North Coast

California’s North Coast is home to many artists, and galleries and festivals in small communities along the way are dedicated to their work, drawing art lovers by the thousands. Several communities host monthly art walks and sponsor community theaters. You’ll also find annual music festivals as well as performance venues throughout the region.

California’s North Coast boasts miles and miles of wide-open beaches that offer a contrast to the crowded coastlines farther south. Even in the summer, they are windswept, edged with redwood trees, and dotted with dramatic cliffs and rocky coves. This region also has many natural inland lakes that make for cool dips on hot summer days.

California has family-friendly fun for every member of your brood, young or old. From theme parks galore with the latest rides and roller coasters, to up-close encounters with animals and history alike, grab the relatives and hit the road for a groovy California getaway!

Coastal nature preserves and redwood forests offer plenty of hiking along rugged trails, along with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Avenue of the Giants in Redwoods State Park will remind you how small we really are. This region’s many rivers and lakes farther inland provide the ingredients for excellent fishing, waterskiing, swimming, and boating.

With Sonoma wineries long receiving top marks from critics, and those around Mendocino and Clear Lake gaining attention, many restaurateurs have set up shop on the North Coast to serve weekenders with sophisticated palates. All the same, you can still find good, old-fashioned comfort food to warm you after a hike along the coast or among the redwoods.