While an L.A. to San Francisco road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway is iconic, ending your trip there means missing out on some of the state’s most beautiful, and often underrated, places. Over my 10+ years in SF, here are some of the destinations north of SF that I keep returning to for weekend getaways, day trips, or mini adventures: . 🚣‍♀️ Guerneville: Float or kayak on the Russian River, followed by some of the best ice cream around @nimbleandfinns . 🏡 Sea Ranch: Come to this architecturally famous, coastal vacation community for relaxation, views, and (ofc) architecture @searanchlodgeca . 🦪 Tomales Bay: Perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, and eating local oysters. It’s a popular day trip but make it an overnight at @lodgeatmarconi . 🏞️ Mendocino: Worth the 3-hour drive for tiny towns like Elk (“it’s always a good day in Elk!”) and artsy Mendocino. Plus: redwood forests and craggy coastlines. Stop in Anderson Valley for wine on the way. . 🍕 St. Helena: Hardly underrated, but worth revisiting this Napa Valley town for new spots like French Laundry alum-run @charlies_nv (I’m obsessed) and @thestationsh, a gas-station-turned-pizza joint. . 🍷 Healdsburg: On the Sonoma side, my favorite wine town is Healdsburg, thanks to a growing food scene (Michelin-starred SingleThread opened a casual spot, @littlesainthealdsburg; there’s also @moltiamicihbg and so many more) and splurge-worthy hotels (@themadrona, @harmonguesthouse, @hotellesmarsofficial). . ⛰️ The Sierra Nevadas: Go beyond Tahoe and Yosemite and explore other pockets of the Sierras like Sierraville (stay at @constellationcreek) or Nevada City (stay at @nationalexchangehotel). . #californiaadventure #californiadreaming #californialove #visitcalifornia #californiacoast