california's mendonoma coast: a vacation insiders guide

8/11/2019 California's Mendonoma Coast: A Vacation Insiders Guide

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A Vacation Insiders Gu

California's

Mendonoma Coa


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Contact Donna:

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THOUGHTS FROM THEEDITOR

MEETDONNA MARTINEZ

This Insider Guide is broughtto you by Donna Martinez,owner of an oceanfront 3bedroom vacation rentalin Sea Ranch, located onthe Mendonoma Coast inNorthern California.
mailto:andy%40vacationinsiders.com?subject=http://www.vacationinsiders.com/https://twitter.com/AbBayVRBOhttps://www.facebook.com/SeaRanchAbaloneBayVacationHomehttp://www.southcostarica.com/mailto:dmartin336%40gmail.com?subject=Please%20Tell%20Me%20More%20About%20Abalone%20Bay...http://www.vacationinsiders.com/mailto:andy%40vacationinsiders.com?subject=


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Our family has always had a love a airwith the Mendonoma Coast, otherwise known as thecoastline from Sonoma County to Mendocino County.It is here we would come to dive for abalone or sh forcod and salmon to later enjoy feasting on our catchwith family and friends. In fact it was in the waters justoutside our home that we found the 10 abalone thatbe came the ins piration for the naming of our home-- Abalone Bay . We have traveled and lived far and wide,including Spain, my husband's homeland, and mostrecently in Chile where we currently reside. However,

MEET YOUR INSIDER

DONNA MARTINEZ...

We have traveled and lived far and wide... However, we have alwreturned home to Sea Ranch. Settling back in the Adirondack chair

wine glasses in hand, we love to gaze out across the horizon.

What the Reviews Say:

we have always returned home to Sea Ranch. Settlingback in the Adirondack chairs, wine glasses in hand,we love to gaze out across the horizon, to debate whoamong us who caught the biggest sh over the years,or to discuss the nuances of our abalone and paellarecipes that make it uniquely our own. Our passionfor the sea and the Sonoma/Mendocino area haspassed on to our children, including our daughter whorecently had her wedding at Sea Ranch. We have two dogs, a Maltese and a Vizsla, thusour home is pet friendly. If your pet is lucky enoughto be joining you, we hope it has a wonderful timeromping in the courtyard or taking nature hikes alongwith you on the trails. But dont forget to keep your peton leash! We hope you enjoy our home as much as wedo and that you too develop a love of Mendonma.

Click on the image tothe right to read theHomeAway reviews

left by past guests ofAbalone Bay...
http://www.searanchabalonebay.com/http://www.searanchabalonebay.com/http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p3660310%23reviewshttp://www.searanchabalonebay.com/


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Welcome! Welcome to Mendonoma - a stretch ofcoast one hundred miles north of San Francisco thatincorporates the craggy shorelines of Mendocino andSonoma Counties; and whose communities encompassTimber Cove in the south, Irish Beach in the north,Annapolis in the East, and in the middle, Gualala andThe Sea Ranch on either side of the Gualala River.

Most of all, welcome to Abalone Bay, situated inMendonoma's midpoint. Welcome to your oceanfrontretreat perched atop a scenic blu ; to a place wherewhales breech in the bay, deer almost eat out of yourhand, and seals sun themselves on rocks; to a cozyretreat just a short drive from the gastronomic delightsof Mendonoma. Welcome to your dog-friendly home-away-from home in lovely Sea Ranch, California.

DONNAS REALMENDONOMA...

We are so happy to welcome you no matter the roadyou took. From the south, your two-lane ribbon of aroad wound you past wineries that dotted the SonomaCounty landscape. Or perhaps you toured any one ofthe more than 20 artisan breweries found in Sonoma.

Your treck then continued north, wraping around thecoastal mountains with its largest tra c jam, a herd ofcows crossing to nibble on the grass that is, of course,greener on the other side.

The greatest challenge along the way was discoveringwhich turn out in the road to marvel at the ocean'svistas beyond.

Your arrival from the east threaded you throughmountain passes with its steamy gysers and the world'stallest trees, the coastal redwoods, and of course a feweastern Sonoma's wineries too.

From the north you enjoyed the grand vistas alongthe ruggedly dramatic coastline of America's newest

national monument, Point Arena-Stornetta PublicLands. And like your compatriots of the south and east,you too may have stopped along the way to enjoy acraft brew or explored Menociono's great vintages aswell.

No matter your route, we are glad you have arrived.Mendonoma welcomes you to a land lled with history,legends, landmarks, and visionaries that include:

The Sea Ranch's original team of architects anddesigners who, 50 years ago, created a communitythat would preserve the natural environment.

Artists like Erin Lee Ga ll and Paul Kozal, whosecrafts and ne arts are displayed in studios, localart centers, boutiques, or along the roadways.

Legends such as the shipwrecked schooner, the SeaFoam, the only means transportation and shippingprior to the 1930's.

Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands newlydesignated national monument and the historicalPoint Arena lighthouse.


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Mendonoma also welcomes you to an outdoorparadise. Here you can rock climb, hike numeroustrails, bicycle along the coast, dive for abalone or shfrom the shore.

Whale watching is sure to give visitors a thrill as theyswim past during the bi-annual migratations. Deer,

wild turkeys, fox, harbor seals and so many other faunagrace the land. You may even see the Sea Ranch ockof sheep working hard to keep the meadows trim asthe graze along the 10 mile stretch.

From the wind swept meadows waving in time withthe ocean's tides to the upsweep of redwoods theora of Mendonoma provides a spectatular vision

with its bouquett of intermingled fragrance. You aresure to agree there is little that can compare withMendonoma's outdoor beauty.

Mendonoma can o er its own little frustrations as well,especially for those of you accustomed to connectingwith the frenic pace of the big city. Here daily life takeson its own individual timetable. Communication withthe outside world may also be a challenge as Verizonphone service is the only cell servivce provider with anyreasonable and often spotty reception. You may alsond that wi- hot spots a challenge to locate.

Mendonoma is a state of mind. It is a zenful respite from

the manically crazy hustle and bustle of life in largemetro areas such as San Fancisco and the Silicon Valley.It is here families come to reunite and lovers rekindleromance, especially in Sea Ranch. Mendonoma's SeaRanch is a unique community association of privatehomes, sited with careful attention to the naturallandscape along a 10-mile stretch of the SonomaCounty coast in Northern California. It is internationallyknown for its distinctive architecture, the sensitivity ofits land planning, and community-based stewardshipof the natural environment. Sea Ranch is the perfectplace to exhale and recharge not only the mind, butalso the soul. And there's no where better place to dothat than at Abalone Bay. Again we bid you...Welcome!


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#1: Sea Ranch Lodge...The Sea Ranch Lodge, a lovely alternative option when we are unableto accommodate your stay. It's 19 rooms with ocean views have beenrecently renovated. Guest rooms are equipped with complimentaryWi-Fi. To maintain tranquility, there are no TVs in the guestrooms. Allrooms are non-smoking. Some rooms are pet-friendly. Rooms areabout $300/night.Visit the Sea Ranch Lodge Website to Find Out More...

The area has a number of options depending on your needs. Below is Donna's very ownvacation rental, along with a couple of other suggestions. Should those all be booked up feelfree to drop us a line and let us know. We're not a travel agency but will certainly try to lend ahelping hand by o ering some tips to make your search easier!

#2: St. Orres...St.Orres, around 1.5 miles beyond Gualala, o ers cottage-styleaccommodations on its property and 8 rooms in the main building(these rooms share 3 bathrooms). It is well know for its romanticRussian-style building -- complete with two onion-domed towers.Cost for your stay ranges from $95 -$350 per night double occupancy,full breakfast. They are also pet friendly.Visit the St. Orres Website to Find Out More...

DONNAS TIPS ON WHERE TO STAY...

#3: Donna's Very Own...Sea Ranch Abalone Bay, a 3-bed / 2-bath vacation rental, sleeping6-8 people. Featuring skylights and clear story windows throughoutits 20+ foot vaulted cathedral ceilings. From the great room or fromyour bedroom view deer feeding in the foreground and whalesspouting in the distance. Dog and diver friendly. Two night minimumstay is required with seasonal rates ranging from $296 to $395.Visit Donna's Abalone Bay Website to Find Out More...

Donna's Things to Avoid

Disturbing the zen of Sea Ranch...Our HOA does not permitloud parties, so please keepyour celebrations mellow. Thecommunity is known for itsdistinctive architecture, sensitiveland planning, and community-based stewardship of the naturalenvironment. Please step lightlyon the landand avoid pollutionof all sorts (garabage, noise, andlight).

Failing to obtain a license...Diving for red abalone or shingwithout a current CaliforniaDepartment of Fish and Wildlife(CDFW) license is a very seriouso ense. Double check theCDWF's webpage to learn thecurrent sport shing and abaloneharvesting regulatations and ifthere are any emergency closures.Game warderns vigilantly patrolall the Mendonoma coastline.

Fancy wear, unless at a wedding...The Mendonoma area is very laidback. Unless you are attendinga wedding, dress causally! If youattend a wedding held by theBarn at Sea Ranch Lodge, atsfor the ladies are recommended.Note Fog can sometimes lingerin the summertime; so be sure tobring along a sweater, shawl, or

jacket.Please note there are nodry cleaners for 100 miles!
http://searanchlodge.com/http://www.saintorres.com/http://www.searanchabalonebay.com/http://www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/fishing/http://www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/fishing/http://www.searanchabalonebay.com/http://www.saintorres.com/http://searanchlodge.com/


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DONNA'S FAVORITERESTAURANTS...

Trinks Cafe; Trinks is wholesomehome cooking at it's friendliestbest. What started out as familyowned co ee and dessertspot has now grown into avery popular dining spot for

breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their soup, salads, andsandwhiches are super! Dogs are welcome on thepatio dining area. Good views of the Gualala estuaryarea from the patio and windows. Their dinnermenues are a choice of two o erings. Trinks is alsothe local wi- hotspot in town. Check their websitefor the day's menu. Location: 39140 S Hwy 1 Gualala,CA 95445. Phone: (707) 884-1713; Read more... Photo: TripAdvisor

St Orres Restaurant & SeasideBar: A unique dining experiencecreated by self-taught chef,Rosemary Campiformio, whohas wowed food writers for yearswith her version of North Coast

cuisine. Her pre- xe menu includes organic meatsand produce delivered every day fresh by localshermen and farmers. All her mushroom dishes aresimply to die for! Be sure to visit Lupe, the barkeep atthe Seaside Bar - ask to sample her specialty drinks,especially her basil or cucumber martinis. Matchthem with tapas for a less expensive, yet just asdelightful, dining experience. Entertainment o ered

in the bar on occasion. Location: 36601 S Hwy 1,Gualala, CA 95445, (707) 884-3335. Read more...

Pier Chowder House and TapRoom: While making your way toour newest national monument,be sure to schedule time for afabulous meal and brew at thePier Chowder House and Tap

Room next to the dock. It is located mile o Highway1 in Point Arena. We love the sweet potato fries andtheir burgers. Also great of course is their chowder.It is also the best place to watch Fourth of July

reworks in the Mendonoma area! Be sure to callfor reservations for Fourth of July and other specialevents. Parking during large community events canbe limited. Location: 90 Port Rd, Point Arena, CA(707) 882-3400. Read more...

Anchor Bay Thai Kitchen: Agreat surprise nestled amongthe row of shops in the villageof Anchor Bay, 5 mins north ofGualala on Hwy 1. Drive slowlyor you may just miss it! A favorite

among locals and visitors alike with delicious

authentic tastes and vegitarian options. Orderheat to your tastebuds tolerance. Location: 35517California 1, Gualala, CA (707) 884-4141. Read more...

Black Point Grill; The BlackPoint Grill in the Sea RanchLodge is just a couple of milessouth of Abalone Bay. In March2014 Chef Richard Whipple tookover the kitchen. His cuisine is

Contemporary American with French in uences.The restaurant has spectacular views of the BlackPoint Bay whether in the dining room or solarium.The bar showcases the work of local photoghersand artists. The frequently o er special events suchas their WineMaker Dinners and Jazz Night. Call forreservations and to make sure it is not closed forspecial events, such as weddings. Wi- is available.Location: 60 Sea Walk Dr, CA 95412, Phone: (707)785-2371) Read more...

Upper Crust Pizza Upper CrustPizza serves up warm, excellentpizza with equally warm andfriendly smiles. It is a pleasantlittle corner pizza shop nextto the old Gualala Hotel and a

favorite must-stop of our son's. You may order in,take out, or ask for delivery. Location: 39331 S Hwy1, Gualala, CA 95445; (707) 884-1324. Read more... Photo: TripAdvisor

IN THEAREA

ON THEOUTSKIRTS
http://trinkscafe.com/http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g32463-d1962920-i97887738-Trinks-Gualala_Mendocino_County_California.htmlhttp://www.saintorres.com/http://www.thepierchowderhouse.com/http://anchorbaythai.com/http://searanchlodge.com/dinehttp://uppercrustgualala.com/http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g32463-d1965112-i77936529-Upper_Crust_Pizza-Gualala_Mendocino_County_California.html%2377936526http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g32463-d1965112-i77936529-Upper_Crust_Pizza-Gualala_Mendocino_County_California.html%2377936526http://uppercrustgualala.com/http://searanchlodge.com/dinehttp://anchorbaythai.com/http://www.thepierchowderhouse.com/http://www.saintorres.com/http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g32463-d1962920-i97887738-Trinks-Gualala_Mendocino_County_California.htmlhttp://trinkscafe.com/


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5 EXPERIENCES YOU CANNOT MGualala has many artists studios as well as a beautiful communityart center nestled in the redwoods, Gualala Arts Center . Here youcan nd art exhibits, workshops & classes, classical & popular musicperformances, theater, lectures and much more. The facility is openweekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and most weekends from 12:00to 4:00 p.m. Visitors are always welcome. Check the current calendar of events or call (707) 884-1138 for information about exhibits, musicaland theatrical events and classes.

Located in Cypress Village Gallery District on Ocean Drive in Gualala arelovely shops and artist's studios. Our favorite ne arts studio is Studio 391 , co-owned by photographer Paul Kozal and his wife Carol. It isPaul's work that you rst see upon entering Abalone Bay. Establishedin 2003, Studio 391 is one of Gualala's premier ne art galleries locatedon California's Sonoma/Mendocino Coast specializing in photographyby Paul Kozal and exhibiting works by emerging and established artists.The gallery hours are--Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday - 11 am to5pm; Thursday - By Chance; Monday & Tuesday - Closed. Oher shopsand studios in the Cypress Village Gallery District include The galleriesof Cypress Village - Henley's Art & Interiors, Placewares+LyndonDesign (showing the works of another Abalone Bay favorite, Erin Lee Ga ll ), andSpindrift Gallery. Each o er a diverse and distinctive selection of ne artfor any art lover.

Enjoy an idyllic river trip along the Gualala River. If you don't have yourown canoe, kayak or paddleboad they are available for rent in Gualala.

To rent a paddle board contact Wass'Up located in Ar Feed and Pet

Supply at 707-884-1832. Open: M-F 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Petsupplies, feed, Stand-up paddle Board rentals and sales.

Contact Adventure Rents at 707-884-4386 for canoe and kayak rentals.They provide self-guided rentals in top of the line watercraft; singleand tandem kayaks and canoes, for up to a 2-hour paddle, a 2-4 hr.half day tour for time to picnic, swim and explore or a full day riveradventure. We welcome individuals to large groups of all ages and skilllevels, including young children and pets. Their experienced sta canalso provide guided excursions with or without catered meals.

Discover a Favorite Local Artist...

Drift Along the Gualala River...

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http://www.gualalaarts.org/http://www.gualalaarts.org/Events/index.htmlhttp://www.gualalaarts.org/Events/index.htmlhttp://www.studio391.net/http://www.studio391.net/http://www.placewares.com/http://www.eringafill.com/http://www.adventurerents.com/http://www.adventurerents.com/http://www.eringafill.com/http://www.placewares.com/http://www.studio391.net/http://www.studio391.net/http://www.gualalaarts.org/Events/index.htmlhttp://www.gualalaarts.org/Events/index.htmlhttp://www.gualalaarts.org/


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In March 2014 President Obama designated the rugged MendocinoCounty coastline just north of the town of Point Arena, Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands , as our newest addition to The California CoastalNational Monument. It is a unique and spectacular area of 1,665 acresthat includes access to 12 coastal miles of undeveloped federal andstate-managed public lands, coastal blu s, the estuary of the GarciaRiver, sandy beaches and dunes, and adjacent small islands accessibleduring low tide. It was ranked third in places to visit in 2014. Be sure youalso plan time to visit the Point Arena Historic Light House . Guided toursof the light station museum and tower, as well as self-guided tours ofthe grounds, are available daily.

Whether you walk with your loved ones, your 4-legged best friend, or just with your inner thoughts, a walk along any of Sea Ranch's 40 milesof trails is a must! The trail most easliy accessed through Abalone Bay'sback gate is the 8 miles right along the coastal blu . On the blu trailyou're sure to encounter harbor seals in the Marine Preserve, a familyof deer, wild turkeys, a fox, or even bobcat. As the whales make theirmigratory treck between Mexico and Alaska you're likely to see themspouting and may even see a few breach the water. Step down thestaircases that lead to the beaches nearby to enjoy diving and shing inthe public waters or explore tide pools after the tide goes out. A short 10minute stroll north from Abalone Bay, along the blu trail is the OlsonRecreation Center with its tennis courts and pool. Then at the end ofthe day's hike, as the sun sets in horizon and the moon rises atop theredwoods, o er up a toast to another glorious day at Sea Ranch.

The Sea Ranch Chapel is an unexpected delight and most interestingpiece of architectural whimsy located in the mid-point of The SeaRanch on South Highway 1, next to the Fire Station. Some describe itsshape as an elf's hat. James Hubbell, artist and architectural designeris the creative genius who combined local natural materials with giftedlocal contractors, craftsmen and artisans. The chapel is protected by acarefully designed native habitat that is the product of several talentedlandscape planners. It is maintained by guardian volunteers of thechapel.ittle non-denominational chapel is open to the public every dayto pray, meditate, or just take in at the artistry of the el n sanctuary. Thechapel may be reserved for small weddings (50 persons). Photos fromSea Ranch Chapel Organization. Location: Sonoma County Mile Marker55.5,The Sea Ranch, CA 95497 707-785-2444

Explore Point Arena..

Explore Sea Ranch's Trails...

Meditate in the Sea Ranch Chapel...

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http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/ukiah/stornetta.htmlhttp://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/ukiah/stornetta.htmlhttp://www.pointarenalighthouse.com/http://www.thesearanchchapel.org/http://www.thesearanchchapel.org/http://www.pointarenalighthouse.com/http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/ukiah/stornetta.htmlhttp://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/ukiah/stornetta.html


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Northwood Golf Club: Locatedalong the Russian River, about25 miles south of Abalone Bay,and in the heart of one of theworld's nest wine producingregions lies the most unique

golf course you will ever experience, NorthwoodGolf Club. Northwood Golf Course combines themagic of the architecture of Dr. Alister MacKenzie(Augusta National, Pasatiempo, Cypress Point) setamidst towering Redwood trees. It's like nothingyou have played before, and prompted Travelin'

Joe Passov of Golf Magazine to place Northwoodon his top-5 MacKenzie courses... in the world! In2010 Northwood was ranked in top three nine holescourses by "Golf World." Be sure and ask about theirAfternoon Golf Specials starting at $ 16.00. Click herefor rates. To reserve a tee-time click here.Location: 19400 Highway 116, Monte Rio, CA 95462

Sea Ranch Golf Links: Just 5miles north of Abalone Bay isRobert Muir Graves' Sea RanchGolf Links. Described as the"Fairway to Heaven," you can't gowrong playing a golf course next

to the rugged and beautiful North Coast. Sea RanchGolf Links is a great venue with amazing greens

and great ocean views. Your greatest challenges onthe course may be hitting around the deer or a seabreeze lofting your ball forward to a hole-in-one.Click here to see rates. To book a tee-time just clickhere. Mention that you are staying at Abalone BayHome managed by Beach Rentals to receive yourdiscounted day on the green with lunch and golf cart.Location: 42000 Highway One, The Sea Ranch, CA95497

The Links at Bodega Harbour: The Links at Bodega Harbour,located 44 miles south of SeaRanch, is one of NorthernCalifornias most impressive anda ordable coastal golf courses.

Perched along the spectacular Sonoma CountyCalifornia Coast, the Links at Bodega Harbour

combines breathtaking natural beauty with a recentlyremodeled Robert Trent Jones II design. Experiencethe beauty and challenge of a true Scottish style linkscourse. Combining spectacular views of the Paci cOcean from all 18 holes, rolling fairways, undulatinggreens, and native coastal rough, this golf course issure to take your breath away. Click here to see rate.Click here for tee-times.Location: 21301 Heron Dr, Bodega Bay, CA 9492

Little River Inn Golf & Tennis: The expansive feeling of coastalgolf will permeate your visit tothe Little River Inn Resort Golfand Tennis. This regulationnine-hole course with two extra

greens can be played as an eighteen-hole course.Motor carts, pull carts, and golf clubs, are availablefor rent. Located 52 miles north of Abalone Bay, justtwo miles south of Mendocino Village, Little River Innhas been family-run for four generations (since the1860's). Green fees:18holes: $40; 9holes: $25. Call1-707-937-5667 (Pro Shop/Golf Course) for tee timeinformation.Location: 7751 California 1, Little River, CA 95456

FORE!FOR THE GOLF ENTHUSIAST
http://www.bodegaharbourgolf.com/-rateshttp://www.bodegaharbourgolf.com/-book-a-tee-time%25282%2529http://www.bodegaharbourgolf.com/-book-a-tee-time%25282%2529http://www.bodegaharbourgolf.com/-rates


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Guidebooks are a great overview but your vacation insider is a local specialist -so put the guidebook down and ask your insider!

If youre an accommodation owner and would like to participate in theInsider Guide series wed love to hear from you!

Email: [email protected] or Web: www.vacationinsiders.com

VACATION INSIDERS 2014 | ti i id
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california's mendonoma coast: a vacation insiders guide

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