Point Reyes National Seashore ​

Point Reyes is what happens when the California coast decides to cosplay as the Scottish Highlands — dramatic cliffs, moody fog, and the constant feeling that a Victorian ghost could appear at any moment and you wouldn't even be surprised. The drive out from the East Bay already feels like you're leaving civilization, winding through West Marin's cow pastures and artisan cheese operations until you reach a peninsula that genuinely looks like it belongs to another continent.

The Tule elk are the headliners — massive, antlered animals just hanging out in the grasslands like they own the place, which they kind of do. The historic lighthouse perched on the cliffside is worth the 300+ stair descent (and the significantly less fun ascent). And on those rare clear days, the views to the Farallon Islands make you forgive every foggy visit where you couldn't see the ocean you were supposedly standing next to.

Photo Gallery ​

Good to Know ​

Layers: Bring them regardless of season. It can be 85°F in the East Bay and 55°F at the lighthouse. The fog doesn't care about your outfit plans.

Oysters: Hit Hog Island Oyster Co. or Tomales Bay Oyster Company on the way back. You've earned it.

Whale Season: December through April. Gray whales migrate right past the lighthouse and it's genuinely spectacular.