We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers: Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
All 20 Mendocino Attractions »

Big River

Mendocino, CA
As we return, the Highway 1 overpass can be seen in the background.
We prepare for departure. Notice the outrigger on the dock.
Heading up the river, the tide is with us.
A small cove offers some shade.
9 visitor photos
Ranked #11 of 14 attractions in Mendocino
4.5 of 5 stars 6 Reviews
Type: Bodies of Water
Description: A beautiful estuary in which to observe nature.
Update attraction details
Write a Review

6 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    4
    2
    0
    0
    0
Date Rating
Hong Kong, China
Top Contributor
90 reviews 90 reviews
Reviews in 51 cities Reviews in 51 cities
57 helpful votes 57 helpful votes
“Nice easy strolling”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 12 April 2012

Lovely flat walk (for as long as you want, basically....we did about 3km before turning back) through the redwood forests on the right bank of the river. We saw an osprey too! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by FSHK for Mendocino
Mendocino, California
Senior Contributor
31 reviews 31 reviews
Reviews in 13 cities Reviews in 13 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
“Lovely area”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 17 March 2012

Big river is a lovely place. You can rent canoes and paddle up the river. It will have kelp in the water, as it's an inlet to the sea. Enjoy! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 5 more reviews by Mondra R for Mendocino
San Jose, California
Contributor
12 reviews 12 reviews
Reviews in 6 cities Reviews in 6 cities
22 helpful votes 22 helpful votes
“Fabulous Day Trip in Mendocino”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 25 January 2012

Take a canoe or kayak up the river, and visit with local birds and otters. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by SUZN3000 for Mendocino
N. Calif
Senior Contributor
46 reviews 46 reviews
Reviews in 29 cities Reviews in 29 cities
23 helpful votes 23 helpful votes
“Nice dog beach”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 5 January 2012

Plenty of room to run and play with your dogs but be careful about some less responsible dog owners who may not have the friendliest dogs. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
San Francisco, CA
Senior Reviewer
8 reviews 8 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
5 helpful votes 5 helpful votes
“Great Hiking, Canoeing/Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Beach Walking”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 November 2011

My husband and I have been to Mendocino twice, and each time, we've spent a good deal of time at Big River. The first time we rented a canoe and took a trip downriver. This time, he stand-up paddle-boarded while I hiked the trail above the river. It's so peaceful and very dog friendly. Check the tides if you will... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 5 more reviews by TikiG for Mendocino
A TripAdvisor Member
Rocklin, California
1 review
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
“You Too Can Canoe”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 12 August 2005
10
people found this review helpful

The Big River Estuary is a must for anyone who loves nature’s beauty and the outdoors. Our family of four enjoyed the river so much, we canoed twice during our eight-day stay in the area. First, if you are like me and don’t know, an estuary is a water passage where the river meets the sea, allowing the tide to... More

See all photos
Was this review helpful? Yes

Travellers who viewed Big River also viewed

Russian Gulch State Park
Russian Gulch State Park
4.5 of 5 stars 17 Reviews
Mendocino, CA
Mendocino Coast
Mendocino Coast
5 of 5 stars 66 Reviews
Mendocino, CA
 
Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
4.5 of 5 stars 49 Reviews
Mendocino, CA
Mendocino Headlands State Park
Mendocino Headlands State Park
4.5 of 5 stars 27 Reviews
Mendocino, CA
 
All things to do in Mendocino (20)

Been to Big River? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Big River, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing

Hotels travellers are raving about...

All hotels in Mendocino (1)

Browse nearby

Things to Do (20) | Restaurants (16)
Big River
Mendocino, CA
Get Directions
What's Nearby:
Click map pins for more information.
Interactive map
Which Mendocino hotels are on sale?
See hotels

Free Mendocino Guide

Get your quick guide to the top hotels, restaurants and things to do.
 
Download your guide now!
Get it now

Popular Mendocino attractions

Hotels around Mendocino

Explore the world
Sightseeing
Hotels