Deep in the heart of Northern California, five hours north of San Francisco, there's an enchanting drive that feels worlds away from the city. Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt County is a 31-mile stretch that earned its name from the old-growth redwood trees that frame each side, many of which tower over 300 feet tall. The average redwood trunk is so thick, in fact, that you'd need eight people to create a circle around it. Put simply, these are not your everyday trees. While the scenic drive is beautiful all year round, it's especially charming in the fall with the changing foliage and wind-swept leaves lining the road. Oh, and do keep your eyes peeled for Bigfoot, as this is said to be his territory. With otherwordly terrain like this, it’s not hard to see why.

Few manmade landmarks are more recognizable than San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. The art deco architecture with the iconic vermillion hue—known as International Orange—attracts more than 10 million visitors a year, making it one of the most visited destinations in America. While the bridge is visible from many parts of the city, the mile-long stretch of Baker Beach offers a particularly striking view of the steel and sea, particularly around sunset. Not only is it the birthplace of the Burning Man festival, but parking is available right next to the shore, giving visitors access to sweeping views with relative ease. If you can snag a parking spot before the crowds arrive (the earlier, the better), the trek from your car to an Instagrammable frame will take about five minutes. 

You've probably heard of San Diego, Santa Monica, and Santa Cruz, all well-known spots for sun-chasers in search of pristine surf. But if you haven't heard of Morro Bay in San Luis Obispo, this charming destination is one to add to your (sandy) bucket list. Nestled halfway between LA and San Francisco, Morro Bay is best experienced through movement, be it kayaking, golfing, hiking, biking, or surfing—this is California, after all. The scenic town off Highway 1 is named for the epic Morro Rock that sits just offshore, a 600-foot tall "plug" that formed 23 million years ago when magma cooled inside the vent of a volcano. This landmark is impossible to miss, no matter where you stand in town. As such, the rock has long-served as a natural lighthouse, guiding seafarers safely into the harbor for centuries.