North Coast California

Travel Guide

Mendocino Coast which includes a sunset, general coastal views and a lighthouse
Redwood National and State Parks which includes a garden
Redwood National and State Parks showing forests and a sunset
Redwood National and State Parks which includes signage and general coastal views
North Coast California

With its craggy rocks and towering trees that are centuries old, the rugged California coastline between Marin County and the Oregon border truly must be seen to be believed.

Along the North Coast California find some of the world’s tallest trees and most beautiful beaches. Unlike most coastal areas, this stretch is mostly quiet so you’re more likely to encounter sea lions than fellow sunbathers as you stroll along the shoreline.

Find Gualala just north of Sonoma in the heart of the “Banana Belt,” a stretch of California coastline known for its sunny weather. The former lumber town is now a charming downtown located along California’s famed Highway 1.

Head slightly inland to Anderson Valley. Explore rolling hills and discover its renowned apple orchards and vineyards.

Explore the Mendocino Coast, home to picturesque villages and world-class wineries. Take a tour of Mendocino Coast Botanical GardensOpens in a new window, home to hundreds of types of plants and flowers. Discover beaches, cliffs and historic houses in Mendocino Headlands State ParkOpens in a new window. Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from Fort BraggOpens in a new window and search for colorful treasures along Glass BeachOpens in a new window.

Explore quirky towns as you make your way up the coast. Explore the shops and galleries of Eureka or plan your visit around one of its famous music festivals. Be greeted by the scent of patchouli in Arcata, a town known for its progressive and environmentalist ideals.

It’s impossible to not feel dwarfed in the Redwood National and State ParksOpens in a new window. Walk among the state’s fabled redwood trees, which soar into the sky like natural skyscrapers. Look for giants of the sea from High Bluff Overlook during the whale migration periods of November-December and March-April. Be on the watch also for sea lions and migrating seabirds. Further north, hike along the coastal Yurok Loop until you reach Hidden Beach.

One of the best ways to explore North Coast California is by car. Drive along the famous Route 1, which stretches the length of the state, or explore winding roads off the beaten path.

North Coast California is a year-round destination. In wintertime, witness the migration of Pacific gray whales. See wildflowers in bloom in springtime or join the tourist boom in summer. Visit in fall for a quieter atmosphere and slower pace.

Where to stay in North Coast California

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Pacific

If you're spending some time in Pacific, Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Azalea State Natural Reserve are top sights worth seeing.

Pacific
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Westhaven-Moonstone

You'll enjoy the beaches and parks in Westhaven-Moonstone. You might want to make time for a stop at Moonstone Beach or Luffenholtz Beach County Park.

Westhaven-Moonstone
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Crescent City North

While visiting Crescent City North, you might make a stop by sights like Pebble Beach and Castle Rock.

Crescent City North
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Jacoby Creek

If you're spending some time in Jacoby Creek, Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Baywood Golf And Country Club are top sights worth seeing.

Jacoby Creek
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Downtown Eureka

While visiting Downtown Eureka, you might make a stop by sights like Carson Mansion and Morris Graves Museum of Art.

Downtown Eureka
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Old Town Eureka

Restaurants and shopping are notable features of Old Town Eureka. You might consider a stop by Clarke Historical Museum while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Old Town Eureka
Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn

2 out of 5
119 L St, Crescent City, CA
The price is P5,253 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P5,253
P5,778 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Crescent City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and Beachfront ...
7.8/10 Good! (499 reviews)
Very nice staff!
"The owner/manager was very nice and accommodating. He shared that he’s been working on improving the motel for the last year and that he’s got plans for further improvements in the works."

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2025

Beachside Inn
Studio 9 Fort Bragg, LLC.

Studio 9 Fort Bragg, LLC.

2 out of 5
763 N Main St, Fort Bragg, CA
Stay at this hotel in Fort Bragg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,005 reviews)
"When we first arrived 27 minutes earlier the lady said the room was not ready so we went back to the car for 3:00 pm check in. I think she knew I was a bit irritated that we couldn’t check in early and she came out to the parking lot to get us.. when I opened the door I chuckled as the room was super ..."

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2025

Studio 9 Fort Bragg, LLC.
Anchor Beach Inn

Anchor Beach Inn

2 out of 5
880 Highway 101 South, Crescent City, CA
Stay at this motel in Crescent City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,283 reviews)
"Everything was amazing besides checking with a new computer you have to talk to and just took longer than normal but the lady was very nice and it all worked out great!"

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2025

Anchor Beach Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Mendo Bungalow

Mendo Bungalow

3 out of 5
44951 Larkin Rd, Mendocino, CA
Stay at this 3-star vacation home in Mendocino. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and cable TV channels. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (179 reviews)
"Gorgeous stay minutes from the most picturesque beaches of Mendocino. The only reason I am not giving the immaculate, updated bungalow five stars instead of four is this: the bathroom door is a barn door that does not seal shut. Please help me understand this design flaw? Just get a door that shuts ..."

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2025

Mendo Bungalow
Emerald Forest Cabins

Emerald Forest Cabins

3 out of 5
753 Patricks Point Dr, Trinidad, CA
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Trinidad. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Trinidad ...
9/10 Wonderful! (806 reviews)
"Loved being right in the redwoods! Great accommodations."

Reviewed on Jul 23, 2025

Emerald Forest Cabins
Oceanfront Inn at Shelter Cove

Oceanfront Inn at Shelter Cove

4 out of 5
26 Seal Drive, Shelter Cove, CA
Stay at this 4-star beach aparthotel in Shelter Cove. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (565 reviews)
"It was great for what we needed! Not fancy, but clean!"

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

Oceanfront Inn at Shelter Cove
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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