Additional Information
Many people travel to Mendocino specifically for its outdoor recreational
activities and they're never disappointed. Of course, if you choose to do
nothing, that's okay, but if you love being active, there are some things you
won't want to miss.
On the Water
The Pacific Ocean and the large number of rivers that run through the county
provide a wealth of things to do in Mendocino.
Fishing is quite a popular sport here in Northern California and there
are a variety of places where you can enjoy angling. Among Fort Bragg activities
(and in a few other cities as well), you can find a number of charter boat
rental businesses that will take you out on an all-day or ½-day fishing
excursion. Some charters offer multi-day trips.
From February through September, salmon are the most sought after fish in the
waters off the Northern California Coast. You'll often find some that weigh as
much as 50 pounds though the average is about 15 pounds. Tuna can be caught this
time of year as well. Rock fishing is also popular and is a hit with the kids
and other first-time fishermen. You might even try crabbing during the winter
and early spring.
The Russian River is known for its excellent fly fishing, especially
during the winter months, when you'll be able to catch some amazingly large
steelheads.
Kayaking
If you prefer to be navigating your own vessel, try your hand at kayaking. Check
out the excursions that leave from Van Damme State Park and offer guided tours
of the local sea caves. These eco-tours, led by experts in their field, are both
fun and educational.
Many of Mendocino County's rivers are great for either kayaking or canoeing
and most are gentle and appropriate for the whole family. However, it's always
best to check on river conditions before setting out on your journey.
Diving
At various places throughout the county, visitors can purchase an abalone dive
package so that they can hunt for abalone in the waters of Mendocino County.
These inexpensive dive packages usually include a wet suit, hood, waist belt,
snorkel and mask, fins, and everything else you need for a successful diving
adventure. Popular dive sites include Westport, MacKerricher State Park, Glass
Beach, Noyo Bay, Caspar Bay, Mendocino Bay and Albion.
Whale watching season happens from December through late March, when
whales travel between Baja California and the Bering Strait with their newborn
calves. The Headlands State Park is a great location from which to watch the
whales, and of all Mendocino activities, this is a favorite among visitors who
travel here in the winter months. Several commercial boats offer whale watching
tours and early spring brings a large whale festival, with a county-wide menu of
whale-related activities.
On Land
If you're not a water lover, Mendocino activities include many land-based
options as well. You may even have difficulty deciding which to do first!
Golf fanatics will love Mendocino County! While the choices may not be
many (1 each in Willits, Ukiah, and Little River), what's here is excellent and
with the scenery of Mendocino County as a backdrop, the courses are just
beautiful. Schedule your tee time ahead, especially during peak season.
If you enjoy horseback riding, the opportunities to ride are many.
Many ranches, both along the coast and inland, offer daily trail rides, trips
that last all weekend, and even spectacular week-long riding vacations. A ride
along the magnificent beaches of Northern California is unparalleled and an
experience you won't soon forget.
Bicycling
both the touring kind and the mountain type - is quite popular in Mendocino
County and there are plenty of places to enjoy either a leisurely or a vigorous
ride. Check out riding opportunities in the state parks or take a ride through
the county's interesting and artsy towns, like Mendocino, Fort Bragg, Hopland,
or Ukiah.
There are bike shops that rent bicycles located throughout the county, and
many inns, B&Bs, and guest houses offer bicycles to visitors who are staying in
their establishments.
