When you live in California you're surrounded by stunning scenery. But if you want to get a real picture of the wondrous and diverse natural beauty of our state, then you definitely need to take a drive or road trip! Northern California's scenic byways are bursting with sights, from beaches and Redwoods to rock formations, picture-perfect lakes, and everything in between. Here are just a few of the prettiest Bay area backroads around San Francisco and beyond that will delight you. Buckle up and hit the pavement!

1. Route 1 Scenic Byway North or South

The obvious answer for any road trip or California excursion, Route 1 is a north-south state highway that runs along most of California's coastline. This road has a little bit of everything, so driving in either direction on is totally wonderful.

2. Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Point Reyes

A truly underrated backroad in Northern California, investigate Sir Francis Drake Boulevard toward Drakes Estero on the south side of Point Reyes and Drakes Bay. This is a beautiful area full of stunning, otherworldly landscapes.

3. Conzelman Road through Marin Headlands

The best scenic backroad to take is Conzelman Road where you'll go through the Marin Headlands, with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco.

4. Lucas Valley Road, Marin

Take the Lucas Valley Road exit and drive toward to Nicasio Valley Road. If you're really curious, then keep driving to Point Reyes Station Road to Highway 1. You'll even have the opportunity to explore the Lucas Valley Preserve.

5. Tomales Petaluma Road, Petaluma

A great way to start this journey is at Chileno Valley road in Petaluma. Once you've reach Tomales Petaluma Road you'll be happy. If you continue, Tomales Petaluma Road turns into Highway 1.

6. Highway 160 in the Sacramento River Delta

Take 160 and drive through the delta to Sacramento, along the river. You'll pass through cultural artifacts like the like Rio Vista and Locke. This scenic drive in Northern California is an overlooked and hidden gem.

7. 17 Mile Drive in Pacific Grove

This is an incredible route for many reasons. The 17-Mile Drive has ocean views, top-rated golf courses, and its famous Lone Cypress. Stop by Carmel and explore too!

8. Skyline Boulevard and 92 toward Half Moon Bay

This is a two-lane road that goes along the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains from Highway 17 in Santa Clara County to San Francisco at State Route 1. It is one of the few places on the southern portion of the San Francisco Peninsula from which the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean are both visible at the same time.

9. Mines Road, Livermore

Mines Road is a winding, narrow road, but the views are dazzling. Catch picturesque glimpses of dazzling NorCal vineyards and appreciate the verdant landscapes in this part of the Golden State.

10. Woodside Road, Pescadero

Highway 84 connects Woodside to Pescadero. Check out this area and drive any number of points of interest along the way. Admire the Redwood trees, pass by La Honda, and stop by Pesacdero for some pie.

11. Mount Diablo North and South Gate Road

You'll enjoy stunning views of the highest point in the San Francisco Bay area, i.e.Mount Diablo. You're guaranteed to have scenic and splendid views on this drive.

While nowhere near a complete list of scenic byways in Northern California, these gorgeous Bay area backroads are the perfect place to start! And since you'll find plenty of camping opportunities along the way, go ahead and grab yourself an RV for easy off-grid exploring.

Have you ever taken a road trip down one of these? For another scenic drive in Northern California, Route 3 through Weaverville is full of history, beauty, and crowd-free sights.