Pacific Coast Hwy Adventures
Extended Route: US-101 N, Exit 445B to CA-1 N (7 hrs min.)
Shorter Route: US-101 N, Exit 479 to CA-1 N (4.5 hrs min.)
***Click on underlined sections for more info***
Muir Woods National Monument
Make your reservations early and enjoy a walk among beautiful old growth redwoods. This National Monument is accessible for all levels of explorer. Not far from Highway 101, this stop is doable no matter what travel route you decide to take to Fort Bragg. If you’re not continuing up the Coastal Highway, return to Highway 101 to continue your drive.
Bolinas
*Extended Route Only*
Have some time to kill before heading to Fort Bragg? This is a great spot to grab an Airbnb for an overnight or two. Soak up some sun or take a surf lesson at Bolinas Beach. Like to hike? Check out Alamere Falls, one of only four waterfalls in the US that flows into the ocean. This is where we went on our first date. If you decided to make this hike please do your research on route options.
Pt Reyes Station
*Extended Route Only*
This darling little town is a favorite stop during our coastal adventures. We tend to spend an hour or two here just wandering around here with no real plans or agenda. Our favorite spots:
Cowgirl Creamery (cheese)
Point Reyes Books (books)
Old Western Saloon (booze)
Palace Market (ice cream)
Hog Island Oyster Co. Farm
*Extended Route Only*
In the tiny seaside town of Marshall you have numerous options for enjoying the jewel that is Hog Island Oyster Company:
Hog Shack - pick up oysters, fresh fish and picnic supplies to go. Daily from 9am - 5pm
The Boat Oyster Bar - this is the real deal experience. Do your research before you arrive to know what you’re getting into. Reservations are a MUST - plan to book as soon as they are released!
Farm Tour - want to dive a little deeper into the world of oysters? This is your ticket. Reservations required.
The following recommendations are accessible via extended or shorter Pacific Coast Highway routes
Rocker Oysterfeller’s
As The Pacific Coast Highway veers away from the ocean inland to the town of Valley Ford, you’d be silly to miss out on the opportunity to grab a bite to eat or a cold drink at this local favorite. Known for far more than oysters, Rocker Oysterfeller’s is a must stop. Also an option for an overnight stop at the classic Valley Ford Hotel.
Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy
Not really one of our must stops but this iconic pink and white stripped salt water taffy store has been in business since 1960. Absolutely worth a stop if you have kiddos, a sweet tooth, or just want a classic picture for your instagram. If you’re headed to Wright’s Beach (up next) make a stop at a kite store as well!
Wright’s Beach
This Sonoma County beach is where we often head to escape the Summer heat. It’s also where George eventually worked up the courage to propose on June 28, 2020. The day was extremely windy, George was extremely nervous, but the day was perfection none the less.
River’s End
Where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean you can find one our favorite places in the world: River’s End. Plan a stop on either end of your Fort Bragg adventures for a relaxing overnight stop. Book a cozy room, marvel at the sunset, and enjoy a memorial dinner. This special spot will always have our hearts. Reservations are a MUST to dine here.