Years ago I visited the Mendocino coast and I have been dreaming ever since of going back and exploring more of it. If you are a Bay Area local this trip can be taken for a quick weekend getaway. For those who are on an epic California road trip you can add this weekend itinerary to your California coast road trip.

Here is my weekend must not miss places to see while visiting the adorable town of Mendocino:

Start your Saturday early and head out on your road trip. Your 1st stop will be Hendy Woods State Park. This is a great place to stop to stretch your legs. I opted to hike the Big Hendy Long Loop trail which is a 1.5 easy trail where you walk among old Redwood Tree’s.

Alright, now you have stretched your legs and ready to head to the little town of Mendocino & grab some lunch before checking into your accommodation. There are quite a few little quaint restaurants / cafe’s in downtown Mendocino. We opted for lunch with a view at Flow Restaurant.

Now you are ready to check into your lodging. While there are several adorable places you can book a stay at, my top choice would be Mendocino Grove. We truly enjoyed our stay here with luxury glamping tents, fire pits to make smores and what is better than falling asleep to listening to waves crash along the shore? Now if glamping among the redwood trees. This hotel would have been my second pick. I was really intrigued by the secret spa they have in the woods.

Rise and shine! You are ready to explore all that Mendocino has to offer. There are several hikes and activities to keep you busy! Here are my top suggestions:

1. Take a ride on the Skunk Train or rail bikes!
2. Rent a canoe and paddle down the little river with Catch a Canoe
3. Explore Russian Gulch State Park
4. Take a stroll to the Point Cabrillo light house
5. Watch the sunset – I loved the Mendocino State reserve area.

I hope you found this guide helpful. Until the next adventure

xoxo

A Wandering Story