Mendocino vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Mendocino vacation rentals

Stay near Mendocino's top sights

Big River Beach at Mendocino Headlands State Park33 locals recommend
Trillium Cafe & Inn33 locals recommend
Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites6 locals recommend
Patterson's Pub45 locals recommend
Good Life Cafe40 locals recommend
Harvest Market at Mendosa's49 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Mendocino

  • Total rentals

    90 properties

  • Total number of reviews

    4.7K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    20 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    40 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    30 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wifi availability

    80 properties include access to wifi

Your guide to Mendocino

Welcome to Mendocino

Ruggedly beautiful Mendocino was once a logging town populated by transplanted New Englanders, and their aesthetic influence remains. This small town surrounded by redwood forests and perched on a headland ringed by the Pacific Ocean is dotted with charming Victorian-style homes with white picket fences.

While Mendocino has hung onto the architectural sensibility of its former residents, its current character is decidedly funkier. In the 1950s, artists began arriving here, and the founding of the Mendocino Art Center in 1959 cemented the place as a bustling arts colony. The town retains that bohemian nature today, which has imbued this pastoral paradise with many of the charms of urban living, sans the crowds. The Mendocino Theater Company has staged more than200 productions in its 75-seat black-box theater since its founding in 1976, and the hamlet’s streets are lined with galleries and boutiques selling upscale handicrafts. You’ll also find wine, craft cocktails, and world-class farm-to-table fare here.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Mendocino

If you’re looking forward to long scenic hikes, spring and summer boast the highest number of warm, sunny days, as well as wildflower blooms. Fall and winter can be chilly and rainy — but the cooler weather is starkly beautiful, and eminently conducive to a cozy dinner with an ocean view. Regardless of season, a warm coat is always a good idea in this coastal town. In March, Mendocino marks the return of migrating gray whales with the Mendocino Whale Festival, which includes beer and chowder tastings. In November, Feast Mendocino celebrates all things culinary, especially the region’s abundant mushrooms, and offers fungi-focused meals, exhibits, and tours.


Top things to do in Mendocino

Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum

This historic lighthouse first shone for sailors navigating the Mendocino coast in 1909. It is remarkable for its well-restored Fresnel lens, an enormous four-sided glass light heralded at the time of its invention for how far it could be seen at sea. You can visit the lighthouse, as well as a restored lightkeeper's residence replete with 1930s-era furnishings.

Mendocino Headlands State Park

Coastal trails with dramatic views criss-cross this 347-acre greenbelt atop dramatic bluffs, which is home to marshland, coastal scrub, redwoods, and conifers. At the foot of the cliffs lies secluded Big River Beach, accessible by vehicle via winding, two-lane Highway 1, or on foot via bluffside trails. From November through April, gray whales migrate off the Mendocino coast, and the headlands provide an ideal vantage point for spotting them.

Kelley House Museum

This museum chronicles the history of Mendocino County. Among its permanent exhibits is one devoted to the wreck of the Frolic, a 210-foot brig with a cargo of silk and other goods that ran aground off the coast of Mendocino. Included in the exhibit are artifacts salvaged from the wreck, including shards of ornately decorated dishware, a shoe, and an 1,100-pound cannon.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are some of the best things to do in Mendocino?

    Explore the scenic Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, meander through the village shops and art galleries, or take a tour of the historic Ford House Museum. Nature lovers can visit the Point Cabrillo Light Station or catch a thrilling whale watching expedition. A drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway is also highly recommended.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Mendocino?

    The most frequently suggested time to visit Mendocino is between May and October, when the weather is warm and dry. Local events such as the Mendocino Film Festival in June and the Mendocino Music Festival in July attract many visitors. The Whale Festival in March also draws in many enthusiasts eager to spot migrating whales.

  • What are the best places to stay in Mendocino?

    Mendocino has some charming areas to stay, including the Mendocino Village, known for its artist community and Victorian-era homes. The Fort Bragg area near the coastline, famous for its Glass Beach, is also a popular choice. Another delightful option is Little River, with historic inns and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

  • What are the best places to visit in Mendocino?

    Embark on a journey through Mendocino's rich history at Mendocino Art Center and Kelley House Museum. Explore the natural beauty of Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, Russian Gulch State Park, or the Pygmy Forest. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Point Cabrillo Light Station for panoramic ocean views.

  • What are some hiking trails in Mendocino?

    The Ecological Staircase Trail and the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail in Russian Gulch State Park are popular choices among hiking enthusiasts. The Mendocino Headlands State Park also has numerous trails offering spectacular ocean views. More experienced hikers might enjoy the challenging trails in Jackson State Forest.

  • What are some family activities to do in Mendocino?

    Families can explore the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, packed with local flora and fauna. Visit the Sea Glass Museum in Fort Bragg or engage in a fun-filled day at the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad and Historical Society. A family picnic at Big River Beach is also a fantastic option.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Mendocino?

    Consider exploring Point Arena Lighthouse, which is less than a two-hour drive from Mendocino. Another popular day trip is to the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, home to towering redwood trees. Visit the charming town of Fort Bragg, known for its Glass Beach, or the historic city of Eureka, both within a day's drive.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Mendocino?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 30 vacation rentals in Mendocino featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Mendocino?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Mendocino. Choose from more than 40 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Mendocino?

    Experience the best of Mendocino with our house rentals, starting at about $160 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

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