This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through included links. I will only recommend companies and products that I personally trust and recommend.
Mendocino’s rugged coastline is home to historical Victorian villages, giant Redwoods, charming little towns, sparkling Glass Beach, and the only oceanfront botanical garden in the United States. This quaint little seaside town can be overshadowed by Big Sur but once you experience the magic of Mendocino, you’ll want to plan your return trip even before you leave. Here is your guide to planning a weekend in Mendocino with all of the best places to stay, dining, and activities! Don’t miss the example travel itinerary at the end!
Where to Stay for a Weekend in Mendocino
The Inn at Newport Ranch
The boutique inns at Newport Ranch are one of a kind and so is the experience. Relax and unwind when you wake up to coastline views and unbeatable hospitality. Looking for someone to take care of the activity planning or assist with a special occasion? Newport Ranch has a variety of travel packages to accommodate all guests. Located in Fort Bragg, you’ll only be moments away from the best of Mendocino.
Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa
Plan your stay at this award-winning travel resort offering luxe accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and a spa on site. You will feel spoiled with amenities, immersed in the native landscape, and close to everything Mendocino has to offer.
Elk Cove Inn
Elk Cove was one of the first bed-and-breakfast inns on the Mendocino coast and it has remained one of the best! The beach is just steps away and you can often observe otters or whales in the distance. When you are ready to venture into town, you are just a few minutes walk from the best local shops and restaurants. Bringing along your furry friend for the weekend? Elk Cove welcomes pets too!
Sea Rock Inn
Enjoy an oceanside stay with expertly manicured gardens, complimentary delivered breakfast, and cozy coastal cottages. You will leave relaxed and rejuvenated after enjoying the sound of waves crashing outside your window enjoying a crackling fire at night.
Little River Inn
Minutes from Van Damme State Park you will find Little River Inn. It is family-owned and pet-friendly to accommodate all types of travelers. You will find yourself swept away by the coastal ocean views, historic golf course, and active wildlife. The cottages all have different features and you can review each room’s specific amenities and request the room that suits your needs the most for your most relaxing stay.
Elk Forest Retreat
A retreat nestled among the redwood trees, which makes it one of the most enchanting places to stay. Located in the town of Elk, CA, just a few miles from the coast, it’s a short drive away from the historic village of Mendocino. This is my personal favorite place to stay in Mendocino.
Where to Eat for a Weekend in Mendocino
Little River Inn Restaurant
This restaurant is located inside the charming Little River Inn and you can even see the ocean from their dining room. Their menu features California coastal fare and offers an extensive wine list. Their covered backyard patio is just stunning.
Mendocino Cafe
This restaurant in the heart of Mendocino Village uses organic ingredients that benefit both the planet and guests, earning it a reputation. I love the casual ambiance and visited twice during my visit. Their Thai-inspired dishes are delicious!
Trillium Cafe
This cafe has a reputation for its seafood and is located right in Mendocino Village. I suggest dining outdoors in their heated patio garden, you will experience as close to a Parisian oasis as you can get without traveling abroad.
Flow
Dining at sunset with delicious drinks and appetizers? Say no more. Flow is the place to be for coastal dining views. Flow stands for fresh, local, organic, and wholesome, which is exactly what their menu offers. I love their Korean street tacos and their Zucchini noodles, so good!
GoodLife Cafe & Bakery
One of my favorite stops, especially for the homemade pastries! GoodLife Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch and makes everything on the menu from scratch using organic, local, and seasonal ingredients as available.
Activities To Do on a Weekend in Mendocino
Redwood trees, fern canyon, and shaded trails make Russian Gulch State Park one of the best hiking trails in the area. I recommend following the trail to the Russian Gulch Waterfall, which is 36 feet tall and stunning when the water is flowing. You can also walk down to the falls or sit on the bench at the top and take in the scene.
Walk Downtown Mendocino
The Victorian village of Mendocino is perched on a bluff on the ocean side of CA Highway 1. You can pop into the cute boutique shops and art galleries for an afternoon of exploring. My favorite shops are Village Toy Store, Mendocino Jams & Preserves, Village Sock Shop, Gallery Bookshop & Bookwinkle’s, and Garden Bakery.
Explore Mendocino Headlands State Park
If you’re looking for a great place for photography and to simply enjoy nature, there are miles of easy trails along the bluffs that showcase the ocean, sea caves, and arches along the coastline. Many visitors also enjoy walking the secluded beaches, surfing, and fishing. You can’t have a weekend in Mendocino without stopping at Headlands State Park.
If you plan to do a lot of hiking and exploring the trails, don’t forget to download your maps before heading out. Use my code and link for a discount off AllTrails+ Code: eagertraveler30
At Mendocino Headlands State Park, the Big River merges lush Redwood forest with tranquil river waters, rocky shores, and the majestic Pacific Ocean. Paddle upstream to discover the Redwood forest, where numerous trails wind through the verdant landscape on both riverbanks. I recommend Catch A Canoe for kayak rentals but if exploring by land is more your speed, you can also rent bicycles.
Experience history at Ford House Museum
The Ford House Museum also serves as the Mendocino visitor center. Step inside to see a scale model of Mendocino as it was in 1890. If a docent-led tour or talk is being offered when you visit, you have the opportunity to learn a lot about local history, the natural features of the region, and flora and fauna.
Explore Jug Handle State Natural Reserve
Embark on the 5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail, ascending from bluffs through redwoods across three terraces through the pygmy forest with ancient stunted trees. Access the beach via stairs for low-tide walks, though caution is advised as I recommend saving your swimming for other areas due to the powerful waves. There are also picnic tables available near the parking area for enjoying a scenic lunch.
Adventure new trails at Van Damme State Park
Van Damme State Park, located three miles south of Mendocino on Highway One, offers a picturesque beach, lush fern-filled forest, and year-round camping. Visitors can enjoy activities including kayaking in a protected cove, exploring a pygmy forest, and hiking the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail alongside Little River. While dogs are allowed in the campground, beach, and Spring Ranch areas, they are prohibited on the Fern Canyon Trail, Old Logging Road Trail, and Pygmy Forest Trail.
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
Strolling through the gardens is a true delight, especially when you venture onto the ocean-view trail. I found the Rhododendron collection particularly enchanting, and I strongly urge you to pay a visit to this captivating spot. Don’t miss a stop at the Cliff House along the ocean view trail—it offers a snug sanctuary to admire the dramatic bluffs and expansive ocean vistas through its expansive picture windows.
Visit the Cabrillo Light House
The Cabrillo Point Lighthouse, also known as Point Cabrillo Light Station, is a historic lighthouse perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Established in 1909 to guide ships safely along the rugged coastline, the lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime navigation over the years. The surrounding area offers beautiful coastal views and walking trails, making it a popular spot for visitors interested in both history and stunning scenery.
The biggest city on the Mendocino coast, Fort Bragg is home to the world-famous Skunk Train, the extraordinary Glass Beach, and the spectacular Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Fort Bragg’s historic Skunk Train provides a nostalgic journey through the redwood forest, presenting an opportunity to appreciate the region’s rich history. The coastal town is known for its rugged beaches, perfect for beachcombing and scenic walks. Don’t miss the town’s charming downtown area with shops, galleries, and restaurants, so you can indulge in local cuisine while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Step aboard the Skunk Train, a journey that’s been enchanting adventurers since 1885. As you ride through ancient redwood groves, across picturesque trestle bridges, and into the heart of the Noyo River canyon, you’ll be transported back in time while enjoying the same breathtaking views that have captivated travelers for over a century. Whether you choose the open carriage for a closer connection to nature or a cozy indoor seat, prepare for a ride into history. For an unforgettable experience, opt for the Pudding Creek Express ride, a scenic 7-mile round trip. Start at the Fort Bragg depot, and don’t miss the chance to pause at the charming Glen Blair Junction, where you can unwind or take a short hike to The Glen.
Book your tickets!
Ride the Pudding Creek Railbikes
Looking for a different kind of adventure amidst the redwoods? Try the Pudding Creek Railbikes instead! These two-person railbikes start from the Fort Bragg depot, where you’ll embark on a 7-mile journey, with a scenic break at the enchanting Glen Blair Junction. Get ready for a thrilling ride where you can pedal at your own pace or let the electric bike effortlessly carry you through the captivating scenery. Pets are allowed for a fee and bikes run rain or shine. Looking for a longer ride? Book the Railbikes on the Noyo package for 25 miles of the Redwood Route exclusive for Pudding Creek. Book your tickets!
This is the perfect way to end your weekend in Mendocino. This site was once a trash dump and the broken bottles from local residents became the highlight as it make the beach colorful with varying shades of weathered glass. Over the years visitors have depleted the beach of its namesake glass, despite it being illegal, so while the sea glass is still abundant it is nothing like it used to be. The sunset here still has a special twinkle and I found it to be quite magical.
Ready to plan your weekend in Mendocino? Here is an example travel itinerary for you to get started!
Travel Itinerary for a Weekend in Mendocino
Day 1: Explore the coast and Mendocino Village
Start your day with breakfast at GoodLife Cafe & Bakery in Mendocino Village.
Venture to Mendocino Headlands State Park. You can take in the breathtaking views of the ocean, take a leisurely walk along the coastal trails, kayak Big River, and make reservations in advance so you can get the best time slot to kayak/canoe in terms of wind and tide. Be sure to visit the historic Ford House Visitor Center for insights into the area’s history.
Head into town to have late lunch at Mendocino Cafe while overlooking the ocean.
Explore the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, known for its diverse plant collections and beautiful coastal landscapes. Be sure to head on the coastal trail at the end for spectacular views.
Enjoy a coastal seafood dinner at Trillium Cafe.
Day 2: Redwoods and Railroads
Grab breakfast to-go from GoodLife Cafe and Bakery and be sure to pack a few extra sandwiches to enjoy later.
Start with a peaceful hike at Russian Gulch State Park to the Fern Canyon trail and waterfall.
Ride the rails with the Skunk Train or Pudding Creek Railbikes for an exhilarating view of the Mendocino landscape. Reserve ahead using this link to ensure you get a spot and you can plan your hike to Russian Gulch accordingly.
Enjoy strolling the village shops and check out the local art galleries.
Dine at Flow for a delicious dinner made from the best locally sourced ingredients.
As the sun begins to set, head over to Glass Beach to take in a classic Mendocino scene before your departure.
Note: Don’t forget to check for any seasonal events or special activities that might be happening during your visit
+ There are no comments
Add yours