The Pacific Gray Whales migrate along the Mendocino coast every November through February, and there are several. The Skunk Train is a fascinating piece of Mendocino history and is a must this holiday season. This lovely nature reserve not only features panoramic vistas from the cliffs and trails but also a stunning shoreline. You might not know this, but most people’s dream California road trip is more or less a list of things to do in Mendocino. Although ocean kayaking in Mendocino is popular, the Mendocino area also offers a unique (and usually more relaxing) experience of canoeing up the Big River. Note that you usually lose cell service on the stretch between Navarro and the coast on Hwy 128. Make sure to have exact change with you because there’s not always someone working the toll booth, but they do come around and check cars regularly to make sure you’ve paid. You’ll want to have a car while you’re in the area to fully take advantage of the nature at your fingertips, and to get around in a timely manner. We carefully curated this travel planner to forget the stress of planning your next trip and experiencing more of our area. And if you’re just looking for a cute and cozy coffeehouse for your daily fix or to read a good book, Headlands is a good option. I’m not going to lie. Watch my Girls Weekend in Mendocino vlog here! Guests rave about the warmth and comfort of the inn and compare the ambiance to staying at a good friend’s well-appointed rustic-chic home. , one of our favorite things to do in December. Throughout Mendocino, there are networks of scenic trails lined with towering Redwoods, and each beholds the beauty of our region. This is one of the more laid back options in Mendocino if you’re looking for a quick homestyle lunch/dinner. What do you think of when you hear the words ‘California road trip’? You might want do both – the coastal way up and the inland way down. Book a vacation rental on AirBnB (and get $40 off your first booking). Success! It is unusual for someone who is my neighbor to ask how a place is 3 hours away as Puter said. © 2019 The Atlas Heart | made in collaboration with Ink & Honey Design Co. + Michelle Robins Creative. This beach is truly on my must visit list this year to see its splendor in person. Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, the Little River Inn is a Gothic white Victorian surrounded by tulips, daffodils, and wildflowers. is a fascinating piece of Mendocino history and is a must this holiday season. To get a look at all the places to go whale watching, check the Calfornia whale watching guide. Bring your heavy coats, your sense of wonder, and your spirit of adventure on your getaway to Sea Rock Inn this year! United States Fill out the form and get yours today! 30 things to do near Mendocino: Russian Gulch State Park One of the most stunning state parks I’ve ever visited, Russian Gulch State Park sits on the coast just two miles north of the town of Mendocino. The Alsace-style wines will be paired with Tomales Bay oysters and Tart Flambé. And if you’re camping, make sure to check out my recommendations for the best four-person tents or large camping tents. Sea Rock Inn also has an excellent guide to their top 10 favorite wineries in Mendocino . Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. *sigh*, I need to make it a priority to travel more that I’m older. The Gardens is well-known for their Rhododendron collection (they have more than 1,000) and they host California’s largest rhododendron show each April.