Mendocino is a small town located on the coast of Northern California. The town is known for its scenic beauty, its friendly locals, and its abundance of activities.
Visitors can explore Mendocino’s many shops and cafes, take a scenic walk along the beach, or enjoy one of the town’s many festivals.
There is something for everyone in Mendocino. The town is also a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
With its picturesque setting and laid-back atmosphere, Mendocino is the perfect place to get away from it all.
So if you’re looking for a beautiful town with plenty to do, be sure to add Mendocino to your list of places to visit.
With that said, here are the 15 Best Places You must See in Mendocino, California.
1. Hike With an Ocean View at Mendocino Headlands State Park
You’ll find plenty of spectacular views when you go for a hike at Mendocino Headlands State Park.
The high bluffs offer sweeping ocean views, and you might even spot some dolphins or whales swimming offshore.
The Headlands are also home to a variety of plant and animal life, so keep your eyes peeled for interesting wildlife as you explore the many trails.
And don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers!
With a wide variety of native plants in bloom, the Mendocino Headlands is a veritable wildflower sanctuary.
So whether you’re looking for breathtaking ocean vistas or a tranquil nature hike, you’ll find it all at Mendocino Headlands State Park.
2. Discover Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum
Mendocino is a beautiful coastal town in Northern California that is known for its spectacular scenery and its relaxed, small-town atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Mendocino is Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, which was built in 1909 and is now a museum.
The museum is located in the lighthouse keeper’s quarters and includes exhibits on the history of Mendocino’s coast, the area’s shipwrecks, and the role of the lighthouse in maritime history.
You can also enjoy stunning views of the Mendocino coast from the top of the lighthouse.
The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum is a great place to learn about Mendocino’s history and get a bird’s-eye view of this spectacular coastline.
3. Marvel at the Breathtaking View From Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offer a truly magical setting.
Nestled atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the gardens feature more than 85 acres of diverse terrain, including woodlands, meadows, and tidal marshes.
The gardens are home to more than 200 species of plants, the gardens are a haven for bird and butterfly watching.
In addition to the spectacular views, the gardens also offer a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.
Whether you’re interested in learning about native plant species or simply want to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
4. Visit the Stunning Russian Gulch State Park
Nestled in the coastal mountains of Mendocino, Russian Gulch State Park is a hidden gem.
With its towering redwoods, rushing waterfalls, and picturesque bridges, the park is reminiscent of a scene from a fairytale.
You can hike through the woods along one of the many trails, or spend an afternoon picnicking by the river.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the park also offers opportunities for kayaking, rock climbing, and even bungee jumping.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your time at Russian Gulch State Park, you’re sure to leave with lasting memories of this stunning natural oasis.
5. Feed Your Inner Artist at Mendocino Art Center
The Mendocino Art Center is a hidden treasure for all levels of artists.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just beginning to explore your creativity, the Art Center has something to offer.
With a variety of classes and workshops in everything from painting and photography to ceramics and sculpture, there’s sure to be something that inspires you.
And if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the serene setting of Mendocino is the perfect place to rejuvenate your spirit.
So whether you’re looking to learn something new or simply feed your inner artist, the Mendocino Art Center is worth a visit.
6. Take a Stroll Down Mendocino’s Main Street
Main Street in Mendocino is a must-see for any visitor to the area.
This quaint street is lined with beautiful Victorian homes and businesses, giving it a unique charm.
Many of the buildings on Main Street date back to the 19th century, and they have been carefully restored to their original appearance.
You can stroll down the street and enjoy the stunning architecture, or stop in at one of the shops or restaurants.
There are also several art galleries on Main Street, which feature the work of local artists.
Main Street is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring the history and culture of Mendocino.
7. Spend a Day Relaxing at Van Damme State Park
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Van Damme State Park in Mendocino is the perfect spot.
With its beautiful coastline, hiking trails, and redwood forests, the park offers something for everyone.
The best way to experience all the park has to offer is to take a hike on one of the many trails. Or, if you’re feeling lazy, you can always just enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach.
And don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the bluffs.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax, Van Damme State Park is the perfect place to spend a day.
8. Tour the Historic Mendocino Presbyterian Church
The Mendocino Presbyterian Church is one of the most historic churches in California.
It was founded in 1854, and its original building was constructed out of adobe bricks.
The church has been through a lot over the years, including several earthquakes and a fire that destroyed much of the interior.
But it has always been resilient, and today it stands as a beautiful testament to the history of Mendocino.
You can tour the church and learn about its rich history, or simply enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. Either way, the Mendocino Presbyterian Church is definitely worth a visit.
9. Catch the Sunset at Bowling Ball Beach in Mendocino
If you’re looking for a breathtaking way to end your day, look no further than Bowling Ball Beach in Mendocino.
As the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, the rocks begin to glow a fiery red, making for a truly unforgettable sight.
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the green flash—a rare phenomenon that occurs when the sun dips below the horizon.
Whether you’re a photographer looking for that perfect shot or just someone who enjoys soaking up nature’s beauty, Bowling Ball Beach is definitely worth a visit.
10. Fish in One of Mendocino’s Many Pristine Lakes
Mendocino is well known for its beautiful coastline, but the area also boasts a number of stunning inland lakes.
These clear and cold lakes are home to a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and catfish.
While the lakes are a popular destination for anglers, they also offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
In the early morning, mist hangs over the water, and the only sound is the gentle lapping of waves.
As the sun rises, the lake comes to life, with fish jumping and birds darting across the surface.
Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, Mendocino’s lakes offers something for everyone.
11. Travel Through Meadows, Canyons, And Redwood Forests On the Skunk Train
Take a step back in time and ride the Skunk Train through Mendocino.
This vintage locomotive travels through meadows, canyons, and redwood forests, offering passengers stunning views of the Mendocino Coast.
The train operates year-round, so you can enjoy the scenery no matter what season it is.
And there’s no need to worry about getting motion sickness—the train moves at a leisurely pace, so you can sit back and relax.
So whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique way to experience Mendocino, be sure to take a ride on the Skunk Train. You won’t regret it!
12. Play a Round of Golf at Little River Inn
The Little River Inn Mendocino is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf.
The course is set amidst beautiful redwood groves and offers stunning views of the coast.
The layout is challenging but fair, and there are plenty of amenities on-site, including a pro shop, a clubhouse, and a driving range.
And after a long day on the links, you can relax in one of the inn’s comfortable rooms or take a dip in the pool.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Little River Inn Mendocino is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf.
13. Take a Walking Tour Around the Spectacular Kelley House Museum
The Kelley House Museum is one of Mendocino’s most popular tourist attractions.
Located in the heart of the town, the museum is housed in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion.
You can explore the many rooms of the house, which are filled with historic artifacts and furniture.
The museum also offers a variety of walking tours that take visitors through some of Mendocino’s most scenic areas.
The tours provide a great way to learn about the history and culture of this charming town.
Whether you’re interested in the history of Mendocino or simply want to enjoy a leisurely walk through some beautiful scenery, the Kelley House Museum walking tours are a great option.
14. Make a Splash With a Day of Mendocino Whale Watching
There’s something magical about whale watching. And there’s no better place to do it than Mendocino, California.
Every year, thousands of visitors flock to this scenic coastal town to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants.
The best time to see whales in Mendocino is from April to November.
During this time, gray whales can be seen migrating along the coast.
Humpback and blue whales can also be spotted offshore.
But the highlight of whale watching season is definitely the annual migration of orcas.
These magnificent creatures can be seen hunting near the shore from July to October.
So whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or just looking to spot your first whale, Mendocino is the perfect place to do it.
15. Visit the Jug Handle State Reserve for a Day
Jughandle State Reserve is one of the most beautiful places in Mendocino.
With its miles of sandy beaches, towering redwoods, and crystal-clear waterways, it’s easy to see why.
You can spend the day hiking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
There are also plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and otters.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Jughandle State Reserve is also home to a number of historic sites.
The reserve includes the site of the first European settlement in California, as well as the Mendocino Light Station.
A visit to Jughandle State Reserve is a perfect way to spend a day in Mendocino.
