Sandi -
I haven't ridden the section of coast that you're planning - but a couple of suggestions...

You might want to pick up the Adventure Cycling pacific coast maps - just the sections in California that you are covering.

There are a number of journals over on crazyguyonabike.com from folks who have ridden the California coast. While many of the journals cover the entire coast and not just the section you are interested in, you might find sections of the journals helpful. Here's a place to start: http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/journ...category_id=10

As far as touring and camping goes, I've done quite a bit of unsupported touring over the years. My later tours were not camping trips, but that's where I started. You can find my touring journals at http://denisegoldberg.crazyguyonabike.com. In addition to touring journals, I have an article on packing (well OK, it's really the list of stuff I take with me when I tour) that might be useful: http://denisepacks.crazyguyonabike.com.

Do you have specific questions or concerns? I'd be glad to try and help if you do, but your request for advice is pretty broad. Maybe the journals I referred to above will be helpful, maybe not - so ask away!

I'm excited for you heading out on your first tour. If my experience holds for you, you're going to have a great time!

--- Denise