I’m bumping this thread because in a week I’m planning on doing a part of the same trip the OP did but in reverse. After a few hectic months at work, the project I was working on is finally wrapping up, so I said “that’s it, I’m taking vacation before I get too busy on my next project!” and made some pseudo last minute plans. Since last year I went south, as discussed in this older thread, this year I’m going north.
As with last time, I’m planning it so I only have to do a couple of hours of driving per day. I’ll be driving a Miata, which I’m sure will be a blast to drive on that trip, but also isn’t exactly the most comfortable car to spend hours and hours in. And I don’t want to feel like I have to rush to get somewhere, and give myself time to stop and explore if I see something along my route that strikes my fancy. My plan is to start at Bodega Bay, and spend a day there exploring that area. Spend the night there. Then drive up to Ft. Bragg and use that as a home base for exploring the Mendocino area. Then drive to Garberville and spend a few days exploring the Humboldt Redwoods. Then drive home from there. .
So that’s the basic plan, but I welcome any specific recommendations around those areas. Good hikes, restaurants, kitschy tourist attractions, whatever…