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From Santa Cruz to Monterey to Big Sur, Central California is full of exciting places to visit. Scenic drives, world-class golfing, shopping, restaurants, nature trails and miles of rugged, spectacular coastline await travelers to this region. There are also some great Central California bed and breakfasts to consider.

Santa Cruz, a quirky Central California town offers much to see and do. Its famous boardwalk boasts a historic wooden rollercoaster and a carousel that has been in operation since 1911. Santa Cruz County has nearly 30 miles of seashore to enjoy. Big Basin Redwoods State Park offers 80 miles of trails and plenty of 2,000-year-old Redwoods to enjoy. Whale-watching and coastal sailing trips are some other fun options.

The West Cliff Inn, located in a stunning restored Victorian, sits on a bluff above the ocean offering views of Cowell’s Beach and the nearby Santa Cruz Boardwalk. There are nine guestrooms, several with an ocean view. Some also have a jetted tub and all the rooms include a fireplace and king bed. Rooms are filled with amenities, such as luxurious linens, fine European bath products and fluffy towels, as well as televisions with DVD players. You can borrow a movie, book or board game from the innkeepers. A concierge service also is available, and the innkeepers are happy to help with restaurant and activity recommendations. In the mornings, a full breakfast buffet is served, and wine and hors d’oeuvres are set out in the afternoons.

As you head south from Santa Cruz, you’ll find plenty to see and do along Monterey Bay, which includes such notable spots as Carmel, Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. Monterey itself is home to Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Carmel, known as an artists’ community is famous for its many galleries, as well as its annual Bach festival. The event draws visitors from around the world. The 17-Mile-Drive from Pebble Beach to Pacific Grove is a sight not to be missed, showcasing the jagged coastline and cypress trees. Pacific Grove is home to several wonderful bed and breakfasts and has more Victorian houses per capita than any other U.S. city. Day trips from the area include visits to Hearst Castle. It’s a two-hour drive to the castle, located in the tiny hamlet of San Simeon, but as you must cross through spectacular Big Sur, it’s well worth the time.

At the Green Gables Inn, guests enjoy one of California’s best views and some of the state’s finest hospitality. The restored Queen Anne Victorian includes 11 romantic guest rooms, some of which are cozy quarters tucked up near the inn’s gables. Other choices include spacious suites in the carriage house. Several rooms include a fireplace or jetted spa tub and some even offer ocean views. The innkeepers provide a full breakfast buffet, afternoon wine and treats and freshly baked cookies throughout the day. There is a chocolate turndown service and beds are topped with fine linens, soft pillows and one of the inn’s signature teddy bears. Best of all, you just step out the door; cross the street and you’re at the beach!

Pacific Grove is home to another historic Monterey bed and breakfast, the Gosby House Inn. This delightful golden Queen Anne Victorian has 22 guest rooms, each individually decorated with romance in mind. Several rooms include sitting areas with a fireplace; others might have a window seat or a private patio. The rooms in the restored carriage house include double whirlpool tubs, a fireplace and a balcony. Guests enjoy a full breakfast and afternoon treats, including wine and hors d’oeuvres. This Pacific Grove bed and breakfast is just minutes from the bay, as well as the aquarium, Cannery Row, restaurants and shopping.