Your last stop north of The City might be at one or more of the famous wineries in Napa, Sonoma or Mendocino Counties. Of course, enthusiastic tasting of the grape may temporarily bring your odyssey to a halt in a local bed and breakfast. Driving south of San Francisco on 101, you may sense throbbing vibrations of creativity as you drive through Silicon Valley. Then stop for a walk through the beautiful Stanford campus. For lunch, you might drive over to Woodside to quirky Buck's Restaurant where the lords of venture capitalism cut billion dollar deals across hamburger platters.
Hundreds bask in the sun at close range.
From Half Moon Bay one of the most picturesque drives in America will take you to the waterfront of Monterey, the shops and golf courses of Carmel and Pebble Beach, and the peaceful beauty of Big Sur. Rent a bike and pedal through one of the forested parks - or take a sail on the bay. If you decide to stay longer, and you'd be following a long tradition, you'll find countless opportunities to hike and bike and paddle in the Bay area. As a visitor with limited time you have to make choices. The places I've mentioned have been very special to me for years.