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About Big River Beach in Mendocino, California

Big River Beach is at the spot where Big River flows into the Pacific Ocean just south of the small town of Mendocino. The beach provides access for launching canoes and kayaks onto the protected waters of the Big River Estuary. It also has a large sandy beach for those who just want to walk around or sunbathe at the edge of Mendocino Bay. Experienced kayakers can venture out into the bay when conditions are calm. The Big River Trail starts at the end of Big River Road. Swimming is safe in the river but be careful of dangerous currents and waves near the river mouth on on the bay shore. Camping is available nearby at Russian Gulch State Park and Van Damme State Park. Hotels and inns can be found in Mendocino. The parking lots are found on Big River Road which begins just north of the bridge over Big River.

Address
Hwy 1 and Big River Rd
Mendocino, CA 95460
Park Name
Mendocino Headlands State Park
Owner
State Park
Pet Details
Dogs allowed on leash
Fees
Free parking
Activities
Hiking, Mountain Biking, Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Scuba Diving
Amenities
Trails, Driftwood, Restrooms
Map of Big River Beach
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Fort Bragg, US
8:38 am, Dec 16, 2025
weather icon 59°F
L: 58° H: 61°
overcast clouds
Humidity: 94 %
Pressure: 1022 mb
4 m/s SSE
Wind Gust: 5 m/s
UV Index: 0
Precipitation: 0 inch
Clouds: 100%
Visibility: 1 km
Sunrise: 7:28 am
Sunset: 4:53 pm

Nearby Attractions

Nearby Lodging

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