Northern California Delimma

[Ready2Go]

This time we're stumped. We have enjoyed Nob Hill, Chinatown, the Pier, Alcatraz, etc. We have bounced around from Medicino to Carmel...but this year instead of staying a few days here and there, we are looking for one spot, for 7 days. We'll rent a home, visit a winery or two, enjoy dining out...but for the most part want to find a really beautiful place, that is extremely relaxing, small and quaint. We can't decide: Stinson Beach? Bodega Bay? Salmon Beach? Tiburon? Maybe something closer to Carmel? Basically we don't want to be in the middle of loud music, a gazillion children and the day to day hustle and bustle of the tourist crowd. But we love boutique shops, galleries, fine dining...and a beach (not for sunning, but...for romance and breath taking views.) Thoughts? Suggestions?

[d360]

Have you ever spent time in the Big Sur California? Beautiful views, Nice Hotels/Inns, and reasonable day drives into Monterey and Carmel which had an abundance of galleries, shops, etc.

There's a few nice hikes and beaches very romantic, secluded. I could recommend a few hotels and places to eat if that sounds interesting.