If you’d prefer to enjoy the ocean a bit closer up, plenty of activities exist. Fishing is popular, and many companies offer boat charters, group excursions, and equipment sales and rentals. Be on the lookout for king salmon from March to June, rock and ling cod from April to December, Albacore tuna from July to November, and snapper in July and December.

To see marine life of a different sort, sign up for whale-watching trip. Gray whales migrate south in the winter, then back up the coast in late spring, while humpback, blue, and killer whales can be seen in the summer. And year-round sea lions, turtles, otters, and dolphins are visible.

Alternatively, you can set sail to enjoy salty sea air and gorgeous scenery. You can learn to sail or rent or charter sailboats and yachts for private and group cruises.