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A Food Filled Coastal Vacation

Settle into the slow, sea-salted rhythm of the Mendocino County Coast with this warm, welcoming itinerary built for couples, friends or anyone craving fresh ocean air, local flavors and peaceful farm-to-table moments. Each day flows naturally, from morning to afternoon and into the evening so you can simply relax and enjoy the coast.

Day 1

Afternoon

Arrive just in time to dig into a delicious lunch at The Record. The perfect way to kick off your getaway. Think fresh coastal flavors, vibrant ingredients and a friendly, easygoing vibe.

Matinee or Early Evening Show in Point Arena
After lunch, head to Point Arena and settle into your seat at The Arena Theater for a show. Whether it’s music, film or a community performance, the small-town ambience and creative energy set a wonderful tone for the trip.

Evening

Check In at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages
Arrive at your cozy cottage, breathe in the salty breeze and take a moment to wander the grounds fruit trees, gardens and the signature farm charm. 

Dinner at Gama
Head out for dinner at Gama, where comforting, thoughtfully prepared Asian-inspired dishes round out your first evening. Return to your cottage for a quiet night under star-filled skies.

Day 2

Morning

Breakfast at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages
Wake up slowly and enjoy a wholesome homemade breakfast, they are happy to stock your cottage with one of their grocery baskets before your arrival, including traditional staples as well as hand-crafted sweets, fresh-baked bread and other provisions from their favorite local vendors.  Sip your coffee outside as the morning fog lifts.

Snack at Franny’s Cup & Saucer + Wander into Town
Drive into town and stop at Franny’s Cup & Saucer for a sweet or savory treat perfect fuel for strolling shops and enjoying small-town charm.

Afternoon

Visit Gualala Arts
Explore the galleries, wooded grounds and inspiring exhibits at Gualala Arts, a hub for local creativity.

Grab-and-Go Lunch from the Market for a Beach Picnic
Pick up something fresh from the Arena Market & Café sandwiches, or picnic snacks and enjoy lunch right on the beach. Listen to the waves crash while you eat.

Point Arena Lighthouse
After lunch, head to the iconic lighthouse. Walk the bluffs, snap photos of the rugged cliffs and take in panoramic Pacific views.

Evening

Dinner at The Pier
End the day with hearty coastal classics at Pier Place steaming chowder, crisp fish and chips or seafood pastas before returning to Mar Vista Farm + Cottages for a quiet night in your cottage.

Rainbow from Elk Cove Inn

Day 3

Morning

Breakfast in Town
Start your day in Gualala with breakfast at Trinks Café, where oceanfront views pair beautifully with pastries, scrambles or a warm cup of locally roasted coffee.

Horseback Riding at Ross Ranch
Head out to Ross Ranch for a memorable horseback ride trotting along rolling hills or sandy stretches with sweeping coastal vistas.

Afternoon

Post-ride, drive to Maritime Café, where you can refuel with fresh, satisfying coastal dishes and welcoming local hospitality. It’s an easy, tasty mid-day stop that pairs perfectly with an active morning.

Return to Mar Vista – Yoga or Explore the Property
Spend the late afternoon your way: Join one of Mar Vista’s Farm Cottages gentle yoga classes, or Wander the gardens, visit the hens, or relax in your cottage with a cup of tea.

Evening

Dinner at Anchor Bay Thai Kitchen
For your final dinner, savor fragrant curries, fresh herbs, and bold flavors at Anchor Bay Thai. It’s a lively, flavorful farewell to the coast.

Day 4

Morning

Check Out + Road Snack
Say goodbye to your cozy cottage at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages. Before leaving the coast, swing by Franny’s Cup & Saucer one last time to grab pastries or a hand pie for the road.

As you wind inland toward Highway 128, make a refreshing detour to The Apple Farm in Anderson Valley. Stretch your legs among the orchards, browse the farmstand for small-batch jams, apple juices, or handmade preserves, and enjoy the quiet charm of this family-run haven. It’s the perfect palate-cleansing pause before the final leg of your drive home.

Tips & Extras

When to Visit:
Spring and fall bring mild weather, bright wildflowers, and fewer crowds. Summer is best for long, sunny days, while winter offers dramatic surf and cozy lodge vibes.

What to Pack:

Layers, a warm jacket, comfortable shoes and a beach towel or blanket for picnicking.

Bonus Stop

Navarro Vineyards (Anderson Valley)
If you’d like a sip of something local on your way inland, stop for a peaceful tasting surrounded by vineyards. Their whites, rosés and non-alcoholic grape juices are all beloved staples.

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