The Ultimate Coastal California Road Trip

Big Sur, the scenic stretch of central California coast, is sure to keep you busy — especially if you're a nature-lover. Art galleries, boutique shops, and white sandy beaches define Carmel-by-the Sea, located a couple hours south of San Francisco. Consider resting for a night at a lovely little inn or quaint cottage near the ocean, where you can catch a refreshing salty breeze any time of day or night. And if you find yourself with extra energy, grab a day pass to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, about a 20-minute drive away from Carmel.