6) Sausalito
Literally just across the bay from the City, this quaint seaside town offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere; and likely better weather. Your best way of getting there is either across the Golden Gate Bridge, for which you’ll have to pay a toll; or a boat ride from San Francisco. Once there, you should try the Sausalito ferry: cheaper than most, it’s rated as the 2nd most exciting in the world according to The Society of American Travel Writers, surpassed only by the Star Ferry in Hong Kong. There’s also a chance to see some of the world’s most expensive houseboats, docked in the harbor. You can even go on board, either during the annual Floating Home Tour, or the Floating Art Show, and get a glimpse of how the extremely wealthy live. Quiet and tasteful, Sausalito will become one of your favorites for a weekend getaway.