What to do in Lagunitas-Forest Knolls, CA

Although shrouded in mist for a lot of the time, one of the most photographed bridges in the world is still a stunning sight and something of an event to cross. It inspires awe and fires up the imagination with its size, scale and beauty. This icon of American architecture stretches 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) across the "Golden Gate", the opening of San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean.

The Spanish set up camp here in 1776, and following a brief stint by the Mexicans, the Americans upheld the picture perfect outpost until 1994. This makes it the longest running military base in U.S. history. Today, it is designated a National Historical Landmark District.

Muir Woods is a 550-acre (223-hectare) redwood paradise, full of monumental trees that reach as high as 258 feet (79 meters) above the forest floor. Sit and watch as sunlight dances between the branches of these colossal giants that have survived for centuries. The oldest trees are estimated to be at least 1,200 years old.

Ocean Beach is a long, beautiful beach running along the west coast of San Francisco. This stretch is often less crowded than many of the city’s other beaches. Go for a solitary stroll on the sand and watch experienced surfers take on the large waves and strong currents.

See the blue Pacific Ocean unfold before you at Point Reyes National Seashore. Explore 80 miles (130 kilometers) of shoreline at this national seashore in California’s Marin County.