I'm going on a 5 day trip along the Sonoma and Mendocino coastline starting this weekend. I'd appreciate any tips on locations along the coast (and inland). Off road travel and hiking up to 5 miles each way are no problem. I'm especially interested in sea stacks and unusual shoreline rock formations. I'll be camping along the way. Thanks in advance for any input.
If you're coming from the South, there is potentail around Jenner, and some spots between there and Gualala.
Bowling Ball Beach is a bit north of Gualala. Low tide is required, and morning would be best if the tide cooperates. Parking is limited and the road is narrow, so be careful. Since you'll be passing through Gualala, check out the Allinder Gallery. Jim has original Adams and Weston prints, among others. You might want to call ahead to find out when he's open.
Don't miss the Point Arena lighthouse, between Gualala and Mendocino. Also check out the area where the Navarro River flows into the ocean. At this point, you can go inland on Hwy 128 to the Anderson Valley. It's a major wine making area with nice scenery that retains its quaint nature. There is also a Redwood forest just west of the town of Navarro (Jedediah Smith State Park. I don't recall if there is camping there, though).
If you want to photograph around Mendocino itself, and the headlands, try to go during the weekdays. Mendocino will be a tourist zoo on weekends. You could also explore north along the coast to Ft. Bragg.
If you've never driven Hwy 1, be cautious. It is narrow and the curves are wicked. The road will require the driver's complete attention! OK, now having warned you, I will say that the coast is mind blowing--you'll have a great time!
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2 repliesRandall
Bowling Ball Beach is a bit north of Gualala. Low tide is required, and morning would be best if the tide cooperates. Parking is limited and the road is narrow, so be careful. Since you'll be passing through Gualala, check out the Allinder Gallery. Jim has original Adams and Weston prints, among others. You might want to call ahead to find out when he's open.
Don't miss the Point Arena lighthouse, between Gualala and Mendocino. Also check out the area where the Navarro River flows into the ocean. At this point, you can go inland on Hwy 128 to the Anderson Valley. It's a major wine making area with nice scenery that retains its quaint nature. There is also a Redwood forest just west of the town of Navarro (Jedediah Smith State Park. I don't recall if there is camping there, though).
If you want to photograph around Mendocino itself, and the headlands, try to go during the weekdays. Mendocino will be a tourist zoo on weekends. You could also explore north along the coast to Ft. Bragg.
If you've never driven Hwy 1, be cautious. It is narrow and the curves are wicked. The road will require the driver's complete attention! OK, now having warned you, I will say that the coast is mind blowing--you'll have a great time!
--P