A great day trip from the San Francisco bay area is a drive through Monterey, Carmel, and then down to Big Sur. Monterey is only about 2 hours or less from San Francisco, or less from places in the southern part of the bay area. In Monterey you can stop at the pier and taste some great local seafood. This pier is touristy, but much less so than fisherman's wharf in San Francisco. From here you can book a boat if you want to go out into the bay. Further down the road in Monterey is the old cannery district, an area of historical buildings turned into shops and restuarants, and including the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. It's worth a visit, so stop in and check out all of the indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Next, drive down the highway about 20 minutes to Carmel by the Sea. It's a quaint little town with little shops and restaurants set in the trees. The main street leads down the hill to the shore where you can get out of your car and admire the Pacific. Nearby is the famous 17 mile drive which winds through beautiful coastline, expensive golf courses, and fancy houses. There is a small admission fee for this drive. If you feel short on time, skip this because the views further south along Big Sur are much better.

After visiting Carmel, drive south along the highway into the area known as Big Sur. This long stretch of coastline is stunningly beautiful. The rolling green mountains spill into the rocky shoreline of blue water. Stop off at scenic spots along the way - every few miles is an overlook with a small parking lot. A few old famous arched bridges add to the backdrop. Pass Pfeiffer Big Sur park and then stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. A small lagoon below the short walking trail has a hidden beach with an amazing waterfall. The trail leads to a quaint lookout surrounded by local trees and flowers. Further hiking can be found by going up the various trails if you have time. This is probably a good spot to turn back and drive north, unless you're spending the night further south.