Things to do
What we love most about Sea Ranch is the peace and tranquility just being here brings you. This is a place to bring your favorite book to read, watch for local wildlife outside your window, and most importantly - be outside. Sea Ranch is best enjoyed unplugged, so we strongly encourage you to disconnect during your time here, however there is cell reception and WiFi for those necessary moments. Check out our guide below on all the best activities in and around town, as well as some activities worth the drive if you have some time to spare during your stay. At the bottom of this page we have also included a guide on local eateries should you choose to eat out during your time here.
Walking Trails
Grab a trail map at The Lodge, and explore the local walking trails along the coast or through the redwood forest! Evan's grandmother Jannan Strand was an original Sea Rancher who was extremely active in the local community (pictured left of center, walking stick in hand). She dedicated much of her time to the preservation of the land and historic buildings within Sea Ranch, and mapped roughly 75% of the walking trails throughout the community.
Wine tasting
You came all the way to the Sonoma Coast, so of course we'll tell you where to find the nearest wineries! Annapolis Winery and Fort Ross Vineyards are the closest spots to enjoy a flight. Annapolis is a no-frills family owned winery located 18 mins inland from Sea Ranch that would be great for those looking to enjoy a casual flight of some small batch wine in a sunny hilltop meadow setting. Fort Ross is located ~35 mins south of Sea Ranch and offers a reservation-only wine tasting & small bites pairing - perfect for those looking for a less casual seated wine tasting experience.
Kayaking
Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle down the peaceful Gualala River. Pro tip: dock along the bank for a riverside picnic.
Tide Pooling
Sea Ranch has some of the best tide pools! Spot star fish, crab, sea urchin, abalone shells, and walk along the shore searching for sea glass. Ask us for the best spots, we'll be happy to guide you!
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Golfing
The Sea Ranch Golf Links remains one of the most challenging golf experiences in California and most unique on the North Coast. Book a tee time, and grab a pulled pork sandwich at BBQ 42000.
Gualala Arts Center
Gualala Arts Center is a cultural facility home to art exhibitions, performing arts, workshops, and a sculpture garden. Visit their website for a current list of exhibitions and events.
Sea Ranch Lodge
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The Lodge offers a variety of activities that are open to the public such as morning Yoga, Jazz nights, Art exhibitions, wine nights and more! Check out their website or Instagram for current happenings.
Horseback Riding
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Located 35 mins (25 miles) north of Sea Ranch, Ross Ranch offers guided horseback trail rides through the redwood forest, or along the coast on Manchester Beach. Each ride is 1 1/2 hours long and rides must be reserved in advance.
Visit Mendocino
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Located 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Sea Ranch, the little seaside village of Mendocino makes for a great day trip! Here you will find cute cafes, delicious restaurants, book stores, galleries and boutiques that sell local goods. Mendocino is comparable to a small coastal village in Maine, with cozy antique architecture sitting amongst a plethora of walking, hiking, biking, and beach/bluff trails as well as beautiful state parks. Visit the link below to learn more!
Skunk Train
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The Skunk Train and Rail Bikes are located 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Sea Ranch and an absolute must-do if you have the time or are planning a day trip to Mendocino! Hop aboard this historic steam train and travel along some of the first tracks laid down by the California Western Railroad. You can also rent an electric rail bike and experience this historic route from a whole different perspective! Follow the link below to reserve your ticket in advance and learn more about the history behind this unique experience.
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Where to Eat
Sea Ranch and the surrounding areas do not have any chain dining establishments. Everything from the grocery store to the coffee shops are local small businesses, which is part of what makes this area so special! We have put together a guide that lists all the best local spots to grab a bite or a sip, should you decide to eat out during your time here.
Important Note: We kindly ask all guests to refrain from having dinner at The Sea Ranch Lodge Dining Room so that we can save the culinary experience for the reception.
Groceries
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Gualala Supermarket: Across the street from Surf Market
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Surf Market: Across the street from Gualala Supermarket
Breakfast
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The Café at Sea Ranch Lodge: Best coffee, pastries, and breakfast in town! Tip: Get there early for their famous donuts or danish.
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Trinks: Good ol' classic breakfast. Pancakes, bacon & eggs just like your momma made them.
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Stewart's Point Store: Inside a historic building, with delicious pastries and a little market.
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Franny's Cup & Saucer: Pastries only, but yum!
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Cove Coffee: Bagels, pastries, and handpies with a pier view!
Lunch
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The Café at Sea Ranch Lodge: Seasonal menu and always delicious.
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Links Café: Small café at the golf course. Get the pulled pork sandwich and thank us later!
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Surf Market: Fresh deli sandwiches that hit the spot. Perfect to take to the beach or the river!
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Pier Place: Dine right on the pier! Great views.
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Stewarts Point Store: They make their own bread, and their sandwiches are delicious!
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Gualala Seafood Shack: Very fresh fish and chips, and all your favorite seafood shack delicacies.
Dinner
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Vue Kitchen: Dinner with an ocean view. Make reservations as this place gets busy at dinner time.
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St. Orres: The Dining Room at St. Orres is a local favorite. Reservations are required and only taken by phone.
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Coast Kitchen: Located inside the Timber Cove Resort. Dinner with an ocean view with a delicious seasonal menu.
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Harbor House: A two Michelin star restaurant located 50 mins north of Sea Ranch. Worth the drive for those wanting a very special dining experience.
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River's End Restaurant: A 3 course tasting menu featuring locally sourced and seasonal dishes. Beautiful view of where the Russian River meets the ocean.
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Upper Crust Pizzeria: Classic pizza joint. For all our east coasters, this is not the same Upper Crust Pizza joint in Boston (lol) but just as good!
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Anchor Bay Thai Kitchen: Delicious pad Thai! Great for dine-in or takeout.