One of the best experiences you can have on your Northern California vacation is Mendocino whale watching! Admire as the California gray whales as they make their journey between Alaska and the Baja California Peninsula of Mexico during the colder months. Between November and April, you can spot the magnificent beasts of the ocean from a variety of whale watching cruises or shoreline viewing spots. 

 

Enjoy a day out on Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg with All Aboard Adventures. You can partake in deep-sea fishing, whale watching, or a relaxing cruise on the 45-foot charter boat. It’s a two-hour trip on the water, but you could be up close to the gentle giants within 15 minutes of being on the boat! You can experience one of their whale watching tours from the end of December to the end of April.

Not a fan of boating? No problem! There are fantastic Mendocino attractions along the California coast that the whales frequently make appearances near. Mendocino Headlands State Trail in Mendocino Headlands State Park has a gorgeous viewing point of the water. When you hike this trail, you will likely encounter tons of other wildlife species, including harbor seals!

Point Arena Lighthouse is another fantastic viewing spot on the Mendocino coast. This stunning lighthouse is known as one of the best places for whale watching on the North coast. Visit Point Arena, and you might even see the spouts and tails of humpback whales, killer whales, and blue whales!

Plan your California getaway in March for a month dedicated to the Pacific gray whales and their calves during migration. You can attend the Mendocino Whale Festival, Fort Bragg Whale Festival, and Little River Whale Festival on different weekends for a fun way to honor the mammals of the sea. 

There are a variety of events to attend, including art galleries, wine and chowder tastings, and whale watching walks. 

Make your vacation to Mendocino special when you stay with Inn at Schoolhouse Creek. Our charming accommodations are the perfect place to relax after spending an adventurous day with nature, admiring California wildlife, or indulging in flavorful, local dishes. 

Feel at peace when you stay in the serene Whale Watch Lodge Room. Gaze out at the beautiful ocean view or forest view from the deck. It’s the perfect way to start a relaxing day, or spend an evening cozying up by the fireplace, or soaking in the Whirlpool tub. 

So, what are you waiting for? Nature-filled adventures await on the rugged, Mendocino coast. Check our availability and book your retreat to Mendo today!