Gualala Attractions

Top Things to Do in Gualala, CA

Things to Do in Gualala

Tours near Gualala

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Top Attractions in Gualala

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

What travellers are saying

  • LinnieV
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dog friendly park along the shore. There is ample parking and bathrooms at the visitor center. The trails are well maintained with beautiful views of the stunning rock lined shore . The small beach is accessible down a flight of steep stairs.
    Written 31 August 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • William S
    Kobe, Japan1,289 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The trail is quite lovely with great views of the bluffs and ocean. You need to be somewhat agile to follow the route which takes about 10 minutes end-to-end. Much ore pleasant than walking along the road (no sidewalks). There is an observation platform and a few benches if you care to meditate or just observe the water and sky.
    Written 4 October 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jan S
    Oakland, CA473 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We stayed at a place where our view was the river and the ocean- magnificent. We went kayaking on the river and had a picnic lunch. Lots of fun! The river was very shallow at one end and we had to get out to walk the kayak to a deeper place. When we went toward the ocean, it was super.
    Written 3 October 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lois
    Napa, CA70 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The art gallery rooms were very well ventilated.
    Each gallery room had doors open to the outside air, plus there were several medical grade air purifiers throughout the building. Also, masks are required and everyone wore them.

    There were three large rooms filled with a delightful variety of art pieces for sale. In addition, the peaceful outdoor space is full of redwoods and eclectic sculptures. Highly recommended!
    Written 30 August 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ellen226
    Dover, OH17 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This photographer is top-notch. You can buy his photos in different sizes and also other photographers. He also has wonderful pottery bronze things and has his photos made into puzzles and coasters etc. I love love love his photography.
    Written 9 September 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Teri F
    Long Beach, CA38 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    OK. I have camped in so many campgrounds. My old favorite was a place in Humboldt County in a big grove of Redwoods and the Eel River. I thought that was pretty unique UNTIL I camped at Gualala River Redwood Park. Coming off HWY 1, which was harrowing, so say the least, then turning into the park with an even narrower road, we were thinking we had gone from bad to worse. WRONG. We pulled into what can only be described as a secret redwood forest hideaway. We were tucked into the most lush, green campground where the electrical hookups are on the trees and the cell phone service fades into non-existence. So does your stress.
    Our site was right next to the Cathedral Tree and we had enough space for 3 rigs and a tent. It was HUGE. There were trails all over the place. Fire Pit and shade. It was spectacular. I can't say enough about the setting. We stayed an extra day and would've stayed longer had our schedule allowed. It was so cool in the campground then a quick walk to the hot Eel River for some water fun. People were kayaking and floating, enjoying themselves and soaking up sun.
    The park was very attentive to social distancing and wearing masks. The park store was closed for entry but you could still buy things from a super nice lady at the door.
    Wood was sold by a park worker driving his cart around and all our camp neighbors were very respectful.
    Seriously, this place is wonderful. A must do.
    Close by is the cute little town of Gualala and the wonderful place to eat called Trinks. Also nice was the SURF market where you can buy BBQ ribs and Tri-tip.
    There is some really great local art in the area and a Farmer's Market on Saturday.
    Written 5 August 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • relaxed53
    San Jose, CA126 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This small gallery displays and sells original paintings, sculptures, handmade quilts, tasteful cards, bowls, jewelry and photographs. It is staffed by local friendly volunteer artists, and 30% of proceeds go to Gualala Arts, the local venue for art exhibits and concerts.
    This is not ridiculously expensive local original art like you might see in Carmel, San Francisco, or Laguna Beach. There are beautiful earrings for $20-45, wall and table pieces for $35-250 on average. Yes, some pieces by more renowned artists or which are larger are several hundred, but for average visitors looking for a tasteful gift or keepsake representing the area, or to beautify their homes, this gallery and shop is a key place to check out. There is also tourist information. Easy parking, usually closed Tuesdays.
    Written 3 February 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • williamcY1586AP
    Gualala, United States16 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This underused park started out to be a reservoir for a golf club. There is a lake in the center and two playgrounds for younger and older kids. There are tennis courts, basketball courts, running trails, picnic areas with grills, etc. Ample parking. Forested area. The lake is stocked from time to time so kids can catch and release. Quite a nice facility for this small community.
    Written 23 December 2017
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • au_Goldie
    San Bruno13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Unlike the town of Mendocino, there are just a small handful of galleries in Gualala and each is worth visit. IMO, the Matheson Gallery is one of the most sophisticated. In two spacious light filled rooms, they showcase thought provoking works by original and local artists who explore themes using such mediums, oil, acrylic, bronze, and mixed media. There are certainly other galleries in Gualala that offer works that evoke the sweeping expanse of the California Coast, or the haunting beauty of Sea Ranch ocean cypress trees -- but the Matheson Gallery takes a different tone, and I appreciated that.
    Written 21 June 2016
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Prince Kuyper
    Vacaville, CA75 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is an artists' cooperative where local show their work. It is interesting to see local talent, but most work doesn't impress.
    Written 6 April 2017
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sylvia A
    Sacramento, CA207 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    We stayed for 4 days at a hotel 50 feet away from this gallery, so figured we'd find it open at least once during that time. No such luck...so make sure you call ahead!
    Written 26 June 2016
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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