Places Calmmseas Wants to Go

See four top-secret US spy aircraft of the Cold War era, including the legendary SR-71 Blackbird and the A-12 Oxcart.

Today's aerospace industry can be traced back to one man and his gliders.

A showcase of engineering might that was also symbolic of westward expansion.

Unusual white sandstone formations in the Los Padres National Forest.

California's largest steel arch bridge.

This redwood is a historic landmark, a town’s namesake, and the dancing sideline symbol of Stanford University.

Peek inside this sandy mailbox and you'll spot kids' letters to Santa.

An ancient mineral hot spring sits at the middle of this combination cultural center and spa.

An eerie natural formation that looks right back at you.

This massive redwood tree has a drive-thru tunnel carved out of its trunk.

A dramatic coastline that’s home to a rare pine tree.

The viewpoint for this attractive, off-the-beaten-path waterfall is reached by a paved, wheelchair-accessible trail.

Art Deco stylings conceal the true nature of this bridge.

This lighthouse has been guiding shipping into the Golden Gate since before the American Civil War.

A train tunnel that was made obsolete by the dam it helped create.

A picturesque example of brute-force engineering conquering nature.

California's first suspension bridge.

The first lookout in Yosemite.

This lonesome Monterey cypress has survived centuries of wind, salt, and at least one attempt at arson.

A collection of anti-communist sculptures stands watch in the Mojave Desert.

A hidden gem, named after a San Franciscan icon, offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

In one of the hottest parts of the Mojave Desert, shallow bedrock forces the typically dry Mojave River to the surface in this canyon, providing a vital oasis for humans and wildlife.

This secluded date farm can be reached only by following a bumpy, single-lane desert road.

The San Andreas Fault spectacularly offsets this creek.