The City of Point Arena is a vibrant coastal community on the North Coast of California known for its beauty and small town charm. Point Arena is located 32 miles (51 km) west of Hopland, at an elevation of 118 feet (36 m). The population was 460 at the 2020 census, making it one of the smallest incorporated cities in the state.

This stunning preserve south of Point Arena offers 2.2 miles of public trails, with a parking lot just west of Highway One near the southeastern end of the property. There are spectacular ocean views from very high white cliffs on this property. These cliffs are very steep, making it essential to stay on the trail.

The Point Arena Stornetta Unit of the California Coast National Monument is an ideal place to view the sea rocks and islands that comprise one of California’s most magical treasures. Hike more than 1,600 acres of pristine coastline, view the scenic Point Arena Lighthouse, and play above the blowholes – all while keeping an eye peeled for the endangered Point Arena Mountain Beaver.

The Point Arena Lighthouse is the premiere visitor destination in Mendocino County. It is also one of the best whale watching spots on the North Coast, with the annual Gray Whale migration from late November through May, Humpbacks throughout the year, the occasional pod of transient Killer Whales and even Blue Whales. Watch for the spouts, tails and breaches from the bluffs, trails and gazebo.