Mendocino is at the Center of North Coast Splendor

Surrounded by water on three sides and boasting a quaint Victorian charm that you might expect to find in New England, Mendocino is a vacation haven for those in need of some small town ambiance.

Although most people think of the gorgeous Mendocino Coast and Mendocino County before the village itself, this town is actually a great jumping off point for enjoying this scenic region of Northern California. Mendocino vacation rentals are convenient to the many delights of the village and are just a stone’s throw away from endless coastal excitement, meaning it has never been easier to enjoy everything you love about this area.

Around town there are several state parks where you can bask in the beauty of the great outdoors. Mendocino Headlands State Park boasts secluded beaches, casual hiking trails, and breathtaking vistas that are perfect for winter whale-watching, while the Russian Gulch State Park features a variety of recreational pursuits such as fishing, hiking, biking, and even horseback riding.

There are several other great options such as the nearby Van Damme State Park, but don’t spend all your time enjoying nature’s wonders. The village also features its own opportunities for exploration at interesting locales like the Ford House Museum and the Kelley House Museum. The numerous art galleries and shops are perfect for occupying your day with relaxing pursuits, or you can head outward and experience some of Mendocino’s award winning wineries.

Setting out on a Mendocino wine tasting excursion along Highway 128, you can easily become acquainted with the very best that this region has to offer. While the Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir seem to flow freely at just about any stop, a few that you should definitely add to your itinerary are the Navarro Vineyards, Greenwood Ridge Vineyards, and the Roederer Estate (a sparkling wine specialist).