Originally published September 2019. Updated September 2024.
Inspired by Visit California’s Wild North Coast Itinerary that spans up the Northern California coast, I spent a week exploring the route with my close friend Michelle of Live Like It’s the Weekend. It was an amazing experience, and I’m excited to share everything you need to know to road trip this stunningly wild region of California.
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There’s something surreal as you wind your way up Highway 1 north of San Francisco. Time seems to slow down, in a good way. Pastoral headlands roll right into the cliff’s edge where just below, the Pacific Ocean crashes onto the shores. It feels wild and untamed, yet approachable in the sense you can spend a long morning gliding across the river that starts from the ocean and works its way through the forest. I’m talking about Mendocino County — the part of California that hugs the coastline on Highway 1 before it continues further north. It’s a part of California I’ve come to love, appreciate, and long for when I need to reset and take a breath. Having not been much further than this part of the wild Pacific coast, I appreciated everything Mendocino had to offer and anticipated what was next.
Where the Highway 1 ends, you find yourself on Highway 101 North where you begin to enter Humboldt County. It’s easy to recognize the change — the trees get taller, wider, the air seems to have a different scent to it, and the road creeps higher in elevation. It’s everything I hoped for when it comes to driving the scenic Redwood Highway. Emerging from the towering redwood forests, I discovered a new part of the coast. A coastline sprinkled with sea stacks, picturesque, with National and State Parks butted up against it. It was an entirely new playground. Beaches and bays to discover by foot or kayak, State Parks I had yet to explore, and along the way, a new community that reminded me why Northern California is a special place.
So why road trip California? Perhaps it’s for freedom and flexibility, the opportunity to stop when something catches your eye. For me, it’s a reminder that good things take time. And when it takes time, you come to appreciate even your own backyard in a new way.
This is the Wild North Coast and here’s what I discovered.
Short on Time? Here’s How I Would Spend 1 Week Road-Tripping California’s Wild North Coast:
Stop 1: Mendocino — 3 nights
- Heritage House Resort and Spa, for the best oceanfront hotel
- Brewery Gulch Inn, for the best Mendocino hotel
- SCP Mendocino Inn & Farm, for the best bed-and-breakfast stay
- Mendocino Grove, for the best glamping stay
- Nicholson House at Beaujolais, for the best Mendocino bed-and-breakfast stay
Stop 2: Fort Bragg — 1 night or day trip
- The Inn at Newport Ranch, for the best overall hotel
Stop 3: Humboldt Redwoods State Park & Ferndale — Day Trip
Stop 4: Eureka — 1 night or day trip
- Humboldt Bay Social Club, for the best overall hotel
Stop 5: Trinidad – 2 nights
- Whalesong House, for the best vacation rental
Travel Tip: The best way to explore the Northern California Coast is by driving yourself. We use Booking.com for our rental cars in California, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Book your car with Booking.com here.
A Road Trip Guide to California’s Wild North Coast
What to Know Before Traveling
Getting to California’s North Coast
The best airport to fly into is San Francisco International or Sacramento International, depending on where you pick up the itinerary.
Phone Service
It’s good to know that phone service is limited in some areas, so I recommend using Google’s offline, downloadable maps before arrival.
Have Some Cash on Hand
Cash is needed for some establishments and exact cash is required for certain State Parks.
Driving and Rental Car
A car rental is necessary to do this coast road trip, as many of the locations are quite remote. The roads are well-marked with signage.
Rental Car Tip: We use Booking.com for our rental cars in California, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
Best Time of Year to Visit
The best time of year to visit would depend on what you want to do or see. The months of September to November and May to June are my personal favorite. The weather in this area of California changes quickly throughout the day, so I always recommend packing layers!
How Much Time on the North Coast
To get a good sense of this area, one week would be the right amount of time for a first-time visit.
Stop 1: Mendocino
Mendocino is one of my favorite destinations in coastal Northern California because of its outdoor beauty, charming town, and incredible food scene. This charming town is idyllic, slow in all the right ways, and connected with nature.
Where to Stay in Mendocino
SCP Mendocino Inn & Farm
Nestled right in the side of the mountain, SCP Mendocino Inn & Farm is an idyllic spot to stay for a few nights. I would use this as a home base for exploring Mendocino County. The rooms are charming and come with a wonderful hot breakfast delivered to your room, with eggs from the chickens that roam right outside. Enjoy their wine hour on the patio and soak in ocean views from the room. Book the best rates here.
My Other Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Mendocino
- Heritage House Resort and Spa, for the best oceanfront hotel
- Brewery Gulch Inn, for the best Mendocino hotel
- Mendocino Grove, for the best glamping stay
- Nicholson House at Beaujolais, for the best Mendocino bed-and-breakfast stay
Where to Eat in Mendocino
Here are a few of my favorite restaurants in Mendocino. For my full list, read my guide to the best restaurants in Mendocino!
Cafe Beaujolais
Be sure to reserve one dinner here when visiting Mendocino. French and coastal cuisine with an amazing wine list serves classics like steak tartar and seafood linguini.
Flow
For a bite with a view, head to Flow. As you walk upstairs, the dining room and patio have views over the ocean — and their fish tacos are a must.
Trillium Cafe
One of my go-to’s in town for a great dinner or lunch, with fresh and local ingredients.
Patterson’s Pub
A classic in town for pub fare.
Things to Do in Mendocino
Outrigger with Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too
If there’s one activity I recommend to everyone, it’s this. I’ve rented outriggers on the Big River Estuary a handful of times and it’s an experience to remember. You work your way up the river where you’ll often see harbor seals and river otters while gliding on the turquoise waters.
Van Damme State Park
One of my favorite headlands to go for a hike as you’ll have ocean views the whole time. You can pick up the trail right next to the Inn at the Cobbler’s Walk.
Big River Beach
Spend an afternoon or morning at the beach. It’s a perfect spot to go for a walk as well.
Russian Gulch State Park
This picturesque state park is full of walks, hikes, and has its very own beach. I love the view back towards the bridge on Highway 1 as well!
Explore Mendocino Town
The town itself has a few boutiques and streets to explore with a large community of local artists. I’d spend an hour or two exploring the downtown. Read my Mendocino travel guide for more on what to see and do!
Stop 2: Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg is a coastal town known for its rugged natural beauty, whale watching, and unique outdoor attractions like Glass Beach, MacKerricher State Park, and the historic Skunk Train rail line. It makes for a worthwhile day trip if you’re based in Mendocino for a few nights.
Where to Stay in Fort Bragg
The Inn at Newport Ranch
Most often, we stay in Mendocino and day trip to Fort Bragg. If you decide to overnight in Fort Bragg, here’s where I’d stay at The Inn at Newport Ranch.
Where to Eat in Fort Bragg
Princess Seafood
Right in Noyo Harbor is this gem run by women who go out on the sea each today to find the best seafood. Order the crab roll, it’s so good!
Things to Do in Fort Bragg
Railbikes with Skunk Train
One experience to do while in Mendocino County is taking out the railbikes on a guided tour through the redwoods. Operated by the Skunk Train, they created these two-person bikes that sit on the railroad tracks and have motorized assistance. You’ll get to bike while taking in the views and get insight into the history of the trains that built up this part of California.
Glass Beach
Head down to the beach and visit the famous Glass Beach where pieces of smoothed out glass wash up.
MacKerricher State Park
Explore the coastal trails of MacKerricher State Park, which offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, opportunities to spot migrating whales, and access to secluded beaches and tide pools.
Stop 3: Humboldt Redwoods State Park & Ferndale
One of the best-preserved Victorian towns in California, the picturesque town of Ferndale is a few miles off the highway and worth a visit.
Things to Do in Ferndale
Visit Avenue of the Giants
This special stretch of road runs parallel to Highway 101 and the 30-minute drive is a must. It goes through some of the tallest trees in the world, the redwoods of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. You can pull over at multiple locations to even go for a walk, with the most recommended being the Founder’s Grove. Read my Avenue of the Giants guide for everything you need to know!
Explore Ferndale Town
Walk the downtown, grab a coffee at Mind’s Eye Manufactory & Coffee, and get a bite at Ferndale Meat Co.
Stop 4: Eureka
Eureka is a quirky and vibrant coastal gem that offers a unique blend of culture, historic charm, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. Its Old Town is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and colorful buildings and is home to an array of local shops, galleries, and cafes.
Where to Stay in Eureka
Humboldt Bay Social Club
Though we didn’t stay overnight in Eureka this trip, I’ve spent the weekend at Humboldt Bay Social Club before. We had a great time and it’s a great option if you decide to overnight in the Eureka area.
Where to Eat in Eureka
Lost Coast Brewery
One of my favorite beers from Northern California, Lost Coast has its brewery right off Highway 101 in town. Stop in here to try a few and eat dinner here. (Their burgers are perfection!)
Ramones Bakery & Cafe
For coffee and baked goods, this is your spot right in town.
Samoa Cookhouse
Head to the famed Samoa Cookhouse for one of the most unique dining experiences you’ll find anywhere. While there, be sure to visit their Museum to see a glimpse into the cookhouse’s century-old history.
Things to Do in Eureka
Harbor Cruise on the Madaket
Get a taste of history and why the harbor played an important role in developing this part of Humboldt on this one-hour guided cruise. The Madaket is the last surviving original ferries built in 1910 for the mill workers and families. Fun fact: the boat is also the smallest licensed bar in California!
Explore Old Town Eureka
Go for a stroll through the old town of Eureka where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and some exciting street art.
Stop 5: Trinidad
Trinidad is a serene coastal village known for it’s dramatic ocean views and relaxing atmosphere. The town is home to some great restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a couple nights and explore nearby Redwoods State and National Parks, Moonstone Beach, College Cove Beach, or Fern Canyon.
Where to Stay in Trinidad
Whalesong House
For our stay, we were booked in at the Whalesong House vacation rental in Trinidad. This is a great way to settle in for a few days, have your own space to relax in, and have a kitchen to cook if you like. Book the best rates here.
Where to Eat in Trinidad
Beachcomber Cafe
Pop in here for breakfast and coffee. We went here three times, their coffee and breakfast is amazing. I also love that they do no takeaway plastic/containers so be sure to bring your own coffee mug or use one of theirs to return later.
Murphy’s Market
Your supply store for any food provisions right in town.
The Lighthouse Grill
This gem is known for their waffle cone stuffed with mashed potatoes, gravy, and bacon. It’s decadent and delicious.
Moonstone Grill
A standout location right on the beach, head here for happy hour bites or dinner with a view.
Larrupin’ Cafe
My favorite meal on the trip was here (be sure to reserve). Their mesquite grill serves lamb, grilled oysters, and more with local ingredients from the region. I’d also book on the patio if they have a live jazz band that night!
Things to Do in Trinidad
Kayak around Trinidad Harbor with Kayak Trinidad
Get out on the water for a chance to see bypassing whales and porpoises and soak the scenic Trinidad Bay. The calm waters (most of the time) are perfect for a kayak adventure and you’re in great hands with Kayak Trinidad.
Spend a day in Redwoods National & State Parks
This is one of the highlights of the area. You could easily spend a day or two and still not see it all. I’d start in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park to get a good sense of the area. Some of my favorite hiking trails here start at the Visitor’s Center right in the park, like the Foothills Trail to Big Tree and the informational Revelation Trail.
Fern Canyon
A must while visiting this part of California. In Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, you take the road down to where it ends on the beach ($8 exact cash needed for a fee). In a 5 minute walk, you enter Fern Canyon. the 50-foot high walls tower over you covered in ferns, while a creek runs through. Boards are placed so you can easily navigate it. Fun fact: Jurassic Park 2 was filmed here!
Visit Moonstone Beach or College Cove Beach
There are some great beaches in this area. My favorites were Moonstone Beach and College Cove Beach. Moonstone is great for the family and has a long stretch to walk down. College Cove Beach can be a bit tricky to get to but you’ll have fewer crowds. For College Cove, park at the gravel lot, and take the trail to the right to access.
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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Book Your Accommodations
I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
2. Book Your Rental Car
Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
3. Book Your Tours & Experiences
I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.
5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
2 Comments
Hello. This article is so helpful, thank you! I have a question I hope you can/will answer. I’m bringing my daughter who is visually impaired. She has some vision but tends to trip on things when we hike (everything usually being similar colors.) Do you have any recommendations for hikes that would be good, or ones to stay away from? I really appreciate any help. It’s difficult to plan without this info. Thanks in advance!
Hey Patti,
Shoot me over an email via the contact form, I’d be happy to help. Send over details of what area you plan to go to. This itinerary covers several destinations so would be helpful to know a few more specifics.