Carmel. Big Sur, Hearst Castle
 

I am taking my 2 teenage children to San Francisco and surrounding area. If I only have the 24th and 25th of July open what would you suggest? Besides the aquarium would you go to Big Sur and is the Hearst castle worth it?

Yes, Big Sur (which will take you down to the Hearst Castle) are well worth it. It is one of the most scenic drives in the world and nothing compares to the location of the Castle. For what it's worth, my two teenage nieces just went to this area, and Big Sur/Castle area was the favorite.

Loved the Castle as well. It's beautiful and they give a great tour.
Can't wait to go back and do the next tour.

Big Sur is definitely worth seeing - probably the most beautiful craggy coastline anywhere, although it's a bit of a drive down to Hearst Castle. The castle is very cool, and definitely worth the drive, it's just a matter of whether or not you want to spend that much time in the car during your 2 days.

If you want to experience Big Sur, but don't want to drive all the way through, you can get a good taste of the Big Sur coast at Point Lobos, which is just south of Carmel.

There are tons of things to see in the Monterey and Santa Cruz area which could easily fill your 2 days and then some.

You can't really go wrong either way, it's just a matter of what you want to do.

Do not miss this drive! Absolutely a must. Also, for a great stop for lunch or a snack, try Nepenthe. An incredible location that you probably won't want to leave.

My 19-year-old son and I were at Hearst Castle a couple of weeks ago, and we both found it fascinating and enjoyable - what an amazing place! Be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time - they do sell out. The drive there along Highway One is amazing, too. Just north of San Simeon there is a parking area next to the ocean that says something like "scenic vista" on the sign - be sure to stop there, it was serendipity that we did. On the beach to the left of the parking lot (as you face the ocean) there were dozens of elephant seals - many burying themselves partway in the cool sand, some of the males fighting for dominence - really neat! From the informational signs there, I got the impression that there are elephant seals there most of the time, albeit different ones (males, pregnant females, juveniles, etc.) depending on the time of the year. Enjoy!