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Shell Beach
A great spot for spotting seals and tide-pooling, this sandy beach is one of six access-point beaches along Highway 1 in the Sea Ranch community. It’s a little more than a half-mile walk from the access point, through some pine trees and a meadow.
9 miles south of Mar Vista at Sonoma County mile marker 55.24
Pelican Bluff Trail
This great coastal walking trail is about 2 miles atop high cliffs—the magnificent ocean vistas make it a Mar Vista favorite.
Right before the town of Point Arena, at Mendocino Mile marker 13.9 (approximately)
Gualala Point Regional Park
This park features several trails, including an ADA-accessible trail that leads to the beach through meadows and cypress. The bluff-top trail connects Gualala Point to the Salal trail south into the Sea Ranch community. Follow for 3 miles to get to Walk On Beach.
6 miles south of Mar Vista, at Sonoma County mile marker 58.19
Bowling Ball Beach
Pictured above, this geological wonder is at the north end of Schooner Gulch beach. Take the north trail from the parking area for a short beach hike to the rock formations that resemble large bowling balls. A must-see at low tide for the best viewing and tide-pooling!
6.5 miles north of Mar Vista at Mendocino County mile marker 11.41
Moat Creek Trail Beach
Also called Whisky Shoals, this area is popular with surfers and also good for abalone shells and tide-pooling. There are two trails from the parking structure. One is a very short path straight out to the rocky beach; to access the bluff trail, take the steps leading up to the bluff for stunning ocean views. This trail will take you to Ross Creek Beach after about a mile. If the tide is low, you can continue south to Bowling Ball beach.
Less than 8 miles north of Mar Vista at Mendocino County mile marker 12.89
The Stornetta Public Lands
Great trails for hiking, running, whale-watching, and picnicking surrounding the Point Arena Lighthouse just north of the town of Point Arena. You’ll find beautiful, flat, wide-open pathways and steep beach access at Sea Lion’s Cove.
14 miles north of Mar Vista, just a couple of miles after the town of Point Arena
Van Damme State Park – Fern Canyon Trail
If you are looking for a redwoods hike, this is a great option. About an hour drive north of Mar Vista on Highway One is Van Damme State Park. If you have a full day, start at the main entrance to the park for an 8-9 mile loop. If you are looking for something shorter, start at the Pygmie Forest off of Little River Airport Road (south of the main entrance) for a 4 mile loop through lush redwoods alongside the creek.
Local Tides
Most beaches can be enjoyed at tides of 3’ and under with some variance depending on the beach. For the best tide-pooling, it’s best to visit when tides are below 1.5’. Even during low tides the ocean waves can be large and dangerous during certain weather patterns. Always be cautious and stay away from edges and cliffs.
A historic landmark that celebrated 150 years in 2020, the 115-foot-tall Point Arena Lighthouse is known for the many great viewing areas for whale-watching throughout the year. It also offers a fully interactive experience to learn about the history and science of this area. Lighthouse tower tours are NOW available after a 2 year hiatus. Call for days/times available.
Go through the town of Point Arena, then turn left and travel 2 miles to reach the point
This private preserve is actively committed to the breeding and preservation of African hoof stock—its various species of zebra, giraffe, and antelope range from critically endangered to endangered, and roam large, open fields on the property in Point Arena. Guided and self-guided tours are offered daily (reservations required).
14 miles north of Mar Vista, at the end of the town of Point Arena on Riverside Drive
Enjoy a beautiful journey on the Gualala River through ancient redwoods and vibrant ecosystems, to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural world. A variety of boat options available. All rentals include the necessary gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Access at the Mill Bend Preserve from the bridge over the Gualala River, 1 mile south of town
A vibrant and active arts association supporting a variety of programs for both residents and visitors to the area. On the second weekend in August each year, they present one of the most prestigious art exhibitions in northern California—the Art in the Redwoods Festival. Don’t miss the short and scenic haiku trail on the grounds, as well as picnic tables, a sculpture garden and another trail leading to the river.
Just south of the town of Gualala
Anderson Valley is located in the rolling hills of our coastal region of Mendocino County. It is the wine country we all used to know – approachable, intimate, uncrowded, and primarily owner-operated.
Only fifteen miles long, this beautiful valley is home to a unique group of vineyards and wineries producing a broad range of ultra-premium wines including world-class Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Alsace Varietals (Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris). Ask us about our favorites.
45min- 1 hour drive from Mar Vista
Take a Horseback Tour on the beach or through Redwoods.
The beach tour takes you on a private trail to the beautiful Manchester beach, where the coastline of the Elk coast unfolds before you.
The Redwood tour will take you into the mountains of Elk, where you ride on private trails among tall coastal Redwoods.
Reservations are required.
20 miles north of Mar Vista (beach rides)
Located in downtown Point Arena, CA, Arena Theater offers first run movies, art movies and live performance/music.
14 miles north of Mar Vista