[hamster-bamster]

So my friend wants to spend a few nights on the beach, and I would have to drive a rental car to that place from the Bay Area having had no driving practice since 2009. He has had no driving practice for over ten years, so I come out as the more reliable driver.

I have been thinking about where to go. Santa Cruz? I fear highway 17. Carmel? Too far. And he has been there. A place a bit closer than Carmel, such as Marina (near Monterey but cheaper)? What about Half Moon Bay? I think I can handle highway 92. Has anyone stayed in Half Moon Bay?

How about north of Half Moon Bay? Which places should I check out?

[BlueInanna]

hehe everyone fears hwy 17 this is where i learned to drive.

i think you guys should go up north to Bolinas and Olema, and Stinson Beach.

if you want to camp in santa cruz there is new brighton state park, or sunset state park further south.

or, staying on the beach, you mean in a hotel?

[hamster-bamster]

Yes, I mean in a hotel, not camping - I have no gear. Stinson Beach - I have heard good things about it.

[hamster-bamster]

If everyone fears Hwy 17, I with my 3 year long lapse in driving should not even think about it.

[BlueInanna]

it's a silly myth... they used to call it the blood bath hwy from the early days. there is now a center divider, it's no big deal really if you just drive safe and courteous. and let me know what day you'll be on the road so i will stay at home, jk lol

but then also, now you know how scared i feel when my son steals my cars

stinson beach is very cool! i think you guys will love it!

[hamster-bamster]

I have told him to look up Stinson Beach and tell me how he likes it. Thank you for the idea!