Under $100: Tiburon, Calif.

Set just north of San Francisco in Marin County, Calif., Tiburon is a low-key town with a beautiful downtown area providing plenty to do. On a peninsula that was called Punta de Tiburon (Shark Point) by the Spanish explorers, this charming city is directly across the bay from San Francisco, conveniently accessible via ferry.

Fuel up for a day of active adventures at New Morning Café, providing great food and great service at a great price. Enjoy yummy breakfast staples like omelets, scrambles and pancakes at this homey café, starting from about $6 per dish.

Angel Island © Kevin Bermingham | Dreamstime

Spend the morning exploring Angel Island State Park, the “Jewel of San Francisco Bay,” by taking the 10-minute ferry ride from downtown Tiburon. Round-trip fares for adults cost $15. Once on Angel Island, set out to explore via foot, or rent a bike for $13.50 per hour from the bike shed, located a short walk from the ferry landing in Ayala Cove. The largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay, Angel Island State Park offers some of the best views of the surrounding Bay Area from incredible hiking trails.

Head back to Tiburon for lunch after working up an appetite while hiking and continue to enjoy water views from Luna Blu, a seafood-focused restaurant offering a harbor view. Refuel with sandwiches filled with sliced prosciutto, salami and provolone from $9, pasta dishes sautéed with fresh buffalo mozzarella from $10 and pizzas from $11.

Blackie’s Pasture © Bev Sykes | Flickr

Continue spending the day outside with a visit to Blackie’s Pasture, a scenic landing named after a celebrated cavalry horse named “Blackie” that used to roam here. Visit the bronze sculpture of Blackie while exploring the grounds and enjoying the crisp bay area.

© Quim Gil | Flickr

From here, walk to the Hippie Tree, a hidden and still somewhat unknown secret treasure in Tiburon that provides some of the most beautiful views of the Bay Area. The secluded area, located on public lands, is accessed off a fire road from Gilmartin Drive. At the top of the hilly road, you’ll find a gorgeous old eucalyptus tree with strong branches supporting an old-fashioned rope swing. Sit down for a swing and appreciate spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Richardson Bay, Angel Island and Mount Tamalpais.

In the evening, swing by Woodlands Market in the center of downtown to pick up a quick dinner on the go. The market provides a selection of pre-made dishes, fruit, chips, wine and beer, making for the perfect picnic spread to enjoy while admiring the sunset from nearby Shoreline Park.