This post is a sponsored collaboration between WorldinFourDays.com and Chalkboard Communications. All options express are my own. For more information on our sponsored content and/or affiliate link policy, please click here.
Fun Things To Do In Little River and Mendocino
On my recent stay at the Little River Inn just outside Mendocino, I had the opportunity to explore beautiful Little River during my stay. It’s a quiet and beautiful place right on the Pacific Ocean. Despite this, there’s a lot to do to keep you busy. If you stay at the Little River Inn like I did, you can enjoy the spa and the golf course, but there are many other things you can do. Here are my recommendations. Things To Do In Little River
1. Glass Beach
On the north end of Fort Bragg, I headed over to Glass Beach. As the name suggests, it’s a beach full of glass, only it’s sea glass and not beer bottles tossed on the shore from uncaring revelers. It’s very beautiful and magical, though much of the glass has been picked over. It’s still worth the visit though just to say you’ve been. Things To Do In Little River
2. Big River Beach
If you want to take in lots of water activities during your time in Little River, this is the beach for you. You’ll find volleyball and surfing among other things. The sand is soft and this side is a little warmer, but the currents tend to be more dangerous so be careful out there! Things To Do In Little River
3. Van Damme State Beach
Now, I know what you’re thinking so before you even ask, this beach was NOT named for heart-throbby action star Jean-Claude Van Damme. It was named for Charles Van Damme, a man who had originally purchased the land before it became a state park. This is a beach with a more relaxed vibe. There are shallow tide pools that form and campfire pits. Very cozy!
4. Go Hiking
There are plenty of great hiking spots to head to as well. Some of these are very kid-friendly like The Haul Road at Big River where you can even wheel a stroller among the towering redwoods. The Fairy Trail inside the Botanical Gardens in Fort Bragg is another charming place to roam around for all ages, however, the gardens are very hilly so if you’ve got little ones, be ready with a stroller or throw out your back carrying them. Jug Handle State Preserve is an incredible opportunity for everyone to learn about the ecosystem here and makes for a good family outing with older children. Things To Do In Little River
5. Ride the Skunk Train
After all, that hiking, take a load off and ride the Skunk Train. Although I was traveling kid free on this trip I had to try this one out. It’s a beautiful one-hour tour that takes you through the redwoods where you can enjoy commentary about the train, the surrounding redwoods and snap several Instagram worth shots. Not only is the Skunk Train kid friendly but they also allow pets so this is something the whole family can enjoy. They offer snacks on board (get the popcorn, it's really good!) as well as little shops surrounding the train station that are worth popping into. Make sure to stop by the gift shop for fun souvenirs and visit the attached train museum after (it's included in your ticket price). Things To Do In Little River
6. Point Cabrillo Light House
No trip to the coast would be complete without seeing a lighthouse. The Point Cabrillo Light House makes for a scenic backdrop and a neat place to explore. Things To Do In Little River
7. CV Starr Aquatic Center
You don’t have to have kids to enjoy this water park. There’s a lazy river in it for you too! It’s a great way for all ages to make a splash!
Little River is such a peaceful and charming coastal town, but there’s nothing boring about it. A weekend spent here alone, with someone special, or with your family will be well-spent!
8. Lula Cellars
As a wine lover, it's hard to believe I've never been wine tasting, so when I discovered the Little River/Mendocino area was located near a collection of Vinyard's, I had to add a tasting to my must do list. Run by winemaker Matt Parish, Lula Cellars sits on 22 acres of land located just 2 1/2 hour north of San Francisco. Matt is absolutely brilliant and has produced hundreds of 90+ rated wines and has earned countless accolades and medals. There are lots of wineries in the area, however, if you plan on doing a tasting make sure it's at Lula Cellars. The tasting room is open daily, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (winter hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) so be sure to stop in for a glass or two. To contact the tasting room call 707.895.3737.
