Story and Photos by Lee Daley. When traveling solo or with just one friend, I love to plot out time to refresh in a local public garden, whether large or small. On a recent getaway to Ft Bragg, I felt incredibly fortunate to immerse myself in the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. My timing could not have been better. The rhododendrons and azaleas were in stunning full bloom, while an array of artistic sculptures scattered throughout the grounds highlighted our stroll to the seashore.
Pointing to the path that leads to the ocean, this lovely sculpture showcases the beauty of the landscape.
Feeling totally immersed, we stopped to create memories, photographing favorite views of the individual corners where flora from native species to exotic cultivars thrives at every bend. Here, just one of many sculptures scattered throughout blends natural art with that of one created by a local artist.
Marble and Stone Sculpture, “Prayer” by John Fisher.
Our walk was enhanced not only by the natural beauty around us but by the winding paths and footbridges that wander along, eventually taking us to the cliffs above the shores of Glass Beach with its stunning panoramic views.
Several footbridges in the Mendocino Coastal Botanical Gardens line the path leading to the ocean.
As we wandered, stopping occasionally to reflect and to frame photos, we were greeted by another sculpture that seemed to epitomize the wisdom of taking time to forget the challenges we all face and remembering to unwind. Here, the Wisdom Owl, peacefully ensconced in a shady glen, looks out peacefully at all who pass.
“Wisdom Owl” greets visitors as they walk to the ocean at the end of the trail. Sculpture by Clayton Theil Sculptures.
Soon, our wanderings rewarded us with a refreshing sea breeze and a phantasmagorical cliffside view of the horizon beyond as waves cascaded onto the shores of Glass Beach. Benches awaited.
Glass Beach rewards visitors who reach its shores from the Mendocino Coastal Gardens trail.
Visit the Mendocino Botanical Gardens to explore diverse habitats, vibrant blooms, and breathtaking ocean bluffs. The Gardens offers a stunning array of flora, from native species to exotic cultivars. Not just a feast for the eyes, the Gardens also provides an array of horticultural education, as well as creative ways to connect with the natural world and practice environmental stewardship.
