Complete Guide To A San Francisco Staycation
By Randy Yagi
Do you find yourself working for the weekend, only to end up working on the weekend as well? If so, you may be in need of a staycation. Vacations abroad are great, but staycations allow you to get the most out of your precious downtime while re-connecting with those who truly matter—friends and family. All of that time that would've been spent planning, packing and boarding planes is now extra time that can be spent exploring your city with loved ones.
Here are a few insider tips on ways to reward yourself with a fulfilling San Francisco staycation.
Hike A New Trail
Some local hidden treasures are starting to become better known, such as Eagle Point Labyrinth and the Wave Organ near the Small Boat Harbor. But San Francisco has dozens of other places to hike that you may not be familiar with. A good place to start would be the Presidio, with scenic paths like Batteries to Bluffs Trail and Lover's Lane or Glen Canyon Park, a 70-acre park bordering Glen Park and two other neighborhoods. Still looking for tips? Try visiting San Francisco City Guides, a volunteer-based nonprofit organization sponsored by the San Francisco Library, for a list of free walking tours with no advance reservation required.
Visit A New Neighborhood
Regardless of how long you've lived in San Francisco, chances are there are many neighborhoods you haven't really explored. For instance, North Beach, Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury are more than obvious. But have you visited or even heard of Crocker-Amazon or Sherwood Forest? With nearly 40 official neighborhoods, you're bound to discover something new and exciting in your city.
Dine In A New Restaurant
As one of the world's best destinations for food, you have more than 3,500 different choices for dining. Among the hidden gems to consider are 3rd Cousin in Bernal Heights, Piccolo Pete's Cafe in Visitacion Valley, Oasis Cafe in NoPa, Presidio Bowling Center, Okoze Sushi on Russian Hill, as well as hot new spots like the Market Restaurant at China Live.
Indulge In A Spa Treatment
One of the best ways to relax on your staycation is to indulge yourself with a soothing spa treatment. In fact, spa treatments and massages are well known for providing a variety of health benefits, including eliminating toxins from your skin and significantly reducing your level of anxiety and stress. With so many spa services available in the city, it's easy to opt for locally-owned businesses in a non-touristy neighborhood, such as Spa Radiance in Cow Hollow or Earthbody in Hayes Valley.
Book A Room In A Hotel
The ultimate staycation experience? A reservation in the hotel of your choice. You might be surprised to find reduced rates at even the fanciest hotels — particularly at the last minute — by using the popular travel app from San Francisco-based HotelTonight. Insider tip: instead of paying for overnight parking, take Uber, Muni for $2.25 or BART to get to your destination.
