A Mendocino Summer To-Do List

Take it from the locals and take advantage of the fleeting sunshine in Mendocino with these things to do outdoors this summer (plus a few of our other fun favorites)!

Take a Drive down Highway 128 Wine Road

This beautiful 75-mile drive is studded with family-run wineries, picturesque vineyards, quaint towns, and towering redwoods. Yorkville Market, and Anderson Valley Brewing Company, and Roederer Estate, oh my!

Explore the Untouched Big River Estuary by Canoe

The Big River estuary is a magical place. Tranquil and serene, on your paddle you’ll pass sunbathing seals, resting herons, lunching river otters, and more. With more than eight miles of protected waterway to explore, this is a wonderful way to explore Mendocino. Catch-a-Canoe has beautiful redwood outriggers, ideal for people of all skill levels – they’re virtually impossible to flip over. Good fun for the whole family, even your pets!

Bask in the Sand at Navarro River State Beach

Stop at the campground along the river to enjoy a picnic, swim and catch a glimpse of the wildlife that inhabits the area. End your journey at the campground at Navarro State Beach, where the river meets the sea and grey driftwood lies scattered by wind and tide. This dog-friendly beach is a great place to build a fire (follow the regulations) and watch the sun go down.

Ride aboard the Skunk Train!

Forty miles of railroad run through majestic redwood forests, scenic mountain meadows, and over 30 trestles bridging the pristine mountain waters of Northern California. This railway ride is like no other!

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

A jewel in the crown of the coast, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is famous for their Rhododendrons, heathers, and succulents. Walk these gorgeous gardens to discover a variety of exotic plants and over 150 species of birds.

Glass Beach

Take off your shoes and stroll the beach, catching glimpses of light from the tumbled shards of glass that stud the sand.

Golf at Little River Inn

The Little River Inn has the only golf course located directly on the Mendocino coast. These 18 holes wind through redwood trees along the Pacific Ocean, providing you with stunning scenery during your golf game.

Ross Ranch

Ross Ranch brings country living to our coast. Go for a horseback ride along the famous Mendocino beaches or take your horse for a guided tour through the towering redwood forests.

Jug Handle Ecological Staircase

This naturally crafted staircase winds along the coastline, forming a 2.5 mile trail that is open to the public. Bring your beach gear. The trail ends at a secluded beach that is open to visitors.

Kayak Mendocino County

Get out on the water and explore the sea caves that line the Mendocino coastline.

Hiking at Russian Gulch State Park

Hike the roughly 7.5 miles of coastal trails in Russian Gulch State Park. There's even a 36-foot high waterfall.