It’s that time of year when your soul starts whispering: Get me outta here.
We love Sacramento, but sometimes your brain needs a break from roundabouts and the endless quest for decent parking in Midtown. Enter: the weekend escape. No flights. No spreadsheets. Just you, a packed bag, and somewhere scenic (or weird) to refresh your entire personality.
So we pulled together a list of six perfect spring getaways—all within a two-hour drive of Sacramento. Some are peaceful. Some are wine-fueled. One has llamas. (You’re welcome.)
Whether you’re craving coastal air, vineyard views, or quirky roadside charm, we’ve got your next mini-adventure mapped out.
1. Napa Valley – Wine, Views, and ‘I’m So Fancy’ Energy
Drive Time: ~1 hr 30 mins
You knew this would be on the list. Spring is actually one of the best times to visit Napa—before it gets hot, crowded, or outrageously priced.
Wine tasting? Obviously. But also check out the Oxbow Public Market for next-level snacks and coffee. Walk the Napa River Trail if you want to pretend you’re getting steps between pours. And don’t sleep on Calistoga’s mud baths if you’re feeling brave.
Don’t Miss: Sterling Vineyards—you ride a gondola to the tasting room. Because Napa is extra like that.
2. Bodega Bay – Seafood, Fog, and Seagulls That Judge You
Drive Time: ~2 hrs
Bodega Bay is a moody, magical stretch of coast that makes you want to write poetry and eat clam chowder. Springtime means fewer crowds, wildflowers blooming along the cliffs, and enough salty breeze to fix your whole attitude.
Hike the Bodega Head Trail (easy, scenic, good for your Instagram). Grab crab cakes from Spud Point Crab Company. Then cozy up at a rental with a view of the water.
Don’t Miss: The filming locations for Hitchcock’s The Birds. Yes, it’s creepy. Yes, it’s cool.
3. Murphys – Wine Country Without the Napa Prices
Drive Time: ~1 hr 45 mins
Murphys is like Napa’s laid-back little cousin who still drinks great wine but doesn’t take itself too seriously.
This Gold Rush town is full of character—and tasting rooms. Stroll down Main Street, sip at Twisted Oak Winery, and stay at one of the historic inns if you’re into ghost stories and creaky floors (in a charming way).
Spring = wildflower season + cool evenings + fewer tourists. AKA, the best time to visit.
Don’t Miss: Ironstone Vineyards, which has gardens, caves, and a freakin’ gold nugget on display.
4. Nevada City – Small-Town Magic in the Trees
Drive Time: ~1 hr 15 mins
This place feels like a movie set in the best way possible. Historic downtown. Tree-lined streets. Bookstores, bakeries, and a deeply unbothered vibe.
Grab a pastry at The Curly Wolf Espresso House, wander into a few boutiques, and hike along the Deer Creek Tribute Trail.
If you’ve got time, pop over to Grass Valley for dinner at Tofanelli’s Gold Country Bistro—the garlic fries alone are worth the drive.
Don’t Miss: A room at the National Exchange Hotel—recently restored and full of historic charm with just the right amount of bougie.
5. Apple Hill – Pie, Cider, and Full-On Cozycore
Drive Time: ~1 hr
Technically more famous in fall, but don’t sleep on Apple Hill in spring. Things are just starting to bloom, the crowds are low, and you can actually enjoy your pie without elbowing anyone.
Check out Boa Vista Orchards for fresh produce, wine, and their legendary apple donuts. Lava Cap Winery is open for spring tastings too, with gorgeous views of the foothills.
Don’t Miss: A picnic on the grass with a bottle of local cider and zero responsibilities.
6. Dillon Beach – Sand, Surf, and Llamas (Yes, Really)
Drive Time: ~2 hrs
A lesser-known gem near Tomales Bay, Dillon Beach is peaceful, pet-friendly, and gives you all the coastal feels without the Bodega Bay traffic.
Walk the dog on the beach, collect shells, or just zone out to the sound of waves. It’s quiet in the best way. Rent a cabin, bring books, and leave your inbox behind.
Don’t Miss: A visit to Bluebird Farm nearby—home to rescue llamas, goats, and an Airbnb that feels like you’ve entered cottagecore heaven.
Final Thoughts: Your Escape Awaits
You don’t have to go far to feel way better. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery, a strong latte in a new zip code, and a reminder that there’s more to life than laundry and group texts.
So pick a spot, load up the car, and go chase that spring reset feeling. (Just don’t forget snacks. Road trip law.)
Check out our post on Sonoma here!
