Jughandle State Park Beach
Best Beautiful Places to Beaches Hang Out with the Family A
hhh... There was a collective sigh of relief as local beaches reopened, and we all gained access to the outdoors we so love. When we are out walking in the ocean breeze, it may feel like the COVID-19 pandemic is over, but it is not. Infection rates in Mendocino County continue to climb. And that is why social distancing and face coverings are required at local beaches. Facemasks are required when it’s not possible to maintain six feet of distance between others, such as, for instance, when passing people on the beach or trail. Park visitors are asked not to use drinking fountains, and to bring hand sanitizer because some restrooms may not have hand-washing stations. Also, no parties are allowed. Picnic areas, when open, are only for individuals or people who live in the same household. 12 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Besides taking COVID-19 precautions, also be mindful of riptides and sleeper waves. Never turn your back to the ocean and do NOT go swimming at these beaches.
allowed on the beach but not on the trail. Restrooms are open. There is no day-use fee. See www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=441.
Only residents of Mendocino County are allowed to use its beaches. Parking may be limited.
Manchester State Park Beach In terms of social distancing, the bigger the beach the better. So this slice of sand, which is several miles long, is a pandemic paradise. The beach is accessible from the parking lot, where there are porta-potties. There is no day-use fee. See www. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=437.
Jughandle State Park Beach This cove has a reputation for being one of Fort Bragg’s warmest beaches during the summer, with fog burning off by midday and temperatures rising into the 50s and 60s. The park itself features the 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail, which travels through three terraces, each with its own unique habitat—from bishop pines to prairie to coast. Leashed dogs are
Navarro River State Park Beach As you travel along the rolling hills of Anderson Valley, you’ll encounter an 11-mile tunnel of second-growth redwoods. Follow it to this beach, which is near the intersection of Highway 1 and Highway 128. Porta-potties are in the parking lot, which is close to the beach. No day use fee. See www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=435.
Now that you know the rules, get out of the house, stick your feet in the sand, and let the kids run around. Mendocino County
July 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
