Ditto on Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Santa Cruz Mountains and Monterey.
If you are in Monterey area, check out the Monterey Aquarium. I think it is one of the best aquariums in the nation other than Tennessee’s freshwater Aquarium. And walk along the long paved trail from Cannery Row to Fisherman’s Wharf.
If you are in Santa Cruz, stroll down Pacific Ave and grab some mocha coffee or hot chocolate at Chocolat. They have great breakfast at Zachary’s, also on Pacific.
Half Moon Bay…check out Ritz’s backyard, open to visitors, they have long trails and great views of the ocean. Grab some coffee and enjoy the bonfire. also north of Half Moon Bay…theres a town called Granata or Princeton by the Sea, great clam chowder and fish and chips at Barbara’s Fish Trap.
Enjoy!