5 Things to Do in: Mendocino County, California

Just 100 miles north of San Francisco, Mendocino County is one of California’s best-kept secrets, a place where indulgence is something of an art. Take your pick from intimate wineries, organic farms, elegant bed and breakfasts, world-class resorts, beach-front rental cottages, sky-scraping redwoods, quaint Victorian villages, rolling meadows, undeveloped rivers and breathtaking ocean views—there’s something for everyone in this Northern California retreat. What makes Mendocino County so special is that at three times the size of Rhode Island, it’s free of crowds and complication, making it the perfect getaway. Mendocino County is divided into five major areas: the Anderson Valley and Russian River Valley on the inland southern border; South Mendocino Coast and North Mendocino Coast; and the northern inland region known as North Mendocino County. Each area offers visitors a range of activities and accommodations well-suited for anyone seeking outdoor adventure, romance and relaxation.

Savor the flavors of the county.
With nearly 50 wineries located in three clusters, Mendocino County grows more varieties of grapes than anywhere else in America. Mendocino County also has more family-owned wineries than any other county in California, as well as the oldest organic vineyards. For those who prefer beer, this region is home to award-winning breweries such as the Ukiah Brewing Co. (the nation's first certified organic brew pub) and the Mendocino Brewing Co. (the first brew pub to be established in California after prohibition). Mendocino County also yields delectable edibles year ‘round, including mushrooms, world-famous lamb, crab and salmon.

Satisfy the nature-lover in you.
Some of the world’s tallest redwood trees rise up in Mendocino County, inspiring awe. A drive north toward Leggett offers the rare opportunity to actually drive through a redwood tree, and The Skunk Train offers an unusual vantage point to view the lofty beauties as you pass through dark tunnels and over rustic bridges. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are another must-see: a 47-acre garden by the sea, with an easy half-mile walk taking you through a fern-filled canyon to spectacular vistas at the ocean’s edge.

Melt your cares away.
Bask in the only naturally warm and carbonated mineral baths in North America. Mendocino County boasts a variety of spas, resorts and hot springs. At Orr Hot Springs, visitors can enjoy outdoor baths and pools fed from hot springs and river water in a serene wooded setting. Whether you head to the spa or not, the sight of waves crashing down over rocks on the coast, or a view of Lake Mendocino might be all that’s necessary to slide you right into relaxation mode.

Get Active.
The options are limitless: ride horseback, dive, surf, hike, kayak, or even climb a lighthouse. Mendocino County features some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth and is a haven for outdoor recreation. Set in one of the most spectacular yet peaceful surroundings on the Northern California coast, the Point Arena Lighthouse is the only Pacific West Coast lighthouse of significant height (115 feet) that you can climb to the top.

Support the Arts. During the 1950s Mendocino transformed into a refuge for artists of every stripe, who were enticed by the bohemian lifestyle and inspiring landscapes of Northern California. Today it boasts the most artists per capita of any county in the United States. Numerous small galleries abound and local art can be purchased just about anywhere, including at the renowned Mendocino Art Center.

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All photos courtesy Visit Mendocino County. From top to bottom: Point Arena Lighthouse. Mendocino wines. The Skunk Train. Mendocino Bowling Ball Beach. Kayaking. Mendocino Village.