Mill Valley, CA

West Point Inn

This is the perfect spot for a back-to-nature experience ― from the comfort of a rustic Craftsman-style lodge and surrounding cabins on the south slope of Mt. Tamalpais.

Getting there requires a nearly 2-mile hike along fire roads, but one look at the amazing views of San Francisco, the Marin Headlands, and the East Bay from the inn's massive wraparound deck and it will all be worthwhile.

Plus in the morning, Mt. Tam's trails are at your feet, including the steep but gorgeous descent down to Stinson Beach. —Rich Ehisen