Road Trippin’ to Gualala

GUALALA – Gualala…..meaning “where the water goes down,” is the name of the quaint little coastal town we recently visited nestled between Mendocino and Sonoma counties. We lucked out on our recent trip with sunshine and no fog the entire weekend. We stayed at a lovely Airbnb in the town of Anchor Bay, about a mile north of Gualala city limits. We had our pup with us, so it was important that dogs were allowed wherever we decided to stop. With so many beaches to explore, we chose Schooner Gulch (free), Cooks Beach (free), and Gualala Point Regional Park (fee). Schooner Gulch (aka Bowling Ball Beach) is famous for its natural rock formations, which resemble rows of bowling balls during low tide. Cooks Beach was a fun area situated between two bluffs that lent to a calmer wind, and you can often watch surfers, explore tide pools, or enjoy a picnic. My favorite stop was Gualala Point Regional Park, which was a huge area with walking trails along a bluff just above the ocean or through forested areas. The views along the bluff are magnificent and, for the most part, all flat. During our hike, we could see the Gualala River, perfect for fishing, kayaking and hiking. The river empties into the Pacific Ocean near the town.

About 30 miles north of Gualala is the historic Point Arena Lighthouse, where you can walk to the top (115 feet!). The views on a clear day are spectacular. While dogs are permitted on the property, they are not allowed inside the building.

With no shortage of places to catch the sunset, enjoy a seafood dinner, relax on the beach, or get out into nature, this little part of Northern California’s rugged coastline is definitely worth exploring. If you go, Gualala is located about an hour and a half north of Bodega Bay on Highway 1. There are endless numbers of pullouts and places to stop and get out to stretch your legs. Grab some salt water taffy at Patrick’s in Bodega Bay or a bowl of chowder at Fisherman’s Cove in Jenner! Cell service can be spotty, so be prepared.