A good getaway is worth its weight in gold, and living in Lathrop yields several excellent options all within a 3-hour drive. Whether you’re craving romance, adventure or a little solo serenity, this Central Valley location puts you within easy reach of some of Northern California’s top destinations.
Unwind with a romantic weekend in Napa Valley, explore the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park with your family or enjoy a culture-filled solo retreat in San Francisco, complete with world-class theater, museums and views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Best Retreats Near Lathrop
Distance: 1-hr 37-min drive time (74.4 mi)
Highlights: Culture, Golden Gate, Fisherman’s Wharf
Things to Do: Take in the views at the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Alcatraz Island and ride the cable cars to Ghirardelli Square. You can also stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf for shopping, dining, street entertainers and of course, Pier 39, where the famous sea lions gather. Experience the cultural wonders of Chinatown or take in a concert, baseball game or show.
Local Tip: There is a lot to do in this famous city, so plan multiple trips with a different focus. There’s no need to feel like you need to do it all in one weekend when you live so close.
Distance: 1-hr 40-min drive time (81.2 mi)
Highlights: Coastal charm and marine life
Things to Do: The AH-mazing views here are what make this spot so worth it. At the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve or Pescadero State Beach, you can explore tide pools and see marine life. You can also relax and play in the waves at Half Moon Bay State Beach. For big-wave surfing, you’ll want to visit Mavericks Beach, and for kayaking and paddleboarding, you’ll want to head to Pillar Point Harbor. Hearst Castle is just 36 minutes away, and it’s well worth adding this iconic spot to your trip as well.
Local Tip: This spot is perfect for a family or a weekend couples’ getaway to check off all those things you’ve been meaning to enjoy at the beach. Just freshen up on water and beach safety and get ready for a great time.
Distance: 2-hr 7-min drive time (88.2 mi)
Highlights: Wine tasting, romantic getaways
Things to Do: Napa is known for producing some of the best wine in the world. It also has some of the most foodie-worthy restaurants to go with it. You can fill your weekend with gondola rides, biking, dining and wine tasting year-round. In the summer, there are amazing concerts with some of the biggest names like Green Day, Sublime and Justin Timberlake. Downtown Napa has quite the nightlife, and the spas and shopping there are next level.
Local Tip: Along with excellent food and wine, Napa serves up spectacular cultural events year-round, like BottleRock in the spring and the Napa Lighted Art Festival in the winter. Check out their calendar to make sure you don’t miss out.
Distance: 2-hr 15-min drive time (95.1 mi)
Highlights: Iconic hikes, nature escapes
Things to Do: Nature is at its best inside iconic Yosemite National Park. Hiking, sightseeing and rock climbing are the most popular things to do there. You can hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls, hike to Yosemite Falls or Glacier Point for the views or wander among giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove.
Local Tip: The sites are gorgeous year-round, with crowds peaking in the summer. We love visiting in the spring the most when the wildflowers start to bloom and waterfalls are flowing.
Distance: 2-hr 17-min drive time (93.5 mi)
Highlights: Beach town, boardwalk, surfing
Things to Do: Along with beautiful coastal views, Santa Cruz is well known for its Boardwalk, a beachside amusement park and a generous selection of wineries. It also offers access to the Redwood Forest, including the Mystery Spot, a natural physics-defying anomaly that’s one of nature’s rarest gems. It has excellent shopping, especially the Patagonia Outlet, and berry and pumpkin picking in the spring and fall.
Local Tip: Like many beach cities, parking can be tricky. You can take about a 2-hr train ride for only $15 each way. Then you can get a room near the shore and just spend your whole getaway relaxing – as one should.
Distance: 3-hr drive time (172.1 mi)
Highlights: Nature, skiing, hiking, lakeside fun
Things to Do: Lake Tahoe’s crystal blue waters beckon many to its shores. In the spring and summer, you can hike, bike and zipline in the mountains. Along the shore, the area is alive with free summer concerts, boating, fishing, sunset cruises and more. Come winter and fall, you can enjoy some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. There’s snowshoeing along the shore and loads of places to go tubing and sledding.
Local Tip: Most people are surprised to know there are 13 unique towns surrounding Lake Tahoe. Each has its own personality, so be sure to take multiple trips to decide on your favorite.
Live Your Best Life at Stanford Crossing
Slow down and enjoy all the good things in life at Stanford Crossing. It’s full of beautiful neighborhoods right near the San Joaquin River and it’s close to several epic vacation destinations for you and your family. Stop by Stanford Crossing to tour some homes and see all the advantages for yourself. Reach out to the Stanford Crossing neighborhood sales offices for more details.