We wanted to explore everything this vibrant city had to offer while keeping things family-friendly. After much research, we decided to stay in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, which gave us easy access to some of the city’s top attractions. Along with enjoying the bustling San Francisco scene, we ventured out to Mill Valley and the stunning Muir Woods, and even made a quick stop at the Oakland Zoo before flying back home via Oakland Airport on Southwest Airlines. Here’s a recap of our trip and what made it so memorable.
Getting There: Flying Southwest to Oakland
We chose to fly with Southwest Airlines, a family favorite for its flexible policies and free checked bags. Our flights into Oakland International Airport were smooth, and we found it a much quieter, easier (and cheaper as we paid with points!) option compared to San Francisco International. Since the airport is just a 30-minute drive from downtown San Francisco, it’s an ideal choice for families wanting to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger airports. After landing, we picked up our rental car and were on our way.
Our Stay at Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf
For our San Francisco portion of the trip, we stayed at the Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf. This modern, family-friendly hotel was a good spot for us. Located just steps away from Pier 39, we were in the heart of all the action. Our room was spacious and comfortably fit our family of four, with plenty of space for the kids to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
The hotel offers a large breakfast buffet each morning, which was especially convenient before heading out for the day. The kids loved the variety of options, from pancakes to fresh fruit, and the coffee was just what we needed to keep up with them. The staff was incredibly helpful, always offering suggestions for nearby attractions and tips on how to avoid the crowds. The hotel’s outdoor heated pool was a bonus too—even thought we didn’t have the time for our kids to enjoy it.
Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf: Pier 39 & Aquarium of the Bay
Our days in San Francisco were packed with visits to iconic spots, starting with Pier 39, which was just a short walk from the hotel. Pier 39 is a fun place for families, with its quirky shops, fun street performers, and delicious food options. The highlight for us (and especially the kids) was the sea lions.
One of the most exciting attractions we visited was the Aquarium of the Bay, located right on Pier 39. The kids were enthralled by the underwater tunnel, where we walked beneath sharks, rays, and all sorts of marine life. It’s a smaller aquarium, but perfect for families—plenty to see without being overwhelming. The interactive touch pools were a hit, especially getting up close to starfish and other sea creatures.
Sunset Boat Tour: A Golden Hour Cruise
Another experience was our sunset boat tour around San Francisco Bay. This was a magical parts of our trip. As the boat set sail, we passed famous landmarks like Alcatraz Island and sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge just as the sun began to set. The view of the bridge glowing in the golden hour light was stunning. Blankets were provided, which was great because it got chilly as the sun went down, but the experience was totally worth it.
Ghirardelli Square: Sweet Treats and More
No visit to San Francisco would be complete without a trip to Ghirardelli Square. We walked over after the boat tour, and it was the perfect spot to end the day. try a classic Ghirardelli hot fudge sundae! The kids will get a kick out of watching the chocolate being made in the store. Ghirardelli Square itself is charming, with historical architecture, small shops, and plenty of spots to relax. It’s also a nice place to unwind after the busy atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf.
California Academy of Sciences: A Hands-On Learning Experience
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. This museum is a must-visit for families, offering a massive range of exhibits that kept our kids captivated for hours. From the indoor rainforest to the aquarium and planetarium, the academy has something for everyone. The kids especially loved the penguin exhibit and the towering four-story rainforest dome, where we got up close with butterflies and tropical birds. It’s both educational and interactive, making it a perfect spot for curious minds.
Venturing to Mill Valley: Best Western Corte Madera Inn
A short drive across the Golden Gate Bridge to Mill Valley, where we stayed at the Best Western Corte Madera Inn. This hotel was an economical option for our family and the real reason we were on the west coat (for a family wedding!) The rooms were spacious and well-equipped, and the outdoor pool was a big hit with the kids. They also offer a nice outdoor area with fire pits, where one can enjoy making s’mores at night—such a fun and unique touch!
The Best Western Corte Madera Inn is perfectly located for families wanting to explore the Muir Woods National Monument. It’s just a short drive from the hotel, making it easy to spend the day among the towering redwoods.
Muir Woods National Monument: Walking Among Giants
Visiting Muir Woods was one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring parts of our trip. The kids were amazed by the size of the ancient redwoods, and we took one of the shorter, family-friendly trails that was easy to navigate even with little ones in tow. It’s hard to describe the serenity of walking through this forest—the quiet, the fresh air, and the towering trees make it feel like you’re in another world. We spent a few hours exploring and left feeling refreshed and grateful for the chance to see such natural beauty.
The Oakland Zoo: A Last-Minute Adventure
Before heading home, we squeezed in a visit to the Oakland Zoo. Located just a short drive from Oakland International Airport, it was a great way to wrap up our trip. The zoo is well laid-out and features a wide variety of animals in spacious, natural habitats. The kids loved the gondola ride that took us up to the California Trail, where we saw native species like grizzly bears and bison. The zoo’s focus on conservation was evident, and it was a great educational experience for our family.
Flying Home: Southwest Airlines via Oakland Airport
After a fun-filled few days, it was time to head back home. We flew out of Oakland Airport on Southwest Airlines, which continued to be a breeze for our family. The airport is much smaller and less chaotic than SFO, and getting through security was relatively quick. Southwest’s family-friendly policies, like free checked bags and no change fees, made traveling with kids less stressful.
Final Thoughts
Our family adventure in San Francisco, Mill Valley, and Muir Woods was an unforgettable experience. From exploring the iconic sights at Fisherman’s Wharf to walking among the redwoods in Muir Woods, and even visiting the Oakland Zoo, there was something for everyone. Both the Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf and Best Western Corte Madera Inn provided comfortable and family-friendly accommodations, making our stay relaxing and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a vacation that combines city excitement with peaceful nature escapes, I highly recommend this itinerary. San Francisco and its surrounding areas offer endless opportunities for family fun, and we can’t wait to visit again!
FAQs
1. How family-friendly is Fisherman’s Wharf?
Fisherman’s Wharf is very family-friendly, with attractions like Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay, and plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance.
2. What’s the best way to get around San Francisco with kids?
We found walking to be the best way to explore Fisherman’s Wharf, and driving was convenient for visiting other areas like Golden Gate Park and Mill Valley.
3. Is Muir Woods suitable for young children?
Yes, Muir Woods has several short, flat trails that are easy for kids to navigate. The peaceful environment makes it a perfect family outing.
4. How far is Oakland Airport from San Francisco?
Oakland International Airport is about a 30-minute drive from downtown San Francisco, making it a convenient option for families flying in and out.
5. What makes the Oakland Zoo a good family stop?
The Oakland Zoo offers a range of exhibits with a focus on conservation, plus unique attractions like a gondola ride. It’s a fun and educational experience for kids.
