Half the fun of exploring the Mendonoma area is cruising the coast and making spontaneous stops along the way. Here are three we liked:

Down-to-Earth Drinking: It's not flashy or fancy, which is exactly why the Annapolis Winery is worth a visit. Located on a hilltop farm a quarter mile down a gravel road, the winery is Basil and Barbara Scalabrini's dream. The couple started making wine in their basement in Sausalito more than 20 years ago, then transferred their passion to the Sonoma coastal hills. Enjoy the delicious fruits of their labor; tastings are free. One to try: the Ménage à Trois—a blend of three varietals. Sassy.

Annapolis Winery, 26055 Soda Springs Rd., Annapolis; 707-886-5460. Tasting room open everyday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Rack 'Em Up: Bowling Ball Beach's namesake can be seen only if you arrive at low tide; then giant boulders emerge from the water, resembling bowling balls in an alley. The trail down to the beach is currently washed out, but the bluffs above the beach still offer a nice vantage point at any time.

The beach is 10.5 miles north of the town of Gualala. Park at the western pullout just north of Schooner Gulch River on Highway 1, look for the sign that says "Park Facing South." There are two trailheads; take the less obvious northern trail, veer right at the fork, and walk five minutes to bluff.

Oh, the Places You'll Go: In a rare and vast departure from Sea Ranch's upscale-barn motif, The Sea Ranch Chapel—with its swooping roof and off-center design—looks like it was plucked from a Dr. Seuss book. Take a seat on a wooden bench inside and admire the beautiful stained glass.

Located at the northern end of Sea Ranch, on the eastern side of Highway 1.