Mendocino County is “so close and yet so far away” when it comes to scenery, attitude and ambiance. Whether you play it sophisticated or sniff out the rustic, you’ll have no trouble carving out an itinerary to fit your budget and style. Leash-free stretches of sand such as Noyo and Seaside beaches near Fort Bragg are yours to enjoy, along with dozens of winery tasting rooms where canines are regarded as welcome family members. Stroll the North Coast Botanical Gardens, paddle an estuary in a customized kayak from Catch-A-Canoe or get some kayaking lessons from Liquid Fusion, snuggle up at the luxurious Stanford Inn By the Sea or rough it within sound of the waves at beautiful MacKerricher and Van Damme state parks. You won’t find many outdoor places where you’ll be turned away, even if a leash is required. You and your dog can even enjoy a ride on the fabled Skunk Train between Fort Bragg and Willits. Mendocino County, it’s a journey worth taking.
Beyond the crowds in Mendocino county
Explore Fort Bragg
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17 miles of magnificence
The 17 miles of Highway 1 from Albion to Fort Bragg hold charming inns, bluff-top trails, and the artsy village of Mendocino. Dogs are welcome at coastal state beaches, the Point Cabrillo lighthouse, and the Stanford Inn.
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California’s best coastal dog-friendly towns
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Mendocino’s inland empire
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Adventure awaits on the north coast
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Top Mendocino picks for waves and wine
Mendocino County pairs stunning Pacific coastline with dog-friendly adventures like kayaking, Skunk Train rides through redwoods, botanical garden strolls, and winery visits. The Little River Inn makes an ideal pup-welcoming basecamp.
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A dog’s guide to autumn: 5 fall day trips in Northern California
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