One of the best things about Nicholson House is our convenient location right in the heart of Mendocino Village. Once you arrive, you can leave your car parked and enjoy a perfect day without ever getting back behind the wheel. Here are a few spontaneously perfect ways to experience the village and the surrounding area.
A Day of Sun, Pizza, and Headlands
Start with an early lunch in the Nicholson House garden—we recommend a Brickery pizza to fuel your day. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the Mendocino Headlands, following the cliffside trails that loop around the dramatic coastline.
Once you work up a little thirst, stop in at Fog Bottle shop and enjoy unconventional, natural wines from around the world paired with lovely homemade snacks courtesy of Fog Eater Café. A little wine buzz will be the perfect energizer to shop around town and stop into the many galleries and boutiques until it’s time to start thinking about dinner! You can always flip the day, too — shop first and headlands second, either way it’s the perfect Mendo day.
Kayaks, Burgers, and Big River Adventure
On a Wednesday or Thursday, you can enjoy smash burgers in the Brickery garden just next door. Then, head out on a kayak down Big River. Local rental sites include Ledges Mendocino, right on Main Street, or Catch a Canoe just across Big River Bridge. After paddling, reward yourself with a cold tap at the Waiting Room or dip your toes in the gorgeous turquoise water of Big River Beach first, and then get your warm up at the Waiting Room, where you can trade a hot-cocoa for that cold beer.
Cozy Rainy Day Options
Rainy days on vacation may seem a little tougher to fill with adventure, but we have you covered with big umbrellas and a wonderful array of shops and cozy goodness located right here in Mendo. Warm up with ramen and gyoza from Gnar Bar and take your warm belly for some hopping between the raindrops around town. You can pass oodles of time exploring Valerie, The Study Club, Highlights Gallery, and the Art Center, just to name a few. Once 5 pm rolls around, you can enjoy a glass of wine at the Fog Bottle Shop or head back to the Waiting Room for games and sips — it is the coziest place in town, after all. No matter where you wander in Mendocino, you are certain to find lovely options to explore around every corner.
