Walkin' & Talkin': 7 Simple Pleasures of Mendocino

Discover the Seven Simple Pleasures of Mendocino

02.19.2026
The Skunk Train in Mendocino and Fort Bragg going through redwoods

Seven simple pleasures. One wildly beautiful Mendocino weekend. Here are all the wonderful ways to spend a few days adventuring, relaxing, trying new things, and exploring everyting from village charms to redwood havens and beaming beaches.

We’re Walkin’ & Talkin’ through it all.

Weekend Sherpa
7 Simple Pleasures of Mendocino | Coastal Weekend Guide

Sunset Strolls at Mendocino Headlands State Park.

Beach Time at Big River.

People wandering the sands at sunset at Big River Beach in Mendocino

A Vintage Skunk Train Through the Redwoods.

People walking a boardwalk to board the Skunk Train in the redwoods of Mendocino

Hidden Spring Ranch Views.

A woman stands looking out to the sea at sprawling Spring Ranch in Mendocino

River Otters at MacKerricher State Park.

A woman standing on a deck overlooking the tidepools and Pacific at MacKerricher State Park in Mendocino

A Cozy Stay at the Stanford Inn.

A woman stands on a hotel room balcony overlooking the lush green grounds at Stanford Inn at the Sea in Mendocino

A Downtown Made for Wandering (and Cuisine Adventures)

Cafe Beaujolais in downtown Mendocino

All Aboard the Mendocino Coast!

Where dramatic—and secret—headlands meet a rollicking sea and a historic train winds through fragrant forest, Mendocino invites you to slow down, stay awhile. Ride the rails to a redwood grove with a beverage bar and bonus hike, wander wild bluffs and windswept beaches, then toast the day in a postcard-perfect village with a thriving culinary scene. This is Mendo-time. Check out this itinerary by Weekend Sherpa.

 Bonus Gallery

 

 

 

 

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View