Big River at Mendocino Headlands
Epic Mendocino area kayaking destination going N or South out the Big River mouth. Or even go up/down the river itself! Sea arches, caves, rock-gardening options on the outside. Protected and exposed nooks to explore.
Mendocino Headlands State Park: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=442
Lots of parking. Port-o-potty. Protected inland beach launch. Then paddle out short river mouth.
Careful consideration of ebb/flood and swell at river mouth / ocean intersection. Consider landing and hauling over outside spit if conditions are treacherous at mouth / ocean intersection.
Great alternative, if conditions are too big on outside --> go up the river mouth and back!
- Suitable Activities: Sea Kayaking
- Seasons: Year-round
- Weather: View weather forecast
- Difficulty: Sea Kayak III+, Sea Kayak IV/V
- Length: 10.0 nm
- Land Manager: California State Parks
- Parking Permit Required: see Land Manager
- Recommended Party Size: 12
- Maximum Party Size: 20
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 20
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