10 Spring Activities in the Bay Area | San Jose Extended Family Photographer

A guide to joyful local experiences, perfect for families, adventurers, and memory-makers alike.

There’s something magical about spring in the Bay Area. After months of fog and drizzle, the world here reawakens. The hills glow green, cherry blossoms burst into color, and the days stretch out longer and warmer. Spring isn’t just a season—it’s a feeling. It’s soft breezes, impromptu picnics, and wildflower-dotted adventures.

As a San Jose extended family photographer, I’m lucky to witness so many joyful family moments during this beautiful time of year. Spring always brings a little extra magic to the photos we take—maybe it’s the golden light, or the happy energy that comes with shedding coats and heading outside again.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are some fun, heart-filling spring things to do in the Bay Area that are perfect for families, couples, and anyone craving connection and fresh air.

10 Spring Activities in the Bay Area | San Jose Extended Family Photographer

1. Visit Filoli Gardens in Full Bloom

If you’ve never been to Filoli in spring, trust me—you’re missing out. Nestled in Woodside, this historic estate bursts into vibrant color come March and April. Picture hundreds of tulips, daffodils, wisteria, and roses creating a living painting around every turn. It’s not just a feast for the eyes, it’s a deeply peaceful and inspiring place.

Spend a full morning wandering the 16 acres of gardens, sipping a lavender lemonade at the cafe, and discovering secret corners tucked into the estate. With its blend of architectural beauty and wild natural charm, Filoli offers a perfect setting for families who want to enjoy a slow, scenic day together.

Pro tip: If you’re gathering the whole crew for a multi-generational visit, this makes an incredible backdrop for an extended family session. The lush, well-kept grounds and charming estate architecture create timeless portraits filled with warmth and history.

2. Chase Wildflowers in the East Bay Hills

Spring in the East Bay is a showstopper. Wildflowers like California poppies, lupines, and mustard start blanketing the rolling hills in color, creating postcard-worthy views. Some of the best spots for flower-filled hikes include Sunol Regional Wilderness, Mount Diablo State Park, and Briones Regional Park.

Bring a picnic lunch, wear comfy shoes, and prepare to take breaks just to soak in the scenery. It’s an easy way to spend a day outdoors, connect with nature, and see the landscape come alive.

Bonus: As a San Jose extended family photographer, I can tell you that wildflower sessions are some of the most joyful and unscripted. Children love to explore and run free, and grandparents often get swept up in the beauty and serenity of it all.

3. Stroll Through Downtown San Jose’s Spring Markets

The weather is finally perfect for slow weekend strolls, and San Jose’s seasonal markets are full of energy and flavor. Think colorful produce, small-batch baked goods, handmade crafts, and food trucks slinging every cuisine imaginable.

The San Pedro Square Market and Japantown Certified Farmers Market are two local gems. These spots offer a great mix of culture and community and make for a lovely outing with the whole family. Kids can enjoy live music or a treat from a local vendor while parents browse for fresh flowers and artisanal snacks. It’s a relaxed and enriching way to spend a spring morning.

Candid moment alert: A casual outing like this is perfect for natural, lifestyle-style photos. You get real laughter, movement, and connection—all the things that make a memory come alive in a photo.

4. Enjoy a Coastal Day Trip (or Two)

Spring is the perfect time for a scenic drive along the coast. The skies are often clear, the breeze is still crisp, and the crowds haven’t yet reached their summer peak. Here are a few favorite coastal destinations:

• Half Moon Bay: Perfect for tide pooling, beach walks, and artichoke sandwiches.
• Santa Cruz: A nostalgic family favorite with the beach boardwalk, arcade games, and cotton candy.
• Pescadero: A quiet town with farmstands, goat cheese tastings, and panoramic ocean views.

The coast offers a variety of experiences—whether you’re after something peaceful or playful, you’ll find it here.

Photographer’s tip: Windblown hair, barefoot kids, cozy sweatshirts—the coast is full of visual texture that translates beautifully into relaxed family portraits.

5. Picnic at Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden (Palo Alto)

This little gem in Palo Alto is a haven of calm beauty. With free admission and a peaceful vibe, the Gamble Garden is a perfect spring retreat. You can pack a picnic, find a shaded bench under a blooming tree, and enjoy the fragrant air and cheerful blooms.

The garden is small enough for young kids to explore easily, and there are always flowers in bloom to admire. Whether you’re out for a quiet date or a family afternoon, this garden invites you to slow down and be present. It’s also a charming setting for spontaneous or planned photo sessions—simple, sweet, and effortlessly beautiful.

6. Take a Spring Hike at Rancho San Antonio

Rancho San Antonio Preserve is a Bay Area staple, and spring is hands down the best time to visit. The hills are green, the air is fresh, and the farm animals at Deer Hollow Farm are a huge hit with kids.

There are trails for every level—easy loops for toddlers, moderate hikes with great views, and longer trails for the adventurous. The park is well maintained, with plenty of open space to relax and take in the scenery.

It’s the kind of place where kids run ahead laughing, teens put away their phones (at least for a while), and grandparents find a comfortable rhythm. These shared outdoor experiences make for heartfelt photos that reflect genuine connection.

7. Attend a Cherry Blossom Festival

Spring means cherry blossom season, and the Bay Area celebrates in style. San Francisco’s Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the largest in the U.S., and features everything from cultural parades and traditional music to authentic Japanese cuisine.

In the South Bay, San Jose’s Japantown hosts smaller-scale but equally meaningful events, including arts and crafts, taiko drumming, and of course, those iconic pink blossoms. These festivals are a great excuse to gather the family, enjoy good food, and soak up culture and community.

Blossom bonus: Cherry blossoms are fleeting, which makes photos taken during this window feel all the more precious. Whether it’s a candid moment on a park bench or a posed portrait under a canopy of pink, the atmosphere is nothing short of magical.

8. Explore the U-Pick Farms in Brentwood

There’s something wonderfully grounding about picking your own fruit, and Brentwood’s spring U-pick season is full of sweet options. From strawberries to cherries and early peaches, it’s a hands-on way to connect with the land and teach kids about where their food comes from.

Many farms also offer extras like tractor rides, picnic tables, and farm stands with fresh jam and baked goods. It’s a full sensory experience: the warmth of the sun, the smell of ripe fruit, the satisfaction of a bucket full of goodies.

Pro photography tip: Sun-dappled orchards and bright berries make for some of the most joyful and colorful family portraits around. Plus, everyone is relaxed and engaged—a perfect recipe for natural photos.

9. Soak Up the Season at Hakone Gardens

Hakone Gardens in Saratoga is one of the oldest Japanese gardens in the Western Hemisphere, and springtime here feels like a peaceful retreat from the world. You’ll find bamboo groves, koi ponds, cherry trees, and tranquil footpaths that invite reflection.

The garden is a great spot for both small family outings and quiet couple’s walks. The scenery changes subtly as the season progresses, giving you a new view every time you visit. It’s also a perfect location for serene portraits that evoke a sense of calm and timelessness—ideal for those who want a touch of elegance in their family photos.

10. Host a Spring Brunch in Your Backyard

You don’t need to go far to create spring memories. Sometimes the best moments happen right at home. A backyard brunch with fresh flowers, seasonal dishes, and your favorite people is an easy and meaningful way to celebrate the season.

Set up a table under a blooming tree, add a pitcher of iced tea or mimosas, and let the conversation and laughter flow. Spring is all about togetherness, and a laid-back family brunch is a beautiful way to honor that.

Want to capture it? Invite your favorite San Jose extended family photographer for an at-home session. These casual, documentary-style shoots are full of charm and authenticity.

Why Spring Is the Sweet Spot for Family Memories

Spring brings people out of hibernation. It’s the season of reunions, celebrations, and spontaneous joy. With grandparents more likely to travel and kids excited to be outdoors, it’s a golden opportunity for connection.

As a San Jose extended family photographer, I always tell clients: the best time for photos is when everyone feels good. And spring delivers on that in every way—from the light to the mood to the energy.

Whether you’re exploring the coast, visiting gardens, or picking strawberries with your kids, spring offers a million little chances to be present and create something meaningful.

Go Where the Joy Is

You don’t need a packed schedule or perfect plan to enjoy spring in the Bay Area. Some of the best experiences are simple: a picnic under the trees, a shared laugh in a flower field, or a quiet stroll by the sea. Let yourself be moved by the beauty of the season, and don’t forget to document the moments that matter. Whether it’s through a photo session or a phone snapshot, those memories will warm your heart for years to come.

Wondering how a session will look like with a San Jose extended family photographer? Check out my most recent family session blog post to see the magic we can create! Be sure to check out my portfolio and contact me today to discuss your ideal family photography session! Also be sure to follow me on Instagram to see my latest work!