Quaint and Rustic. This historic town, which sits on rugged bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, features dozens of shops, art galleries and bed and breakfast inns, and is host to several events every year, including the Mendocino Whale Festival and Music Festival. The area offers activities such as whale watching, canoeing, abalone diving, hiking, and biking. The town of Mendocino has been named a National Historic Preservation District due to its historical buildings, most of which date from the turn of the century. Just South of Mendocino is Big River, a coastal stream that is a favorite spot for area outdoor enthusiasts.