Big River Beach, Pacific coast beach in Mendocino County, US
Description
Big River Beach sits where the Big River meets the Pacific Ocean, stretching as a sandy shore along the California coastline. Forested cliffs rise behind the sand, creating a natural backdrop to the water.
History
Native American tribes first inhabited the surrounding region before European settlers arrived in the nineteenth century. This arrival brought significant changes to the area and its people.
Culture
The beach forms part of Mendocino Headlands State Park and offers chances to observe marine mammals and coastal birds in their natural habitat. Visitors often spend time watching seals and whales from the shore.
Practical
The beach is reachable by two main routes: from Mendocino village behind the Presbyterian Church or via the parking lot south of town. Visiting at low tide reveals more of the shoreline and is often more rewarding.
Did you know?
Tidal patterns here create temporary lagoons and sandbar islands that transform throughout the year in unexpected ways. These shifting formations offer different views and surprises with each season.
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Point Cabrillo Light
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Van Damme State Park
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Jackson Demonstration State Forest
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Mendocino Headlands State Park
435 m
Jug Handle State Natural Reserve
7.8 km
Mendocino Woodlands State Park
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Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
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Temple of Kwan Tai
780 m
Caspar Headlands State Beach
6.9 km
Albion River Bridge
8.7 km
Little River Inn
3.5 km
Frederick W. Panhorst Bridge
3 km
Mendocino Masonic Hall
535 m
Noyo River Bridge
13.9 km
Fensalden Inn
11.3 km
Russian Gulch
3 km
Mendocino and Headlands Historic District
1.2 km
Noyo Beach
14.1 km
Jug Handle Beach
8.4 km
Caspar Headlands State Beach
6.7 km
MacCallum House
553 m
Mendocino Baptist Church
760 m
Union Lumber Company Store
15.8 km
Noyo Harbor Beach
13.5 km
Kelley Rental Building
524 m
Hare Creek Bridge
12.9 km
Mendocino Post Office
630 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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