Getting to Mendocino and Fort Bragg
Mendocino and Fort Bragg are located about 3.5 to 4 hours north of San Francisco. The drive follows U.S. Highway 101 before turning onto California Highway 128, which winds through redwood forests and the scenic Anderson Valley before reaching the coast.
Public transportation options are limited, so visitors will need to drive or arrange private transportation. Wheelchair-accessible van rentals are available from companies like Wheelers Accessible Van Rentals in San Francisco.
Attractions
- Mendocino Headlands State Park: Surrounding the town of Mendocino, this park features stunning ocean views. The main viewpoints near the Ford House Visitor Center have paved and compacted dirt paths that are generally wheelchair accessible, though some areas may require assistance. The wooden boardwalk at Big River Beach leads toward the water but does not extend onto the sand.
- Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens: Located at 18220 CA-1 in Fort Bragg, this 47-acre garden features paved, wheelchair-accessible paths through vibrant flower gardens, forested areas, and coastal bluffs. There are benches throughout for resting, and accessible restrooms and parking are available.
- Skunk Train: The historic Skunk Train departs from 100 W Laurel St in Fort Bragg and takes visitors on a scenic ride through redwood forests. While the train is wheelchair accessible, it is important to note that not all railcars allow passengers to remain in their wheelchairs. Some cars may require passengers to transfer to a coach seat, with train staff assisting in storage and boarding. However, select train cars do allow wheelchair users to remain in their chairs during the journey. The train does not have a lift, but it has ramps for boarding and disembarking. The number of wheelchairs that can be accommodated at once varies depending on the specific railcar in use. While there are no official weight or size restrictions for wheelchairs, travelers should contact the Skunk Train in advance to confirm arrangements and ensure an accessible ride.
- MacKerricher State Park: North of Fort Bragg, MacKerricher State Park features a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk trail that passes through forests, meadows, and coastal bluffs. The Laguna Point Boardwalk is an excellent spot for whale watching and tide pool exploration. The raised wooden platform is suitable for both manual and power wheelchairs.
- Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park: The historic Point Cabrillo Lighthouse is accessible via a paved pathway leading from the designated accessible parking area. The pathway allows wheelchair users to reach the lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic ocean views. While the lighthouse interior has some obstacles, most historical displays can be viewed from accessible areas.
- Fort Bragg Coastal Trail & Glass Beach: This 8-foot-wide paved trail runs along the coastline in Fort Bragg, offering incredible ocean views and a smooth path for wheelchair users. It starts near Glass Beach, a site known for its smooth, colorful sea glass. While the beach itself is not wheelchair accessible due to steep terrain, the paved overlook provides a great vantage point. Accessible parking is available near the trail’s starting points.
- Pomo Bluffs Park: Located in Fort Bragg, Pomo Bluffs Park features a scenic wheelchair-accessible trail along the coastline. This paved path offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great spot for sunset viewing and whale watching. Accessible parking is available near the trailhead.
- Hendy Woods State Park: Situated inland in the Anderson Valley, Hendy Woods State Park offers a rare fully accessible redwood grove. The All Access Trail through Big Hendy Grove allows wheelchair users to experience ancient, towering redwoods up close. The park also features accessible restrooms and picnic areas.
Lodging
Finding the right accessible lodging is key to enjoying a stress-free stay in Mendocino and Fort Bragg. While some of the area’s hotels and inns are housed in historic buildings that may present accessibility challenges, many offer ADA-compliant rooms with wheelchair-friendly amenities such as roll-in showers, grab bars, and step-free access. Below are some of the best wheelchair-accessible accommodations in the region.
- Little River Inn (Little River): Located just two miles south of Mendocino, Little River Inn is one of the most wheelchair-friendly accommodations in the area. This charming, family-owned inn offers stunning ocean views and has dedicated ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and wide doorways. The inn’s restaurant and bar are wheelchair accessible, with a step-free entrance and spacious seating areas. Accessible parking is available near the rooms, and paved pathways make it easy to navigate the property. Guests looking for a blend of comfort and accessibility will find Little River Inn to be an excellent choice.
- Heritage House Resort & Spa (Little River): Situated along the coast in Little River, Heritage House Resort & Spa offers a luxurious oceanfront retreat with accessibility in mind. The resort has ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered sinks for convenience. The on-site restaurant and spa are fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entrances and accessible restrooms. Guests can enjoy scenic ocean views from accessible patios and take advantage of the resort’s paved pathways for easy mobility.
- Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites (Mendocino): The Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, located in the heart of Mendocino, offers some accessible accommodations, but guests should be aware that the property is a historic building with potential accessibility limitations. The Garden Suites, separate from the main historic building, offer larger, more accessible rooms with space for wheelchair users. Travelers interested in staying here should call ahead to confirm accessibility features that meet their specific needs.
- Emerald Dolphin Inn (Fort Bragg): Located in Fort Bragg, Emerald Dolphin Inn is a modern and accessible option for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. The ground-floor accessible rooms include wide doorways, grab bars, and roll-in showers. The hotel’s step-free access ensures easy movement from parking to the rooms, and accessible parking spaces are available near the entrance.
- Surf & Sand Lodge (Fort Bragg): For travelers wanting an oceanfront stay, Surf & Sand Lodge in Fort Bragg provides a relaxing, accessible experience. The hotel offers ADA-accessible rooms with wide doorways, roll-in showers, and grab bars. Guests can enjoy ocean views from private patios and take advantage of the smooth, paved paths leading to the coastline.
