The California Riviera - Where Secret Jewels Reign

If you're planning a trip to San Francisco, California, you might want to jog a few miles north one day - or more - and visit one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Marin County, just a few miles over the Golden Gate Bridge, has claimed itself as "The California Riviera."  Perhaps it's all the little towns clustered along the waterfront, the outdoor cafes and hilly residential areas that hint of a Mediterranean allure. 

Marin County is ritzy, and the people who live here are proud and ecologically minded.  Not only is the countryside spectacular, but Marin is high on culture, film and music.

As we traveled throughout this gorgeous section of California, we continued to discover "secret jewels."  This is not our term - it is what the locals use to describe attractions considered special and unique.

For example, Mt. Tamalpais is the "Crown Jewel."  Angel Island is "The Jewel of the Bay."  Point Bonita Lighthouse is the "Secret Jewel of the Bay."  In fact, each is a treasure chest overflowing with amazing riches.  I suggested you take a day, but when you get there, you'll want to stay longer...or come back.