Congratulations, Andy! I agree with Mike Z about driving down the coast. If you drive on Pacific Coast Highway (Hwy 1) you have a view of the water for most of the trip. Yosemite can be cold this time of year, but at least you don't have to worry about bears.
If you like skiing or other winter sports go to Lake Tahoe. There are over a dozen ski resorts surrounding the lake, and the lake is on the California/Nevada border so you can ski during the day, and gamble at night at the casinos. I prefer the north side of the lake because it is less crowded, but the casinos are smaller too. If you like wine then Napa and/or Sonoma Valley should be on your list for sure.