With its craggy rocks and towering trees that are centuries old, the rugged California coastline between Marin County and the Oregon border truly must be seen to be believed.
Along the North Coast California find some of the world’s tallest trees and most beautiful beaches. Unlike most coastal areas, this stretch is mostly quiet so you’re more likely to encounter sea lions than fellow sunbathers as you stroll along the shoreline.
Find Gualala just north of Sonoma in the heart of the “Banana Belt,” a stretch of California coastline known for its sunny weather. The former lumber town is now a charming downtown located along California’s famed Highway 1.
Head slightly inland to Anderson Valley. Explore rolling hills and discover its renowned apple orchards and vineyards.
Explore the Mendocino Coast, home to picturesque villages and world-class wineries. Take a tour of Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, home to hundreds of types of plants and flowers. Discover beaches, cliffs and historic houses in Mendocino Headlands State Park. Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from Fort Bragg and search for colorful treasures along Glass Beach.
Explore quirky towns as you make your way up the coast. Explore the shops and galleries of Eureka or plan your visit around one of its famous music festivals. Be greeted by the scent of patchouli in Arcata, a town known for its progressive and environmentalist ideals.
It’s impossible to not feel dwarfed in the Redwood National and State Parks. Walk among the state’s fabled redwood trees, which soar into the sky like natural skyscrapers. Look for giants of the sea from High Bluff Overlook during the whale migration periods of November-December and March-April. Be on the watch also for sea lions and migrating seabirds. Further north, hike along the coastal Yurok Loop until you reach Hidden Beach.
One of the best ways to explore North Coast California is by car. Drive along the famous Route 1, which stretches the length of the state, or explore winding roads off the beaten path.
North Coast California is a year-round destination. In wintertime, witness the migration of Pacific gray whales. See wildflowers in bloom in springtime or join the tourist boom in summer. Visit in fall for a quieter atmosphere and slower pace.
