San Francisco, sharing with New York the distinction of being the country’s standard-bearers in the fight for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights, not surprisingly launched the starting volley for legal same-sex marriage in California — but the city had staunch, longtime allies throughout the state. Much of California now is gay-friendly, but these places have a long history of supporting gay rights and going out of their way to welcome gay and lesbian travelers. From north to south: