Photo: Nik Schulz
Another spot we visited for a sense of Mendocino’s seafaring past was Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, which was established to ensure the safety of lumber schooners plying the coast. It seems to have arrived a little late on the scene, however, since it wasn’t built until 1909.
In 2004, the former lighthouse keepers’ residences were treated to period-sensitive renovations and repainted in the official U.S. Lighthouse Service colors. Yes, apparently there was an official U. S. Lighthouse Service color scheme, and it was a nice one too.
Not only do the residences look fantastic, you can actually stay in them. The main lighthouse keeper’s house and a couple of cottages can be rented by the night or two. The 4 bdrm/4 bath Main House currently runs about $400–$500/night. The 1 bdrm cottages (East Cottage and West Cottage) can be had for a moderate $144/night.
The first assistant keeper’s residence, also renovated, serves as a museum.
Photos: Nik Schulz
The ground floor of the lighthouse features another museum with ship models, artifacts, and history.
Photos: Nik Schulz
On the way home through the Anderson Valley we stopped at Philo Apple Farm a nice little orchard that also rents cabins and offers passers-by a self-service shop stocked with several varieties of apples and apple-derived products. We tried the Apple Cider Syrup (deliciously complex, tart, and not too sweet) at $10 a bottle but passed on the cabins ($275/night weekend, $200/night mid-week).
Another nice thing about the farm is that the grounds are open for visitors to stroll, a welcome break after a long drive.
Photos: Nik Schulz

While we were on our walk this initially-barky, later-friendly, dog came to say hello. I checked to see what his name was but his tag didn’t offer any clues.
Photo: Natalie Menacho
Photos: Nik Schulz
Happy travels,
Nik
No comments