Things To Do
Bodega Head Trail
Depending on how you are getting to (or from) Point Arena, we often like to drive up the coast making little stops as we go. One of our favorites is the Bodega Head Trail with amazing views. You can also stop at one of the many delicious eateries in Bodega Bay such as Spud Point Crab Company for a crab sandwich and some Clam Chowder or The Birds Cafe for delicious BBQ Oysters.
Goat Rock State Beach - Sonoma Coast State Park
See where the River meets the Ocean in Jenner at Goat Rock State Beach, beautiful long beach with gorgeous views! You can also stop in Jenner for a bite to eat.
Fort Ross State Historic Park
A fun stop for history buffs like Steven on the way up or down the coast.
Salt Point State Park Visitor Center
Another great place for a picnic, short (or long) hike, and some gorgeous coastal views. Steven and I have even spotted river otters here!
Sea Ranch
A great place to stay if you want to rent a house, but also there is great public beach access at Black Point, Stengel Beach, and Shell Beach.
Gualala
Gualala is a great place to stay or stop by. There's Gualala Point Regional Park which is great for hiking, Gualala River for kayaking and some great restaurants and grocery stores to pick up a bite.
Point Arena Lighthouse
Our favorite thing of course to do around here is explore the grounds around the lighthouse! There are beautiful hiking trails and beaches right around the area!
Manchester State Park
Right to the north of the Lighthouse is a long stretch of beach which is great for walking or just lounging and enjoying the day (weather permitting)!
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Guerneville is such a fun place to stop and grab some food, enjoy the Russian River, or check out some amazing HUGE redwoods! They have many short family friends hikes through redwood groves that Steven and Lea love!
Pennyroyal Farm
Around Boonville and the Anderson Valley there are amazing wineries, breweries and even cideries! We love Pennyroyal farm specifically because it is a winery AND goat cheese farm. It's a beautiful spot to stop and enjoy a snack (or drink) on your way to the coast.
Mendocino Headlands trail
I would be remiss not to recommend Mendocino as a lovely morning day trip. It's about an hour from Point Arena up the coast, but of course absolutely beautiful drive. Mendocino has a lovely chill walk along the headlands, with very limited elevation gain. Mendocino is also a great place to grab a bite to eat with more food options than Point Arena.