Beach to Town by Hidden Stairway

A hidden stairway makes this adventure as easy and fun as a walk on the beach. Thank Beth’s Stairs, a hidden wooden staircase connecting Big River Beach in Mendocino Headlands State Park to the charming town of Mendocino.

Big River Beach is on the south side of Mendocino, on the north bank of Big River, and is accessed directly from Highway 1. After driving down to the parking area, walk west, following the trail out to the sand. Watch for mercurial waves, but otherwise enjoy the beautiful scenery where Big River meets the bigger sea. At the far west end of the beach look for a stairway, signed Beth’s Stairs. This multi-platformed wooden stairway leads up and into the town of Mendocino, where you’ll first see a white church towering over greenery.

As you walk into town, pass through the lovely Rotary Park and wander to your heart’s content. For your stomach’s content, we recommend Good Life Café and Bakery, where you can get a coffee or a kombucha, along with an array of fresh organic food—from baked goodies to soups and salads. Return the way you came, enjoying the beach and shallower waters at the estuary. It’s always better to take the stairs!

Dog-friendly!