Manchester Vacation Rentals

Unplug, unwind, and marvel at the natural beauty that surrounds you in Manchester, one of the most tranquil and secluded stretches of the rugged Northern California Coast. Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, this tiny community of barely 200 residents is an ideal destination for rest, relaxation, and exploring the great outdoors, and our Manchester vacation rentals are tailor-made for such peaceful retreats.

Where is Manchester, CA?

Flanked by wild ocean beaches, Manchester is located among the bluffs and coastal Redwoods of southern Mendocino County. This small oceanside community is 142 miles north of San Francisco, 173 miles south of Eureka, and in the midst of one of the most scenic stretches of California Highway One. And although commerce is scarce within town limits, Manchester is only 20 miles north of Gualala and just 30 miles south of the restaurants, shops, and local galleries of Mendocino.

Things to Do in Manchester

Although days at our Manchester vacation rentals can be easily spent admiring the ocean views, relaxing in a hot tub, or catching up on those novels you've been meaning to finish, this region is full of outdoor activities as well. The town is home to Manchester State Park, known for its five miles of sandy beach where the San Andreas Fault meets the ocean. Walk amongst poppies, lupines, and irises in the expansive grasslands, walk and beachcomb along Irish Beach, or drop a line for steelhead in Alder and Brush Creeks. 

Head out from your vacation rental and explore the Stornetta Lands - a must-see on your vacation! A mere six miles south of Manchester, these public lands include the beautiful Point Arena Lighthouse, which happens to be situated on the closest point of land to Hawaii in the continental United States. Just beyond this stunning structure is the Point Arena-Stornetta unit of the California Coastal National Monument, a protected area of nearly 2,665 acres of islands and coastline frequented by harbor seals, California sea lions, and thousands of nesting seabirds. 

Just east of the preserve, you can experience a taste of safari life on the California coast with a visit to B. Bryan Preserve. A breeding and preservation center for critically endangered to endangered animals, you'll be able to spot various species of zebra, giraffe, and antelope from this private preserve.

After a day of adventure, head back towards your vacation rental for a relaxing night's sleep, but not before taking a drive to Mendocino Village to do some shopping and have dinner at one of many delicious restaurants.

Day Trips from Manchester

In a region known for its vast hiking, whale-watching, and abalone-diving opportunities, our Manchester vacation rentals are ideally located for exploring Mendocino and Sonoma counties. 

Admire the jagged sea stacks as you head north to Mendocino, a quaint and artistic community of shops and restaurants. After spending the day exploring the Mendocino Headlands State Park, reserve a table at Cafe Beaujolais, a local institution known for its Northern California twist on French classics. Drive an additional 10 miles to reach the North Coast Brewing Company in downtown Fort Bragg, stopping at the historic Point Cabrillo Light Station along the way. Nearby, you can also meander through the gardens at the beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. From birds to blooms to butterflies, you'll love snapping pictures of rare magnolias and keeping an eye out for local wildlife.

Heading south along Highway One will bring you to the small town of Gualala and its neighbor, Sea Ranch, a community of homes and coastal trails built to blend in with the natural landscape. Play 18 holes on the Scottish-style seaside course at the Sea Ranch Golf Links, or admire the ocean vistas on the Gualala Bluff Trail.

Whether you're planning a weekend of peaceful seclusion, an outdoor adventure, or quality time with your friends and family, our Manchester vacation homes will help you recharge your batteries amidst one of the most beautiful California landscapes.