The Redwood Coast is a great place to spend a couple days, or a couple of months. Here is some information to help you plan your vacation. All links will open in a new window.
Check with the California Department Of Fish And Wildlife for what is currently in season. Unfortunately, there are several areas on the Mendocino and Sonoma coastline that are closed to all fishing. There are certain areas that are closed to some, but not all, fishing.
Know the current abalone regulations! Violations are very expensive. They are taken very seriously by the local courts. There really are people serving time in the local county jails for abalone poaching. It's much cheaper and safer in the long run to just stay legal.
Fishing tackle, abalone gear, and licenses can be purchased at Gualala Sport & Tackle, Jay Baker-True Value Hardware, and S&B Market. Everyone over the age of 16 needs a fishing license to fish in fresh water, salt water, and from the shore. You don't need a license to fish from the Point Arena Pier.
Boat Launches are available at the following locations. Some are free. Some have launch fees. Some are seasonal in operation. Some close before sunset. Please call ahead before making any plans on launching your boat.
Sportfishing boats depart from Fort Bragg and Bodega Bay to fish for whatever is in season. Depending on the time of year, they target salmon, albacore, rockfish, lingcod, dungeness crab, sanddabs, Humboldt squid, and halibut.
Many of the local rivers also have closed sections, seasons, and special restrictions. Know the regulations and areas before you go out.
Most importantly, never, ever turn your back on the ocean. It's very cold, the currents are very strong, and you could be a very long way from help. Plus, many beaches don't have cell phone reception.
Wine:
Many excellent wines are produced in Mendocino County. Locally, we have the Annapolis Winery. Their Zinfandel Port won a Gold Medal at the 2012 San Fransisco Wine Competition. They offer tastings from 12:00pm until 5:00pm Wednesday through Sunday. Their facilities are also available for weddings and special events.
More award-winning vineyards are located just about 90 minutes from Gualala in the Anderson Valley along scenic Highway 128. They all offer tastings and tours of their facilities. Many have seasonal events and festivals that are open to the public.
Here's a list, in no particular order, of some of the vineyards you'll find along Highway 128 in Mendocino County. Most of them are open daily for tastings. Remember to designate a driver!
