Mendocino CA Vacation

There are plenty of terrific destinations within a few hours’ drive of the Bay Area, where I lived and explored for the better part of the past two years, but none that captivated me as much as Mendocino County, a nature, wine and artist’s haven in Northern California, about 150 miles north of San Francisco—from its scenic drives along redwood forests, lush vineyards, rushing rivers and coastal cliffs, to the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere prevalent from artists and business owners to the old-school and modern-day hippies who make Mendo, as it’s called locally, their home.

Mendo Culture

One of Mendocino County’s main draws is that it offers up a variety of activities for individuals and families alike, but without the crowds and often excessive prices found in other Northern California vacation destinations. It’s known, but not entirely discovered. It’s also an ideal place to unwind and unplug—cell phone service is scant.

From early on, Mendocino was known primarily for its redwood lumber, and it wasn’t until the 1960s that artists and others looking for an alternative lifestyle were drawn to the region, particularly the coastal village of Mendocino and the larger Fort Bragg, to the north.

 

• Take a spin around the solar-powered carousel at the Solar Living Institute in Hopland.

Donna M. Airoldi

The inland town of Hopland, along Highway 101, is home to the Solar Living Institute, a fascinating center that promotes sustainable living through environmental education. It’s a mecca for green advocates and those looking to live off-the-grid. While at the institute’s store I met such a man in jean overalls with crystal-blue yet puss-filled eyes, who proudly has been grid-free for nearly 20 years. (He likely was a pot farmer, an industry that thrives more in the northern reaches of the county, near Humboldt.) Walk the grounds and relax by the lake, see the yurt-style homes and tents the volunteers live in and wander among old rusted cars left alone for so long trees grow through them. 

As the culture scene thrived, tourism—coupled with a burgeoning California wine industry—also grew, and today you’ll find plenty of attractions, award-winning restaurants, Victorian-style bed and breakfasts, art galleries, boutiques and vineyards throughout the county.

Things to Do

The village of Mendocino proper along the Pacific coast, with its white church steeples and wooden water towers, makes for a great home base. It’s chock full of boutiques and eco-shops, bed and breakfasts, day spas and art galleries. Its walking trails along the cliffs make for a wonderful place to take in the rugged coast and watch the sunset, or consider taking one of artist Suzi Long’s drop-in watercolor sketch classes, specifically designed for travelers. Offered Thursdays through Sundays, the 90-minute classes are $35, with materials available for purchase, and meet at 10 a.m. at 611 Albion St.

 

• Known for its artists, bed-and-breakfasts and fine dining, Mendocino is a great getaway off the beaten path.

Donna M. Airoldi

Just 10 miles to the north is the relatively bustling Fort Bragg, with even more shops, galleries (where the artists just might be standing next to you as you peruse their work) and restaurants. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens ($10 general admission) are stunning and have coastal trails, some of which are wheelchair-friendly.

Ricochet Ridge Ranch offers popular horseback rides along Ten Mile Beach and through redwood forests ($45), while rail enthusiasts can check out the Skunk Train ($47 adults, $22 children), which runs three- to four-hour trips through spectacular scenery between Fort Bragg and Willits.

Hikers have more than 250 miles of trails to wander in Mendocino County, with Jackson State Forest an easy jaunt for those staying on the coast. Try the five-mile Jughandle Ecological Staircase trail for a look at coastal evolution from ancient dunes to pygmy forests. A great resource for hikes is The Hiker’s Hip Pocket Guide to the Mendocino Coast, by Bob Lorentzen (Bored Feet Press, updated 2003; $15).

 

• Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is the only botanical gardens in the United States located directly on a coast.

Donna M. Airoldi

Kayakers can head out into the Pacific Ocean, explore coastal sea caves or ride the Gualala, Noyo, Albion and Russian rivers. Outfitters vary, so check the Mendocino Tourism Web site for more information. Watch California’s gray whale migrations during whale watching season, from December to April. Spot them from the Point Arena or Point Cabrillo lighthouses or take a boat tour.

Of course wine tasting and dining are key activities for just about any type of trip to Mendocino County.

Next: Mendocino Wineries, Where to Eat and Stay