Getting the Gualala

Highway 1 - North

The approach from the San Francisco/Oakland area takes you through some very beautiful scenery. The rolling hills of Petaluma's farms are as green as Ireland in the winter months. If you see a stand of eucalyptus trees in the distance, roll down the window and take a deep breath of this very fragrant tree. When you start to see the birds you'll know you're close to Bodega Bay made famous by Alfred Hitchcock's movie classic 'The Birds'. The Tides, a town landmark, is the site of one scenes from the movie. You can see the old schoolhouse, now a private residence just up the road in the town of Bodega. Just follow the sign for the turnoff for St. Theresa's church. The house is just behind the church. Gualala is approximately an hour and half hour away.

Highway 1 - South

After leaving the Mendocino/Fort Bragg area, travel south for about 90 minutes and you'll find yourself in Gualala. Enjoy breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Coast the whole ride. The town of Elk (approximately the midpoint between Mendocino and Gualala) is a great spot to get out of the car and stretch your legs. It's one of the most charming towns along the Redwood Coast. Once you see the Point Arena lighthouse you're approximately 15 miles from downtown Gualala.

Highway 101 - East / River Road

Drive through the Russian River vallery and enjoy spectacular scenery with a few world class wineries along the way. Korbel is right off River Road and is worth the visit not only for the tour of the winery but it's garden tour as well. Continue on and turn right at Jenner junction and continue north for another hour or so and you'll be in Gualala. Make it a point to stop at the turnout just past Rivers End and observe the Sea Lions and the birds congreating at the rivers end. If you see cars pulled aside that's a good indication that there is some activity down below.

Getting to Gualala

Half the fun is getting there.

Highway 1 - North

Highway 1 - South

Highway 101 - East / River Road