CA riders--anyone riding circa amgen tour

[jimcav]

by that i mean has anyone taken the week off and tried to drive to a few of the stages, ride in the general area, catch a glimpse of the stages/finish?
anyone planning to?
I'm toying with the idea, but don't know the region well--thought maybe riders here from those areas could advise on places to stay, areas to ride, etc

I am in san diego, so was thinking maybe catching stages 6,7,8,9
with the focus on some good rides, see the tour, good food, and decent bed--in that order

thanks
jim