The spectacular coastline of Sonoma, Mendocino, and Humboldt counties defies expectations. The Pacific Ocean defines the landscape, but instead of boardwalks and bikinis there are ragged cliffs and pounding waves—and the sunbathers are mostly sea lions.

Two-lane Highway 1 follows the fickle shoreline. Although coastal towns vary from deluxe spa retreat to hippie hideaway, all are reliably sleepy—and that’s precisely why many Californians escape here to enjoy nature unspoiled. On a detour inland, you can explore redwoods and sip wines at tasting rooms rarely too crowded or pricey. When you travel the North Coast, turn off your phone; you won’t have much of a signal anyway, and this stretch of Highway 1 has numerous little worlds, each different from the last, waiting to be discovered. Don't plan to drive too far in one day. Some drivers stop frequently to appreciate the views, and you can't safely drive faster than 30 or 40 mph on many stretches.