By: Dana Hathaway

Public-Relations Manager

We’ve all been there. Suddenly, it’s Ski Week, Spring Break, or a long weekend, and you have no idea what to do with your newfound freedom. Well, it’s time to grab a friend and a car (sorry freshmen), because vacations don’t have to be in Hawaii to be fun. California is home to a variety of activities and gorgeous nature, and road trips don’t break the bank. Here are some fun day/weekend trips within three hours of Los Gatos.

Pinnacles National Park (1h, 36m): One of the most underappreciated national parks, Pinnacles is practically next door for us Bay-dwellers. The hikes are stunning, with several leading through caves and others offering spectacular wildflower decor. Pinnacles is most famous for its unique rock formations.

Big Sur (1h, 39m): Covered in gorgeous beaches, waterfalls, and a plethora of scenic drives, Big Sur is the perfect place to head on a warm spring day. The coastal town is also home to some delicious restaurants with impressive views and heritage. There are several places to camp if an overnight adventure is desired, everything from BYOT (Bring Your Own Tent) to luxurious cabins.

Bass Lake (1h 33m): I would be remiss not to mention Bass Lake. A summer hotspot, spring brings a serene atmosphere with the same options to rent boats, ride waterskis, relax in cabins, and enjoy a juicy burger and milkshake at Miller’s Landing. If you’re ballin’ on a budget, there are plenty of spots to access the water, swim around, and build a campfire without any fees.

San Francisco (55m): Duh. Some classic recommendations for how to spend a day in SF include a stroll along the waterfront, a trip to the Boudin factory, a musical, and perhaps a ride out to Alcatraz Island. If you want to go slightly more niche, check out Margowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze, the Church of 8 Wheels, and the Crosstown Trail.

San Luis Obispo (2h 45m): A lively town, SLO deserves a visit even if you don’t have friends at Cal Poly. With delicious food, a weekly farmer’s market, and a particularly notable donut shop (see: SloDoCo), the energy of San Luis Obispo is worth the trek over. There are also vineyards, a drive-in movie theater, and Avila Valley Barn, a classic country produce stand!

Honorable mention — Yosemite (3h, 13m): Although this is a bit outside the three-hour drive limit, many often forget that Yosemite is not as far as they think. While you will likely have to book a night in a nearby inn, it will always be worth it. With 278 trails throughout the park, everyone is sure to find something that matches their wishes. If it is your first time in Yosemite, the Mist Trail, Sentinel Falls, and Mirror Lake Loop are all fairly easy and classic trails.

Tidbits — Jelly Belly Factory (1h 21m), Bay Area Curling (46m) If you’ve really, truly ran out of places to go. Everybody could use a good curling lesson or jelly beans!

(Sources: California Crossings,  USA Today, Trip Advisor)