The following content is created in consultation with Northern California Toyota Dealers. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC BAY AREA's editorial staff. To learn more about Northern California Toyota Dealers, visit northerncalifornia.buyatoyota.com.
Summer gets its unofficial kickoff this weekend, which means it’s high time for you to hit the open road.
And what better way to start your summer of adventure than by exploring the beauty of Northern California in a brand new 2015 Toyota Prius? With an estimated 51 miles to the gallon, a wind-cheating aerodynamic design and loaded with next level technology (from remote air conditioning to a Hybrid System Indicator that assesses your driving efficiency in real-time), this year’s Prius is as fuel-efficient as it is stylish.
Not to mention affordable. Thanks to the ToyotaTime Memorial Day sales event, you can get behind the wheel of a 2015 Prius Liftback, Prius c, or Prius v at super low prices with great financing options. Hurry, their special Memorial Day offers on Prius end May 26th.
Purchasing a 2015 Prius will leave more money in your wallet and more fuel in your tank, making a Memorial Day road trip a must. Luckily, Northern California offers some of the most scenic getaways. We suggest starting with these five.
Pebble Beach/Mt. Carmel
It’s no secret that Pebble Beach is home to some of the world’s best and most scenic golf courses. But there’s much more than just the golf links to this beautiful community located only two hours south of San Francisco by car. After playing 18, head down to Carmel-By-The-Sea for lunch at Anton & Michael (order the Lobster Spring Rolls), then stroll around its charming downtown, which is dotted with art galleries, boutiques and unique architecture. Feel like staying in your Prius? Then stick to these scenic drives along the Monterey coast — just be sure to stop for a dip at Stillwater Cove or Spanish Bay.
Tahoe
Just because ski season is over doesn’t mean Lake Tahoe should slip off your radar. In fact, there’s probably more to do in this outdoor lover’s paradise after the snow has melted. Take the sub four hour drive to the Sierra, then get ready for the adventure. From hikes along the Pacific Crest Trail to shopping in funky Truckee to Parasailing over the North Shore, there’s never a shortage of fun to be had. Keep the green spirit alive by turning in at Basecamp Hotel, an environmentally-friendly boutique property with stylish and cozy rooms in South Lake Tahoe.
Napa Wine Country
Napa is a no-brainer for wine and food lovers. Located less than two hours outside San Francisco, the rolling hills and lavender scented fields feel more like Tuscany than California. Take in all the bucolic bliss with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon in hand at the family-owned Buehler Vineyards, then hit bustling downtown St. Helena for dinner at Auberge du Soleil, the birthplace of French-California cuisine.
Muir Beach
More in the mood for a day trip? Only 16 miles northwest of San Francisco, Marin’s Muir Beach is the ideal beach getaway for people pressed for time. Hike the surrounding trails, hit the pristine cove and waters, and take in wildlife from Monarch Butterflies to Whales just offshore. After a day at the beach, grab a late lunch of pub grub at the Pelican Inn.
San Francisco
Pro tip: The best time to explore San Francisco is when the city clears out over a holiday weekend and no one will judge you for acting like a tourist. Hit the empty streets in your Prius and check things off your must-see list, then take advantage of the open tables at one of the best restaurants in town — we recommend Commonwealth, where $10 of each tasting menu is donated to a local charity.
To get make your Memorial Day Weekend a memorable one and to get a great deal on your 2015 Toyota Prius, click here.
