It's a simple equation: wind + big body of water = good sailing. But what's the point of living near a spectacular bay for sailing if you can only watch from shore? The best place to learn the sport is the Modern Sailing Academy of Sausalito. MSA puts students on fairly large boats (28 to 45 feet) with experienced teachers, so that when you get your official certification at the end of the class you can charter a large enough vessel to bring your friends. Classes include a three-day "liveaboard" for $750 and a basic course for $895 that can be taken on three consecutive weekends or over five weekdays. Those gorgeous views (and challenging weather conditions) shouldn't be left to the seals and tourists.