Take a trip to the beach this winter! That’s right – the town of Mendocino is the perfect Northern California winter travel destination. Mendocino sits on the jagged coast of Northern California. With a charming downtown and beautiful coastline, this serene destination is just as fun in the winter as it is in the summer. Visitors can enjoy hiking, relaxing beach days, and eat a ton of fresh seafood at this NorCal winter travel destination!
Mendocino is both a county and a town in Northern California. Within Mendocino County there are many charming towns and census-designated areas, such as: Elk, Ukiah, Fort Bragg, and Willits.
While there are many places to explore in the county, we love visiting the town of Mendocino in the winter time. Well, Mendocino isn’t officially a town – it is an “unincorporated area” but it has all the qualities of a town.
The small downtown area of Mendocino has some restaurants, shops, and VRBOs. Stop in Mendocino Jams & Preserves, a charming little shop right near the ocean. The shop sells a wide variety of delicious jams that would make a great gift.
Before dinner, have a drink at the popular Patterson’s Pub, located in a historical place that dates back to 1866. For dinner, you have many options but we really like the garden dining at Trillium Cafe.
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In the winter, the temperature in Mendocino hovers around the low 50s during the daytime, a chilly but tolerable temperature.
Mendocino rarely experiences frost or snow due to its location on the coast, so as long as you bundle-up with the right winter clothing, you can spend hours outside enjoying the ocean breeze.
What makes Mendocino truly special in winter is its ability to offer outdoor enthusiasts a summertime-like experience. Take a hike on Big River Trail or Spring Ranch From Gordon Lake trail.
Explore the Mendocino Headlands Trail that meanders around the entire area in 4.8 miles. With its rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views, this is a photo-worthy hike!
For those who enjoy a bit of history and culture, the city of Mendocino itself boasts a rich heritage.
The historic architecture, including Victorian-style buildings and quaint cottages, exudes a timeless charm. Wander through the streets where you’ll find cute little shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
As the sun sets over the Pacific, Mendocino transforms into a romantic haven, with the coastal mist creating an ethereal atmosphere.
Consider booking a stay at one of the charming bed and breakfasts or inns that dot the coastline. The combination of crackling fireplaces, oceanfront views, and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore makes for a perfect winter retreat.
Beyond its natural beauty, Mendocino is also an ideal home base for exploring the nearby forests. Just outside of Mendocino is Mendocino Headlands State Park and Jackson Demonstration State Forest.
The latter is the largest state-owned forest. Here you can explore 50,000 acres of old growth redwoods on the many biking and hiking trails throughout the area.
So if you want a beach getaway in the winter, consider this serene coastal town. Mendocino is a wonderful NorCal winter travel destination that has enough hotel and food options, you can make this a bougie or budget trip. With so much to do, explore, and eat, this beach getaway is one you won’t soon forget.
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