Go on safari in Mendocino County at the B. Bryan Preserve! Established by Dr. Frank and Judy Mello in Point Arena in 2004, the preserve was designed to aid in the conservation of rare and endangered African antelopes, zebras and giraffes. The preserve has three species of antelope, two of zebra and one species of giraffe living on over 110 acres of land. All are endangered to … [Read more...]
#11 – Schooner Gulch State Beach & Bowling Ball Beach
Local lore has it that Schooner Gulch got its name back in the era of sailing ships when a mysterious schooner ran aground there at dusk one evening, only to have vanished without a trace by the following morning. Today, Schooner Gulch State Beach offers its visitors not only great fun and exciting activities, but also some of the most magnificent views anywhere. Spend the day … [Read more...]
#12 – Greenwood Creek State Beach
Just south of the small town of Elk you’ll find picturesque Greenwood Creek State Beach. Here you can soak up the sun, go swimming or have a picnic lunch on the coast. It’s also a wonderful place to go for a stroll and watch the sunset any time of year. Greenwood, the old name for Elk, was a lumber town in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today the Greenwood State Beach Vis … [Read more...]
#13 – Manchester State Park
Manchester State Park, with nearly 18,000 feet of ocean shoreline, offers a beach with an abundance of driftwood, sand dunes and rich grasslands. A beautiful sandy beach runs southward for about 5 miles towards Point Arena. Among its many attractions is the excellent steelhead fishing in its two streams, Brush Creek and Alder Creek. Please check with the Department of Fish and W … [Read more...]
#14 – Ross Ranch Horseback Rides
At Ross Ranch on the Mendocino coast, couples can ride horseback along a deserted sandy beach or through a majestic redwood forest, just like in the movies! The ranch offers two-hour rides in both locations. On the Manchester Beach ride, you will pass sea stacks and other rock formations, driftwood, and rolling surf on an unspoiled sandy beach. The forest tour will take you … [Read more...]
#16 – Golfing at Little River Inn
For a memorable coastal golfing experience, try the award-winning regulation nine-hole golf course at Little River Inn. With three placements and dual greens on holes 7 and 9, you can play it like an 18-hole course. Tucked among the hills and redwoods, it comes complete with such unexpected challenges as stunning ocean views that vie for your attention, and deer, frogs, blue … [Read more...]
#19 – Mendocino Music Fest
From July 12 through 26, 2014, music lovers will have the opportunity to enjoy a smörgåsbord of some of the world’s greatest music, with genres as varied as chamber music, opera, bluegrass, jazz, flamenco, blues, celtic, big band and country rock. Did you know that Johann Sebastian Bach enjoyed life enormously, including drinking beer, and was often paid in beer? You can learn m … [Read more...]
#22 – Mendocino Headlands Park
When visiting the town of Mendocino, take some time to see Mendocino Headlands State Park. The park surrounds the town on three sides with delightful expanses of land perched atop stunning bluffs. From there you can enjoy whale-watching in the winter, wildflowers in the spring, nesting seabirds in the summer and vivid color throughout autumn. Miles of trails wind along the … [Read more...]
#23 – Kayak Mendocino Sea Cave Nature Tours
How would you like to be a marine mammal for an hour and a half, and explore the Mendocino coast’s incredibly rich and diverse sea caves? It’s easier than you might think. Hop aboard a sit-on-top ocean kayak, and take one of Kayak Mendocino’s professionally guided sea cave tours in Van Damme State Park. Here you will join harbor seals, sea otters, giant anemones, kelp and other … [Read more...]
#24 – Annual Whale Migration, Whale Festival
The annual migration of California gray whales takes them from their feeding grounds in the cold waters of the Bering Sea near Alaska to the warm waters off Baja California, Mexico, and back. Their young, called calves, are born in the protected lagoons of western Baja, and do not begin their trek northwards until they are about a month old. Unlike other whale species, … [Read more...]
#25 – Van Damme State Park
Fantastic outdoor fun and delightful scenery await you at Van Damme State Park, where you can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing and abalone diving among other recreational activities. The park straddles Hwy 1 where Little River empties into a protected rocky bay that is very popular with divers and kayakers. The surf here is usually calm enough to allow launching boats and sea … [Read more...]
#27 – Stanford Inn’s Catch A Canoe & Bicycles Too
Established in 1972, Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too! is the Mendocino coast’s only full-service outdoor shop, providing rentals, sales and service of a wide selection of kayaks, canoes, outriggers, and bicycles year-round. They also offer professionally guided tours of Big River State Park, including the eight-mile Big River estuary. These river tours use unique redwood o … [Read more...]
#33 – Point Cabrillo Lighthouse & Preserve
The demand for lumber to rebuild San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake meant that maritime commerce on the north coast was at an all time high, and a lighthouse was critical to the safety of the ships and their valuable cargo. Construction of the Point Cabrillo Light Station began in 1908, and its lens, a British-build Fresnel lens, was illuminated for the first time in 1909. … [Read more...]
#35 – Noyo Headlands Park
Fort Bragg’s newest park is situated atop the bluffs overlooking Fort Bragg’s dramatic, rocky Pacific shore. Its northern section was opened in 2015, extending the Pacific Coast Trail from Pudding Creek at the northern end of town down to Otsuchi Point. It includes a stairway down the bluffs to Glass Beach. In 2016, the southern section of the park was opened. It comprises 2. … [Read more...]
#9 – Point Arena Lighthouse
Set in some of the most spectacular yet peaceful surroundings on the northern California coast, and right next to the Point Arena-Stornetta Unit of the California Coastal National Monument, stands the Point Arena Lighthouse. It is the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast (115 ft.), and you can climb to the lantern room at its very top. The panoramic view from there is … [Read more...]
#98 – Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area
Here at the “gateway to the tall trees country,” weary travelers can refresh themselves with a dip in the South Fork of the Eel River, a quiet picnic, or a stroll through the beautiful redwoods. There is also great fishing here. Standish-Hickey offers three campgrounds, with over 150 campsites available on a first come, first served basis, for those who choose to stick around a … [Read more...]
#99 – Smithe Redwoods State Reserve
Traveling north from San Francisco along the Redwood Highway (U.S. 101), the first old-growth redwoods you’ll encounter are in Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Here you’ll find the beautiful Frank and Bess Smith Grove of redwoods, as well as Dora Creek Falls, a lovely 60-foot waterfall. Because Smithe Redwoods is a natural reserve, the park is managed to minimize human imp … [Read more...]
B. Bryan Preserve, Point Arena
B. Bryan Preserve in Point Arena, CA is 110 acres dedicated to conservation. For over a decade they have been dedicated to the breeding and preservation of African Hoof Stock. Their animals range from critically endangered to endangered and include various species of zebra and antelope and giraffe. Tours are available for late afternoon feedings by reservation only. You can … [Read more...]
Blackberry Festival, Covelo
The 33nd annual Round Valley Blackberry Festival will be held Saturday and Sunday, August 22 and 23, 2015, at the Blackberry Festival grounds in Covelo. Sponsored by Friends of the Round Valley Public Library, the festival features arts and crafts, live music, wine tasting, kid’s activities, blackberry delicacies and souvenirs, not to mention a square dance, a country b … [Read more...]
Blue Boutique, Mendocino
Conscious Women's Clothing Local Art Jewelry Fair Trade Consignment Clothing Made in the USA Where: 45000 Main St. Mendocino (google map) More Info: 707-937-9909 … [Read more...]
Bona Marketplace, Ukiah
Jewelry Accessories Gallery Custom Framing Where: 116 W Standley St., Ukiah (google map) More Info: 707-468-1113 | bonamarketplace@aol.com … [Read more...]
Boomer’s Saloon, Laytonville
Pouring Fun Since 1931! Welcome to Boomer's Saloon, the best place to chill in downtown Laytonville, California! Locally owned & operated since 1931! Now open daily, lunch & dinner (no lunch service on Monday) To Go & special orders welcome. Also serving Sunday brunch (from 9 am till 2pm) ATM Wifi Darts Billiards HD Sports Internet … [Read more...]
C.V. Starr Community Center, Fort Bragg
The Mendocino Coast Recreation and Park District has created the most amazing place; The C.V. Starr Community Center. Located on this four acre destination is an off leash dog park, 10,000 square foot skate park, sun deck, BBQ and picnic area, and petanque courts, even free public Wi-Fi. But the most amazing attraction is inside the Sigrid and Harry Spath Aquatic Center; an … [Read more...]
Coyote Valley Casino, Redwood Valley
Coyote Valley Casino is located in the heart of Mendocino County where you will experience the wild and rustic feel of the Redwoods, the crisp clear air of the Mendocino Coastline, spectacular vistas around Clear Lake and rolling hills of pristine vineyard’s surrounded by oak trees. Satisfy your winning appetite at Angelina's Restaurant! Featuring hearty home-cooked fav … [Read more...]
Emerald Dolphin Mini Golf and Fun Center, Fort Bragg
Enjoy 18 holes of fun at the Emerald Dolphin Mini Golf and Fun Center. All 18 challenging holes are located in and around gorgeous streams, fountains, and waterfalls and are fun for all ages and experience levels. The first 9 holes are also handicapped-accessible. After a round of mini golf, go inside the club house and play a game of pool, or try your skills in the arcade. … [Read more...]
Gallery of the Senses, Mendocino
All under the same roof at Gallery of the Senses: Audio-Nouveau.com HomeAlone.com PerfumeMendo.com Where: 45104 Main St., Mendocino (google map) More Info: 707-937-2021 … [Read more...]
Garcia River Casino, Point Arena
At the Garcia River Casino in Point Arena, they have the latest and greatest in new and progressive slots, plus a wide selection of old favorites. Slot players can choose from reels, video, keno, and video poker machines. Whether it's penny, quarters or dollars, they have the right game for you, including top titles such as Megabucks, Sex and The City, Fort Knox, and ma … [Read more...]
Hidden Oaks Casino, Covelo
The Hidden Oaks Casino was developed by the Round Valley Tribal Council in 2007. Located in the remote North East corner of Mendocino County on the beautiful Round Valley Indian Reservation, the Hidden Oaks Casino brings much needed employment to the citizens of the Round Valley Indian Tribes and neighboring town of Covelo. Currently, the Hidden Oaks Casino is a Class-II … [Read more...]
J-Bar-S Ranch, Ukiah
Just outside Ukiah, California, in the rugged hills of Mendocino County right off Highway 20 is the J-Bar-S Ranch. Almost 1,000 acres of beautiful hills, oak trees and dozens of bison. J-Bar-S Ranch is an honest-to-gosh real working ranch with genuine, bona fide ranch hands.The ranch is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. The ranch includes a Bison store … [Read more...]
Kate Wolf Music Fest, Laytonville
The beautiful Black Oak Ranch concert facility, 5 miles north of Laytonville and just three hours north of San Francisco on Hwy 101, provides a picturesque setting for three days of live performances, activities for kids, local food and craft booths and non-profit information. Listen to some of folk music’s greatest talents, and lend your own voice to the campfire sing-along e … [Read more...]
Konocti Vista Casino, Lakeport
Konocti Vista Casino in Lakeport is a great place to visit when you are in Mendocino. Only 90 minutes from Santa Rosa and two hours from San Francisco, it is the only casino in the area that enjoys lake frontage on beautiful, historic Clear Lake. One of the only California casinos with its own 90 slip marina, Konocti Vista Casino is a haven for water sports enthusiasts … [Read more...]
Manchester Beach KOA
Manchester Beach KOA is one of the highest rated camping resorts in the KOA system. It is located in one of the most picturesque areas on the Mendocino Coast: wave-swept beaches, rugged cliffs, rolling sand dunes, sleeping sea lions, soring pelicans, towering redwoods, glowing sunsets and vast expanses of ocean. WHERE 44300 Kinney Road, Manchester (google map) MORE … [Read more...]
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, Fort Bragg
A Rare Botanical Jewel on the Mendocino Coast While traveling in Mendocino County a must see is Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (MCBG). The Gardens offers everything from colorful displays in the perennial garden, to thunderous waves at the oceans edge. The mild maritime climate makes MCBG the Gardens for all seasons, attracting gardeners and nature lovers alike. Manicured … [Read more...]
Mendocino Custom Shoes, Mendocino
Custom molded artisan shoemaking, full service repair and therapeutic shoe alterations. Where: 45040 Albion St, Mendocino More Info: Call Jason Clapp at 707-684-9990 … [Read more...]
North Coast Segway, Fort Bragg
North Coast Segway was founded in 2015 by long time time Mendocino County resident Lynne Baumgartner. Making Environmental Education awesome, and raising the fun meter on the Mendocino Coast are two core values of North Coast Segway. As you are riding safely on your Segway Ninebot, you will be surrounded by long stretches of Pacific coastline and the abundance of wildlife it … [Read more...]
Old Gold Jewelry, Mendocino
A Romantic Journey for Exceptional Jewelry Old Gold is an exclusive showcase for hand-chased jewelry featuring detailed ornamentation, which is achieved with hand gravers and delicate hammer blows. In addition, Old Gold represents a select group of leading edge designers and hand-fabricators from around the world. Old Gold has specialized in exquisitely designed and … [Read more...]
Pacific Outfitters, Ukiah
Pacific Outfitters is the North Coast's leading outdoor store. They have everything you need to get out on the water, on the slopes, or out in the wilderness. Whether camping, cycling, disc golf, kayaking, fishing, hunting, skiing, scuba diving, surfing or wakeboarding Pacific Outfitters has what you need. They also have a big selection of apparel, shoes and … [Read more...]
Power’s Family Fun Center, Ukiah
Power's Family Fun Center is the place for fun in Ukiah. They have jump houses, slides, arcade games, pool tables, shuffle board, host birthday parties and more. WHERE: 209 S. School Street, Ukiah (google map) MORE INFO: 707-462-7529 … [Read more...]
Prentice Gallery, Mendocino
Fine Art & Custom Picture Framing Located right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the Prentice Gallery offers one of the finest collections of local art in Mendocino County. The addition of exceptional custom framing, sometimes the same day, is what sets the Prentice Gallery apart. While wandering down Main Street, in the Village of Mendocino, come in and enjoy amazing … [Read more...]
Red Fox Casino, Laytoville
Welcome to Red Fox Casino! The Friendliest Casino in Mendocino County. Open 7 days a week from 10AM-midnight with great games to keep you entertained. WHERE: 200 Cahto Dr., Laytonville (google map) MORE INFO: 888-473-3369 RedFoxCasino.net … [Read more...]
Ricochet Ridge Ranch, Fort Bragg
At Ricochet Ridge Ranch in Fort Bragg enjoy trail rides along Ten Mile Beach, across cattle ranches, through the majestic Redwood forests. They have exceptional horses, English & Western, to suit all riding abilities. Their are private and longer rides available to suit individual needs. WHERE: 24201 N. Hwy 1, Fort Bragg (google map) MORE INFO: 707-964-7669 H … [Read more...]
Stanford Inn by the Sea, Mendocino
Nestled on a Mendocino Coast hillside, Stanford Inn sits atop a meadow overlooking Mendocino Bay. Embodying the best of the rugged Mendocino Coast, this Mendocino Resort is a haven ... an exquisite opportunity to reconnect with nature. The rambling lobby, guest rooms and suites of this boutique hotel in Mendocino are paneled in pine and redwood. Every detail is attended to, … [Read more...]
Sub-Surface Progression, Fort Bragg
Complete Ocean Sport Center and Coastal Mendocino Watersports Guide: Abalone Diving Equipment Sales and Rentals SCUBA Diving Gear Sales and Rentals Kayak Sales and Rentals Surfboards Sales and Rentals Local Diving Locations and Dive advice for Abalone and SCUBA Diving WHERE: 18600 N Highway 1, Fort Bragg (google map) MORE INFO: 707-964-3793 … [Read more...]
Willits KOA Camping Resort
The Willits KOA Camping Resort is located just outside Willits, home to the famous Seabiscuit, and known as the "Gateway to the Redwoods." The majestic Redwoods, the spectacular Mendocino Coast and the wine country of Mendocino are just a short drive from the Willits KOA campground. The campground resort features an "Old West" theme and is laid out on a peaceful country … [Read more...]