Driving to San Francisco... am I nuts?

Looking · #1 (**permalink**) 07-16-2008

My family has voted, and the Admiral has spoken, and we are driving to San Francisco this summer for a vacation (I know about the weather... please don't tell me! The Admiral has spoken!). Leaving Vancouver , BC in early August, bombing down the I-5 in one go. And then site seeing for 3 - 4 days, and returning by the Oregon Coast at a leisurely pace (lots of beach, crabs and beer).

Having never been to SF, I am looking for advice (other than the tourist books stacked on the Admiral's night table). Have heard cars are expensive in SF, parking, etc. I would like to stay outside the city, and just drive in for the day. Can someone recommend a nice spot a half hour or so north of the city. (Sauslito?) And some advice on parking downtown?

I have an 11 year old son and a 8 year old daughter and are looking at dragging them to all of the touristy things to do... recommendations?

Any advice from the locals, or those who have visited with kids recently would be greatly appreciated.

Anything sailing related around? Like some Tall Ships or anything? I figure if I'm going to drive 3,000+ kms for a holiday (believe me I am trying to talk her into flying!) then by God I'm going to see a boat or two!

Thanks, Andrew

Freesail99 · #2 (**permalink**) 07-16-2008

I know the Admiral has spoken, but how does driving to San Francisco have anything to do with sailing, boats or water ?

Looking · #3 (**permalink**) 07-16-2008

That's why I'm in 'Off Topic'. I am appealing to a larger community than I could possibly in my neighbourhood, and was hoping for some friendly advice...

sailaway21 · #4 (**permalink**) 07-16-2008

It's been quite a while since I've been there but I'd guess that you could stay somewhere around Santa Rosa or Petaluma to the north of town for a more reasonable rate. btw, I think you'll enjoy the drive!

At Fisherman's Wharf you'll find the sailing vessel Balclutha and she's worth a tour. You should definitely visit and eat in Chinatown, the best on the North American continent. Do some research and you'll find some inexpensive places to eat there. There used to be a place called the Far East cafe that had wonderful food at a great price. You'll probably want to visit the Presidio if just for the view. Ghiradelli Square is great as well.

You can drive in to town and park the car in a garage. It's easy then to get about town by bus and cable car. If you're debating walking check your map first to see which way is uphill! It's often more advisable to make a lateral move walking and catch a cable car for the climb.

Do some research on cheap restaurants-there are some-and you'll have a great time. There's much to see, the climate is nice, and the eatin' is good.

poopdeckpappy · #5 (**permalink**) 07-17-2008

Monterey Bay Marine Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium: Podcast, Videos & Web Cams

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Marine and Ocean Life Exhibits

SF Tallship

Links for Tall Ships San Francisco Bay

Gen info on the waterworld

BoatingSF.com: All About San Francisco Bay By Boat

JiffyLube · #6 (**permalink**) 07-17-2008

If a train went to SF from where you're located, I'd rather go that way over driving.

knothead · #7 (**permalink**) 07-18-2008

The wine country is beautiful, some nice B&Bs.
The foothills and the drive up to Tahoe is gorgeous.
I hope you plan to visit the giant sequoias on your way back north.

sck5 · #8 (**permalink**) 07-18-2008

sailaway is right. I stayed in Petaluma once and Santa Rosa once. Very much cheaper than in the city. Cross the Golden Gate to get to SF - Just dont pick the same time to cross the bridge that everyone else picks. And it is one hell of a bridge.