosemite National Park Rd, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
Winter is an amazing and rare time to visit Yosemite. You'll have a chance to hike, play in the snow, and enjoy quiet solitude. The silence and grandeur of Yosemite in winter is an experience you'll never forget. Winter at Yosemite National Park is an experience you'll never forget.
9. Bear Valley
Bear Valley, CA 95223, USA
Ryan B/Yelp
If you want a more hidden spot for skiing this winter then check out Bear Valley. This is a great spot to escape the crowds at Tahoe and have fun in the snow. Winter in Northern California wouldn't be the same without towns like this.
10. Truckee
Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Charlie A/Yelp
The Truckee-Lake Tahoe area is worth the long drive for a weekend of winter fun. Truckee features scenic mountain beauty and skiing. It is perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor excitement. This unforgettable winter town in Northern California is well worth a day or two stay.

Have you been to any of these winter spots? Let us know your favorite winter spots. If you’re curious, please take a look at some other great activities in the area and check out the perfect weekend itinerary if you love exploring San Francisco’s waterfalls.

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More to Explore

Weather In San Francisco In December

Tori Jane | November 26, 2022
  1. What’s the weather in San Francisco in December like?  

Winter in San Francisco is actually pretty mild, thanks to its Mediterranean climate. Come December, the average high is about 66 degrees, so a nice sweater ought to do it. Some of the best things to do in San Francisco in December include:  

 

2. What’s the temperature in San Francisco in January?  

Though temperatures in San Francisco in January are colder than in December, they’re still quite mild when compared to the rest of the nation. The average high in San Francisco in January is around 55 degrees. Typically, temps will be in the high 50s by the end of January and will continue to rise into spring from there. Some fun things to do in San Francisco in January are: 

 

3. What is winter in San Francisco like? 

Winter in San Francisco is a lovely time. Temperatures are cool, but not cold, and the area tends to see almost no snowfall whatsoever (it’s literally only snowed twice in San Francisco). Some fun things to do in winter in San Francisco are things like:  

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