The Mendocino Coast is a stunning area that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. From its dramatic cliffs to its serene coves, Mendocino offers a wide range of coastal experiences.
This guide highlights some of the best Mendocino beaches and activities along the coast, including popular beaches, unique features, and recreational opportunities. It also includes information on local attractions to help you plan your Mendocino beach vacation.
Exploring Mendocino’s diverse beaches
Mendocino’s coastline offers a variety of beaches, from those that are easy to access and well-known to hidden gems with unusual features.
Popular and accessible beaches
Big River Beach
Just a quarter mile north of Mendocino Grove Campground is Big River Beach. It’s a popular spot for swimming, collecting driftwood, and having bonfires.
Van Damme State Beach
A half-mile south of Mendocino, you’ll find Van Damme State Beach, a favorite launching point for sea kayakers. Check out the guided tours.
Hidden gems and unique features
Bowling Ball Beach
The large, round boulders that line the shore at Bowling Ball Beach create a truly picturesque and unusual landscape. A must-see!
Glass Beach
Located within MacKerricher State Park, Glass Beach is renowned for its smooth, colorful sea glass. The glass comes from the days when people tossed their glass trash into the ocean.
State Parks and Protected Areas: Coastal Wonders
Mendocino County’s state parks and protected areas provide some of the most beautiful and ecologically significant coastline in California.
Russian Gulch State Park: A Multifaceted Destination
Russian Gulch State Park has about 1.5 miles of ocean frontage, so there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, tide pooling, and diving.
Hikers will enjoy the popular Fern Canyon Trail, which offers a 5-mile out-and-back hike, or a 6+-mile loop, that leads to a 36-foot waterfall.
Jug Handle State Reserve: Ecological Staircase
Jug Handle Beach is a small cove with a family-friendly swimming area that’s protected by a natural stone break about 200 feet out.
From the beach, you can access the Ecological Staircase Trail, which highlights the area’s different ecosystems, from beach to pygmy forest and back, over the course of about 5 miles.
MacKerricher State Park: Expansive Coastline
MacKerricher State Park is expansive, indeed, spanning 10 miles of coastline with walking trails and the Ten Mile Dunes.
Activities and Planning Your Mendocino Beach Trip
Mendocino beaches offer more than just sand and surf. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.
Outdoor Activities Beyond the Beach
Hiking and Trails: Explore the Coastal Landscape
Mendocino’s coastline is crisscrossed with scenic hiking trails, offering stunning views and a chance to experience the area’s diverse ecosystems. Check out the Fern Canyon Trail in Russian Gulch State Park.
Fishing Opportunities: Rivers and Ocean
If you’re an angler, you can fish in the local rivers and the Pacific Ocean. Consult with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for regulations and the best fishing spots.
Planning Your Visit
Accommodation Options
You’ll find a variety of lodging options in Mendocino, including charming inns like the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek. Look for amenities like fireplaces and, of course, ocean views.
Important Considerations
Be aware of potential riptides when you’re at the beach. Also, be sure to pack the right gear for hiking and any water activities you plan.
Putting It All Together
From sheltered inlets to state parks that stretch on for miles, Mendocino’s beaches offer a coastal experience for everyone.
So, plan your trip to experience the beauty and adventure of the Mendocino coast for yourself. When you visit, please be sure to respect the environment, so that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of this unique part of the world for years to come.