rjw_lgb_ca

So now it looks like we might try to visit family that has just moved to Fort Bragg, CA around Christmas time...! We are still debating the relative merits of driving all the way from Long Beach versus flying into Charles M. Schultz Airport (STS) up in Santa Rosa (from LAX, yucch!) and driving the rest of the way. Right now we'll focus on the second option:

Are there any locals up in or near Sonoma or Mendocino counties that know the drive between STS and Fort Bragg? Is it tricky/treacherous/awful, or will it be a lovely, soul-enriching experience? Or somewhere in-between?

Are there any redwoods worth stopping to see on the way, depending on time?

Any strong opinions on the rental agencies in the terminal, or can I just go with the cheapest option?

Apparently this new house is pretty spectacular, right on Highway 1, so we're super-excited to go visit. Is there anything to do IN Fort Bragg itself? Good restaurants? Helpful hints?

And as usual: Thanks for any and all input! You're all fantastic!!

happytrailstoyou

If you drive between Santa Rosa and Fort Bragg on Highways 101 and 20 you will encounter nothing tricky, treacherous, or awful, and you will pass through Jackson State Forest where you can walk among the redwoods. The drive is about 120 miles and it takes about 2 1/2 hours.

If you drive between Santa Rosa and Fort Bragg on Highway 1, you will have some great ocean views. The drive has some twists and turns but it is not treacherous. It is about 120 miles and takes a little less than 3 1/2 hours on the route that goes from Santa Rosa directly to Jenner. However, I prefer the route that goes to Bodega Bay (site for filming "The Birds"), because I love the scenic drive through Sonoma Coast State Park, which is south of Jenner. This drive is about 130 miles and doesn't take much more than 3 1/2 hours.

Our favorite stop on this route is the delightful town of Mendocino (where scenes from "East of Eden" were filmed). We always enjoy a walk on the Mendocino Headlands.

I would drive to Fort Bragg on Highway 1 and return on Highways 20 and 101.

HTtY

janisj

It is a fabulous drive -- If you have the time Hwy 1 is wonderful and HTtY's suggestion (w/ or w/o Bodega Bay) would be my choice.

But if you are in a little more of a hurry then the route up 101 and across on hwy 20 is also lovely.

Was just in Little River/Mendocino/Ft Bragg a couple of weeks ago -- as usual a great trip.