Top Reasons to Go

Walk among giants: Walking into Muir Woods, a mere 12 mi north of the Golden Gate Bridge, is like entering a cathedral built by God.

Attend a reading: Chances are, an author you admire will be reading somewhere in the Bay Area during your trip. Berkeley draws an especially erudite crowd; Q&A sessions can feel like a grad-school discussion.

Bite into the "Gourmet Ghetto": Eat your way through this area of Berkeley, starting with a slice of pizza from the Cheeseboard.

Sit on a dock by the bay: Admire the beauty and tranquility of the Bay Area from the rocky, picturesque shores of Sausalito.

Find solitude at Point Reyes National Seashore: Head here to hike beautifully rugged—and deserted—beaches.