Muir Woods National Monument

California is famous for its Redwood Trees, but did you ever looked at them really close? If not you should definitely visit the Muir Woods National Monument on a nice day. Muir Woods is a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, known as one of the largest urban national parks in the world.

Muir Woods is located just a 11 mile drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Marine County. For just $5 per person you can enjoy a relaxing walk through the woods. The National Park Service offers six different walking trails through the area. I would suggest at least to take the 1,5 hour loop because they will bring you even at busier weekend days to some quiter places of the woods. You will be surprised how tall trees can become: The tallest tree is about 260 feet high and some of them are already 1200 years old.

But be careful: Even on hot summer days it can be quite cold in the woods, so don't forget to bring warm clothes with you.

More information, directions and a schedule of tours you can find on the website of the National Park Service at www.nps.gov/muwo.

The Rock: Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Bay Area and just a few minutes away from San Francisco harbor. The island first was home for a lighthouse and became later a military fort before it served as probably the world's most famous prison from 1934 to 1963.

Nowadays you don't need to be Al Capone to go to Alcatraz Island which is meanwhile a National Park. Everyday Alcatraz Cruises is offering several trips to "The Rock". Of course, it is quite expensive (tickets start at $26) but Alcatraz is definitely worth the money. It is a great experience to walk around the cell blocks and the listen to stories of real Alcatraz prisoners through the audio tour (which is already included in the admission). Apart from that you have a phenomenal view of San Francisco, so don't forget to take your cameras.

A special tip is the night tour which is held Thursday through Monday: It is much less crowded than the day tours and the National Park Service is offering special guided tours and activities. Another tip is to book tickets far in advance: Especially during peak seasons and around holidays it is nearly impossible to get tickets at short notice.

Tour times and online ticket reservations: www.alcatrazcruises.com

Official website of the Alcatraz Island National Park: www.nps.gov/alcatraz