Gualala Sea bluff trail – the best trail for little kids
Gualala Sea bluff trail – ultimately the shortest trail we’ve ever hiked making it definitively the best trail for little kids. Majority of the trail is flat making it ideal for hiking with toddlers. Without much exaggeration I’d say that our son took some of his first steps on this tail learning how to walk.
Situated along the rocky cliffs of the Gualala shore it’s an absolute must stop while replenishing your supplies in Mendocino. Even though there’s a clearly designated trail signs marking “the end” of the trail the entire path is no longer than quarter of a mile and feels more like a park.
Unplanned stop at Surf Market – unexpected discovery
We unexpectedly discovered Gualala Sea bluff trail when we stopped at a local grocery store – Surf Market. Btw I typically try to leave the food and lodging out of the reviews, however business in this little town are worth mentioning.
First of all, Gualala is located quite far away from other major towns in Mendocino, we could even say: “in the middle of nowhere”. Yet it is a little thriving community with multiple restaurants, cafes and art studios! Btw the food at the Surf Market is of prime quality, and they also have fresh local oysters!
Back to the trail… the path starts near a nicely kept ever green lawn by our most favorite café on the west coast – Trinks Cafe. You may find some of the best locally brewed coffee amongst some crumpets and what-nots. They even sell local steaks and lamb along with local wine. It’s a great pit stop all around.
During the unfavorable weather you may hide inside and enjoy a novel worthy Pacific Ocean seascape. The cafe has an outside patio area perfect as well.
The beginning of the trail starts by the featured bench.
The views opening along the trail are definitely picture worthy. Almost every time we stopped at Gualala through the years we always saw a colony of seals lounging on the nearby beach across the estuary.
More trails in Gualala along the river and the Pacific shore
Btw apparently there are more walk-able trails lay ahead across the Gualala river including Bluff top trail and the River trail. Unfortunately we didn’t make it to those, however I’m attaching a PDF file with the map and parking in case you’d like to go for a mini investigation.
Furthermore there is a whale watching point at the western most portion of the park. Additionally there’s also a campground in this park for adventure seekers.
End of the Sea bluff trail
The remaining of the Gualala Sea bluff trail is winded along the coast with Gualala river estuary to the right and lodges to the left. I’m certain that people come here to relax and get inspired by the rhythmically breaking waves and peaceful atmosphere. You won’t find better views around, perhaps maybe only at the Sea Ranch.
The trail ends at yet another bench facing the Pacific Ocean around the Vue Restaurant.
There are multiple art galleries in Gualala that we’d recommend checking out, including Spindrift Gallery, Discovery Gallery, & Alinder gallery which feature works of Ansel Adams and less known artists.
Please enjoy our guide of things to do with kids while exploring Mendocino.
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