Ahhh San Francisco. Every time we go back to SF, I fall a little more in love with that city. There is just no shortage of things to do, incredible views, the best food, great weather and overall good vibes. This trip was no exception. On past visits we’ve stayed in Richmond and North Beach so we wanted to try something new. We found the most adorable place on HomeAway in the Cole Valley/Castro neighborhood and it did not disappoint. Craig and I try to use HomeAway whenever we travel because we both really love to have the amenities that comes with renting an apartment or house. I love being able to wake up and make my own coffee and breakfast in the morning (we rented an incredible house in New Hampshire in January and were able to bring the dogs which was awesome). This particular spot was a cute little studio with the most incredible garden in the back, seriously it was breathtaking. It didn’t have a full kitchen but had a fridge, sink, coffee maker and toaster which was perfect and all we need in SF because we love to try as many restaurants as possible when we’re there. It was also SUCH a great location. The area was gorgeous, nice to explore, easy to find parking and within walking distance to so many great neighborhoods. You can check out more places in SF on HomeAway here.Â
What to Pack
While I was in San Francisco I got a lot of DMs about what to pack. My advice is always the same, BRING LAYERS. Somehow, even as a New Englander, I am always cold in San Francisco. I have this idea that because I’m in California I’ll be warm, but San Francisco can get really chilly. It can also be really beautiful and we were actually super lucky to have gorgeous weather. I’ve started to learn (after 5 trips) how to pack for SF, here’s what I always bring:
Comfortable sneakers, loafers and booties
Lightweight down jacket
Cashmere Scarf
Barbour Jacket
Skinny Jeans and Boyfriend Jeans
Cashmere Sweater
Leather Tote
Outfit details: Bandana, Jacket, Sweatshirt, Tote
The Neighborhood
When we visit San Francisco we always have our go-to spots that are a must during our stay. You can check out some of those recs here and here. It was fun to explore a new neighborhood this trip. Here are some of our faves within walking distance from where we stayed in Cole Valley.
To Eat
Tartine Bakery
Craftsman & Wolves
Gracias Madre
Zazie
The Ice Cream Bar
Padrecito
The Mill
To See
Twin Peaks
Alamo Square
Marina District (lots of restaurants and shopping)
Fort Mason
To Shop
Bound Together Bookstore
Paxton & Gate
Le Bouquet SF
Love this! Thanks for sharing Jess. Looking forward to trying these places in May when I go visit SF!
Yay! Make sure you check out some of my older posts too as there are a lot of recs on those too. You can’t go wrong in SF, there is so much to do, and SO many good restaurants.
Beautiful SF! I would love to visit someday! Also, I like your hairdo very much. 🙂
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Thank you so much. Yes if you get the chance it’s such a great city to visit.
SF is one of my favorite places to visit! I totally agree that wearing layers is key!
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Yes! I am starting to learn my lesson, haha.
I have always admired your site, Thanks for the great tips and work .
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