Check out the SF Bay Area. I live in a small town called Benicia. I roll out of my garage and in 10 mins am in the country. Rolling hills, good climbs, excellent training. Check out the Benicia Bicycle Club website for pictures.
Also, check out Benicia for schools. We have some of the best in Northern California.

Other spots in the Bay Area- San Mateo County, Santa Clara County, Contra Costa County. Marin County is a great place as well. All of the schools up here are great and you can't beat the weather! We all ride year round, there are many great bicycle clubs, and if you want to get into competitive riding that's here as well.

Quite a few of the women who are from California on this site meet and ride together from time to time which just adds to the fun!

Good luck on your quest.