California Beaches Blog

After you leave the big cities and hit the California coast between San Francisco and Humboldt County, one of the most interesting spots is Mendocino County coastline. Pulling up into the town of Point Arena, a dreamlike landscape of wild flowers mixed with tall grasses, rustic homes, and the Point Arena Lighthouse offer a step back in time. As you weave your way along country roads, often driving directly next to the Pacific Ocean, you may see wild deer roaming. And when you pull up to the historic light station in Point Arena, a sign warns you not to feed the raccoons.

Coming from the city, it’s a bit freaky to stop your car and have the critters come running up to it, acting like they’ll jump in the window if you leave it open. I have to confess that as a city slicker, I almost panicked, not knowing if little Rocky Raccoon was going to hop in.

From the seals and sea lions that claim this portion of the coast as their very own, often taking charge of the beaches, to the deer and fawns feeding in the tall grasses, it is one of the most delightful places to explore and observe the critters.

Among those animals of the wilds you may encounter, mammals include Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, black bear, mountain lion, coyote, bobcat, raccoon, marten, fisher, and river otter.

Birds include eagles, hawks, owls, peregrine falcon, osprey, and a variety of shore birds and waterfowl, including  marbled murrelet and northern spotted owl.

While it seems there’s no place quite like this, the entire coast is filled with animals you may come across. Respect their space and keep your distance if you can. Of all things you shouldn’t do, the top rule is, don’t try to feed them. The Mendocino coast is filled with plants, wild berries and foods that these animals feed on. With a camera in hand, you can take home a great memory and lessen your footprint by treading gingerly.