Conditions on the coast can often get cold, foggy and windy - temperatures in the 50s are not uncommon at night (ever hear the Mark Twain quote about the coldest winter he ever spent being summer in San Francisco?) So bring a warm sweater or fleece jacket in addition to a windbreaker. Inland that time of year, temperatures can get into the 90s, so if you're heading inland, you'll want light clothing as well.

That said, it's a stunningly beautiful trip. Drive all the way down Highway 1 if you can, and stop by Carmel, Big Sur, Morro Bay and Hearst Castle (among many other places worth seeing). If you're into wilderness, check out the Ventana Wildernesss near Big Sur.

- Steve