Weekend Escapes Within 90 Minutes: Where Bay Area Homeowners Go to Recharge

Weekend escapes are one of the biggest perks of living in the Bay Area, especially when you can be on the road and relaxing in under 90 minutes. As a Santa Cruz–based Realtor, Brian Wellikson helps buyers think beyond the house itself and focus on the lifestyle that different locations make possible.

Why weekend access matters

Where you live in the Bay Area shapes how easy it is to reach the coast, redwoods, or wine country on short notice. Buyers who plan around their favorite escapes often feel more satisfied with their home choice over the long term.

Living near Caltrain or major freeways can make spontaneous trips to coastal towns, vineyards, or trailheads much more realistic after a busy workweek.
Being a bit closer to the mountains or the ocean can turn what would be a “big day trip” for others into a simple, low‑stress half‑day outing.

Santa Cruz coast: surf, sand, and boardwalk energy

From Santa Clara, Santa Cruz is a classic under‑90‑minute escape that feels like an entirely different pace of life. The mix of beach town charm, great food, and ocean air is a huge draw for Bay Area residents.

Popular spots include West Cliff Drive, Pleasure Point, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, offering everything from quiet ocean walks to classic amusement rides.
Homebuyers who live closer to the coast—whether in Santa Cruz County or on the western side of Silicon Valley—often find it easier to fit in quick surf sessions, sunset walks, or beach mornings before heading back over the hill.coldwellbankerhomes+1

Half Moon Bay: coastal calm and farm stands

Half Moon Bay offers rugged coastline, scenic bluffs, and seasonal pumpkin patches and farm stands, all within a reasonable drive from Santa Clara. It is a favorite for people who want ocean scenery without a full vacation commitment.

Locals head there for coastal trails, seafood, and the relaxed small‑town feel, especially on weekends that call for a slower pace and cooler coastal weather.
Buyers who choose homes with good access to Highway 92 or the Peninsula’s north–south corridors often find Half Moon Bay becomes a regular part of their weekend routine.

Wine country: South Bay and beyond

While Napa and Sonoma are the most famous, many Bay Area homeowners enjoy closer wine‑tasting options that are manageable as day trips from Santa Clara. These smaller, nearer regions can offer a more relaxed, less crowded experience.

South Bay and nearby foothill wineries give residents a way to enjoy tastings, views, and picnics without a long drive or overnight stay.
Living near major transit lines or with easy freeway access makes it simpler to plan safe, organized wine‑tasting days with friends or family.

Redwood hikes: shade, silence, and trail time

Redwood hikes are another classic “under‑90‑minute” escape, with towering trees and cooler temperatures providing a complete reset from city or suburban life. Trails in nearby state parks and open spaces are popular with Bay Area homeowners.

Many residents head to redwood parks for trail runs, family hikes, and dog‑friendly walks, using these outings as a counterbalance to office and screen time.
Homebuyers who live closer to the mountains or in communities with quick access to the foothills often find it easier to integrate hiking into their weekly routine, not just special weekends.

How home location shapes your weekend lifestyle

When you think about buying a home, it helps to picture not just your weekday commute, but your ideal Saturday morning. Different parts of the Bay Area support very different “default” weekend rhythms.

Near Caltrain or transit: Ideal for people who want to leave the car at home, head up or down the Peninsula, and explore cities, restaurants, and events without worrying about parking.
Closer to the coast: Great for those who see themselves at the beach, on oceanfront trails, or in surf breaks most weekends, often turning quick trips into easy rituals.
Closer to the mountains: Perfect for buyers who prioritize trail access, mountain biking, and redwood hikes, using nature as a regular part of their routine rather than an occasional treat.

Planning your next move around lifestyle

Choosing a home is about more than square footage and finishes; it is about how easily you can live the life you picture for yourself on weekends and evenings. Buyers who start with lifestyle often narrow in on locations that will keep them happiest over time.

Brian Wellikson works with buyers throughout Santa Cruz and the greater Bay Area to align home searches with the escapes and experiences that matter most to them.
To talk about how your ideal weekend should shape your next move, contact Brian at 831‑227‑7561 or by email at Brian.Wellikson@CBRealty.com.