If you're as blessed as me, you grew up in the best part of California, Northern California. I know a lot of SoCal people will argue that it is better, and while SoCal has many great attributes, it is nothing like NorCal. SoCal knows it, we know it, everyone knows it. I wouldn't change growing up in NorCal for anything, and here is why.

1. Driving the coast.

I know that Highway 1 can be driven all the way down to SoCal too, but c'mon everyone, there is no other drive like it. In NorCal, there are rarely any cars driving up or down Highway 1 and with the most spectacular views and beaches, like Big Sur, you don't want to miss this drive.

2. The famous beach town, Carmel-by-the-Sea.

With all the history and popularity, this is one spot where the locals know you're a local or a tourist, but still will point you in the direction of the beach. Not only does Carmel have the cutest town area; the most luxurious houses can be found on the 17-mile drive.

3. Looking for something different? Head north of Carmel to Santa Cruz.

I can guarantee you, all the nicest and coolest people you have ever met are from Santa Cruz. Something about this beach town is so unique that you won't find anywhere else. With many popular and secret beaches, you won't be leaving Santa Cruz unhappy with your day.

4. Biggest and most upcoming city in the world, Palo Alto.

Growing up near Palo Alto and watching all the opportunity that has grown over the past couple years is one of Palo Alto's greatest attributes. And Downtown Palo Alto is probably one of the cutest downtowns you could ever see.

5. The beauty of San Francisco.

Ah, the wonderful San Francisco. In my eyes, the best city in the world. San Francisco has so many hidden secrets that go beyond Pier 39, Chinatown, and the Golden Gate Bridge lookouts. Everywhere in the city has something unique which makes this city so irresistible.

6. The art of Oakland.

The other side of the Bay Bridge. Oakland is the most diverse city. It is slowly going from a regular city to a city that you can't get enough of. Especially since the Golden State Warriors win all of their games at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, people cannot get enough of this city. Plus, the food is beyond words.

7. Wining and dining in wine country.

Sonoma County is known for its wine and the best wineries. With amazing views from each winery along with even more amazing wine and food, you won't ever want to leave.

8. Hiking in Yosemite.

Although only some can climb the Half Dome, there are many smaller and easier hikes around Yosemite with just as amazing views. Or you can be lazy like I have been and drive to the very top of Glacier Point and be completely flabbergasted at how beautiful our Earth really is.

9. Walking through a Redwood.

Now, please tell me this isn't the coolest thing? Walking through the stump of a Redwood tree that is above 300 feet tall is mind blowing.

10. Cruising a boat on Lake Shasta.

Even with the extreme drought that is going on in California, you cannot deny the beauty of Lake Shasta. With record high weather of 108 degrees, the chilled water is so worth it.

I'm sure you can find just as unique, diverse places like these in SoCal, but I wouldn't have wanted to grow up anywhere else than NorCal.