So you’ve had your fill of staring at books in the middle of the night in Main Stacks, trying to cram information in but failing. To relieve your stress and take a break, why not get away from the doom and gloom of finals week and step into the bright sun of the Bay? Here’s some inspiration on quick trips you can take to calm yourself down after a grueling final.

Alcatraz

Full of history and stories, Alcatraz is a rich part of California’s past. An island-turned-prison-turned-tourist attraction, the chilling and haunting tales of the prison inmates and residents are bountiful. Even better, the Alcatraz Historic Gardens make for the perfect light learning that’ll give your brain the break it desperately needs.

Sausalito

The best way to appreciate the endless sun we’re experiencing is by soaking it up near the sea. While Berkeley Marina or Fisherman’s Wharf may be your instinctive choices when you want to take a seaside stroll, they aren’t your best bet. Grab the Sausalito ferry from the San Francisco Ferry Building and enjoy a day of walking across the Golden Gate Bridge in a peaceful environment.

Great America

For an exciting day of fun and mischief, this theme and water park is a strong option. Alternating between splashy water rides to cool off from the hot sun and thriller rides to dry off, you’re guaranteed to have a great day here. Bonus: They currently have an online park-and-play deal with included parking!

Half Moon Bay

For a picturesque day of pure relaxation at the beach, hit up Half Moon Bay. Less popular than beaches like Stinson Beach or Marshall’s Beach, it’s the perfect combination of an escape from campus and a chill day right by the sea. Bonus: The main street is full of restaurants that have views of the waves while they serve seafood.

Go take that break you deserve — it’ll be worth it. We at the Clog wish you the best of luck with finals.