Rent a car and drive over 17 to Santa Cruz. Spend some time there then drive up 1 to San Francisco. If you have time make a stop at Big Basin Redwoods State Par

Rent a car and drive over 17 to Santa Cruz. Spend some time there then drive up 1 to San Francisco. If you have time make a stop at Big Basin Redwoods State Park to see some really big trees. I'd also recommend driving 35 (Skyline) between San Jose and San Francisco.