Are you yearning for a road trip along one of the most iconic highways in the world? If so, you’ve landed in the right place. Below, we’ll show you how to satisfy your wanderlust and plan a scenic drive from San Francisco to Mendocino. This fun and rather short road trip can do wonders for your mood as you discover beautiful, remote areas nestled between the Pacific Ocean and redwood forests. So, are you ready to begin? Read on, take notes, and start packing the car!
Enjoy a Scenic Drive From San Francisco to Mendocino
What You Need to Know
Mendocino is one of the most sought-after destinations for city dwellers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle. Indeed, our town is only three hours and 15 minutes from downtown San Francisco, which makes it a convenient place to escape and reconnect with nature. Although this is not a long road trip, you will want to be prepared for the drive along Highway 1. Here are some items we recommend bringing for extra comfort:
- Reusable water bottles
- Phone chargers (and a great playlist!)
- Road maps
- Snacks
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A beach towel or two should you decide to stop
Where to Eat
One thing you won’t want to neglect during the drive is your appetite! Stopping for a quick bite is important, and it can be difficult to try and look up places while you’re on the road with an unreliable internet connection. We suggest planning ahead, before you start your car. Here are two of our favorite places to eat along the way:
- Tomales Bay Oyster Company | 47 miles from San Francisco
- Trinks Cafe & Bakery | 115 miles from San Francisco
Of course, there are many Mendocino restaurants to enjoy once you get here! And whatever you decide to indulge in, be sure to bring cash for a smoother experience. You’ll also need it to pay for parking at many locations along Highway 1.
Where to Stop
Point Reyes Shipwreck
Turn left onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd at Point Reyes Station, and follow the road until you see the Point Reyes Shipwreck. This is the site of a vessel moored on an inlet, and it remains one of the most popular places to stop on the route from San Fran to Mendocino. If you wish, continue driving down the road to view the stunning Tomales Point Trailhead. This scenic destination provides panoramic vistas of the rocky coastline, just 46 miles from San Francisco.
Beaches Along Highway 1
As you drive from San Francisco to Mendocino via Highway 1, you’ll find a stunning shoreline and a collection of beautiful beaches. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Muir Beach | 18 miles from SF
- Bodega Bay | 66 miles from SF
- North Salmon Creek Beach | 69 miles from SF
- Schoolhouse Beach | 70 miles from SF
- Bowling Ball Beach | 139 miles from SF
Each of these hidden coves offers a front-row seat in the sand for you to gaze at the crashing waves and delight in the cool breezes coming off the Pacific.
Roadside Overlooks
The overlooks on this route also provide breathtaking views of California’s Golden Coast. These are some of the best places to photograph the landscape and take pictures of family and friends with an incredible backdrop.
- Duncan’s Landing Overlook | 72 miles from San Francisco
- Sonoma Coast Overlook | 82 miles from San Francisco
Local Tip: While you’re capturing the scenery, take a moment to stretch your legs and breathe in the salty ocean air. This is a wonderful way to break up your drive.
Fort Ross Compound
If you’re a history buff who is interested in learning more about California’s past, you’ll want to stop at the Fort Ross Compound. Once a Russian settlement, this site now features a wooden fort and rustic chapel amidst towering trees. It’s located in Jenner, CA, just 89 miles into your journey.
Salt Point State Park
Live sponges, hidden beaches, layers of eroded rock, and fields of flowers await you in this state park, just 99 miles from San Fran. Pull over to experience the beauty of Salt Point, one of Mother Nature’s great masterpieces.
Point Arena Lighthouse and Museum
Another iconic destination along the Pacific Coast Highway is the Point Arena Lighthouse. This charming lighthouse is a must-visit during your trip. For a small fee, you can make the short climb to the top of the structure to enjoy unparalleled views of the sea. The lighthouse is about 145 miles into your adventure.
Welcome to Mendocino!
Now that you know how to plan a memorable road trip from San Francisco to Mendocino, it’s time to find a place to stay. You’ll definitely want to relax after all that driving! Sea Rock Inn is one of the best B&Bs in Northern California and offers a gorgeous selection of luxurious accommodations, each of with comfortable furnishings and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Here, you can leave your busy routine behind and reconnect with yourself. When you wake up each day, you’ll see a mystical fog rolling off the water as you make your way to our waterfront breakfast room. It’s the best way to start your morning!