Boulder Creek to San Francisco: The Ultimate Guide to Travel Time

Are you planning a road trip from Boulder Creek to San Francisco? The drive can be a scenic adventure, but it's also important to plan your route and know how long each option will take. In this ultimate guide to travel time, we'll break down the different routes, their distances, and recommended stops along the way.

Route 1: Via I-280 S

This route will take you through the Santa Cruz Mountains and down I-280. The total distance is approximately 72.4 miles and should take about 1 hour and 20 minutes without traffic. However, traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Recommended stops along the way:

1. Filoli Historic House and Garden - located in Woodside, this picturesque estate is a popular attraction for garden enthusiasts and history buffs.
2. Half Moon Bay State Beach - if you're looking for a beach break, Half Moon Bay offers a beautiful stretch of coastline with stunning views.
3. San Francisco State University - located just south of San Francisco, this university campus offers a unique vantage point of the city skyline.

Route 2: Via CA-92 W

This route will take you over the mountains towards Half Moon Bay, then down CA-92 towards San Francisco. The total distance is approximately 74.8 miles and should take about 1 hour and 30 minutes without traffic.

Recommended stops along the way:

1. Pescadero State Beach - this beach may be a bit of a detour, but it's worth the stop for its remote and rugged beauty.
2. Half Moon Bay Brewing Company - a perfect place to stop for lunch or a cold brew, Half Moon Bay Brewing Company offers a great selection of local beer and tasty pub fare.
3. The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden - if you're a fan of plants and nature, make a pit stop at this beautiful botanical garden.

Route 3: Via CA-17 N and I-280 N

This route will take you north towards San Francisco through the winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The total distance is approximately 85 miles and should take about 1 hour and 40 minutes without traffic.

Recommended stops along the way:

1. The Cats Restaurant and Bar - a historic biker bar located in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, The Cats offers great food and drinks with a unique atmosphere.
2. Stanford University - located in Palo Alto, this prestigious university has a stunning campus with plenty of cultural attractions to explore.
3. Twin Peaks - if you're looking for a panoramic view of San Francisco, make your way up to Twin Peaks for a breathtaking vista of the city.

No matter which route you choose, be sure to factor in traffic and plan for rest stops along the way. With these recommended stops, you can break up the drive and make the most of your journey from Boulder Creek to San Francisco. Happy travels!