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Big River Beach - Photo 1
Big River Beach - Photo 2
Big River Beach - Photo 3

Big River Beach

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Big River Beach, located in the picturesque town of Mendocino, California, is a stunning destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. What makes this beach truly notable is its stunning scenery, with the Big River flowing into the Pacific Ocean and creating a dramatic landscape of sand, rock, and water. The beach is surrounded by rugged coastal cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and lush forests, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil getaway.

Visitors to Big River Beach can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and fishing, as well as hiking and biking on the nearby trails. The beach is also a great spot for beachcombing, tidepooling, and wildlife watching, with a variety of seabirds, seals, and other marine life calling the area home. Amenities are limited, but there are restrooms, picnic tables, and a small parking area, making it easy to spend the day exploring the beach and surrounding area. For those looking to explore further, the nearby town of Mendocino offers a range of shops, restaurants, and galleries to discover.

The best time to visit Big River Beach is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, the beach can be crowded during peak season, so visitors may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, when the crowds are smaller and the scenery is still stunning. It's also worth noting that the beach can be affected by strong currents and riptides, so swimmers should exercise caution and check the conditions before entering the water. Additionally, the Big River can be swollen and fast-moving during the winter months, making it difficult to access the beach, so visitors should check the weather and river conditions before planning their trip. With its unique scenery, range of activities, and tranquil atmosphere, Big River Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Mendocino coast.

Quick Answers

Tap or hover over a card to see the answer

What is Big River Beach most known for?

Big River Beach is most known for excellent surfing conditions, welcoming dogs, and great fishing opportunities.

Is Big River Beach kid-friendly?

Big River Beach may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Big River Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Big River Beach! Be sure to check for any leash requirements or restricted areas.

Is Big River Beach good for surfing?

Big River Beach is popular for surfing. Current conditions show 12.6ft waves.

What is the best time of year to visit Big River Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Big River Beach?

Big River Beach tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Big River Beach?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: cold water (56°F, wetsuit required), large waves (12.6ft), experienced swimmers only.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Surfing: Yes
Fishing: Yes

Policies & Access

Dogs: Allowed
Wheelchair: Accessible

💨 AIR

Air temp: 52°F
Wind: 16 mph
Air pressure: 1017 hPa
Feels like: 44°F
Wind direction: N
PM 2.5: 6 µg/m³
Humidity: 81%
AQI: 39
PM 10: 10 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 11 mi
Dew point: 46°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 56°F
Wave height: 12.6 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 10 sec
Current velocity: 0.7 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 2.3
Sunrise: 7:34 AM
Cloud cover: 99%
Sunset: 4:59 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.4 hrs

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