Easy Adventures for the Fourth

So close, yet far enough to get swept up in iconic coastal scenery ... that pretty much defines this classic hike in the Marin Headlands. Just over the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge is an expanse of wild open space and a winding 5-mile loop hike that brings together the be

Set right on the Oakland Estuary, Brotzeit Lokal Boathaus & Biergarten is what it sounds like: a Bavarian restaurant and boathouse, with an impressively stocked rotation of craft German beers, amazing brunch, and a fabulous waterfront setting. Be the envy of Brotzeit’s patrons by

The popular Bear Valley Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the best places to enjoy a good bike-and-hike trail, with a peaceful ride and ramble that leads to beautiful coastal vistas. Get a jumpstart on hikers by biking the first 3 mellow miles along the creekside f

Admit it, you’ve always wanted to try a Segway. And one of the most beautiful places to take a spin? Angel Island State Park! Smack in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Angel Island has nonstop views and no cars or crowds (yeah, that’s important!). And right now you can take the A

Behold the glorious Sonoma Coast, underrated sibling to Big Sur. Dozens of accessible pocket beaches pop up all along this dramatic stretch of northern California that's perfect for pictures. Most photogenic of them all? Goat Rock Beach, a sub-unit of Sonoma Coast State Park in J

If you've driven the Peninsula's Skyline Boulevard, you know there are acres of open space just waiting to be explored. And now, thanks to the efforts of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, you can hike through some stunning canyons studded with ancient oaks and openin

Big things come in small packages. Tucked in an upscale neighborhood in Los Altos, Redwood Grove Nature Preserve is just 6 acres, but it sure packs in those redwoods! This little sanctuary is a locals' favorite, with several spur trails, observation decks, and picnic tables. Wand

Solitude in San Francisco is a just a Mile Rock away. This small and secluded cove tucked beneath wild and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, the Marin Headlands, and the Golden Gate Bridge is easy to reach if you don't mind lots of steps. From the Lands End parking lot by the