If you had a friend visiting from England would you take them on the scenic drive beginning from the south Santa Clara County and head north to Mt Umunhum
Or
Take them to James Lick Observatory?
I would take them to the former. But if you have time the coast is always a winner. You might not have the time but I took a friend from Germany to Pigeon Point Lighthouse and then down through Pacific Grove 17 Mile Drive and Big Sur that’s always a winner.
Umunhum would be number one. Shorter drive from the valley and from there you can see the coast.