When it comes to beautiful coastal areas throughout the United States, a few classics come to mind: Cape Cod, Big Sur, the Florida Keys, among others. It’s easy to limit travel plans to these highly traversed parts of the country, but there’s something undeniably magical about venturing to a lesser-known beach paradise. Travel inspiration agency Tiny Atlas Quarterly recently released its list of top hidden beach locales throughout the world, and there’s one American coastline that belongs on your bucket list.
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Flickr/Sheila Sund California’s Mendocino Coastline stretches for approximately 90 miles along the breathtaking blues waves of the Pacific Ocean. Situated primarily within Mendocino County itself, there’s something for everyone in this oft-overlooked section of the Golden State, and you might just feel as if you’ve uncovered a secret realm when you arrive. Mendocino sits north of San Francisco, separated from the world-famous rugged beauty of Big Sur - but the sights you’ll find here are just as marvelous.
TripAdvisor/DtripperJ There’s so much to uncover throughout the region, from peaceful pockets of natural beauty to charming businesses, eateries, and other attractions. Manchester State Beach is an absolute must visit, offering out-of-this-world Pacific views, an otherworldly collection of unique driftwood, and all sorts of Instagram-worthy photo ops. Visitors also rave about the unspoiled delights of Jug Handle State Reserve and Bowling Ball Beach. From rocky bluffs to intriguing coves, there’s something here for everyone.
Flickr/melfoody Grab a few drinks at North Coast Brewery in Fort Bragg, sip a hot beverage at Mara’s Coffee House, or satisfy your spicy food cravings at Purple Rose Mexican Restaurant in Cleone. While the shoreline itself often steals the show in Mendocino County, the area also offers an endless array of inland wilderness zones, hiking trails, family-friendly attractions, and more. When you’re searching for a getaway that allows for a detour from the ordinary, this lesser-known California region will steal your heart.
To learn more about Mendocino County, its world-class beaches, and its countless attractions, click here.
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Flickr/Sheila Sund
California’s Mendocino Coastline stretches for approximately 90 miles along the breathtaking blues waves of the Pacific Ocean. Situated primarily within Mendocino County itself, there’s something for everyone in this oft-overlooked section of the Golden State, and you might just feel as if you’ve uncovered a secret realm when you arrive. Mendocino sits north of San Francisco, separated from the world-famous rugged beauty of Big Sur - but the sights you’ll find here are just as marvelous.
TripAdvisor/DtripperJ
There’s so much to uncover throughout the region, from peaceful pockets of natural beauty to charming businesses, eateries, and other attractions. Manchester State Beach is an absolute must visit, offering out-of-this-world Pacific views, an otherworldly collection of unique driftwood, and all sorts of Instagram-worthy photo ops. Visitors also rave about the unspoiled delights of Jug Handle State Reserve and Bowling Ball Beach. From rocky bluffs to intriguing coves, there’s something here for everyone.
Flickr/melfoody
Grab a few drinks at North Coast Brewery in Fort Bragg, sip a hot beverage at Mara’s Coffee House, or satisfy your spicy food cravings at Purple Rose Mexican Restaurant in Cleone. While the shoreline itself often steals the show in Mendocino County, the area also offers an endless array of inland wilderness zones, hiking trails, family-friendly attractions, and more. When you’re searching for a getaway that allows for a detour from the ordinary, this lesser-known California region will steal your heart.
Have you explored this pristine region in years past? We would love to hear from you, so share your experiences with us in the comment section below! Or, for information about another underrated beach destination in the United States, click here.
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