A weekend road trip can offer a great blend of exploration and relaxation, and Fort Bragg, California, is a prime destination for an escape with friends. Known for its scenic coastline and quaint charm, Fort Bragg provides a range of activities suitable for any traveler. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of the costs involved in a weekend getaway to Fort Bragg, based on a recent trip I shared with three friends.
Accommodations: The Captain’s Quarters
We booked The Captain’s Quarters via Airbnb, which proved to be both affordable and well-located. The total cost for two nights was $200, breaking down to $50 per person per night. This Airbnb is conveniently positioned within walking distance to most local attractions, adding value by reducing our transportation needs. You can also further save on the trip by taking advantage of breakfast at the Airbnb as well.
Dining Out
Saturday Breakfast: We started our day at Drop in Donut, spending about $20 each on donuts and coffee.
Lunch: We picked up lunch for $20 each at Laurel Deli & Desserts, enjoying it during our scenic railcar tour.
Dinner: Our dinners included a mix of local eateries:
- Friday Night: At Piaci Pub & Pizzeria, we had pizza, salad, and wine for a total of $100.
- Saturday Night: Dinner at North Coast Brewing Co. cost another $100, where we tried a variety of soups, salads, and beers.
Sunday Breakfast: Before departing, we had breakfast burritos at GoodLife Cafe & Bakery in Mendocino, costing $30 each.
Transportation: Gas and Mileage
Our round trip from San Francisco to Fort Bragg covered about 376 miles. We drove a hybrid vehicle, averaging 30 miles per gallon, with gas at $5 per gallon. The total gas cost came to about $80, equating to $20 per person.
Activities: Railbikes and Shopping
Electric Railbikes Tour: One of our main activities was the electric railbikes along Pudding Creek, priced at $265 per railcar. This cost was shared by two riders, which worked out to about $132.50 each for those participating.
Shopping: We explored local shops in both Fort Bragg and Mendocino, where we purchased items like local jams at Harvest at Mendoza’s. I highly recommend stopping by these shops downtown Fort Bragg:
- Ficus & Fern, 2. ER Energy Home & Comfort, 3. The Book Store & Vinyl Cafe, 4. Winding Used Books & Records, 5. Black Cat Antiques
Total Cost Per Person
The total expenditure for the trip, including accommodations, meals, gas, and activities, came to around $400 per person. This budget-friendly breakdown illustrates that a well-planned road trip to Fort Bragg can be economical while still allowing for a full experience of the area’s offerings.
Conclusion
This trip to Fort Bragg showcases how you can enjoy a full weekend of dining, activities, and exploration without excessive spending. The above cost analysis should help in planning a similar trip, ensuring an enjoyable and affordable experience.
