There are many things you can do in the Gualala area.
Gualala Point Regional Park.
2 1/2 miles South
Take a lunch and spend the day on the beach at the Pacific Ocean, watch the whales at Whale Watch Point or the deer running free. Don't forget to stop at the Visitor Center, This park is also the start of the beach and cliff access trails through the Sea Ranch and ends at the Sea Ranch Lodge.
The town of Gualala - pronounced Wah-lah-lah, a Spanish version of the Pomo Indian word Walali "meeting of the waters" - is north of the county line on the north shore of the Gualala River. It was a redwood lumber town until the 1960s. The art center stages its annual Art in the Redwoods and Summer Fair - held in mid-August. Trails lead to the riverside beaches.
Historic Point Arena Lighthouse.
16 miles North
The first Lighthouse was constructed in 1870 and severely damaged in 1906 San Francisco earthquake.
The New Lighthouse began operation in 1908. It stands 115 feet tall and features the first Fresnel Lens over six feet in diameter and weighing more than two tons. In 1976 the fog signals at the station were silenced permanently and replaced with a bell-bouy placed nearby. Take your coat, it could be windy and cold.
Annapolis Winery.
9 miles South on Highway 1 & 7 miles on Soda Springs Road
Visit a small family owned vineyard above the wind and fog. A delightful place to picnic in the sunshine and enjoy the lovely view with a bottle of our fine wine.
Russian Fort Ross.
27 miles South
Go back in history and visit Fort Ross State Historic Park. The Russian-American Company, a commercial hunting and trading company established the settlement of Ross in March 1812. Pack your lunch and take a walking tour of the compound of Fortress Ross.
The American history of the site began in 1841, when the Russian colonists gave up their enterprise and sold the colony to pioneer John Sutter, who transported its equipment and supplies to his own fort in Sacramento. The area served as ranch land for more than 60 years, until California designated it as a state historic park in 1906. By that time, the colony’s remaining structures had fallen into disrepair, and most of the buildings visitors see today are 20th-century reconstructions.
Sea Ranch Golf Links.
3 miles South
18 holes of championship golf along the northern Sonoma Coast. Though the site is naturally spectacular, it is the quality of the challenge, and the reward, which set this Scottish-style links course apart. Call 707-785-2468 for reservations.
Fort Bragg Skunk Train.
66 miles North
Let California Western Railroad Train transport you back in time. The railroad was founded in 1885 as a logging railroad and added passenger service in 1904. Today, the Skunk Train offers its passengers a slow paced and relaxing trip through the scenic redwoods, along the Noyo River and over the coastal mountain range. The conductor’s call of “All Aboard” at the Fort Bragg or Willits depot will signal the start of a breathtaking sightseeing experience you will not soon forget. Call Fort Bragg Depot 707-964-6371 for times and reservations.
