California rules man. Ive been scattered all over this place. Best times have been had in the bay area of course. I dig Marin County a lot, but its pretty expensive and ritzy. East Bay is great for good, cheap food, bars, general activities.
Sacramento is alright as well. Hot as hell, but the downtown/Arden area is quite nice. Plus you are a hop-skip and a jump from places like Tahoe/Auburn and all the adventures of the Sierras.
Ive only visited down south, but hated it. Im obviously bias to Northern California.