Menu & Reservations Make Reservations . Photo: David Eppstein, CC BY-SA 3.0. The Bluff Trail and other dirt footpaths meander all around the area making this a perfect spot to get out and walk around while staying in Mendocino. In 2002 the Big River wetlands was added to the park creating a 7,400-acre wildlife corridor which links diverse coastal and inland habitats into the largest piece of connected public land entirely within Mendocino County. Van Damme State Park is situated 2½ miles south of Mendocino and Headlands Historic District. To get there from downtown Mendocino, head west on Little Lake Street (which turns into Heeser Drive after leaving the houses behind) and turn left into the parking lot on the point. California State Beaches can be found up and down the coast. It consists of 347 acres (1.4 km2) of undeveloped seaside bluffs and islets surrounding the town of Mendocino, two beaches (Big River Beach and Portuguese Beach), and the much larger Big River Unit stretching for eight miles (13 km) along both banks of the nearby Big River. Three more parking areas can be found north along Heeser Drive, each with excellent views of the coves and rocks below the headlands. The Big River Unit was added in 2002.

It has a steep, but commonly used trail that draws down many curious beach enthusiasts.

Mendocino Headlands State Park 45103 Heeser Dr Mendocino CA 95460.

Mendocino, CA 95460 Park Name Mendocino Headlands State Park Owner State Park Activities Beach Exploration, Photography, Walking Amenities Seashells, Rock Arches, Tide Pools, Trails Pet Policy Dogs allowed on leash Fees Free paring Another small arch, which you can go into at low tides, can be found if you search around. Mendocino Headlands State Park began operation in 1974. It’s located at the southwest point just inside Goat Island (the large island just offshore). It has a large rock arch that is one of the most photogenic on the west coast. So choosing the ideal location for your beach getaway vacation is no trivial task. Not only do you need access […], Copyright CaliforniaBeaches.com Mendocino Headlands Trail is a 4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Mendocino, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. About Us | Contact Most are best photographed from above even though the eager adventurer could probably find a way down to the small beaches. This beach is usually calm because of the protection from the island. […], Rock arches are some of the most spectacular of Mother Natures’s hand-crafted artwork. Mendocino Headlands State Park is a California State Park in Mendocino, California. The Mendocino Headlands along Heeser Drive in Mendocino California has several stunning coves tucked below the bluff. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The northernmost lot gives access to a cypress grove and a cove directly below it.

Reviews. One beach is a better than the rest and is a little easier to access. It consists of 347 acres (1.4 km2) of undeveloped seaside bluffs and islets surrounding the town of Mendocino, two beaches (Big River Beach and Portuguese Beach), and the much larger Big River Unit stretching for eight miles (13 km) along both banks of the nearby Big River. #1 Mendocino Headlands State Park Protected Area Updated: 2020-01-07 Mendocino Headlands State Park is a California State Park in Mendocino, California.

Mendocino Area Parks Association 45035 Main Street / PO Box 1387 Mendocino, CA 95460 (707) 937-4700 It consists of 347 acre of undeveloped seaside bluffs and islets surrounding the town of Mendocino, two beaches, and the much larger Big River Unit stretching for eight miles along both banks of the nearby Big River.

Legal. You won’t […], The California coastline has no shortage of beaches (approximately 1,000 in fact). The beach is littered with colorful seashells including fragments of shiny mussel shells.

Van Damme State Park consists of about 1,831 acres of land in Mendocino County, California, near the town of Little River on State Route 1. Privacy Policy | Terms of Use, Join our email list to get new information, events or other fun stuff. Mendocino Headlands State Park is a California State Park in Mendocino, California.

The California Coast displays more of these natural pieces of art than any other state.

Look for a trail just north of the lot. They have some of the best beachfront property in the Golden State and thankfully it is protected from developers. Order Online Tickets Tickets See Availability Directions {{::location.tagLine.value.text}} Sponsored Topics. The park began operation in 1974, after several years of concern and discussion from citizens about the possibility of blufftop development.