Mendocino was established in 1851 as a lumber town. Today it is a picturesque haven along the sea. Mendocino is quaint, quiet and quirky, sort of a toss up between a small fishing village and a secluded New England cove. Breathtaking scenery is made all the more beautiful by the sound of waves crashing against the shore as morning fog slowly drifts on the horizon.
Most area experts agree that the name Mendocino was derived from Cape Mendocino, which lies at its northern boundary. There is some disagreement as to which 16th Century Spanish Viceroy Cape Mendocino was named in honor of, because there are two likely candidates, both named Mendoza. But Mendocino is a form of the family name Mendoza.
Mendocino is situated on 2 million acres and is home to more than 1,000 year-round residents. Here are photos of a few of its majestic and magical homes.
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