40th birthday ideas

Question

Hi friends!

My partner and I are heading to California next week to celebrate his 40th birthday. We’ll be starting in San Francisco for 3 nights and driving down the PCH to LA. His birthday falls on a Saturday in San Francisco - ideas on how to spend it?! Locals.. looking for any cool experiences you can suggest. Into adventure sports, nature, good food, etc.. just wanting something memorable! Am considering doing a scavenger-style “40 things to do on your 40th”. Let me know your thoughts!

I’ve got a couple of options for dinner, but am pretty open for the day and suggestions. The Giants are in town, but the game is at 6pm which would essentially write off the evening, will reserve for the day before or after his bday.

Answer

Celebrating a 40th birthday in San Francisco offers a ton of options, especially if your partner is into adventure, nature, and memorable experiences. Since the Giants game is in the evening, focusing on daytime activities that are fun and unique would be ideal.

Here are some ideas to make the day special:

Outdoor Adventure: Rent bikes and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, then take the ferry back. It’s iconic, scenic, and can feel like a mini-adventure.
Kayaking or Sailing: Kayak in the San Francisco Bay for a fun water activity with incredible views of the city and the Golden Gate. Alternatively, a private sailing charter could be a memorable birthday treat.
Hiking: Twin Peaks offers panoramic views of the city, or Lands End Trail along the coast has dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas. Both are accessible and rewarding.
Scavenger Hunt/“40 Things on Your 40th”: You could create a personalized walking scavenger hunt that hits favorite spots around the city, quirky landmarks, murals, coffee shops, or small activities like sampling local pastries or ice cream. This could mix adventure with fun challenges.
Food & Drink: Consider a progressive brunch or lunch: start with dim sum in Chinatown, a quick stop for artisanal coffee in North Beach, and a gourmet treat at Ferry Building Marketplace. You could also book a tasting experience—craft cocktails, wine, or chocolate tours are all fun options.

Additional memorable activities:

Take a helicopter tour of the city and bay for a thrilling aerial perspective.
Visit Alcatraz with a behind-the-scenes tour to make it more special and less crowded.
For something relaxed but memorable, book a private sunset sail from Pier 39 or a bay cruise—great for photos and an intimate experience.
Consider a quirky museum like the Musee Mechanique at Fisherman’s Wharf or the Exploratorium for interactive fun.

For dinner options, since the Giants game is later in the evening, you could plan a celebratory dinner either before the game or the night prior. Popular options for a special birthday meal include seafood at Swan Oyster Depot, upscale casual spots like Hog Island Oyster Co. in the Ferry Building, or Italian in North Beach. If you prefer something private, booking a chef’s table or a tasting menu experience could be unforgettable.

Combining a mix of adventure, city exploration, and memorable food experiences will make for a well-rounded and exciting 40th birthday in San Francisco.

40th birthday ideas

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