Mendocino Dreamin'

Mendocino is just one of many destinations on the North Coast, stop almost anywhere and you'll be rewarded with excellent cuisine and wonderful local wines. Hike the headlands, rent a kayak or bike, relax with a massage and dine your way along the coast...

Quick Tips:

Off-season (October - April) provides the best rates, shorter waits at restaurants, and fewer crowds. The fog doesn't take the summer off so if you go, make sure you have a sweater & pants! Keep shorts handy for inland wine tasting trips.

Best Way To Get Around:

You'll need a car, and if you have any problem with motion sickness you'd better take something before you drive! Highway 1 or Rte 128 through Cloverdale are both gorgeous, scenic drives but very twisty. Little or no public transport once you arrive but if you stay in Mendocino Village, you'll be in walking distance of everything. Nothing to do but relax & enjoy!

Sweetwater's Redwood cottage is about a 10 minute walk from Mendocino Village and boasts a hot tub on the deck. Inside we found a luxurious King size bed downstairs and a very comfortable queen futon in the sleeping loft. A fire is ready to be lit in the tiny woodstove, and a galley kitchen is equipped for preparing breakfast or simple meals (you provide the food). A big bouquet of fresh flowers decorate the breakfast bar and a ceiling fan turns overhead. It's tiny and cozy and cute, perfect for a romantic getaway or fun with friends.

A gorgeous beach! MacKerricher Park offers a campground within walking distance of the beach, a bike trail, nearby horseback riding, and a seal watching station. Park near Lake Cleone and walk towards the ocean on a rustic but sturdy pedestrian boardwalk (handicapped accessible!). You'll pass Cypress trees twisted by the winds and see several small animal and bird species en route to the seal station. Bring your binoculars to get the best views of the seals and their babies just off the rocky coast.

Warning - BEWARE of the very strong Pacific tides!!! Take note of several signs to that effect, but enjoy the tidepools at your leisure.

Kids love this place, there's lots to do and see, as well as numerous photo opportunities. Plan to bring a jacket & sweater...the fog lives here too.