Hmmm. If I were taking VIPs to the California Coast, I'd walk with them across the Golden Gate Bridge. I can't think of many things more spectacular. And Muir Woods in Marin County (just north of SF) is a great place to see redwoods.
My favorite park in California is Point Lobos State Park, just south of Carmel. Lots of tidepools, sea lions, and sea otters - probably the best place in the world to see sea otters.
If you have passengers likely to get carsick, stay off Highway 1 - but otherwise, it's a wonderful drive (easier if you go south to north because then you're not on the outside edge of the cliff).
And the Wild Animal Park in San Diego is even more interesting than the zoo.
Have a nice trip, Jacqui.

-Joe-