17 Short Flights From San Francisco for a Quick Getaway
Ready for a much-needed escape? San Francisco has got you covered for a quick getaway!
Whether it’s the sandy beaches of Santa Barbara, an idyllic mountain village in Napa Valley, or the bright lights of Los Angeles, there’s something for everyone.
In no time at all, you can be sipping a pina colada on a tropical beach, strolling through vineyards in wine country, or browsing exclusive boutiques in Hollywood.
So break free from your routine and take off for a weekend you’ll never forget!
1. Los Cabos (3 Hour Flight)
Nothing beats the feeling of packing your bags and jetting off to a faraway destination – except, of course, when you don’t have the time.
Los Cabos is just off the coast of San Francisco and could be your go-to spot!
Do you want the chance to catch that bass or marlin you’ve always dreamed of?
Are you looking for the perfect place to build sandcastles with your kiddos or get that Instagram-worthy sunset shot?
How about a round of golf with amazing views? Los Cabos can offer all of this and more!
With its delicious food, spectacular beaches, and unbeatable ocean views, who wouldn’t want to get away to the tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula?
Just make sure to bring an extra suitcase so you can stuff it full of all the treasures Cabo is sure to have in store.
Tip: Check out all our travel guides to Los Cabos!
2. San Diego (1.5 Hour Flight)
Looking to break free of SF’s bustling city scene for a couple of days? Then hop across to San Diego for the ultimate in relaxation.
Whether you’re after some fun in the sun at the beach or out on the water surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking or fishing – this hot spot is sure to have you sorted!
Culture buffs can explore Balboa Park and when you’re done with that, tuck into some seriously delicious Italian food over at Little Italy.
It’s a no-brainer – get your escape from San Francisco underway and head down to San Diego!
3. Las Vegas (1.5 Hour Flight)
Las Vegas has all the elements of a perfect weekend escape – the very best in nightlife, casino fun, and fine dining.
Make sure to get to check out spots like Mandalay Bay or Caesars Palace, and perhaps even take your chances at Lady Luck.
But, if you’re feeling thrifty and don’t want to break the bank during your stay, there are plenty of free activities as well.
4. Salt Lake City (2 Hour Flight)
Just a two-hour flight away, Salt Lake City is an alluring city that boasts everything from outdoor thrills to the Great Salt Lake and the Mormon Temple.
If you’re visiting during the summertime, there’s plenty of things to do, including the Hogle Zoo and Bonneville Salt Flats.
In winter months, travelers can explore ski trails that are renowned for their steep slopes.
Indoor activities? No problem! Step back in time at Hale Center Theater or take a trip down memory lane with a visit to Eccles Theater and Natural History Museum of Utah.
Trust us – you’ll be glad you stopped by this salty gem!
5. Lake Tahoe (1 Hour Flight)
If you’re in search of some peace and quiet, Lake Tahoe is the place to be!
Whether it’s boat rides and fishing on the lake or adventuring up the hiking trails, Lake Tahoe is guaranteed to put that sparkle back in your life.
Ready your fishing rods or lace up your hiking boots, because this remarkable destination has it all.
6. Palm Springs (1.5 Hour Flight)
Put your city wear away for the weekend and replace them with your fave poolside outfit, because if you’re looking for a desert paradise that isn’t too far from San Francisco, then Palm Springs is the place to be.
Spend days hitting all the world-class golf courses, indulge in some much-deserved spa pampering, and laze around infinity rooftop pools.
And don’t forget to feast upon some delectable cuisine and marvel at the incredible mid-century architecture while you’re there.
A weekend is all it takes to take in this fashionable slice of oasis bliss!
7. Jackson Hole (2.5 Hour Flight)
Get ready for your wildest adventure yet! Jackson Hole serves up a double dose of nature with its prime location near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Whether you’re a mountain climber, hiker, or whitewater rafter, this area is like paradise for any outdoor enthusiast.
But beware: the breathtaking views may be hard to tear yourself away from.
It’s home to rustic boutique hotels and amazing dining spots too if you want to experience authentic western culture.
From picturesque vistas at every turn to plenty of wildlife encounters along the path, you’ll have a helluva time exploring.
8. Santa Barbara (1 Hour Flight)
Take a break with a quick hour-long flight to Santa Barbara! You can spend your days strolling the beach, cycling around the town, and gazing at incredible art at quaint shops.
Get to know your history with Spanish colonial buildings, or just get lost in all the incredible nature trails.
And that’s not even mentioning how Santa Barbara has some of THE best seafood you’ll find on this side of the Pacific.
Make sure you book everything ahead of time, though; it tends to get quite hectic during the summer!
9. Portland (2 Hour Flight)
Whether you’ve been bitten by the wanderlust bug or just need a regular recharge from San Francisco, Portland is full of adventures to explore.
Wake up early and admire the stunning coastline before indulging in some of the city’s most delicious restaurants.
Then, delight your inner art enthusiast with a journey through galleries and museums galore before taking advantage of all the boutique shops and markets.
As darkness falls, cozy up at one of the local pubs for a nightcap and some peace and quiet before bedding down for the day.
10. Denver (2.5 Hour Flight)
Denver offers endless ways to get some fresh air and explore nature.
Known as the ‘Mile High City’ for its elevation, there are plenty of sights to enjoy when it comes to Denver’s natural beauty – like the antelope migration that takes place every October!
There’s even an extra treat for those brave enough to venture outside: keep an eye out for bears and moose while in Rocky Mountain National Park.
But even if taking a good ol’ hike isn’t your cup of tea, Denver provides plenty of unique experiences.
Enjoy top-notch breweries or marvel at cultural attractions while soaking up the city’s rainbow of diverse vibes – all within a quick 2.5-hour flight from San Francisco.
11. Los Angeles (1.5 Hour Flight)
Don’t feel like sitting in traffic on your way down the California coast? Then hop on a plane and be ready to party in Los Angeles in under two hours!
Flying out of San Francisco, you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on podcasts or take an encouraging nap before arriving in sunny Southern California.
Spend the weekend exploring L.A.’s endless variety of beaches, shops and restaurants that can’t be ignored in this coastal metropolis.
12. Spokane (2 Hour Flight)
Nicknamed Hooptown USA, it’s not just about basketball in Spokane; there are plenty of amazing parks, waterfalls, museums and other things to do!
From light activities like wine tasting or listening to a performance by the renowned Spokane Symphony orchestra, to stirring feats of nature like walking one of the many scenic trails, this city is a wonderland you never want to leave.
But if you need more reasons to visit, there’s the renowned restaurant scene waiting around every corner.
13. Joshua Tree National Park (1.5 Hour Flight)
Itching to cross off that California bucket list? Just a 1.5-hour flight from San Francisco, Joshua Tree National Park is an otherworldly landscape that’s perfect for those who truly want to get away.
Whether you’re looking for a mild stroll or a more robust rock climbing experience, you’ll find something here to suit your taste and level of adventure.
And if you really want to go all in, take advantage of their massive collection of 500 campsites and treat yourself to an overnight stay in the wilderness!
14. Vancouver (2.5 Hour Flight)
Don’t want to book a flight halfway around the globe? Cross the border over to Vancouver, BC.
With an outdoor playground full of unique experiences, this Canadian city provides the perfect blend of luxury indulgence and outdoor thrills.
Think sipping craft beer on Kitsilano Beach, exploring Granville Island Public Market and conquering the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park with its 450-foot bridge.
There are endless opportunities in this delightful city, sure to make any visitor happy.
15. Phoenix (2 Hour Flight)
Fancy getting a little sun but don’t have the energy for a long-haul flight? No problemo! Phoenix, Arizona is just 2 hours away from San Francisco.
Let your city blues be gone as you soak in the desert breeze while lounging by the pool or exploring its awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Primed and ready for some fun? Hit up some of the golf courses all over town.
And if you’re feeling peckish, its great culinary delights will surely hit the spot.
16. Seattle (2 Hour Flight)
If you’re on the hunt to combine coffee, music, mountains and tech all in one place, Seattle is the city for you.
Your time here will be equal parts discovering a bustling city life as well as reveling in the beauty of nature.
With Starbucks right around every corner and nearly every type of outdoor activity available, Seattle really knows how to encompass something for everyone.
In just a weekend’s span, you can visit all the local hot spots from Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, try out kayaking or just marvel at the beauty of Puget Sound and Mt. Rainier.
17. Death Valley National Park (1.5 Hours)
Throw on your sturdiest shoes and welcome the hot desert sun, because with miles and miles of hiking trails and beautiful views, Death Valley National Park is the perfect place to do some adventurous sightseeing!
Say goodbye to congested roads and crowded cafés, and hello to 3.4 million acres of awe-inspiring views, from Badwater Basin’s salt flats to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
But that’s not all! Grab your binoculars and stretch out on a bed of stars. Death Valley is fast becoming one of America’s favorite astronomical hotspots thanks to its lack of light pollution and vast night skies.
Although it may require more effort to get there from San Francisco than a direct flight, the 1.5-hour flight to Vegas and 2-hour drive will be worth every minute of your time.
