I lve in San Jose and by the way San Jose is larger than San Francisco. Have you heard of Silicon Valley ? That's us. And you can fly directly to San Jose we have an International Airport.
PS there is no ocean in San Jose however you can go a short distance to Santa Cruz or a little further to Monterey and of course there is always San Francisco. Fly into San Jose, though it will be much easier.
bargoo - we are definitely flying into San Jose, and hope to catch some of the sights.. got any recommendations of what we HAVE to see? We hope to take a day trip, not too much more, hotel hopping can get pricey!