Mendocino County Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful Mendocino County with this travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, outdoor adventures, local food and beverages, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Mendocino County

Mendocino County is located in North Coast, California, in the United States of America. This beautiful county is known for its scenic views, outdoor adventures, rich cultural history, and wonderful food and beverage scene. Mendocino County is a destination that is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families or groups of friends looking to have an adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Mendocino County

If you plan to visit Mendocino County, here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mendocino County Museum: Located in the heart of downtown Willits, the museum offers exhibits and collections showcasing the history and culture of Mendocino County.
  • Grace Hudson Museum: Named for its famous artist and located in Ukiah, this museum features works of art by Hudson and her husband, as well as regional Native American artifacts.
  • Point Arena Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse, built in 1870, not only offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, but also a glimpse into Mendocino County’s maritime history.

Natural Attractions of Mendocino County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mendocino National Forest: With over 913,000 acres of pristine wilderness, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
  • Glass Beach: Located in Fort Bragg, the beach is covered in sea glass, created by years of discarded glass bottles.
  • Russian Gulch State Park: With a stunning waterfall, miles of hiking trails, and a beach access, Russian Gulch State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mendocino County

If you’re an adventurous traveler who loves hiking and biking, Mendocino County has many options:

  • Van Damme State Park Trail: A 3-mile trail runs through serene coastal forest and beautiful views of the ocean.
  • Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens Trail: This trail offers a leisurely stroll through the gardens, showcasing unique plants from around the world.
  • Navarro River Redwoods State Park Trail: With a 5-mile hiking trail, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the redwood forest and catch glimpses of wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Mendocino County: Activities and Tours

Besides the places mentioned above, there are many other things to do and see in Mendocino County:

  • Wine Tours: With over 500 vineyards in Mendocino County, wine tasting tours are very popular among visitors.
  • Horseback Riding Tours: The beautiful coastline, rivers, and forests of Mendocino County are perfect for horseback riding adventures.
  • Art Walks: Mendocino County has a vibrant art scene, and visitors can explore galleries, studios, and shops showcasing local artists’ work.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mendocino County

If you plan to stay in Mendocino County for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Destination
1 Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and Glass Beach
2 Ukiah Downtown Historic District and Grace Hudson Museum
3 Point Arena Lighthouse and Stornetta Public Lands
4 Mendocino National Forest and Lake Pillsbury
5 Redwood National and State Parks
6 Fort Bragg and Noyo Harbor
7 Skunk Train and Mendocino Art Center

Food and Drink Scene of Mendocino County

Besides its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Mendocino County is famous for its wonderful food and drink scene.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dungeness Crab Chowder: made from locally sourced fresh Dungeness crabs and vegetables.
  • Abalone Dishes: the county is renowned for its Abalone, and they serve it in many ways, including Grilled, Fried, and with Pesto Sauce.
  • Grilled Oysters: Mendocino County is famous for its oysters, and they make it grilled with Lemon garlic butter Sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: With over 500 vineyards, Mendocino County is a paradise for any wine connoisseur. The Mendocino Wine County is a region in Anderson Valley, known for its Pinot Noir wine.
  • Beer: Mendocino County is the perfect place for beer lovers, with numerous craft breweries serving locally brewed beers using locally sourced ingredients.
  • Hard Cider: With its apple orchards, Mendocino County has a thriving hard cider scene, with cideries using organic apples to make delicious ciders.

Where to Stay in Mendocino County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mendocino County has a variety of lodging choices, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and pet-friendly guesthouses.

  • The MacCallum House: An elegant Bed and Breakfast located near the coastline and Mendocino Art Center.
  • The Bewildered Pig: A boutique hotel located in Anderson Valley, perfect for a scenic and relaxing stay.
  • Mendocino Yurt Retreat: An eco-friendly retreat located near the beach, featuring yurts and Redwood Treehouses for a unique stay experience.

What to Buy in Mendocino County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sea Glass Jewelry: made by local artisans using sea glass found on Glass Beach.
  • Wine/Beer/Cider: Local wineries, breweries, and cideries offer visitors a chance to take home locally made wine/beer/cider.
  • Olive Oil: With its olive orchards, Mendocino County features local olive oil producers that are renowned for their high-quality products.

Local Culture and Customs of Mendocino County

Mendocino County has a rich cultural history and is home to many indigenous tribes. Native American culture is the major cultural influence in the region. Local customs are generally laid back and friendly. Respect for nature, animals, and the environment is considered essential.

Best Time to Visit Mendocino County

The best time to visit Mendocino County is during spring between March and May and in the fall season between September and November. During these months, the weather is clear and mild and the county is less crowded, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mendocino County

Do:

  • Respect the local environment and follow local eco-friendly rules.
  • Take extra care on the roads, as they can be narrow and winding.
  • Explore the local trails and parks.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter, and always dispose of trash in a responsible way.
  • Don’t harm the wildlife and disrupt natural habitats.
  • Don’t leave your pets unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mendocino County

Mendocino County is generally safe, but it is recommended to take necessary precautions when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities such as carrying water bottles and food snacks. Be aware of weather changes in the coastal region. Always follow posted signs and pay attention to your surroundings.

Health in Mendocino County

Make sure to keep yourself hydrated and carry medications in case of allergies. If you plan to go camping, be aware of endemic diseases common in the area, like Lyme disease or Hantavirus. It’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider to get any necessary vaccines before your visit.

Getting to Mendocino County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mendocino County

  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK)
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Bus Stations Near Mendocino County

  • Fort Bragg
  • Willits
  • Ukiah

Other Options

There are car rental agencies and ride-hail services available in the county, making it relatively easy to get around once you arrive.

How to Get Around in Mendocino County

To explore the county, it’s best to rent a car, as public transportation is limited. You can also hire bikes and explore the scenic routes. For hikers, walking tours and self-guided routes are available.

Where to Go Next from Mendocino County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to explore adjacent areas after visiting Mendocino County, here are two options:

  • San Francisco: Located just four hours south of Mendocino County, San Francisco is a must-visit destination, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and charming neighborhoods like The Castro and Haight-Ashbury.
  • Redwoods National and State Parks: Located approximately 179 miles north of Mendocino County, these national and state parks are home to some of the tallest trees in the world and offer numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife viewing.

Conclusion

Mendocino County is a hidden gem, brimming with natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. From iconic landmarks, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures, to unique food and beverages, the county has something for everyone. Whether you’re a budget traveler or luxury seeker, a solo explorer or a family vacationer, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to Mendocino County.



    Boonville
    Point Arena
    Willits