Mendocino & Fort Bragg

A redwood train ride, a beach covered in sea glass and a lighthouse on the cliffs. Worth the longer drive.

3.5 hrs drive · 2–3 days · Best for little kids to teens · Apr–Oct

Day 1: Drive & Glass Beach

Set expectations for Glass Beach. Many 2025 and 2026 reviewers found mostly tiny white or clear bits, with the colored glass picked over. Taking glass is not allowed. TripAdvisor reviews
From the Glass Beach lot, take the wide trail on the left to the bluff. One visitor found the most glass at the far north end of the main beach near the sea stacks, and it looks best wet. Anne's Travels
The Pudding Creek Express stops at Glen Blair for only about 15 minutes. Some riders said the trip felt shorter than they expected. A 2026 family said the themed trains, with a singing conductor and popcorn, held kids' attention best. TripAdvisor reviews
Skunk railbikes are not for babies. Kids under 2 can't ride, and ages 3 to 5 need a car seat or harness. Riders said the hike back up to the parking area was the hardest part. FamilyVacationist
At the Botanical Gardens, ask for the Quail Trail. Kids follow Quincy the Quail to find 15 markers. Some paths are rocky or steep. San Diego Family
Hwy 128 is called Dramamine Drive, and the twistiest stretch is between Navarro and Albion. Get gas before you leave Cloverdale, since stations are few and cell service is spotty. Anderson Valley Chamber

Highway 128 is windy, so bring motion sickness help
Look at the sea glass, but leave it on the beach
Book Skunk Train tickets 1–2 weeks ahead in summer
Glass Beach is mostly tiny white and clear bits now. Keep it a short stop and add the Fort Bragg Coastal Trail
Only the Pudding Creek Express leaves from Fort Bragg; the longer Wolf Tree Turn leaves from Willits