The wellbeing of our oceans is critical to sustaining life on planet earth, but sometimes it’s hard to really wrap your head around what that means. That’s just one of many reasons why you should visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. A pioneer in the preservation and protection of marine life, this institution is all about inspiring ocean conservation. Don’t worry—this message isn’t delivered in a preachy way. It’s effortlessly communicated, one stunning aquarium at a time.

Visiting the signature kelp forest is a must. Open since 1984, this exhibit mimics what divers in the Monterey Bay region experience. It feels completely wild, even though it’s housed within the aquarium. Another favorite is the million-gallon, open-water aquarium. Look on as tuna, schools of sardines, turtles and hammerhead sharks mesmerizingly swim through the deep blue water.

In 1929, the Pezzini family started an artichoke farm in Castroville, California—all with a root they carried over from Italy. Eighty years later, this farm, known as the “Artichoke Capital of the World, remains in the Pezzini family. Carefully selected for optimum tenderness and flavor, each artichoke is harvested and packed by hand. For a taste of their incredible, meaty artichokes, visit their farm stand. Buy heirloom green globe artichokes, as well as fresh produce, dips and sauces, vinaigarettes and oils, seasoning, chips and dips, snacks and more.

When Charles Moss and his family journeyed from Texas to California in 1866, he homesteaded in a lovely spot known today as Moss Landing. Today, this quaint fishing village (population: 204) features antique shops, art studios, fresh seafood markets and delightful restaurants.

On my trip, I visited the Haute Enchilada, a Latin fusion restaurant owned and operated by chef Kim Solano. The menu reads like a love letter to both Latin America and local ingredients. Try the Quimixto—grilled salmon served on bed of arugula, topped with fresh mango salsa fresca and chipotle aioli. If you’re in town for a few meals, also check out The Whole Enchilada, a Mexican restaurant run by Solano’s father.

When you think of Santa Cruz, a surfer-filled beach town probably comes to mind. However, there’s a lot more happening in one of the happiest places to live in the USA. In the Corralitos foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, you’ll find Nicholson Vineyards.

Owned by the Nicholsons, ninth generation Californians, this estate specializes in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Sample their wines onsite, poured by the Nicholsons themselves. It’s one of the most intimate and relaxed wine tasting experiences in the area.

There’s nothing quite like stopping for ice cream on a road trip. For something extra special, visit the Penny Ice Creamery in Santa Cruz. Kendra Baker and Zachary Davis create amazing ice creams with local, seasonal ingredients. Try the chocolate sorbet, a recipe that Kendra spent four years perfecting, or go for the vanilla made from Thomas Jefferson’s original recipe.

Most kids dream of becoming a firefighter, astronaut or professional athlete. Not Jake Reisdorf. He simply dreams of saving the world, one honeycomb at a time. This 14-year-old learned about beekeeping through a homework assignment three years ago. Today, he tends to 70 beehives, and started Carmel Honey Company, along with his parents.

I had no idea how involved honey tasting can be—it’s like sampling wine! In addition to starting his own impressive company, Jake also gives back to help fund bee education. Did you know that bees pollinate one in three bites of food you take—no matter where you live? As Jake says, “No bees, no food, no people.” I really do think the next generation is going to save us all!

The curving highway gets all the press when it comes to Big Sur. But I’m the kind of person who doesn’t just want to see the beach—I want to feel it! If you’re like me, a stop at Garrapata State Park is a must.

This secluded area is nearly devoid of development, sans cell service and allows you an opportunity to get right down on the sand. The park has two miles of beach front, with coastal hiking and a 50-foot climb to a beautiful view of the Pacific. Sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters frequent the coastal waters. You can even see California gray whales during their yearly migration.

I love cycling, and this trip along Highway One remains one of the best trips I’ve ever experienced. Rent an electric “fat-bike” from Big Sur Adventures and explore the coast. You do still need to pedal with these electric fat-bikes, however, you’ll end up easily cruising at a comfortable 20 mph. Imagine flying by Lover’s Point and Asilomar all while smelling the ocean, hearing the waves, and stopping easily at all the amazing viewpoints..

Perched high above the Pacific along the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains, you’ll find a little slice of paradise. Nepenthe stands on the site of The Log House, Big Sur, 808 feet above sea level. In 1947, Lolly and Bill Fassett took over the property (from Rita Hayworth and Orson Welles… maybe you’ve heard of them?) and moved in with their five children.

Open since April 24, 1949, Nepenthe is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and famous Ambrosia burger while sitting on the terrace. Or maybe enjoying a game of ping-pong. Really—they have a table on the patio and it’s just as much fun as I remember!