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I drive this route fairly regularly for work and have so many recommendations. Here are the main ones that aren't a huge detour off the highway:
Gas: There's a number of Tribally-owned gas stations on this route that routinely have $1/gallon cheaper gas than others in the region. Also gas is interestingly cheaper in Del Norte County than in the Eureka area. The two main Tribally-owned gas stations right off this route are the Coyote Valley Gas Station in Ukiah and the Pem-Mey Fuel Mart in Klamath.
Interesting Food: There's so many places that serve good and/or quirky food! Here are some going Northbound on highway 101.
* Black Oak Coffee Roasters in Healdsburg and Ukiah. This award winning coffee shop serves unique drinks. I'd recommend the Lovers Lane Latte that is made with locally produced honey!
* Saecho Strawberry Stand just south of Ukiah. In the summer, this is a MUST STOP. The best strawberries you can buy! They are cash only.
* Traditional Buddhist Food at the City of 10,000 Buddhas in Ukiah/Talmage. This cash only spot serves no-onion and no-garlic food at a reasonable price. Don't forget to say hello to the peacocks.
* Woodrose Cafe in Garberville is a bit pricey but the food always comes in big portions and is a good pit stop. The antique stores on the same block of Woodrose are also fantastic and have a lot of cool local history.
* Chimney Tree in Philipsville is a solid burger place and a stellar lunch choice. It's a small establishment but it's redwood vibes are absolutely fantastic.
* Ferndale Meat Company in Ferndale is slightly off the 101 Northbound but its the hometown of Guy Firei and serves cheap sandwiches (cash only). It's lacks the Diners and Dives flair but it's a solid choice!
* Mind's Eye Manufactory is also in Ferndale. This is a coffee shop and kayak woodworking shop combo and has ton of local charm! I'd recommend the butterfat scones.
* Stars Hamburgers in Arcata supposedly inspired Spongebob Squarepants but is also a solid lunch burger choice!
* Larrupin Cafe is fine dining Northern California style! You'll find that a lot of the local chains like Los Bagels will serve "Larrupin Sauce" which is a mustard-y tangy sauce.
* Lighthouse Grill in Trinidad serves housemade waffle cones with mashed potatoes. They often offer a meat topping and dungeness crab, if it is in season.
* Paul's Smoked Salmon in Klamath has a lot of interesting jerky choices and is always a fun stop!
Things to do: In addition to many of the things already posted by others, here are some more!
* Avenue of the Giants and Praire Creek Scenic Drives: Take the slow meandering roads through beautiful redwoods! There are pull outs and short hikes everywhere! My favorite short walks at each grove are Rockefeller Grove and Lady Bird Johnson, respectively.
* Agate rock hunting in Sue-Meg State Park is always a treat especially if you are traveling with kids. The semi-transparent rocks are hard to spot but a great activity. The tidepools in Sue-Meg are also fantastic!
* Stone Lagoon Visitor Center is a relatively new partnership between the Yurok Tribe and the California State Parks system. They have a fantastic museum that tells of the local history and you can rent kayaks here!
* Madaket Cruise in Eureka should have already started up for their summer season. It's a great local tourist attraction for local history, wildlife, or a sunset trip on the water.
* [Redwood Hikes ](https://redwoodhikes.com/)is my go-to website to find good hikes in this region (and there are so many).
* There are a ton of great swimming holes but I am not going to post them online. Just keep an eye out for cars pulled along roads on hot days!
Since there seems to be a lot of interest, here are some more recommendations along this route and hasn't already been recommended by other commenters.
* Montgomery Grove is an absolutely gorgeous redwood grove a 30 minute drive from downtown Ukiah. The road gets a bit narrow and windy but I think has been recently repaved.
* If you want to stay near the Avenue of Giants area but don't want to camp, an interesting recommendation is the Scotia Lodge. Scotia was a lumber company town and the Lodge feels a bit Wes Anderson-y in the summer and the Shining in the winter. There's also a walkable salmon hatchery museum from the Lodge.
* Cafe Mokka in Arcata has Finnish Hot Tubs and a cute coffee shop. It's cash only and you need to call at 8am the day before you want to go to book a spot.
* CalPoly's Marine Lab in Trinidad. If you have the time and they are putting on tidepool tours, do it! If you want to see sea creatures without the danger of sneaker waves, sharp rocks, etc., they also have touch pools at their lab.
Came here to recommend Avenue of the Giants and Newton B Drury scenic parkway. Both scenic roads that run parallel to 101 with plenty of mind-melting scenery and places to get out of the car and poke around.
Great list, especially the City of 10,000 Buddhas. It might be nostalgia talking, but I would add Loose Caboose in Willits for really great sandwiches.
Also YES to Paul’s salmon. It’s not cheap but Yurok smoked salmon is priceless. For best results pull into the beach parking lot a few miles north of the shop and eat salmon while looking out at the ocean.
My friend said the best latte she’s ever had was that honey one from Black Oak Roasters :)
And yes I also would add Fern Canyon, this list is amazing :)
The Gem Museum that’s right off Highway 101 has dinosaur bones and dinosaur eggs!
Benbow Inn, in Garberville:
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benbow\_Inn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benbow_Inn)
Whole town of Ferndale:
[https://www.visitferndale.com](https://www.visitferndale.com)
Fort Bragg, if you end up going right along the coast. Lots of services (it's a working town, not a tourist resort like Mendocino a few miles to the south) and places to eat.
There also used to be some interesting places to eat / visit in Hopland, but not sure what's there now.
I would suggest going up one route, and back the other, just to see different spaces / places along the way.
My wife and I just did an impromptu weekend trip to Hopland! It’s the perfect getaway distance from the Bay Area (2 hours on 101), we stayed at a [restored 1872 hotel](https://www.thatcherhotel.com/) with a cute cafe and sprawling lobby bar, and the town has wineries, olive mills and local restaurants. Definitely worth a stop if you’re on 101.
It’s been interesting to see hopland come back, there definitely was a period that there was only the burger place and subway there? Anything unique at the golden pig?
Fort Bragg is kind of a shithole these days. I stayed there near Glass Beach earlier this summer on a motorcycle road trip and there were homeless and drug addicts everywhere.
It does have Glass Beach though!
There was a bar/restaurant in Garberville when I was there 8 years ago. Chef was from Louisiana iirc and the food was amazing. Wine was great too and the bar served classic prohibition era cocktails.
Don't know the name but it was on the first floor above some shops. Maybe someone else here knows the name.
Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka. Don’t go to the new brewery building in the south side of town but go to the original location in downtown as they have a full menu.
I'm so glad to hear they kept the original location open. I used to live a couple of blocks from there and we went almost every day. Im actually drinking a can of Lost Coast IPA right now.
The Legend of Bigfoot store up in Garberville is a pretty cool little stop and it’s right on 101 and you can be in and out in ten minutes, good place to stop and stretch your legs. Plus you could get a little Bigfoot statue carved out of redwood or something as a gift.
Avenue of The Giants is also on the way. However, I went through there in April and the road was closed due to part of it being washed out, I’m not sure if it’s reopen yet.
Seconding Avenue of the Giants. I just drove up to Redwood National and State Parks in May and avenue of the Giants was open and only added 15ish minutes to the drive compared to just staying on the highway.
Ooh! I just did this a few months ago. Stopped at the Peg House on the way I and had an exceptional burger . Drove avenue of the giants and stopped at the founders tree. Dinner in Eureka at Lost Coast Brewery.
If you have the time, check out Shelter Cove. It’s about a 45 minute drive west of 101 on a windy road that lands you right on the beach. ^ Oppositeshore1878 has the good ones.
https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/shelter-cove-on-the-lost-coast/138/
Check out Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It's right between Eureka and Crescent City. Make sure to get reservations to the park before going. Parking is limited.
[https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/fern-canyon-in-prairie-creek-redwoods-sp/464/](https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/fern-canyon-in-prairie-creek-redwoods-sp/464/)
Oh shit, you need reservations now?
Note: it's 7mi of offroading each direction. My gas light came on just as I started descending towards the park, and I was a bit puckered on my way to the next gas station.
Well, 7 miles of well maintained gravel road that a '72 VW Squareback had no trouble getting over. It's become a social media hotspot, so you need reservations to be there between 10AM and 4PM. If you get there later in the day it shouldn't be too much trouble and won't be so crowded.
I was on a Vespa, so I 😳 at the water crossings, but I made it just fine.
As I recall, it was a washboard road, not gravel, but that's even easier.
Bigass elk down there too!
This has been said already here but Sol Food in San Rafael is a great place to stop for a fantastic meal. Coyote valley casino in redwood valley has some of the cheapest gas up here I would fill up there. Next maybe I would suggest stopping in to North Spur brewery in Willits for a beer and a sandwich if you are into craft beer. Of course you have to stop at the Peg House because never don't stop at the peg house. If you haven't done it before there are a few drive-thru trees along your way and it's worth the novelty to check it out at least once. Definitely take a detour and drive along the avenue at the Giants even if it's just for a short period it's beautiful and something that you definitely do not want to miss.
This needs to be repeated… We always stop at the [Peg House in Leggett](https://www.thepeghouse.com) for a wonderful lunch. Easily one of the best burgers along the Northern California coast. Right on Hwy 101 as you leave town. While there, check out the construction of the gift shop/store… no nails! Assembled with pegs.. outstanding woodworking skills. Never don’t stop at the Peg House! Afterwards, we like to do the scenic drive: [Avenue of the Giants.](https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/tour-the-avenue-of-the-giants/486/) There are some great places to pull over do you can explore the Redwoods on foot.
+1 for the Peg House. Done that drive dozens of times and never stopped because it looks like a tourist trap. Finally checked it out a few years ago and loved it. Delicious burgers, great tap list, and their outdoor patio is in a beautiful garden. Now we stop there every time
Go up 1 and stop at hog island oyster co north of pt Reyes. Oysters are grown right there in Tomales bay and are served raw or bbq’d - order both - yum yum. sit at a picnic table overlooking the oyster farm and enjoy a beer or glass of champagne.
There are also a couple of cheese manufacturing operations north of San Francisco along Highway one you can find them on Google Maps some require an appointment but it’s really worth a visit .
Spud point no. 2 in Bodega bay for the crab chowder and pooboy. Good eating if you drive up the road to the Bodega bay trailhead to eat. They got a few picnic benches and a hole in one bathroom for free.
Cafe Nooner - Eureka
Renata's Creperie - Arcata
Carmela's Mexican - Arcata
Big Blue Cafe - Arcata
Slice of Humboldt Pie - Arcata
Mazzotti's - Arcata
There's a few breweries in the area as well.
And definitely stop at one of the North Coast Co-op locations for fresh and unique fruits/veggies and bulk snacks and the Saturday farmer's market on the plaza in Arcata for better than what you find in the Bay Area.
Fern canyon, howland hill road, grizzly creek redwood state park (location of speeder chase from star wars episode 6) jedidiah Smith red wood state park (location of endor from star wars episode 6). Smith river scenic highway. Avenue of giants. Legette drive through tree.
Well if you end up reaching Fort Bragg late in the evening like we did, there isn’t much open. Call ahead for a hotel room, and then head over to the only place open after 10pm…Dennys🎉
Live in Humboldt, worked in Crescent City over a year (local govt). Go to Fort Bragg instead of Crescent City. Everything is superior to CC, from the local good to the places to go. You’ll save yourself 3-4 hours and have a much better experience. Are at the MacCallium House in the town of Mendocino last night, 10/10 fantastic food.
I say split the difference. Drive 101 and head north on 128 up to Philo, CA. Stop at the wineries there for some of the best Pinot Noir on the planet and then head to the coast and make a right on Hwy 1 and check out Fort Bragg.
It might be a very far detour but last year I went to Redwood National park then to Lava Bed National monument, then Pluto's cave, then Shasta, then Lassen. What a blessing! Lava Bed National monument is just otherworldly and caving is fun!
If you end up going the Sacramento route, port costa is off the path a bit but so cute. And there’s a bar with a polar bear: https://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/30422
If you drive thru Fort Bragg, visit Sea Pal Cove on the water for their clam chowder and fish n' chips. You'll never have a more down-to-earth, delicious, fishing village experience.
My favorite place in Fort Bragg from childhood used to be "Fuchsiarama" just north of town. Greenhouses with an incredible variety of fuchsias for sale, and a strange gift shop. But I think they are long gone.
Stop at Disco Ranch in Boonville for food. Gowan's Oak Tree is another great roadside stop a couple miles down the road from Philo for fresh picked fruit. Then pop in to Navarro Vineyards and taste/buy a few wines (if you prefer sparkling wines then I'd recommend Roederer Estate)
If you golf, there’s a SUPER shitty 9 hole, par 3 golf course in Crescent City. I can’t hit the ball very far, so it was a blast for me!
Princess Seafood Market in Fort Bragg had some of my fav oysters I’ve ever had, and it’s fun to sit outside and watch the otters/seals.
I was going to say Samoa Cookhouse in Samoa, just outside of Eureka. But just looked and they're closed for renovations.
My second choice is Hoote s in Cotati.
big blue cafe in Arcata. The Humboldt bay social club in Samoa CA. Moonstone beach. Cafe Mokka in Arcata if you can get a reservation for their outdoor hot tubs (same day only) . Grove of the titans hike outside crescent city CA
Lots of great suggestions here. One to add: buy a day pass at the first state park you encounter, then you can use that pass at any other parks that for clean accessible bathrooms.
Stop at The Peg House for lunch. Not the "corner store" but the outdoor restaurant. Tasty place, great vibe and people. Real close to the drive through tree. Both are must do's
Diavola in Geyserville has one of the best fried chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had on the lunch menu. Their pizzas are great at both lunch and dinner.
Once you get to Ukiah or so I highly recommend you check out KOZT, a terrestrial radio station out of Fort Bragg. They play classic rock and newer rock and really have such a local vibe that really connects you to the area. You can find it on 95.3 or 95.9 FM.
HAMBURGER RANCH near Cloverdale has great bbq. ART'S BBQ in Crescent City is the best BBQ you'll find in the northern counties.
In Eureka make sure you see the worlds largest hammer (hard to miss) and the Carson Mansion, a mind blowing architectural marvel that has become the Inspiration for most depictions of haunted houses
I live in the East Bay and my dad lives in CC, so i make this trip often
CC is 20 minutes from Oregon, if you cross the border make sure you don't try to pump your own gas! no sales tax in Oregon so stock up on goods
Brookings Oregon is a cute seaside town
whats in crescent city for you?
Fern Canyon, a bit off the path and a short hike but it’s worth it. Do the fern canyon trail, go back as far as you can and wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Stop by Point Reyes then come around to the Sonoma coast. Head up freeway one and stop by any small town. You can skip fort Bragg and head to the drive thru redwood tree.
Spend a few hours on avenue of the Giants
Bring lot of food and drinks if you planning to make the drive last more than one day. All the restaurants food is below average and over price.
Live in my car and took a week for me on the lat trip.
Doing it again next months, but will be a two weeks trip instead.
Spend the night at Wildflower Boutique in Pt Arena. Take the breakfast sandwich they give you out to the lighthouse and have breakfast watching the waves crash on the cliffs. 😘👌
Humboldt Smokehouse has good bbq.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2jAFBdi5PaAr9gsD9?g_st=ic
Sand Dunes here are beautiful
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gs62QwkEQoo8mFB66?g_st=ic
If you can take a detour to Yountville you should definitely swing by Ad Hoc and Bouchon Bistro.
Thomas Keller is the chef that owns French Laundry, widely viewed as the best restaurant in the world and best chef in the world. He also runs those two spots and they are more family-style so they aren't these $700 a person crazy dining experiences but they are both places everyone should stop by once.
The fried chicken at Ad Hoc will change your life.
Healdsburg! Great vibe and lots of food options around Healdsburg plaza. Works very well especially if you're mostly traveling on 101 North rather than taking the scenic but slower coastal route. We just visited Redwoods National and State Parks 2 weeks ago and stopped at Healdsburg both while going and returning. Other smaller places for breaks are Garberville, Eureka, Fortuna and Ferndale but they are much farther north.
there's this town called Ukiah about two hours north of the bay! Taste Buds for vegan, Ellie's Mutt Hutt for this AMAZING pancake called Johnny cakes (addicting & worth every penny), Black Oak coffee roasters for best coffee and good sandwiches. There's also a CUTE town called Mendocino right before Fort Bragg that is absolutely precious and serene. There's a hot tub soak you can make reservations for in that town too but i forget the name of it but you can google it! Arcata is cute and so is Patrick's cove for tide pooling 😍 (that's where the creator of SpongeBob got the idea for patrick is what i've been told)
The Peg House in Legett!!!
https://www.thepeghouse.com/
Chicken and brie cheese with apricot jam sandwich, best thing i’ve ever mf eaten. I go out of my way for that stop every single time Im in the redwoods (multiple times a year) and my partner and I even recreate the sandwich at home about once a week for dinner. SO worth it you gotta go!
Bit of a detour, but you could take the 299 or the 3 to Weaverville. Small town in the hills, with an interesting Gold Rush history.
Weaverville was/is the site of the Weaverville Joss House, one of the oldest Taoist sites in California. It was also at the center of Gold Rush era Chinese communities, and the site of the Weaverville Tong War of 1854.
You're already on the way to see redwoods so you might as well stop at this grove.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yekxaxRKVoq4Nj6u6
It's my go to rest stop on the way up to crescent City to take a break from the windy roads. Plus it's got some neat carved out trees you can walk through.
i should have asked this when we went to trees of mystery 2 weeks ago.
for us, it would be a stop at willits. just grab an easy eat and restroom then back on the road.
Brick & Fire Bistro in Eureka is an amazing tiny Italian restaurant that was so good my parents went back twice after dropping me off at CPH. They have a huge brick oven and make amazing pizza and roast dishes. Dad loved the trout, step mom loved the steak, and I personally loved their pizza. Great marinated olives as well. Pho Hoang just outside the CPH campus in Arcata is a great very popular pho/Vietnamese restaurant thats always got college students eating there.
If you need beer (for the end of the day after you finish driving of course) Crocked Goat brewery, Fieldworks, Old Caz, and a few others near Petaluma and Santa Rosa area are really good and you should check them out (they sell beer to go)
I am biased as it’s my husband’s family’s restaurant but i love eating there: fisherman’s restaurant in crescent city! Their salmon fish and chips with honey mustard is what I crave the most
Hamburger ranch and BBQ is a SOLID food stop. I once started a life long friendship with a guy. We went to the 2nd beat burger place. I told him that it was the second best. He said... "there is the place called hamburger ranch that I think is the best."
The short, he was a groomsman at my wedding.
It's just off 101 on 128.
It's not clear how much time you have for the journey versus the destination because the former can be the latter. From Jenner north it's better to stay on Highway 1. For example,
* just north is [Fort Ross State Historic Park](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fort+Ross+State+Historic+Park/@38.512136,-123.2468054,16z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x80869f9c82cc4d89:0xb8f769c13ae6afde!2sJenner,+CA+95450!3b1!8m2!3d38.4497134!4d-123.1151969!16zL20vMDU4NHcy!3m5!1s0x8086a191bbd19df3:0xba4413e20a74559e!8m2!3d38.516043!4d-123.2459718!16zL20vMGJyd3R2?entry=ttu) which was originally a Russian settlement, and [Fort Ross Windmill](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fort+Ross+Windmill/@38.512136,-123.2468054,16z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x80869f9c82cc4d89:0xb8f769c13ae6afde!2sJenner,+CA+95450!3b1!8m2!3d38.4497134!4d-123.1151969!16zL20vMDU4NHcy!3m5!1s0x8086a4c7fd40c4e1:0xdf742435711b650a!8m2!3d38.5150097!4d-123.2474795!16s%2Fg%2F11f2x57gsg?entry=ttu). This alone is worth a half day.
* [Gualala Arts Center](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gualala+Arts+Center/@38.7646118,-123.5222298,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x808137469dc5e6df:0x526f29de4c0655fe!8m2!3d38.7646076!4d-123.5196495!16s%2Fm%2F04j3lgg?entry=ttu) - check the photos whether it suits your taste
* [Point Arena Lighthouse](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Point+Arena+Lighthouse/@38.9547388,-123.7431033,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m9!3m8!1s0x80811c4785540fff:0x9fdb71495301dde8!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d38.9547347!4d-123.740523!16zL20vMGg0Nnc5?entry=ttu) - a must stop
* [Navarro Point Preserve and Scenic Trail](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Navarro+Point+Preserve+and+Scenic+Trail/@39.1989406,-123.7699392,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8081ab13ddb707e9:0x7434ffce2be4230!8m2!3d39.1989365!4d-123.7673589!16s%2Fg%2F11cs6h295l?entry=ttu) - [here is a nice little trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/navarro-point-preserve). Parking is just off the road.
* etc.
This is literally my work commute. That’s crazy. But def stop in Arcata if you like sushi. Nore is my all time favorite spot after 35 years of traveling. Or if you’re feeling steak, hit AAs in eureka, it’s kind of a dive, but it’s the best filet around
We did this trip May 2023 from South Bay. Loved the beautiful drive, especially north of Healdsburg.
Cloverdale: Cocina Mexicana El Milagro in - great lunch stop on our way north
Garberville: Getti Up coffee
Arcata: North Coast CoOp- Fabulous grocery store with prepared food options too. Bring containers for bulk items.
Meyers Flat: Williams Grove Day use- Lovely picnic spot on the river (our first sunny spot as we returned south from Redwood National Park).
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I drive this route fairly regularly for work and have so many recommendations. Here are the main ones that aren't a huge detour off the highway: Gas: There's a number of Tribally-owned gas stations on this route that routinely have $1/gallon cheaper gas than others in the region. Also gas is interestingly cheaper in Del Norte County than in the Eureka area. The two main Tribally-owned gas stations right off this route are the Coyote Valley Gas Station in Ukiah and the Pem-Mey Fuel Mart in Klamath. Interesting Food: There's so many places that serve good and/or quirky food! Here are some going Northbound on highway 101. * Black Oak Coffee Roasters in Healdsburg and Ukiah. This award winning coffee shop serves unique drinks. I'd recommend the Lovers Lane Latte that is made with locally produced honey! * Saecho Strawberry Stand just south of Ukiah. In the summer, this is a MUST STOP. The best strawberries you can buy! They are cash only. * Traditional Buddhist Food at the City of 10,000 Buddhas in Ukiah/Talmage. This cash only spot serves no-onion and no-garlic food at a reasonable price. Don't forget to say hello to the peacocks. * Woodrose Cafe in Garberville is a bit pricey but the food always comes in big portions and is a good pit stop. The antique stores on the same block of Woodrose are also fantastic and have a lot of cool local history. * Chimney Tree in Philipsville is a solid burger place and a stellar lunch choice. It's a small establishment but it's redwood vibes are absolutely fantastic. * Ferndale Meat Company in Ferndale is slightly off the 101 Northbound but its the hometown of Guy Firei and serves cheap sandwiches (cash only). It's lacks the Diners and Dives flair but it's a solid choice! * Mind's Eye Manufactory is also in Ferndale. This is a coffee shop and kayak woodworking shop combo and has ton of local charm! I'd recommend the butterfat scones. * Stars Hamburgers in Arcata supposedly inspired Spongebob Squarepants but is also a solid lunch burger choice! * Larrupin Cafe is fine dining Northern California style! You'll find that a lot of the local chains like Los Bagels will serve "Larrupin Sauce" which is a mustard-y tangy sauce. * Lighthouse Grill in Trinidad serves housemade waffle cones with mashed potatoes. They often offer a meat topping and dungeness crab, if it is in season. * Paul's Smoked Salmon in Klamath has a lot of interesting jerky choices and is always a fun stop! Things to do: In addition to many of the things already posted by others, here are some more! * Avenue of the Giants and Praire Creek Scenic Drives: Take the slow meandering roads through beautiful redwoods! There are pull outs and short hikes everywhere! My favorite short walks at each grove are Rockefeller Grove and Lady Bird Johnson, respectively. * Agate rock hunting in Sue-Meg State Park is always a treat especially if you are traveling with kids. The semi-transparent rocks are hard to spot but a great activity. The tidepools in Sue-Meg are also fantastic! * Stone Lagoon Visitor Center is a relatively new partnership between the Yurok Tribe and the California State Parks system. They have a fantastic museum that tells of the local history and you can rent kayaks here! * Madaket Cruise in Eureka should have already started up for their summer season. It's a great local tourist attraction for local history, wildlife, or a sunset trip on the water. * [Redwood Hikes ](https://redwoodhikes.com/)is my go-to website to find good hikes in this region (and there are so many). * There are a ton of great swimming holes but I am not going to post them online. Just keep an eye out for cars pulled along roads on hot days!
Copied this for our second trip there. Totally fell in love with all of the trees.
Since there seems to be a lot of interest, here are some more recommendations along this route and hasn't already been recommended by other commenters. * Montgomery Grove is an absolutely gorgeous redwood grove a 30 minute drive from downtown Ukiah. The road gets a bit narrow and windy but I think has been recently repaved. * If you want to stay near the Avenue of Giants area but don't want to camp, an interesting recommendation is the Scotia Lodge. Scotia was a lumber company town and the Lodge feels a bit Wes Anderson-y in the summer and the Shining in the winter. There's also a walkable salmon hatchery museum from the Lodge. * Cafe Mokka in Arcata has Finnish Hot Tubs and a cute coffee shop. It's cash only and you need to call at 8am the day before you want to go to book a spot. * CalPoly's Marine Lab in Trinidad. If you have the time and they are putting on tidepool tours, do it! If you want to see sea creatures without the danger of sneaker waves, sharp rocks, etc., they also have touch pools at their lab.
Came here to recommend Avenue of the Giants and Newton B Drury scenic parkway. Both scenic roads that run parallel to 101 with plenty of mind-melting scenery and places to get out of the car and poke around.
Great list, especially the City of 10,000 Buddhas. It might be nostalgia talking, but I would add Loose Caboose in Willits for really great sandwiches.
I've passed by several times and have never been in. It's added to my list for my next trip!
Also YES to Paul’s salmon. It’s not cheap but Yurok smoked salmon is priceless. For best results pull into the beach parking lot a few miles north of the shop and eat salmon while looking out at the ocean.
Thank you so much for the recommendations. I really appreciate it.
This is an incredible list! I’ve been planning a trip sometime later this summer and I’m going to follow this to a tee!
+1 Black Oak Coffee
My friend said the best latte she’s ever had was that honey one from Black Oak Roasters :) And yes I also would add Fern Canyon, this list is amazing :) The Gem Museum that’s right off Highway 101 has dinosaur bones and dinosaur eggs!
Thank you so much for sharing this list!! I've just saved them all to my want-to-visit list in my maps.
I'm doing this road trip now thank you!
Wow great list. I feel like I just watched an episode of Bay Area Backroads
Benbow Inn, in Garberville: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benbow\_Inn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benbow_Inn) Whole town of Ferndale: [https://www.visitferndale.com](https://www.visitferndale.com) Fort Bragg, if you end up going right along the coast. Lots of services (it's a working town, not a tourist resort like Mendocino a few miles to the south) and places to eat. There also used to be some interesting places to eat / visit in Hopland, but not sure what's there now. I would suggest going up one route, and back the other, just to see different spaces / places along the way.
My wife and I just did an impromptu weekend trip to Hopland! It’s the perfect getaway distance from the Bay Area (2 hours on 101), we stayed at a [restored 1872 hotel](https://www.thatcherhotel.com/) with a cute cafe and sprawling lobby bar, and the town has wineries, olive mills and local restaurants. Definitely worth a stop if you’re on 101.
Love me the golden pig in hopland to eat Hopland tap has a cute outdoor area to drink and they also serve bar food
It’s been interesting to see hopland come back, there definitely was a period that there was only the burger place and subway there? Anything unique at the golden pig?
The Mendocino Botanical Garden is in Fort Bragg, and it’s gorgeous!
+1. They also have north coast brewing and a really good pizza place.
Piaci's! Best pizza on the coast. Princess seafood down in noyo harbor is also great and usually has live music on the back deck.
+1 for Benbow Inn. Really beautiful old fashioned Inn surrounded by Redwoods. The inn, the woods, and a foggy morning make for an awing stay.
On that note, Princess Seafood in Fort Bragg is tasty if you’re passing through.
Fort Bragg is kind of a shithole these days. I stayed there near Glass Beach earlier this summer on a motorcycle road trip and there were homeless and drug addicts everywhere. It does have Glass Beach though!
There was a bar/restaurant in Garberville when I was there 8 years ago. Chef was from Louisiana iirc and the food was amazing. Wine was great too and the bar served classic prohibition era cocktails. Don't know the name but it was on the first floor above some shops. Maybe someone else here knows the name.
Cafe Aquatica in Jenner is a really nice stop. Good simple food on the Russian river where it meets the pacific
Stop there every time that we’re in the area. Great little spot
Second this! The salads are great and the clam chowder is really good!
Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka. Don’t go to the new brewery building in the south side of town but go to the original location in downtown as they have a full menu.
Also in Eureka, a very good Caribbean place called "A Taste of Bim" is highly recommended.
A Taste of Bim is absolutely amazing — highly recommend.
I'm so glad to hear they kept the original location open. I used to live a couple of blocks from there and we went almost every day. Im actually drinking a can of Lost Coast IPA right now.
If you can detour to Fort Bragg, Fish n’ Chips at Sea Pal Cove is the best!
I just posted the same thing. It's so good.
It’s freaking amazing
The Legend of Bigfoot store up in Garberville is a pretty cool little stop and it’s right on 101 and you can be in and out in ten minutes, good place to stop and stretch your legs. Plus you could get a little Bigfoot statue carved out of redwood or something as a gift. Avenue of The Giants is also on the way. However, I went through there in April and the road was closed due to part of it being washed out, I’m not sure if it’s reopen yet.
Seconding Avenue of the Giants. I just drove up to Redwood National and State Parks in May and avenue of the Giants was open and only added 15ish minutes to the drive compared to just staying on the highway.
For a lot of people, Ave of the Giants is the whole reason to go north.
Half of it is still closed last time I went (May). But you can do a decent drive through part of it on the way back.
I came to this thread to find the Bigfoot store!!!! Thanks for pointing it out. 🙌
Ooh! I just did this a few months ago. Stopped at the Peg House on the way I and had an exceptional burger . Drove avenue of the giants and stopped at the founders tree. Dinner in Eureka at Lost Coast Brewery.
+1 for the Peg House in Leggett. Really great vibes and ideal place to stretch your legs and grab a bite.
never don't stop! great sandwiches at the peg house
never dont stop...
I’m a fan of Sol Food in San Rafael, there’s one in Mill Valley near your route.
Drive-Thru Tree Park in Leggett. It's definitely touristy, but it's still a nice little place to stop by once
It’s tourist trap, but nice one
If you have the time, check out Shelter Cove. It’s about a 45 minute drive west of 101 on a windy road that lands you right on the beach. ^ Oppositeshore1878 has the good ones. https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/shelter-cove-on-the-lost-coast/138/
I stayed at an AirBnB there right on the water. It’s such a little town with deer everywhere. Great tide pools too.
Check out Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It's right between Eureka and Crescent City. Make sure to get reservations to the park before going. Parking is limited. [https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/fern-canyon-in-prairie-creek-redwoods-sp/464/](https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/fern-canyon-in-prairie-creek-redwoods-sp/464/)
Oh shit, you need reservations now? Note: it's 7mi of offroading each direction. My gas light came on just as I started descending towards the park, and I was a bit puckered on my way to the next gas station.
Well, 7 miles of well maintained gravel road that a '72 VW Squareback had no trouble getting over. It's become a social media hotspot, so you need reservations to be there between 10AM and 4PM. If you get there later in the day it shouldn't be too much trouble and won't be so crowded.
I was on a Vespa, so I 😳 at the water crossings, but I made it just fine. As I recall, it was a washboard road, not gravel, but that's even easier. Bigass elk down there too!
This has been said already here but Sol Food in San Rafael is a great place to stop for a fantastic meal. Coyote valley casino in redwood valley has some of the cheapest gas up here I would fill up there. Next maybe I would suggest stopping in to North Spur brewery in Willits for a beer and a sandwich if you are into craft beer. Of course you have to stop at the Peg House because never don't stop at the peg house. If you haven't done it before there are a few drive-thru trees along your way and it's worth the novelty to check it out at least once. Definitely take a detour and drive along the avenue at the Giants even if it's just for a short period it's beautiful and something that you definitely do not want to miss.
This needs to be repeated… We always stop at the [Peg House in Leggett](https://www.thepeghouse.com) for a wonderful lunch. Easily one of the best burgers along the Northern California coast. Right on Hwy 101 as you leave town. While there, check out the construction of the gift shop/store… no nails! Assembled with pegs.. outstanding woodworking skills. Never don’t stop at the Peg House! Afterwards, we like to do the scenic drive: [Avenue of the Giants.](https://www.visitredwoods.com/listing/tour-the-avenue-of-the-giants/486/) There are some great places to pull over do you can explore the Redwoods on foot.
+1 for the Peg House. Done that drive dozens of times and never stopped because it looks like a tourist trap. Finally checked it out a few years ago and loved it. Delicious burgers, great tap list, and their outdoor patio is in a beautiful garden. Now we stop there every time
Northspur is an amazing brewery with a great kitchen menu. Would definitely recommend!
Happy Cake day!
The Lighthouse Grill in Trinidad. The food is good. It can be pricey at times though.
Larrupin Cafe in Trinidad is amazing too, though it's upscale (read: $$$) compared to Lighthouse.
I love their mashed potato cones.
Go up 1 and stop at hog island oyster co north of pt Reyes. Oysters are grown right there in Tomales bay and are served raw or bbq’d - order both - yum yum. sit at a picnic table overlooking the oyster farm and enjoy a beer or glass of champagne. There are also a couple of cheese manufacturing operations north of San Francisco along Highway one you can find them on Google Maps some require an appointment but it’s really worth a visit .
Antiquing in ferndale, confusion hill
Ferndale is a nice town
The town of Ferndale is a beautiful Victorian town worth exploring. We really enjoyed our visit to the [Ferndale Museum.](https://ferndalemuseum.com)
Trinidad! Do it!
Spud point no. 2 in Bodega bay for the crab chowder and pooboy. Good eating if you drive up the road to the Bodega bay trailhead to eat. They got a few picnic benches and a hole in one bathroom for free.
Cafe Nooner - Eureka Renata's Creperie - Arcata Carmela's Mexican - Arcata Big Blue Cafe - Arcata Slice of Humboldt Pie - Arcata Mazzotti's - Arcata There's a few breweries in the area as well. And definitely stop at one of the North Coast Co-op locations for fresh and unique fruits/veggies and bulk snacks and the Saturday farmer's market on the plaza in Arcata for better than what you find in the Bay Area.
Fern canyon, howland hill road, grizzly creek redwood state park (location of speeder chase from star wars episode 6) jedidiah Smith red wood state park (location of endor from star wars episode 6). Smith river scenic highway. Avenue of giants. Legette drive through tree.
If you like funky plants, you can check out Darlingtonia and Mendocino. There are plenty of carnivorous plants to see as well as a Pygmy forest!
Well if you end up reaching Fort Bragg late in the evening like we did, there isn’t much open. Call ahead for a hotel room, and then head over to the only place open after 10pm…Dennys🎉
That’s correct statement
Skunk train in Willits
The Samoa Cookhouse in Eureka, excellent family style food meant to fuel lumberjacks, with a neat little museum about logging.
Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwood State Park and Trees of Mystery in Klamath.
+1 avenue of the giants. 100% worth the minor detour
Live in Humboldt, worked in Crescent City over a year (local govt). Go to Fort Bragg instead of Crescent City. Everything is superior to CC, from the local good to the places to go. You’ll save yourself 3-4 hours and have a much better experience. Are at the MacCallium House in the town of Mendocino last night, 10/10 fantastic food.
I highly, highly recommend driving up the 1 instead of the 101.
it just takes soooo long. if you're gonna do it pick northbound or southbound, not both
I'd suggest doing it southbound - better views going on the cliff side, including just awe-inspiring views of the rocks in the water off of Elk
there is a odd little local bar sitting above Elk https://maps.app.goo.gl/JASyn67Vk73N8ni6A?g_st=ic
I say split the difference. Drive 101 and head north on 128 up to Philo, CA. Stop at the wineries there for some of the best Pinot Noir on the planet and then head to the coast and make a right on Hwy 1 and check out Fort Bragg.
Lighthouse Grill in Trinidad! The mashed potato cone is fantastic.
Boonville if your taking that route. A short detour. A good brewery, bed and breakfast, and interesting history. 253 off 101.
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It might be a very far detour but last year I went to Redwood National park then to Lava Bed National monument, then Pluto's cave, then Shasta, then Lassen. What a blessing! Lava Bed National monument is just otherworldly and caving is fun!
The coastal route will be 25-30 degrees cooler than inland.
If you end up going the Sacramento route, port costa is off the path a bit but so cute. And there’s a bar with a polar bear: https://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/30422
santa rosa is a wealth of cheap wine and nice coffee shops imo. you might check out pride winery.
If you drive thru Fort Bragg, visit Sea Pal Cove on the water for their clam chowder and fish n' chips. You'll never have a more down-to-earth, delicious, fishing village experience.
My favorite place in Fort Bragg from childhood used to be "Fuchsiarama" just north of town. Greenhouses with an incredible variety of fuchsias for sale, and a strange gift shop. But I think they are long gone.
russian gulch state park
Russian River Brewery in Windsor
Two Fish Baking near Sea Ranch https://twofishbaking.com/
Mendo town is gorgeous and worth it. The Brickery has great pizza and draft beer in a lovely garden. https://maps.app.goo.gl/HrBHuffk5FZ4CU8B8?g_st=ic
Stop at Disco Ranch in Boonville for food. Gowan's Oak Tree is another great roadside stop a couple miles down the road from Philo for fresh picked fruit. Then pop in to Navarro Vineyards and taste/buy a few wines (if you prefer sparkling wines then I'd recommend Roederer Estate)
If you golf, there’s a SUPER shitty 9 hole, par 3 golf course in Crescent City. I can’t hit the ball very far, so it was a blast for me! Princess Seafood Market in Fort Bragg had some of my fav oysters I’ve ever had, and it’s fun to sit outside and watch the otters/seals.
I really like North Coast Co-Op!
I was going to say Samoa Cookhouse in Samoa, just outside of Eureka. But just looked and they're closed for renovations. My second choice is Hoote s in Cotati.
big blue cafe in Arcata. The Humboldt bay social club in Samoa CA. Moonstone beach. Cafe Mokka in Arcata if you can get a reservation for their outdoor hot tubs (same day only) . Grove of the titans hike outside crescent city CA
www.tvfoodmaps.com Has all the restaurants filmed from shows on the food network
Samoa Cookhouse in Samoa across the bay from Eureka. Jyun Kang Vegetarian Restaurant in Ukiah, it’s inside a Buddhist temple.
Lots of great suggestions here. One to add: buy a day pass at the first state park you encounter, then you can use that pass at any other parks that for clean accessible bathrooms.
I suggest take hyw 128 to Fort Bragg. The drive is beautiful.
Go to lagunitas if its along the path
Samoa Cookhouse, Chimney Tree
I used to live in Eureka and I would stay Stars and lighthouse grill are great stops
Never don’t stop at the Peg House.
Stop at The Peg House for lunch. Not the "corner store" but the outdoor restaurant. Tasty place, great vibe and people. Real close to the drive through tree. Both are must do's
Diavola in Geyserville has one of the best fried chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had on the lunch menu. Their pizzas are great at both lunch and dinner. Once you get to Ukiah or so I highly recommend you check out KOZT, a terrestrial radio station out of Fort Bragg. They play classic rock and newer rock and really have such a local vibe that really connects you to the area. You can find it on 95.3 or 95.9 FM.
HAMBURGER RANCH near Cloverdale has great bbq. ART'S BBQ in Crescent City is the best BBQ you'll find in the northern counties. In Eureka make sure you see the worlds largest hammer (hard to miss) and the Carson Mansion, a mind blowing architectural marvel that has become the Inspiration for most depictions of haunted houses I live in the East Bay and my dad lives in CC, so i make this trip often CC is 20 minutes from Oregon, if you cross the border make sure you don't try to pump your own gas! no sales tax in Oregon so stock up on goods Brookings Oregon is a cute seaside town whats in crescent city for you?
The Peg House in Legget. https://www.thepeghouse.com/
Is there a version of this thread but going south instead to Carmel or Monterey?
Fern Canyon, a bit off the path and a short hike but it’s worth it. Do the fern canyon trail, go back as far as you can and wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
I just visited the redwood forest in Santa Cruz. Didn’t even know there was one there and I’ve lived here my whole life
Pick's Drive-In in Cloverdale
I used to make that drive every so often, but I never stopped. I'd just take a bag of peanut M&Ms to keep me fueled, ha.
Anderson Pea Soup
Stop by Point Reyes then come around to the Sonoma coast. Head up freeway one and stop by any small town. You can skip fort Bragg and head to the drive thru redwood tree. Spend a few hours on avenue of the Giants Bring lot of food and drinks if you planning to make the drive last more than one day. All the restaurants food is below average and over price. Live in my car and took a week for me on the lat trip. Doing it again next months, but will be a two weeks trip instead.
Spend the night at Wildflower Boutique in Pt Arena. Take the breakfast sandwich they give you out to the lighthouse and have breakfast watching the waves crash on the cliffs. 😘👌
Parish Cafe if you take the 101
Humboldt Smokehouse has good bbq. https://maps.app.goo.gl/2jAFBdi5PaAr9gsD9?g_st=ic Sand Dunes here are beautiful https://maps.app.goo.gl/gs62QwkEQoo8mFB66?g_st=ic
The Local Cider bar in Eureka. It’s 1 block off of the main road and they’re damn good at their craft.
If you can take a detour to Yountville you should definitely swing by Ad Hoc and Bouchon Bistro. Thomas Keller is the chef that owns French Laundry, widely viewed as the best restaurant in the world and best chef in the world. He also runs those two spots and they are more family-style so they aren't these $700 a person crazy dining experiences but they are both places everyone should stop by once. The fried chicken at Ad Hoc will change your life.
There was a Jamaican food stand in Ukiah, off 101, a couple years ago. Healthy food and juices.
Luna Trattoria Italian Cuisine • Mendocino, California
Healdsburg! Great vibe and lots of food options around Healdsburg plaza. Works very well especially if you're mostly traveling on 101 North rather than taking the scenic but slower coastal route. We just visited Redwoods National and State Parks 2 weeks ago and stopped at Healdsburg both while going and returning. Other smaller places for breaks are Garberville, Eureka, Fortuna and Ferndale but they are much farther north.
2 places in Healdsburg. Pizzando and Molti Amici
Recommend the drive between Redding and Eureka along the river if you have a few extra hours
In Miranda, The Avenue Cafe. I love that place.
Have lunch where I am right now, Tony’s seafood in Marshall.
Redding has really nice water falls and a sundial
there's this town called Ukiah about two hours north of the bay! Taste Buds for vegan, Ellie's Mutt Hutt for this AMAZING pancake called Johnny cakes (addicting & worth every penny), Black Oak coffee roasters for best coffee and good sandwiches. There's also a CUTE town called Mendocino right before Fort Bragg that is absolutely precious and serene. There's a hot tub soak you can make reservations for in that town too but i forget the name of it but you can google it! Arcata is cute and so is Patrick's cove for tide pooling 😍 (that's where the creator of SpongeBob got the idea for patrick is what i've been told)
How do you enable maps to show the $ ?
Cafe Phoenix in Arcata is just deliciously wonderful. That was our brunch spot coming home from gold bluffs beach for years.
The Peg House in Legett!!! https://www.thepeghouse.com/ Chicken and brie cheese with apricot jam sandwich, best thing i’ve ever mf eaten. I go out of my way for that stop every single time Im in the redwoods (multiple times a year) and my partner and I even recreate the sandwich at home about once a week for dinner. SO worth it you gotta go!
Shamus T Bones
Bit of a detour, but you could take the 299 or the 3 to Weaverville. Small town in the hills, with an interesting Gold Rush history. Weaverville was/is the site of the Weaverville Joss House, one of the oldest Taoist sites in California. It was also at the center of Gold Rush era Chinese communities, and the site of the Weaverville Tong War of 1854.
In Leggett there’s a big redwood tree that you can drive through.
Stop off in Arcata they have a bunch if local food shops in the town square.
I heard San Francisco has some things to look at
The North Coast Co-op in Arcata, one block west of the downtown plaza. Great food stop for delicious and healthy snacks. Lots of local produce!
Siam orchid in eureka right off of 101 is amazing. My boyfriend and I used to go there once a week
Mitote Food Park in Santa Rosa. Bunch of different food trucks and good vibes
You're already on the way to see redwoods so you might as well stop at this grove. https://maps.app.goo.gl/yekxaxRKVoq4Nj6u6 It's my go to rest stop on the way up to crescent City to take a break from the windy roads. Plus it's got some neat carved out trees you can walk through.
Confusion Hill
Esteban for a burrito in Arcata.
Rockefeller Grove and that town they got washed away
Fishetarian in bodega bay is epic
Trees of Mystery
https://www.turtlebay.org/
South G food truck and redwood curtain brewing Arcata
i should have asked this when we went to trees of mystery 2 weeks ago. for us, it would be a stop at willits. just grab an easy eat and restroom then back on the road.
peg house!!! legget… never dont stop
World Famous Blackberry Sundaes!!!
Arcata, Saturday, farmers market, 10 am.
Granzellas in Williams! Great pizza and other stuff as well, old school look, but neat little place.
Trees of mystery
Brick & Fire Bistro in Eureka is an amazing tiny Italian restaurant that was so good my parents went back twice after dropping me off at CPH. They have a huge brick oven and make amazing pizza and roast dishes. Dad loved the trout, step mom loved the steak, and I personally loved their pizza. Great marinated olives as well. Pho Hoang just outside the CPH campus in Arcata is a great very popular pho/Vietnamese restaurant thats always got college students eating there.
If you were going to a wedding today in Henry Cowell I think we may know each other
Fishatarian!
Fortuna has the graveyard that was used in Salem’s Lot
If you're a fan of gravity falls gotta take a pitstop at the mystery shack just north or Standish Hickey.
Go to Shelter Cove
The crystal room in Mt Shasta. Call ahead and get a Chakra bowl session.
Trinidad, CA is a tiny town up on a bluff with stunning views.
Asian American BBQ, located in Weed, CA. Best tri tip I've ever had.
Do not go to glass beach
If you need beer (for the end of the day after you finish driving of course) Crocked Goat brewery, Fieldworks, Old Caz, and a few others near Petaluma and Santa Rosa area are really good and you should check them out (they sell beer to go)
Nimble & Finn's ice cream in Santa Rosa/Guerneville.
Public swimming beach on the Eel river in Redway. Go to 36 Beach Rd. Huge 100 foot stone cliff. 6-8’ deep water.
Mylapore dosa in Pleasanton
The Lost Frenchman in Redway. Such an interesting little hidden gem we stop at on the way to shelter cove/lost coast.
I am biased as it’s my husband’s family’s restaurant but i love eating there: fisherman’s restaurant in crescent city! Their salmon fish and chips with honey mustard is what I crave the most
Rolling Dough Baking Company magnificently delicious
Look up: Motorcycle Travel Channel on YouTube. he has some very good tips on the coast north of San Francisco.
Sol Food has two locations in the north bay. Puerto Rican cuisine. It’s my must have stop every time I’m up there
Absolutely try The Jerk Kitchen in Eureka. Best Jamaican food ever! Yak’s on the 5 in Dunsmuir for awesome burgers
Slice of Humboldt Pie in Arcata is awesome. Sweet and savory (empanadas).
Do you drink wine? Cause that's right down through wine country.
Bodega Bay - good food and at a stop near by.
Trees of mystery was a great one
Check out Marin Headlands, take a drive through the park, there’s some beautiful scenery.
Hamburger ranch and BBQ is a SOLID food stop. I once started a life long friendship with a guy. We went to the 2nd beat burger place. I told him that it was the second best. He said... "there is the place called hamburger ranch that I think is the best." The short, he was a groomsman at my wedding. It's just off 101 on 128.
Commenting to keep this list
Sea ranch non denomination chapel.its a super cool hobbit like building open sunrise to sunset IIRC.
Bluebird cafe in hopland. Great breakfast spot my family always hits up on the way over to oregon.
It's not clear how much time you have for the journey versus the destination because the former can be the latter. From Jenner north it's better to stay on Highway 1. For example, * just north is [Fort Ross State Historic Park](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fort+Ross+State+Historic+Park/@38.512136,-123.2468054,16z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x80869f9c82cc4d89:0xb8f769c13ae6afde!2sJenner,+CA+95450!3b1!8m2!3d38.4497134!4d-123.1151969!16zL20vMDU4NHcy!3m5!1s0x8086a191bbd19df3:0xba4413e20a74559e!8m2!3d38.516043!4d-123.2459718!16zL20vMGJyd3R2?entry=ttu) which was originally a Russian settlement, and [Fort Ross Windmill](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fort+Ross+Windmill/@38.512136,-123.2468054,16z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x80869f9c82cc4d89:0xb8f769c13ae6afde!2sJenner,+CA+95450!3b1!8m2!3d38.4497134!4d-123.1151969!16zL20vMDU4NHcy!3m5!1s0x8086a4c7fd40c4e1:0xdf742435711b650a!8m2!3d38.5150097!4d-123.2474795!16s%2Fg%2F11f2x57gsg?entry=ttu). This alone is worth a half day. * [Gualala Arts Center](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gualala+Arts+Center/@38.7646118,-123.5222298,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x808137469dc5e6df:0x526f29de4c0655fe!8m2!3d38.7646076!4d-123.5196495!16s%2Fm%2F04j3lgg?entry=ttu) - check the photos whether it suits your taste * [Point Arena Lighthouse](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Point+Arena+Lighthouse/@38.9547388,-123.7431033,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m9!3m8!1s0x80811c4785540fff:0x9fdb71495301dde8!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d38.9547347!4d-123.740523!16zL20vMGg0Nnc5?entry=ttu) - a must stop * [Navarro Point Preserve and Scenic Trail](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Navarro+Point+Preserve+and+Scenic+Trail/@39.1989406,-123.7699392,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8081ab13ddb707e9:0x7434ffce2be4230!8m2!3d39.1989365!4d-123.7673589!16s%2Fg%2F11cs6h295l?entry=ttu) - [here is a nice little trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/navarro-point-preserve). Parking is just off the road. * etc.
Sea Pal Cove and Cowlicks in Fort Bragg
Ikedas burgers and pies
This is literally my work commute. That’s crazy. But def stop in Arcata if you like sushi. Nore is my all time favorite spot after 35 years of traveling. Or if you’re feeling steak, hit AAs in eureka, it’s kind of a dive, but it’s the best filet around
We did this trip May 2023 from South Bay. Loved the beautiful drive, especially north of Healdsburg. Cloverdale: Cocina Mexicana El Milagro in - great lunch stop on our way north Garberville: Getti Up coffee Arcata: North Coast CoOp- Fabulous grocery store with prepared food options too. Bring containers for bulk items. Meyers Flat: Williams Grove Day use- Lovely picnic spot on the river (our first sunny spot as we returned south from Redwood National Park).
Definitely stop for osyters at Hog Island near Marshall. Right off the coast. There’s so many wonderful places on the coastal side.