3 Best Hotels in Fort Bragg, The North Coast

Attention to detail in design and hospitality makes for an incomparable stay at this 2,000-acre working cattle ranch with 1½ miles of private coastline. Two-story redwood trees add structure and beauty to one of the buildings, and the beds and windows in all the rooms are positioned to take maximum advantage of the mesmerizing bluff-top views. Utility terrain vehicle (UTV) ranch tours; hiking, jogging, and horseback riding on 25 miles of trails; and tastings at Pacific Star Winery next door are among the activities available during the day. Come late afternoon, you can enjoy a complimentary glass of local wine or beer at happy hour before enjoying a multicourse dinner (additional fee) prepared by the superb on-site chef.

Craftsman touches abound in this luxury inn's lavishly restored 1868 main structure, which overlooks Noyo Harbor, and in a nearby newer wing with Pacific Ocean views. Rooms contain plush beds and wide windows to enjoy the setting; all have French-press coffeemakers and spacious well-lit bathrooms stocked with high-quality bath amenities. Some rooms also have gas fireplaces. An excellent base for exploring the harbor and coastal trails, slipping down to Mendocino's shops and restaurants, or heading inland to Anderson Valley wineries, the property sits on carefully landscaped grounds with something in bloom much of the year. The restaurant, which has the feel of a grand Craftsman parlor, serves brunch and dinner except on Tuesday, outdoors on the harbor-view deck weather permitting. The accommodating staff members provide warm service.

As its name implies, this six-building, two-story property, whose owners run two similar lodgings nearby, sits practically on the beach; pathways lead from the accommodations down to the rock-strewn shore. All rooms are bright and clean and have refrigerators, microwaves, and coffeemakers, but the least expensive ones don't have views. The nicest of the second-story rooms have jetted tubs and fireplaces. A few rooms here are pet-friendly for a fee.