Just to clarify, there are two routes north after you cross the Golden Gate Bridge: California Highway 1, best known as the Pacific Coast Highway. That's the scenic, extremely wind-y, two-lane road that hugs the coastline for much of the way north from San Francisco. Be sure your brakes and suspension are in top-notch condition; and be prepared for an upper-body workout as you wend your way forward--there are some wicked curves, including at least one hairpin. And much of the way there are no guardrails between you and the mighty Pacific many yards straight down!

Highway 101, less well known as "The Redwood Highway", is the major inland route north. Faster, and four lanes for some of the way. Not nearly as scenic as the PCH, but still a nice ride.

If you can plan the timing right, stop for lunch in Stinson Beach--on Highway 1, about 40 minutes north of the Golden Gate. It's a tiny, vintage California beach/surfer town, where you can sit outside and soak up the sun. (Might not want to stick more than a toe in the water, though--not just because it's really cold, but also 'cause this is prime Great White Shark hunting territory!)