Waterside glamping near Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach lies on California's Central Coast, about 30 minutes north of San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The appealingly clean beach area draws in swimmers, sunbathers and surfers. Soccer in the sand is remarkably popular here as well. Expect to see makeshift fields and pickup games all year round. Mount Tamalpais State Park is just to the south of the beach. This verdant area features plenty of challenges for hikers and bikers who like to push themselves. Mount Tam features a 2,571-foot peak, making it a popular single-day summit. You can bike almost all the way from the sea level of Mill Valley to the mountain's East Peak. Rather head out on foot? Hit the 7-mile Redwood Creek Trail for a tough workout through the legendary trees. If you're looking to overnight in the park, definitely check out Steep Ravine Campground. Here you can get a tremendous view of the Pacific from quiet campsites on a bluff. There are just seven such sites, though, so making reservations is highly recommended. Try to snag the Pelican site for the very best view of the ocean.