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Crashing waves, redwood-lined trails, cozy cliffside cottages and your pup trotting happily beside you this is the magic of a fall escape to Gualala and Point Arena. Tucked along the wild, rugged stretch of California’s Mendocino County Coast, this peaceful three-day getaway invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with nature, good food and simple pleasures. Whether you’re spotting whales from the lighthouse, savoring a sunset picnic on the bluffs, or enjoying a seasonal dinner under the stars, this pet-friendly road trip offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for you and your four-legged travel buddy.
Photo Courtesy of Pier Place
Arrive in Gualala just in time for lunch and head straight to Trinks Café, a cozy spot overlooking the ocean with dog-friendly outdoor seating. Grab a sandwich or salad and enjoy the fresh sea air with your pup by your side.
After lunch, explore Gualala Point Regional Park, just a short drive away. The park offers peaceful trails, river views and beach access perfect for stretching your legs and letting your dog enjoy the sand and surf. Keep an eye out for whales spouting offshore if you’re visiting during migration season.
Make your way north along the scenic coast to your accommodations at the Point Arena Lighthouse. These cliffside cottages offer unbeatable ocean views, cozy interiors and are pet-friendly in select units.
For dinner, head down to Pier Place in Point Arena’s harbor district. Enjoy a bowl of clam chowder or fish tacos with a cold beer or local wine on the dog-friendly deck while the sun sets over the Pacific.
Start your day with a light breakfast at Cove Coffee, enjoy fresh made coffee or pastries. Afterward, explore the Point Arena Lighthouse grounds and take the guided tour (dogs must remain outside, but leashed pups are welcome on the surrounding trails).
Climb the lighthouse for panoramic ocean views one of the best spots on the coast for whale watching in season. Then stroll the Lighthouse Trail, which wraps around dramatic bluffs and wildflower-dotted headlands.
Back in downtown Point Arena, stop by The Record for lunch. They offer fresh sandwiches, soft serve ice cream, and unique appetizers with outdoor seating available.
Spend the afternoon browsing local shops like Roots Apothecary and the Arena Market & Café for local produce, community bulletin boards, and possible live music or pop-up events.
Enjoy a special evening at Izakaya Gama, Point Arena’s standout dinner spot known for locally sourced, seasonal cuisine. Dine on their outdoor patio (pet-friendly, call ahead) and savor house-made fresh seafood dishes served hot or cold in a warm, inviting and intimate setting. It’s the perfect end to a day of adventure and reflection.
Start the day with a coffee and pastry from Franny’s Cup & Saucer, a beloved local bakery with fresh morning treats and excellent espresso. Pick up a few goodies for the road.
Then head to nearby B. Bryan Preserve, home to endangered African antelope, giraffes and zebras. While dogs aren’t allowed on the tour itself, you can take turns going in if traveling with a partner. The guided Land Rover tours are a memorable and unique experience that supports wildlife conservation.
Make your way back down to Gualala for lunch at Gualala Seafood Shack, known for its laid-back vibe and fish tacos. Dogs are welcome at the picnic tables.
After lunch, stroll the Gualala Bluff Trail along the shore and let your dog splash in the water.
Wrap up your trip with a golden-hour walk at Schooner Gulch State Beach (also known as Bowling Ball Beach). The low tide reveals unique spherical rocks along the shore, and it’s a peaceful, often uncrowded spot to unwind.
The Mendocino Coast is beautiful year-round, but your experience can vary greatly depending on the season. For an unforgettable natural spectacle, visit during whale migration season, which runs from December through May. Peak sightings typically occur January through March, when gray whales travel close to shore on their annual journey. If you’re drawn to wildflowers, green hills, and mild temperatures, March through June is ideal. For photographers and those seeking solitude, September through October offers golden light, fewer crowds, and crisp, dreamy evenings perfect for sunset walks and cozy nights.
Weather on the coast can shift quickly, so bring layers for foggy mornings, sunny afternoons, and cool, breezy evenings. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are a must for coastal trails, and binoculars will enhance your whale-watching experience. If you’re traveling with a pup, don’t forget essentials like a leash, towel, water bowl, and treats for the road. A reusable water bottle, snacks, and a picnic blanket or folding chair will come in handy for impromptu beach hangs, cliffside sunsets, or lunch breaks along the trail.
Tucked among the redwoods, this beloved community arts hub features rotating exhibits, sculpture gardens, and performances that highlight local talent. It’s a peaceful and inspiring stop, perfect for stretching your legs and soaking up some coastal creativity.
This restored 1920s Art Deco gem in Point Arena hosts indie films, live music, and community events year-round. Check the schedule for a fun night out in a charming, small-town setting.
Be the first to know about what’s going on in the County, festivals, giveaways, discounts on lodging, and so much more!
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