Things to Do

Stornetta National Monument

Hike the trails of the Stornetta National Monument immediately next to the property. This is one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the world. Best access is from behind City Hall in town. The trail leads all the way up to the Point Arena Lighthouse, approximately 2-3 hours walking.

Bowling Ball Beach

Explore numerous local beaches and coves, such as Bowling Ball beach aka Schooner Gulch (touted as the most unusual beach in Mendocino County), five minutes drive south. Ideal visits to Bowling Ball Beach are during low tide, when the water recedes to reveal round rocks in the shape of bowling balls.  The beach has inspired countless artists and photographers. 

Horseback Riding

Go horseback riding along the bluff and down onto the beach with experienced guides, about 10 minutes drive north beyond Manchester.

Lighthouse

Check out the stunning views of the Point Arena Lighthouse, 10 minutes drive north, or accessible via a 2 hour hike along the Stornetta National Monument coastal trail next to the property. Explore its museum, try to spot its world famous cat Arena Mina and climb up to the top of the lighthouse - the tallest on the West Coast - to take in commanding 360 degree views.  You can stop for breakfast or lunch at Rollerville Cafe for hearty home cooking.

The Cove

Immediately below the Coast Guard House property is the Cove, with its functioning fishing pier where people fish from poles and where fishing boats head out and return.  The rocky sheltered beach and cove is a favorite of diehard surfers.  Also in the Cove is Pier Place restaurant (serving oysters, chowder and other Mendocino cuisine in an historic Bavarian beerhall with a large deck and incredible views of the cove), Point Arena Pizza serving great pizzas, and a Cove Coffee, a cozy coffee shop serving gourmet coffees and breakfast sandwiches and offering sweatshirts, hats and other gear for sale.

Explore the town of Point Arena

Explore the local crafts, foods and artisans of the charming and historic town of Point Arena, a short drive from the Coast Guard House. Highlights include Franny's Cup and Saucer (very good authentic French pastries), Arena Theater (a restored historic movie theater), The New Museum Brewers (a local brewery serving lighter fare), Lisa's Luscious Kitchen (serving homemade jams and chutneys where you can talk to Lisa about how she does it), Point Arena Tileworks (handcrafted artistic tiles where you can see Matt making the tiles), Roots Apothecary featuring handcrafted teas and local herbs, and Arena Market and Center Street Market (both small markets offering handmade sandwiches).  

If you have kids, definitely check out B Bryan Preserve (reservations recommended, where you can take a safari ride around a large sanctuary for African giraffes, zebras, and antelopes), only a few minutes drive from town.

Redwood Forests and Wineries

On your drive in or out, stop in the redwood forests or check out the wineries along the Navarro River and in the Anderson Valley.