San Francisco Sights

Question

We are planning a PCH drive (San Diego to Leggett) and I am struggling with planning the San Francisco portion. We are not big city people; we prefer small towns. Having said that, we’d like to see a few San Francisco highlights enroute from Monterey to Point Reyes National Seashore. We have found lodging (Acqua Hotel Mill Valley), outside of the city and that appeals to us. We hope to stay there the nights of Thursday 6/26/25 and Friday 6/27/25. We’ll leave Mill Valley for Point Reyes National Seashore the morning of Saturday 6/28/25.

I am looking for help with the following:

What should we see in San Francisco before crossing the Golden Gate Bridge? (the afternoon of Thursday 6/26/25)? (We don’t want to visit Alcatraz). We’ll have a car and would like to do a self-driving tour of the highlights

We would like to visit Muir Woods on Friday 6/27/25. What else should we add to Friday before returning to our lodging in Mill Valley Friday evening?

Also, should we consider taking a ferry from (??) to San Francisco?

I would be grateful for any guidance you can provide!

Answer

Given your preference for small towns and a more relaxed pace, staying in Mill Valley is an excellent choice. You can enjoy San Francisco highlights without being caught in city traffic or dealing with the hassle of parking downtown.

Thursday 6/26/25 – Afternoon in San Francisco before crossing the Golden Gate Bridge:

Since you have a car and only an afternoon, a self-driving tour with a few key stops will be ideal. You can focus on iconic viewpoints and photo opportunities without spending too much time in the city itself.

Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoints: Start at the Battery Spencer or Marin Headlands for sweeping views of the bridge and the city skyline from across the bay.
Lombard Street: Drive down the famous crooked street in Russian Hill for a quick, fun experience and photo op.
Palace of Fine Arts: Beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings; easy to walk around for 20-30 minutes.
Fisherman’s Wharf / Pier 39: You could do a brief stop for views of the bay, sea lions, and classic tourist energy, even without going into Alcatraz.
Coit Tower viewpoint: Drive up Telegraph Hill or nearby streets for a panoramic city view; you don’t have to go inside if pressed for time.

After this, you can cross the Golden Gate Bridge north and return to Mill Valley for the evening.

Friday 6/27/25 – Muir Woods and nearby highlights:

Muir Woods is best visited in the morning to avoid crowds and to enjoy the peaceful redwood trails. After your walk:

Mount Tamalpais State Park: Short drives to viewpoints like East Peak or Verna Dunshee Trail offer sweeping vistas of the Bay Area.
Sausalito: Stop for lunch, a coffee, or a walk along the waterfront in this charming town. It has art galleries, boutiques, and stunning views back toward the city.
Optional Ferry Ride: From Sausalito, you could take the ferry to San Francisco and return by car or ferry. This provides a scenic water perspective of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. However, if you prefer to stay relaxed, driving is sufficient.
Return to Mill Valley: In the evening, enjoy a casual dinner in Mill Valley or nearby Marin towns.

Additional Tips:

Parking in San Francisco can be tricky; prioritize street parking apps or short-term lots if you stop in city neighborhoods.
Early mornings or late afternoons for viewpoints reduce traffic stress and improve photo lighting.
Focusing on scenic drives and viewpoints aligns with your small-town and nature preference, so avoid crowded urban areas like downtown unless you want a quick drive-by.

This plan allows you to experience the essence of San Francisco and nearby natural beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by the city.