Leave work behind and set your sights on Mendocino County where redwoods, rugged coastline, local brews, and fishing charters create the ultimate coastal guys’ escape. This 4-day trip is all about balance: active mornings, brewery-filled afternoons, and laid-back evenings by the ocean. Bring your crew, pack a cooler, and let’s roll.
Midday: Burritos & Beer in Boonville
Roll into Boonville for lunch at BoonMex, a local favorite serving up stacked burritos, tacos, and tortas perfect fuel for the day ahead. After lunch, head to Anderson Valley Brewing Company for a casual round of disc golf on their 18-hole course (free with a beer). Grab a cold Hop Ottin’ IPA or Boonville Gold and enjoy a chill vibe under the oak trees.
Evening: Check-In & Dinner at Little River Inn
Continue west to the coast and check into your rooms at the Little River Inn, a historic property with ocean-view rooms, a bar, and its own 9-hole golf course. For dinner, stay right at the inn’s restaurant. Order up fresh oysters, seafood pasta, or a ribeye and toast the start of your trip with a local beer or whiskey.
Photo Courtesy of @trinkscafe
Morning: Tee Time with Ocean Views
Start the day with breakfast at the Little River Inn think crab cake benedict or classic bacon and eggs. Hit the inn’s 9-hole golf course, surrounded by redwoods and perched above the Pacific. It’s a scenic, relaxed round with no rush.
Midday: Fort Bragg Brews & Lunch
Drive into Fort Bragg and grab lunch at Overtime Brewing order up burgers, wings, or a brisket sandwich with a hazy IPA or house lager. After lunch, brewery hop to:
North Coast Brewing Company: Try the iconic Old Rasputin or seasonal sours.
Tall Guy Brewing : A more intimate taproom with small-batch beers and mellow local vibes.
Evening: Burgers & Beach Sunset
For dinner, hit Jenny’s Giant Burger, a Fort Bragg staple. Grab it to-go and head to Pudding Creek Beach. Post up on the sand or cliffs with your burgers and watch the sun set over the Pacific. Afterward, head back to Little River Inn for a nightcap at the bar perfect way to wind down.
Morning: Harbor Breakfast & Deep-Sea Fishing
Drive into Fort Bragg and start the day with breakfast at the Noyo Harbor Inn sit on the deck and enjoy hearty plates while watching the harbor wake up. Head down to the docks to go out with Noyo Fishing Charters for a half-day fishing trip expect rockfish, halibut, lingcod, or salmon depending on the season.
Midday: Seafood Lunch & Ice Cream Stop
After docking, grab lunch right on the water at Noyo Fish Company. Go for the fish & chips or fish tacos you earned it. Then swing into downtown Fort Bragg for a scoop (or two) at Cowlick’s Ice Cream.
Evening: Sushi & Redwoods Bar Car
Dinner tonight is at Taka’s Grill, a hidden gem with great sushi, Japanese comfort food, and casual vibes. Cap the night with a ride on the Skunk Train to Glen Blair Bar a magical nighttime train ride into the redwoods with live music, drinks, and string lights. Kick back with a cold one in the woods before the return ride. Head back to Little River Inn for a final chill night.
Photo Courtesy of @thommybeach
Morning: Breakfast & Provisions
Start the final day with a relaxing breakfast at the Little River Inn coffee, eggs, and ocean air to wake you up right.
Midday: Hike at Hendy Woods & Lunch at Jumbo’s Win Win
Make your way to Hendy Woods State Park in Philo and take a short hike among the towering redwoods, a perfect last stop before heading home. Before heading home make sure to head into Jumbos Win Win for the best burger in town before leaving your relaxed weekend in Mendocino County.
Photo Courtesy of @thejimmythree
Best Time to Go:
Late spring through early fall is the best time to visit Mendocino County, with mild temperatures, longer days, and ideal weather for fishing, hiking, and brewery hopping. Summer is especially beautiful but tends to be busier, so it’s a good idea to book your lodging and Skunk Train tickets in advance. Winter can be rainy, but it’s also the quietest and most peaceful time to visit perfect if you’re looking to avoid crowds and don’t mind packing a few waterproof layers.
What to Pack:
Bring layers, since coastal weather can change quickly from foggy mornings to sunny afternoons. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for brewery crawls, forest hikes, and beach walks. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a cooler if you plan to bring home fresh fish or craft beer.
Bonus Stop:
If you have a little extra time, consider extending your adventure with a stop at Russian Gulch State Park or Jug Handle State Reserve. Both are easy to access, and offer uncrowded hikes with coastal views and shady redwood groves perfect for a final leg stretch before the drive home.
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