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Photo Courtesy of @katiealdrin

A Relaxed Coastal Vacation

Perfect for couples or friends who want a slow, scenic escape filled with good food, ocean views and a little bit of pampering. This itinerary blends the rustic charm of Anderson Valley with the coastal serenity of Little River and Mendocino three days of easy drives, beautiful hikes and delicious meals.

Day 1

Lunch in Philo
Start your trip by cruising through the vineyards and redwood-lined curves of Anderson Valley. Stop in Philo for a casual, satisfying lunch at Jumbo’s a great place to fuel up before heading the coast. They have smash burgers, curly french fries, and the best chopped salad around.

Check-In at Little River
Continue your drive toward the ocean until the world opens up to dramatic bluffs and crashing surf. Arrive at your hotel in Little River Inn, drop your bags, and take a moment to breathe in the salty air.

Afternoon Golf With Ocean Views
Spend the afternoon playing a round of golf on Little River Inn’s scenic course. The fairways roll toward the water, and you’ll get those unforgettable North Coast breezes as you play.

Dinner at Little River Inn
Head back to your room to freshen up, then enjoy a cozy dinner at the Little River Inn. Their seafood dishes shine with fresh local fish, buttery sides and warm, coastal hospitality. Cap the night with a stroll back to your room under the stars.

Day 2

Breakfast at Little River Inn
Wake up slowly and enjoy breakfast overlooking the water, eggs benedict, pancakes, freshly brewed coffee, and that calm morning ocean hush.

A Day at The Spa
Spend your morning and early afternoon at The Spa at Little River Inn. Melt into the ocean-view hot tub in your room or enjoy a massage. The setting alone is enough to make you feel like you’re floating.

Lunch at Flow in Mendocino
After your spa time, head just a few minutes north to downtown Mendocino and enjoy lunch at Flow Restaurant & Lounge. Sip something refreshing and savor dishes with sweeping ocean views from the upstairs windows.

Walk the Mendocino Headlands
Stretch your legs with a breezy walk along the Mendocino Headlands wildflowers, sea stacks, and that dramatic cliff-edge beauty that feels straight out of a postcard.

Explore Downtown Mendocino
Browse the boutiques, galleries and quirky coastal shops downtown. Pick up a handmade candle, a sweater for cooler evenings or a local piece of art.

Dinner at Luna Trattoria
End the day with dinner at Luna Trattoria, a beloved small Italian spot known for rich pastas and intimate ambiance. After dinner, make your way back to Little River Inn for a peaceful night by the ocean.

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Day 3

Coffee in Your Room + Check-Out
Wake to a quiet coastal morning. Sip coffee in your room while watching the fog lift, then check out at an easy-going pace.

Brunch at Little River Inn
Before leaving town, enjoy a leisurely brunch while waves crash right outside your window.

A Peaceful Afternoon at Van Damme Beach
Drive down to Van Damme Beach for a relaxing final stop. Dip your toes in the water, search for tide pool creatures, or sit and listen to the ocean before beginning your drive home.

Photo Courtesy of @agaliciadiaz_photography

Tips & Extras

Best Time to Visit:

Spring & Fall: Mild weather, fewer crowds, wildflowers on the headlands.

Summer: Warm days and classic coastal fog, perfect for those who love California’s moody coastlines.

Winter: Cozy, dramatic storm-watching season.

What to Pack:

Layers—temperatures shift quickly on the coast.

Comfortable walking shoes for trails and town strolling.

A light jacket or windbreaker for breezy headlands walks.

A nice outfit for dinners out.

Sunscreen (yes, even with fog).

Bonus Stop Nearby:

Navarro River Redwoods State Park – Drive through towering redwood tunnels for a truly magical North Coast moment, or stop for a quick walk among the giants.

Keep Exploring the Magic!

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