If you’re planning a vacation to Mendocino in January, you’re in for a treat! The weather is cool, but it doesn’t often hit below freezing temperatures, and nothing beats the breathtakingly beautiful sights! Relax after the stress of the holiday season and unwind as you connect with nature on the rugged California coast. Or, you can take a look at our free Activities Page for more things to do year-round.

Hop aboard the Skunk Train in Fort Bragg for a magical journey through a forest of towering redwood trees. Choose from several train ride experiences depending on the time of year. Explore Pudding Creek Estuary, see one of the oldest trees in the forest, celebrate the Crab Feast, or ride railbikes for a unique experience on the tracks.

If you choose one of the train ride experiences, don’t leave your furry family member behind! The train is pet-friendly, but keep in mind that there is a fee for dogs.

Our coastal area is home to some of the best seafood, which is why we throw a big celebration in honor of our delicious local crabs. Indulge in family-style crab meals, cioppino, and local wine pairings at Crab Feast Mendocino towards the end of January.

Then, check out the Wine Competition and Crab Cake Cook-Off as chefs from different Mendocino counties go head to head. Don’t miss out on one of the top food festivals of the year!

Whale watching is one of the coolest experiences to have in Mendocino. You can see the magnificent, but gentle, monsters of the deep as they make their way between Alaska and the Baja California Peninsula of Mexico. Whale watching season in Mendocino is between November and April. This is an incredible experience that you’ll never forget.

One of the best ways to get a taste of Mendocino is through our wine! Our wine country features some of the most beautiful and cutting edge vineyards and wineries. Choose from an array of gorgeous wineries, and go on a wine tasting tour. Try Frey Vineyards, a vegan and gluten-free winemaker, or Navarro Vineyards, or Husch in Philo for fantastic, award-winning wines. 

Wine down with a relaxing stay at Inn at Schoolhouse Creek. Our cozy rooms and cottages are the perfect place to rest your head after a day of adventures in Mendocino. We aim to give our guests the ultimate comfort, so that you can warm up this winter with your closest friends and family, including your pets! 

Reserve our charming Pomo Cottage for the perfect family-friendly vacation rental in Mendocino. Bask in the sun as you relax by the garden, or warm up in your private hot tub! And when you’re ready to unwind for the day, cozy up with a hot tea by the gas fireplace, and catch up with your loved ones. After all, that’s what traveling to Mendocino is all about – making memories that last a lifetime! 

So, what are you waiting for? Check our availability, and book your getaway today!