Summary
Before you start looking for a place to stay in Mendocino, you need to know which Mendocino you’re going to. Mendocino County is both a coastal and an inland region. Just north of Sonoma County, it stretches from Gualala in the south to just north of the town of Leggett. It’s also a town. Take a look at a map and read the notes below to get the lay of the land before you start searching for accommodation, or you might end up staying somewhere you didn’t really want to be.
Finding a Hotel
You can search Tripadvisor for all of Mendocino County at once to read guest reviews and compare prices. However, knowing where the towns are located and understanding their pros and cons is crucial before making any decisions. Your options from south to north include:
- Elk, Point Arena, Albion, and Little River: These are smaller and quieter towns, offering some spectacular cliffside properties with extraordinary views.
- The town of Mendocino: A charming location resembling a New England village more than a California locale, making it convenient to walk to restaurants and shops.
- Fort Bragg: One of the larger coastal towns in northern Mendocino, featuring the most hotels and motels, it is the closest point to the Skunk Train.
- Inland towns: Willits and Ukiah are located on US Hwy 101, providing affordable lodging within easy driving distance of the coast.
Things You Need to Know
It is important to note that you won’t find any big-name hotel chains or four-star resorts in Mendocino. Moreover, exercise caution when choosing accommodations with names that include “ocean.” For instance, a place called the Oceanside Inn may actually sit across the busy highway from the water, while the Ocean View Lodge may offer stunning vistas from every room. Therefore, utilize a map and check satellite and street views to confirm your hotel location. If uncertainty remains, feel free to call the hotel and ask clarifying questions.
Additionally, some Mendocino lodgings are so isolated that cell phone service may not be available. If staying connected is essential, check your provider’s coverage map or consult your innkeeper before finalizing a reservation.
Staying in a Lighthouse
For a unique experience, two Mendocino lighthouses accept overnight guests. Although neither has beds within the lighthouse itself, the lodgings are situated nearby. Point Cabrillo Light Station offers two houses and two cottages for rent, including the lightkeeper’s quarters. Furthermore, Point Arena Lighthouse provides options in former lightkeeper’s quarters, which include several houses, apartments, and rooms for rent.
Finding a B&B
Mendocino has an abundance of bed and breakfast inns compared to hotels. While you might find some on Tripadvisor, consider exploring bedandbreakfast.com to conveniently check on multiple options at once.
Vacation Rentals
You can rent a spacious house to invite friends, or opt for a small one to enjoy solitude. Communities like Irish Beach and Sea Ranch (which technically falls in Sonoma County) offer numerous rental houses just a few miles south of the Mendocino County line. Additionally, checking Airbnb for entire house rentals could lead to great deals.
Camping
If you prefer a more rugged experience, numerous campgrounds and RV parks are available along the Mendocino Coast for pitching tents or setting up your RV.
