Activities and Attractions in Elk ~ Mendocino Vacations

The short romantic stretch of road through Elk, California is one of the most spectacular sections on the entire coast. The dramatic natural setting near your Mendocino, bed and breakfast accommodation makes it feel more isolated than it actually is. But this little burg has to be one of the liveliest, most pleasant villages hiding along the Mendocino coast.

Take along an Elk Cove Inn picnic lunch to enjoy while touring the Mendocino Coast or Anderson Valley Vineyards »

When you first arrive in the placid little town, sitting snugly atop its ocean cliffs and looking out upon a dazzling sea bejeweled by immense rocks called “sea stacks,” it is difficult to imagine its 140 year history.

Settled in 1852 by prospector Caleb Greenwood’s four sons, the town is still called by its founders’ names. In its heyday, Greenwood/Elk had a population of around 1,000, with 10 hotels, 14 saloons, several dance halls, three general stores, a butcher, creamery, jewelry store, candy store, barber shops, blacksmith shop and a livery stable.

The enduring old-fashioned, small town atmosphere may be the perfect antidote for the stress of modern urban life.

Above is “The Town of Elk” excerpts from The Mendocino Coast Glove Box Guide, by Bob Lorentzen, Second Edition, Bored Feet Publications. Click here to order book.

Mendocino
Fifteen miles north of Elk is the village of Mendocino, blessed with a historic preservation zone which has kept its nineteenth century architecture intact. Close enough for lunch, you can head up the meandering coast highway late morning, stroll the streets, try on a fancy top hat, catch up on the latest in fine cabinetmaking, pluck a cappuccino from the nimble hands of a local barista, and then head out to the headlands for some strolling by the water, either up on the bluff, or down on Big River or Portuguese beach.

Just when it all becomes too much (blood sugar dropping) settle into a chair at the Moose Café and lunch on Ahi or grilled eggplant. Or head up in the later afternoon and plan on a culinary experience from Mendocino’s justly renowned chefs. Experience the skyline of a Victorian seaside village at twilight.

We are located 150 miles North of San Francisco and 15 miles south of the village of Mendocino.
A short stroll from the inn puts you in the center of Elk, a lively community composed of equal parts history and contemporary good living, with shops, convivial conversation, even a state park with visitor center.