Eat, Sleep, Beach, Repeat
Where to Eat, Sleep, and Beach in Beautiful Mendocino
Head to Big River Beach in Mendocino Headlands State Park and spend an afternoon relaxing where Big River meets the bigger sea! The beach is on the south side of Mendocino and accessed directly from Highway 1. Set yourself closer to the river’s side or make your way over to the beach side. It’s a sublime and tranquil beach and a diverse coastal habitat for a range of wildlife. Stroll the sand, wade into the shallower waters by the estuary. This place is magical toward sunset.
HIDDEN STAIRWAY BONUS: Beth’s Stairs is a hidden wooden staircase connecting Big River Beach in Mendocino Headlands State Park to the charming town of Mendocino. Walk to the far west end of the beach and look for the signed stairway. It leads up and into the town of Mendocino, where you’ll first see a white church towering over greenery.
ON THE TOWN: Check out our dining recommendations, and spend a few hours strolling the sidewalks exploring Mendocino’s appealing stores and artisan spots like wine tasting rooms, local bars, and shops clearly curated by artistic people who believe in community. Three Weekend Sherpa favorites include (but are by no means limited to): Mendocino Jams and Preserves (we can’t resist the Olallieberry Jam); Gallery Bookshop; The Outdoor store (new location on Laurel and Franklin).
DINE IN MENDOCINO: In town, we like Patterson’s Pub for its cozy outdoor patio and super friendly service, as well as their tasty Angus burgers and beer-battered fish and chips. There are 26 beers on tap and almost as many sports options to watch at their bar.
For a California French experience in a relaxing atmosphere, Cafe Beaujolais is a longtime darling of Mendocino dining. Humanely raised, organic meats and wild, line-caught seafood from local fishers shape a flavorful menu, complemented by a wine list of more than 300 selections, many from nearby wineries (reservations recommended).
Be sure to check out Cafe Beaujolais’ casual outdoor dining spot, The Brickery—the restaurant’s lush backyard garden and patio setting, where you can order seasonally inspired, wood-fired, thin-crust pizza (a mouthful to say, but absolutely worth it). Pair it with drinks ranging from hard cider and kombucha to craft beer and wine. It’s a great lunch spot—and it’s dog-friendly, too.
Also well worth a visit, Luna Trattoria (make a reservation). The backyard patio garden is a haven of twinkling lights, table nooks, and magical whimsy. The food is authentic Italian. When in Mendocino!
SPEND THE NIGHT: Stay at the Stanford Inn by the Sea for an immersion into all things natural and nurturing. This tucked-away hilltop resort is rustic artistry. Beautifully appointed rooms have wood-burning fireplaces and large balconies overlooking the Mendocino Coast. Enjoy an oasis of garden walks, an expansive and earthy lobby filled with captivating books and hand-crafted gifts, and Massage in the Forest. The breakfasts—included with the stay—are creative and delicious. Stroll the grands, which include a quiet yet bountiful garden. Visit the llamas and donkeys on-site too. Nearby, you can hop into the ever-steady redwood outrigger canoes from Catch a Canoe & Bicycles too (arrange it through the Inn), and paddle up Big River. The Inn is famous for its true sustainability in all things, including food. Their certified organic gardens helped to inspire their famous plant-based menu at Ravens Restaurant.
