I'm so happy to have found these forums! My husband and I moved to the East Bay from DC 3 years ago and have been loving the weather, food, and sites. Our friends and family have had a great time visiting. One of our closest friends arrives the Friday of President's Day weekend (around 1pm) and we'd love to share a unique/fun time.

She's visited before. Went to Healdsburg and Sonoma and had a great time. We're all easy going (haha I love it when people say that, but I think it's true) and we enjoyed having some wine, looking at shops, and just taking in some of the history and yummies in the area. We don't mind fancy, but also love down home.

Over MLK weekend, we took an anniversary trip to Aptos/Santa Cruz and had a great time. Hit the Boardwalk, Monarch Trail, Natural Bridges, the Swanton Berry Farm stand, the views near Pescadero, and a few wineries etc. The coastal drive was a total highlight.

Would we have time to do a Northern version (realizing it would be different) of this trip heading towards Gualala, Mendocino, etc. if we left Saturday morning and came back early Monday?

I'd love to find a cute town or two to visit - we love just staring out at the water, but find having a little more structure when there are three works better. Seeing galleries, unique spots, curiosities, cheese or wine spots, supporting a local economy, etc. seems to work for all of us.

Where would you visit?

Thanks! I look forward to sharing our spots as well. We've loved Half Moon Bay, Point Reyes, Monterey and more.