How old are you Phillip?
The Youth hostels are a good way to do things, and they really are as good as they say. I have stayed in most of the ones you mention on the west coast, i really like the Fisherman's Wharf hostel in SanFran.
Also, the Seattle Hostel is nice. I mostly camp when I am up in the San Juans.
If you are between the ages of 13-18, check out
www.biketrips.com. It is a company I guide tours for in the summer, and we run a trip from Seattle to San Fransisco, staying in a few hostels and camping. I will be leading it again this year, it is July 1-28 I believe.
If you are 19 or older, and have at least one year of college and some touring experience, consider working for us and getting paid to guide these tours. Check the same website for that information.
HI has a great website, I would search for it, and become a member, it really does help a lot.
Tim