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Although Navarro (located on the northern coast in Mendocino County) is small and not very well known, it has so much to offer and provides an unforgettable Northern California experience of nature and culture.

Art scene

Painters, sculptors, and other artists call the Navarro area home, and most have showrooms, galleries, and exhibitions to share with locals and tourists alike.

Wilderness

There is no shortage of nature within this Redwoods town. What more could any nature lover want than luscious forests and the mysterious beauty of the Pacific Ocean? There are also countless campgrounds, state parks, and overlooks to soak in all the wonder.

Shoreline horseback riding

How better to enjoy those ocean views of the coast? Hop on a horse a ride through the sand and surf. There’s a few stables and ranches, such as Ross Ranch, that offer guided rides and horse rentals.

Shoreline horseback riding

Scenic drive to get there

Taking Highway 1 north to Navarro is totally worth the extra time and features drop-dead gorgeous views of the coast and the great California Redwoods. A second route option involves take Highway 101 and crossing over on 128, moving through the stretches of Anderson Valley Wine Region’s fields , miles of beautiful Redwoods, and later Pacific Ocean views.

Awe-inspiring sunsets

Simple yet effective, the sunsets against the California coast will leave anyone speechless.

Great coastal views

Another simple idea, but the California coast is one part of the planet that so many people wish they had the opportunity to see. Be one of those that get to cross this off their bucket list.

Coast

Bed & Breakfasts

Navarro’s gorgeous scenery, of course, means some of the most breathtaking properties are available as accommodation to settle. The Madrones is a farm-style compound where guests can stay and experience beautiful Italian farm life.

Fun weekend retreats

Outpost Trade Show is a brilliant hybrid of trade show, festival, and networking opportunity among the Redwoods. Lovers of nature, arts, and culture gather for a weekend-long retreat and are given lovely tents to stay in, delicious organic food, booze, and activities for an unforgettable experience.

Summer camping

Cafe

Camp Navarro offers a fun and classic summer camp experience that welcomes families, groups of friends, and solo travelers. Dedicated to keep the breathtaking atmosphere of camp alive, Camp Navarro hosts camp games, activities, bonfires, and the onsite Trading Post Cafe also offers Wi-Fi.

Restaurants

Some of the best American food—local, classic, and delicious—can be found in Navarro. Some of the best restaurants include The Bewildered Pig and Stone and Embers.

Wineries

The surrounding Navarro area has seemingly endless phenomenal wineries and tasting rooms, best known for its cool-climate reds, like pinot noir, and its French sparkling wines. No matter which winery (or wineries) visitors choose, it will surely be worth it.

Breweries

It’s not just wine here—Navarro is also surrounded by multiple breweries, including Anderson Valley Brewing Company, Ukiah Brewing Company, and Mendocino Brewing Company. Head over to one or more of the breweries’ bars and tasting rooms and indulge in these delicious local beers.

Food, wine, and beer

Rich Native American history

Navarro is rich with Native American history—here’s just a snippet: as settlers made their way into Indian-controlled land in the west, newspapers began publishing sensationalized stories of native tribes massacring hundreds of travelers at a time, paving the way for severe, self-fulfilling hostility between the two groups.

Spiritual landmarks

The City Of Ten Thousand Buddhas is a Buddhist monastery was founded by Hsuan Hua, a respectable master in Western Buddhism. Visitors are allowed day tours to the monastery, which also includes a restaurant and gift store. There are also overnight stays are allowed for things like Dharma sessions, events, and other celebrations.

Shopping

Shopping around Navarro guarantees finding hidden treasures and even one-of-a-kind pieces. Places like The Rock Stop offer bracelets made from beautiful natural materials, and Native American art and jewelry are abundant, as are antiques.

About the author

Deanna Morgado, a Bay Area native, is a self-taught writer and all-around art enthusiast. She’s willing to try anything at least once as long as she can write about it after.

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