For a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with exotic African hoofstock including the critically endangered Grevy's zebra, Hartmann's mountain zebra and several species of African antelope, stop off for a tour (bookings essential) of the B Bryan Preserve at Point Arena around feeding time in the late afternoon. Owned and run by wildlife experts Dr. Frank Mellow and his wife Judy, a couple who are passionate about preserving and breeding the animals, the 100-acre ranch provides an environment that mimics the animals' natural habitat. There are three charming little eco-cottages with hot tubs overlooking the preserve available for rent on the property; guests wake up in the morning to a scene reminiscent of Out of Africa – without the heat!

If you stop for the night in the little seaside town of Mendocino Village, here's what to do. Go for a late afternoon stroll along the cliff high above the rugged coastline and watch in awe as the famous Pacific fog rolls into the bay like a giant wall – within minutes the horizon has disappeared and you're surrounded by a soft grey mist that makes everything seem slightly out of focus.