5 Wonderful Spots in NorCal

By Ayesha Nadiadwala on August 25, 2015

Thinking of exploring nature? Drive to these 5 wonderful spots in NorCal if you haven’t already! They are sure to make you gasp without emptying your wallet.

1) 17 Mile drive: The 17 miles encompass a lot of scenic viewpoints including the white sandy beach of Carmel. The twists and turns are designed so that as you drive, you are mostly shadowed by the trees and envy the dwellers of the magnificent houses.

But then at almost every mile you stop and wonder at a different manifestation of natural beauty. From the seals to the ghost trees, only for $10 at the entrance, it’s a drive worth driving!

2) Bixby Bridge: Where the land and the sea meet. In a short section of Pacific coast highway, it is a work of architecture complementing the immense beauty of the blue waters. The arched bridge in between the mountains provides for some of the best postcard pictures.

And if you are a dare devil, you can even climb up the bridge posts or climb down the steep hill … although I don’t suggest that, the riskier angles tend to get the most likes on Instagram!

3) Pillar Point Harbor: Shhh … the marine life lives very quietly and peacefully here. This lonely park is ideal for a self-reflecting hike because of the silence. Actually this area is preserved for its tide pools and presence of the sea lions.

Along with the colorful water flora, you will find a moving crab or snail in almost every puddle. The sanctuary is a rich theme park for a marine life lover. And along with the photos, you can even go to the nearby port to buy a freshly caught fish!

Pillar Point Tidepools

4) Golden Gate Bridge: I have always wondered why the bridge is named Golden when in actuality it’s of the color red. But it is not deceiving at all for the splendid view it provides is no less than gold! The drive on the bridge is a sensation of a different kind and if you are in for more adventure, go for the bike ride and the cold breeze will sure have your heart floating on the cloud.

I think its’ a must for every Nor-Cal visitor and provides for an icon of pride for every Nor-Cal dweller.

5) Muir Woods: The national park is a little north of San Francisco which means that the drive itself is very scenic. Just a disclaimer: don’t drive right after you eat because the twist and turns on the mountains might make you sick. As you arrive you are welcome to explore the many kinds of trails including the ones up the mountains and down to the beach.

We were even lucky to find a deer hiding among the giant red-wood trees. They also have several events and free days (normally only $7) to have the people learn about the natural treasure that Nor-Cal possesses so make sure you visit the website first.

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