Day Trips from San Francisco
← All San Francisco day tripsDay Trips from San Francisco: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of San Francisco, CA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
9 waterfalls near San Francisco
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Main Camp
CA 93920, USA
Just 2 hrs 41 min from San Francisco, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Sur River Gorge
CA 93920, USA
Just 2 hrs 46 min from San Francisco, rated 4.9 stars by 111 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mount Diablo State Park
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Just 1 hr 15 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 3,277 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
USA
Just 2 hrs 33 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 2,634 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cascade Falls Trailhead
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Just 39 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 406 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
Auburn, CA 95603
Just 2 hrs 11 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 1,352 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Black Hole of Calcutta Falls
Auburn, CA 95603
Just 1 hr 59 min from San Francisco, rated 4.6 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rainbow Falls
San Francisco, CA 94118
Just 20 min from San Francisco, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
North Fork Falls
Emigrant Gap, CA
Just 2 hrs 53 min from San Francisco, rated 4.3 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from San Francisco
What are the best waterfalls near San Francisco, CA?
The best waterfalls near San Francisco range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near San Francisco?
Some waterfalls near San Francisco have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near San Francisco?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near San Francisco are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near San Francisco?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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