We took a long weekend to visit the central California coast during July.  Don’t be fooled, the height of summer can be anything put.  We, unfortunately found cool temperatures and insane fog in San Francisco, but getting out of (or above) the bay area can give you a reprieve from San Francisco’s infamous weather.  During our the three day blitz we went south to the Pacific Coast Highway and Big Sur and all the way north past Point Reyes toward the Russian River.

The Pacific Coast Highway is hard to beat when it comes to a coastline drive.  The cliffs, redwood forests, and sea lion colonies make each stop along the highway worth the time.  North of the San Francisco, the Muir Woods and Mt. Tamalpais are great side trips.  (The traffic and parking situation near the Muir Woods is not to be taken lightly.  Take a serious look at the shuttles offered if you go in the middle of the day during tourist season.)  Here are a few highlights from the trip!

Bixby Bridge

Redwood Trees

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

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Mt. Tamalpais State Park  Mill Valley, CA

Muir Woods National Monument Mill Valley, CA

Pacific Coast Highway Specifically, from Monterrey Bay south to Big Sur for the most scenic parts of the drive.