Traveling to beautiful Mendocino this summer or fall? If you’re looking for things to do, you’ve come to the right spot. I’ve traveled to Mendocino three times now, and I’ve compiled my list of things to do, where to eat, and places you stay. I’ve loved all of my overnights in Mendocino, and I hope you will, too!
You can find my older posts from Mendocino here and here. And then check out my quick guide below to find some of the best places while in Mendocino proper (and in the surrounding area). Enjoy!
Things to do in the city of Mendocino, California:
- Point Mendocino: You can drive (or walk) out here. It’s a great spot to head to at sunset, or during the day to take photos and enjoy a breezy hike along the coast.
- Photo Op: It’s a great view of downtown Mendocino and the rugged coastline.
- Mendocino Jams + Preserves: Stop here to pick up some yummy gifts or grab a few jams to pack for a picnic on the headlands.
- Gallery Bookshop + Bookwinkles: If you’re in Mendocino for the weekend or a longer period of time, it’s always nice to have a good book on hand. And if you’re like me, it’s always fun to get lost in a bookstore.
- The Mendocino Hotel + Garden Suites: I haven’t stayed here (you certainly can!), but I love this place for its old-school vibes and lunch nook under a tree in the garden bar.
- Flow Restaurant + Lounge: I stopped by Flow at night, and found it to be a great spot for sunset views (you’re on the second floor) and live music. They also have an outdoor deck, which would be great lunch.
- Goodlife Cafe + Bakery: Looking for a cup of joe before a nice stroll around Mendocino. It’s right in the middle of the city, so you can’t miss it!
- The Blue Door Inn: Looking for a place to stay right in the village? This is the cutest little bed and breakfast. They have the coziest beds and fireplaces in each room. You can see my full write-up about the inn here.
But wait, there’s more! Below are a few places not located in the city of Mendocino, but are worth checking out.
- Russian Gulch Bridge: There are two things you can do here. You can drive down to hang out on the beach under the bridge, or you can go to the lookout spot which gives you an awesome photo op off the bridge against the rugged Mendocino coast. And of course, you can hike in the Russian Gulch State Park as well.
- Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens: You’ll find miles of gardens that you can walk through, which I’d absolutely suggest doing. Give yourself a good two hours to really take your time and enjoy each garden, and perhaps even a bite at the cafe that’s near the entrance.
- Fort Bragg / Skunk Train: This was a pleasant surprise and so much fun! Buy tickets to take an hour-long ride (longer options also available) through the redwood forest. You’ll get a history lesson of the area, some cool photos, and you can even grab drinks/snacks from the train’s concession.
- Brewery Gulch Inn: Found just before entering the village of Mendocino, this is another great pot to stay. You’ll get more of a rustic vibe here, and lovely views of Smuggler’s Cove. You can see my full write-up about the inn here.
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Let’s go places,
Sarah
What’s your favorite thing to do in Mendocino? Share it with us in the comments section below.
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