Tucked among the hills and redwoods, the nine-hole course presents unexpected challenges to golfers. It may be that the stunning ocean views distract first time players, or it may be a wandering deer crossing the putting green. Either way, we highly recommend this course for all levels of golfers (and their ride alongs).
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is a unique natural treasure located just two miles south of Fort Bragg and seven miles north of Mendocino. Stop by this magnificent 47-acre public garden, with your pup and a fresh cup of coffee, for a relaxing start to your day. We cannot recommend this spot enough. Great for picnics too!
This might be our favorite spot in the area. Big River has it all. You can hike, bike, trail run, kayak, paddle board, or picnic. We highly recommend a beach bonfire under the stars. Dogs are welcome here as well.
Professionally guided kayak tours that operate out of Van Damme State Beach. We highly recommend the sea caves tour!
We LOVE kayaking Noyo Harbor. There are a few Kayak rental companies in this area to choose from but this company is by far our favorite. Rentals are affordable, the owners are very laid-back, and the launch is right next to the shop. Located at the midway point in the harbor, this spot is definitely our top pick.
It may not look like much from the road but this mini golf course is an absolute blast! Plus, you can buy beer/wine in the clubhouse. We highly recommend a round if you have the time. *Pictured above: the time Rob fell in the pond very sweetly trying to retrieve Sam's mini golf ball for her- a bunch of teenagers laughed at him
The skunk train is a favorite amongst visitors to the area. You can choose to ride through the redwoods during the day or take an adults only trek to the Glen Briar Bar. Friday nights, beginning at 6:30pm, catch a train out of the Fort Bragg Depot and journey along Pudding Creek to The Glen. There you’ll find firepits, heaters, group games, live music, and a world-class bar offering up local beer and wine, and signature cocktails.
Classic varietals at the westernmost winery in the country featuring gorgeous ocean views and a picnic area. A friendly and fun approach to wine tasting makes Pacific Star Winery an off-the-beaten path experience worth seeking out. Bring friends and a picnic basket for a truly memorable day!
Looking to explore the Fort Bragg headlands on a bike? This is our go-to spot. They have a variety of bikes available for rent either hourly or daily.
Located just 3 miles north of Fort Bragg, MacKerricher State Park covers 9 miles of coastline and contains several types of coastal habitat, including beaches, dunes, headlands, coves, wetlands, tide pools, forest, and a freshwater lake. It's a great spot to walk, bike, and explore the tide pools.
Glass beach, a water dump site, was established in 1906 by residents of Fort Bragg. The residents would discard everything from glass to cars. When the garbage pile became too large, a fire would bring it down to a more manageable size. So yeah, glass beach is the result of trash being thrown into the ocean for like 60 years. There isn't much glass left but it's still a pretty beach.
Looking for a beautiful spot to unwind in an open air spa? We love their private tubs and dry saunas. Perfect spot for some post-wedding relaxation and recovery.
A fantastic hike out to the bluff with sweeping views of the ocean, Point Cabrillo Lighthouse is a fantastic spot to visit. They love dogs here so don't forget to snap a pic of your pup and share it to their instagram.
This spot has it all. Located in the Village of Mendocino, the Waiting room is run by the same owners as Cafe Beaujolais. In the morning, the waiting room operates as a comfortable and welcoming coffee shop with fresh pastries. At lunch time they begin serving beer and wine. Once you grab your drink you can head down the stairs and into the garden where you can order beautiful farm-to-table, wood-fired pizzas. We can not recommend this spot enough. It's also dog friendly!
One of the best views and the best seafood in the harbor, Princess seafood will not disappoint. This is our absolute favorite spot to sit on the deck with a cold beer. Cat (bridesmaid) recommends the grilled fish tacos. We highly recommend this spot for lunch or an early dinner. Local musicians also perform weekly. This spot is dog friendly!
Hungry? Looking to try some of our "world famous" fish n' chips? (if it's in quotations it doesn't legally have to be true). Then grab your crew and head to sea pal to enjoy all the sights and smells of the harbor. It's literally, exactly what you would expect from a fish n' chip shack on the coast. Bonus: warm fire and the cheapest pitcher deals in town! (The fish n' chips are actually very good) This spot is dog friendly.
Fort Bragg's newest brewery! This spot is great for groups. They are also dog friendly so don't forget to bring your pup along and sample some of their newest taps!
This is the spot that we decided to take a huge leap and move 6 hours north to the city of Fort Bragg. For this reason, Overtime Brewing will always hold an important spot in our hearts. Great beer and friendly staff make this a great spot to hang out with friends. Check out their menu specials while you are there. They are also dog friendly!
The Pub at North Coast Brewing Company is Fort Bragg's oldest brewery and the home to one of Davina (brides sister) and David's (bride's father) favorite beers. David highly recommends the Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout while Davina prefers the Stellar IPA. Pop by for some fantastic beers and good food.
Take a trip over to Caspar for some of the best food the area has to offer. Chef Miles crafts beautiful and fresh meals with locally grown ingredients. We highly recommend getting reservations early as his weekends are usually completely booked.
If you are looking to try unique wines and local nibbles, this is the spot for you. Fog Bottle shop is located in the heart of Mendocino Village and has recently opened up as a tasting room. We highly recommend stopping by and giving the orange wine a try. This spot is dog friendly!
Fog Eaters is a vegetarian restaurant located in the heart of Mendocino Village. Their fare is inspired by both the hearty recipes of the deep South and the fresh plant-based cuisine of Northern California. Their produce is all organic, and sourced locally. Julie (bridesmaid) highly recommends their Sunday brunch! (We agree...it's so worth it).
If you are looking for a local spot to grab a drink, play some pool, or cornhole, this is the spot. We highly recommend hitting this bar if you like your drinks stiff and your bartenders friendly.
The site of many late night memories and new friendships, Golden West is definitely one of our favorites. Located in the heart of Fort Bragg, this is a great spot to grab a drink.
Come see the cutest cat in California...maybe even the world??? Mango Bongo!! He. Will. Not. Disappoint.