Visiting one of Northern California’s beach towns is a great way to remind yourself of the perks of living on the West Coast. Tucked along the North Coast is one community that delivers everything we love about NorCal living, from its quiet, small-town atmosphere to its vibrant coastal beauty. Offering coastal access, a charming historic district, and endless views of the California seascape, Point Arena will leave you feeling grateful for America’s best coast!
A small coastal city in Mendocino County, Point Arena embodies everything we love about the Northern California coast. Here, you'll find small-town charm, endless history, and the most breathtaking beauty the West Coast has to offer.
The town was formerly known as Punta Arena ("Point Sand" in Spanish) and its first post office opened in 1858. The town was officially incorporated in 1908. Today, Point Arena is one of the smallest incorporated cities in the state with a population of under 500 residents.
The small-town atmosphere is all part of the charm, though. The town's main street comprises part of State Route 1. Although quiet, you'll find it has plenty to offer including restaurants, shops, markets, entertainment venues, and more.
The town definitely has the laidback vibe you'd expect from a small town on the California coast. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy access to a cooperative grocery, local library, community garden, and a gorgeous city park where you soak up the brilliant coastal setting!
Just south of town, you'll discover the Arena Cove Historic District. Lying in a small cove along the coast, the area provides coastal access, a park, and a municipal pier used for both commercial and recreational fishing.
And just two miles north of town is where you'll find one of the area's most iconic landmarks: Point Arena Lighthouse. Thanks to diligent historic preservation efforts by the Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, the light station and its on-site museum and gift shop are open to visitors daily.
It's always a good day to visit a charming seaside town like Point Arena. Your next West Coast adventure awaits! Check out the City of Point Arena's website to learn more and plan your visit.
Have you spent any time in this charming coastal city? Share your favorite Northern California small town that embodies West Coast living with us in the comments below. There are NO wrong answers!
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