[Dottore]

We do this run on a regular basis - and three days does not leave a whole lot of time for sightseeing. The Hearst Castle in particular is a serious time-suck for which you really should budget a half-day.

We love the coast north of San Francisco - Mendocino in particular. It's a great little town in which to stretch your legs for a while. That might be a worthy destination for your first night.