This string of houses and hotels straddling the Pacific Coast Highway is often overlooked by travelers en route toMendocino.
The boutique property reopened in June 2024 with a modern look and the same time-tested views.
The oceanfront perch includes private cottages and bungalows with big windows and private patios that deliver unobstructed vistas.
And even fewer that back up to a renowned wine region.
Things to Do
Unwind at Greenwood State Beach.
This quiet, driftwood-strewn beach runs along the cliffs that support the community of Elk.
It provides up-close views of the tiny islands off the coast, and plenty of seashells.
During low tide, explore the fascinating tide pools teeming with life, he says.
Go horseback riding on the beach.
Halen notes these horseback tours allow visitors to experience the beauty of the area from a unique perspective.
Spend the day at an Elk winery.
The winery is known for its pinot noir and chardonnay, in addition to organic-certified, farm-grown food.
Drive through Navarro River Redwoods State Park.
Just 15 minutes up the coast from Elk is theNavarro River Redwoods State Park.
Wander between the wineries of Anderson Valley.
From Elk, you could drive up the coast, turning inland on Highway 128.
After passing through the state parks tunnel of redwoods, youll come upon a series of wineries.
It carries everything from tools and gardening gadgets to kitchen goods and gifts.
The Elk Store
Ever wanted to experience a small-town general store?
It doesnt get cuter than theElk Store, which has a bit of everything.
The restaurants full tasting dinner menu is available in the 20-person dining room every Thursday through Monday.
A set lunch is also on offer.
The wine list is dominated by French wines, but does include local labels, too.
Dinner reservations are required, but there is a grab-and-go menu available on Tuesday and Wednesday.
This provides the foundation for innovative, hyper-seasonal menus across the region.
But Halen notes spring and fall are also wonderful seasons to go.
Spring is a great time to visit Elk if you love wildflowers.
The cliffs along the coast come alive with colorful blooms, and the weather is mild, he says.
He also recommends visiting in fall, during the harvest.
Winter tends to be quiet, with lots of rain.
How to Get There
Elk is in Mendocino County, north of San Francisco and Santa Rosa.
Theres also not a readily available ride-share service in the area.
For this reason, renting a car during your trip to Elk is a must.
Coastal landscape of Cuffey Cove in Elk, California.Credit:Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
Sacred Rock Inn guest room in Elk, California.Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
Wentworth Vineyards in Elk, California.Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
Matson Mercantile store in Elk, California.Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
From left: A dish gets a finishing touch at the Harbor House Inn restaurant in Elk; a plated trio at Harbor House Inn.Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
