Cool Places to Stay North of San Francisco?

I'm looking for a place to spend a few nights just north of San Francisco. I want to be able to drive into the city during the day.

I'd like for it to be:

Inexpensive (relatively)
Alternative (taverns, B&Bs, quaint - not Motel 6. )
Safe
Within 50 miles of SF to the North
On 1 or 101

Any ideas or suggestions?

reply to post by Benevolent Heretic


A place I've stayed, and loved it. Jenner by the Sea...Very nice historical description on bottom of vid.



Des

reply to post by Benevolent Heretic


Have you looked into camping sites?
Its cheap and always fun.

You could always look at renting a motorhome,a houseboat or a tent trailer?

We loved the Pelican Inn at Muir Beach. It feels like you're stepping back in time to an Old English pub and Inn. It's my go-to spot for an overnight or weekend getaway partly because you can get there from the city in half an hour or less, and it seems like another country. The candlelit breakfast the next morning of bangers and mash is also very nice.

Pelican Inn

One note: Muir Beach is nothing to write home about, but that's not really why I go to the inn.

Enjoy!