These scenic villages dot the coastline and most everything has spectacular ocean views. Feast your eyes on an excellent array of Elk lodging and wake to the sound of crashing waves upon the rocky bluffs below. As you travel North on Hwy 1, you'll come to the coastal village of Albion. The Albion River and the adjoining flats are a sportsman's paradise. It's perfect for the camper that loves to fish and dive. You can launch your boat, go up the river, out to sea or hang out on the beach.

Albion & Elk are found on either side of where Hwy 128 meets the sparkling blue Pacific Ocean.

If you're turning south on Hwy 1 from 128, you'll discover the offbeat village of Elk. It's a lively close-knit community and one of the most peaceful oceanfront hideaways you'll ever find. This charming hamlet is perched high above the Pacific Ocean on sparsely populated scenic bluffs.

Located 17 miles south of Mendocino, the seaside hamlet of Elk is composed of retired professionals, craftspeople, and hoteliers, with an enviable quality of life. While the sign at the edge of town says "Population 250" be told, there are only about 80 full-time residents enjoying this little slice of Heaven on Earth.

These days Albion is a small town, but it's history is fascinating! In 1845, Mexico awarded English sea captain William A. Ricahrdson a large land grant, stretching along the California coast (between the present-day towns of Elk and Mendocino). Captain Richardson was married to the daughter of the Mexican Commandant of Yerba Buena (present-day San Francisco). By 1853 Richardson had built a home and sawmill alongside a narrow river estuary. He named the spot Albion, after the ancient name for his English homeland.

The restaurants along this drive are some of the best choices of "restaurants" on the Mendocino Coast. Many of the chefs and their restaurants have won awards and write-ups in national magazines. Due to their remote splendor, it is easy for those who partake to forget the outside bustle while relaxing within this oceanfront world. Every breathtaking sunset and lap of the waves below are guaranteed to rejuvenate your soul!