Chill 4-Day Road Trip from Berkeley to Ashland with Stops in Mendocino and Arcata

Day 1: Scenic Coastal Drive & Exploration

Berkeley, CA to Mendocino, CA on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Réveille, Berkeley

Start your day with fresh, locally inspired breakfast dishes at this cozy café well known for its avocado toast and great coffee. It opens at 7am ensuring a timely departure.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive from Berkeley to Mendocino

Enjoy a scenic 3.5-hour drive along the Northern California coast with potential stops at scenic overlooks for photos.
Gas cost approx USD30, 3h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Beaujolais, Mendocino

Dine in a charming spot known for fresh local ingredients with a picturesque garden setting. Their seasonal menu highlights the best of Mendocino.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Mendocino Headlands State Park

Explore the coastal bluffs and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean this state park offers. Great for a chill afternoon walk and photos.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Check into local accommodation

Settle in at a local inn or vacation rental in Mendocino for a relaxing overnight stay.
USD150-250 depending on accommodation, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Trillium Café

Enjoy organic, farm-to-table cuisine in a relaxed setting with beautiful garden views. Perfect for a chill dinner experience in Mendocino.
USD30-40, 1.5h
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Day 2: Mendocino to Arcata Exploration

Mendocino, CA to Arcata, CA on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mendocino Café

Start with hearty breakfast classics in a cozy town café with friendly local vibes.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive from Mendocino to Arcata

Head north on a scenic 3-hour drive through Redwood country with forest views and peaceful stops.
Gas approx USD25, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Brio, Arcata

Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals in a bustling café popular for sandwiches and salads.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Arcata Community Forest

A beautiful urban forest park with trails through towering redwoods ideal for an easy hike and relaxing atmosphere.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Explore Arcata Plaza and local shops

Stroll the historic downtown plaza with local artisan shops, galleries, and coffee spots.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Check into accommodation in Arcata

Relax and freshen up at your chosen hotel or B&B in Arcata.
USD120-200, N/A

7:30pm

Dinner at Redwood Grill

Casual dining offering American classics with local ingredients in a cozy setting, ideal for a chill ending to the day.
USD30, 1.5h
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Day 3: Arcata to Ashland Arrival

Arcata, CA to Ashland, OR on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at SeaQuake Brewing Co., Arcata

A popular spot with creative breakfast fare and excellent coffee to fuel up for the drive ahead.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Arcata to Ashland

Enjoy the 3-hour drive north into Southern Oregon with scenery transitioning to mountains and forests.
Gas approx USD30, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at BricktownEats, Ashland

Casual eatery known for hearty sandwiches and local craft beers, great for a relaxed midday meal.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Lithia Park

Stroll this beautiful 93-acre park in the heart of Ashland with gardens, duck ponds, and walking trails.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Check into Ashland accommodation

Settle into your hotel or guesthouse; Ashland has lovely boutique inns close to downtown and theaters.
USD150-250, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine

Upscale farm-to-table restaurant showcasing Southern Oregon produce and artisan fare, perfect for a memorable dinner.
USD45, 2h
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Day 4: Ashland Relax & Cultural

Ashland, OR on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Morning Glory Café

Popular breakfast spot serving fresh and healthy options including vegan and gluten free choices.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Oregon Shakespeare Festival

If interested, catch a matinee performance or take a guided backstage tour (check schedule and book tickets in advance).
USD30-60, 2-3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ashland Food Co-op Café

Enjoy organic, local food with plentiful vegetarian options in a relaxed café environment.
USD18, 1h

2:00pm

Explore downtown Ashland shops and galleries

Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring boutique shops, artisan galleries, and coffee houses along Ashland’s main street.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Afternoon Tea or Coffee at Noble Coffee & Tea

Relax and unwind with quality brewed beverages in a cozy local café before concluding your trip.
USD8, 1h
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