Gualala (pronounced wa-LA-la), on Highway 1, is the southern gateway to Mendocino County and, in addition to being one of the county’s artistic centers, it hosts outstanding restaurants and lodging. It’s also home to Gualala Point Regional Park. You’ll find just about everything you need at the well-stocked Surf Market. With its eclectic collections of clothing, shoes, gifts and home accessories, Red Stella specializes in “coastal living with an urban edge.” Run by two brothers, Four-Eyed Frog Books is filled with wonderful books, cards, games, and stuffed animals. The Market at Placewares offers specialty foods and beautiful objects for the home to the south coast. Studio 391 has original artwork and photography that captures the natural beauty of the area.