A Guide to Sea Ranch

The psychological coasts of Sea Ranch, an unincorporated community 3.5 hours away from San Francisco, accesible only by car, Lycra bicycle, or insurance helicopter or military machine.
During my time at Apple, I was informed by colleagues about a place that ‘I should check out’.  
I was rewarded with a life changing experience and an attachment to nature and open spaces that have put me in greater understanding of myself and the world around me. 

I went once alone and learnt about myself and my connection to nature in a way that I will never forget. 
I want to spread the joy to as many people that might one day experience the beauty and fun of a place like this, my heaven on Earth.
I have a preference of going there alone, so some of these activities are written in this manner.

I am working towards a reality where one day, I can and will spend a part of my life here.
 



How to navigate the Sea Ranch - Gualala - Point Arena tri state area

If coming from San Francisco Bay Area

Rent or use a car

If flying into the area 
San Francisco Airport
Santa Rosa Airport (direct flights from select West Coast hubs only; i.e Portland, Los Angeles, Seattle, Las Vegas and Denver.)

Ideal itinerary for Thursday to Sunday, including Mendocino County

Thursday morning
Head to Point Reyes Station

Friday morning
Meet Fred at the Lodge, a bearded older employee filled with stories about Augusta National. 
Hire him to cook for you ($$), he’s an ex chef at 
Head to Gama ($$), a hearty Japanese izakaya founded by David and Elyse Hopps
Order: Potato salad, Japanese karaage, chawanmushi, seasonal dessert    

Saturday morning
Mendocino 

Sunday morning
Depart for home


Ideal itinerary for Friday to Sunday


It’s important to note that ‘Sea Ranch’ often refers to what I’d call the ‘Sea Ranch - Gualala - Point Arena’ tri-state area. 
Sea Ranch proper is 8 miles across and you’d run out of things to do. When people visit Sea Ranch, rarely do they stay in the area throughout unless the point is to sunbathe, etc. 

Best options for lodging, for every budget

$ ($120-200 a night)
Gualala Country Inn
Whale Watch Inn
I haven’t tried, but will soon: RV camping


$$ ($250 - 600 a night)
Select vacation rentals:
Gualala

Anchor Bay
Sea Ranch

$$$ ($600 and up a night)
Stay at the Sea Ranch Lodge.
Stay at the Harbor House Inn.