Things to Do in Lake County, Northern California Coast: A Beyond the Ordinary Escape

Northern California’s coast greets you with dramatic cliffs and salty breezes, and just around a 2-hour inland drive brings you to one of the state’s most underrated gems: Lake County, a region named for its many brilliant lakes, most famously Clear Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake entirely in California. Beyond the water, the area is known for premium winegrape vineyards, star-filled skies, and farm-to-table dining shaped by local growers.
As November settles in, mist lifts slowly from the valleys, volcanic peaks glow under crisp blue skies, and the legacy of healing hot springs feels especially appealing. It’s no wonder Lake County feels like one of the state’s most rewarding hidden gems. Start at the shoreline and let the road lead you towards these still-water vistas, and you’ll soon realise how this region blends autumn stillness with gentle adventure in one memorable trip.

Serene mountain landscape with a still lake perfectly reflecting the hazy, tree-covered slopes under a pale sky.

Lakeside Leisure on Clear Lake

Clear Lake offers some of the best things to do in Lake County, standing proudly as California’s largest natural freshwater lake, covering about 43,000 acres of water surface. The heart of Clear Lake is the state park, which sits right along its peaceful shoreline. As autumn arrives, the lake becomes a quiet sweep of seasonal beauty, and the gentle air pairs perfectly with a refreshing lakeside walk. Spend your day casting a line for largemouth bass, crappie and channel catfish, or take a slow paddle across its volcanic basin. Hikers can explore the Indian Nature Trail, a self-guided route that reveals how the Pomo people lived in the region for generations and made use of its natural resources. Clear Lake State Park offers plenty of room to unwind too, with 4 campgrounds, Cole Creek, Kelsey Creek, Lower Bayview and Upper Bayview. Kelsey Creek welcomes visitors year-round, and the park’s cosy rental cabins offer that snug ‘escape-from-everything’ feeling, a welcome retreat as the evenings grow softer and colder.

Wine Trails & Vineyard Views: A Signature Lake County Attraction

Beyond the water, Lake County boasts more than 30 wineries and around 8,700 acres under vine, nurtured by rich volcanic soils that set its wines apart. November brings a calmer rhythm to tasting rooms, with autumn gold in the vineyards and crisp air that makes a glass of Cabernet even more comforting. Kelseyville serves as a lively central hub for tastings, while Clearlake Oaks’ Cache Creek Vineyards invites you to sample a crisp Chardonnay amid serene countryside views. And if Cabernet Sauvignon is your favorite, don’t miss Six Sigma Ranch, where their renowned Cabs and beautifully crafted Tempranillo come from the Diamond Mine Vineyard, named for the sparkling flecks of volcanic quartz found in its soil. Lake County stands among the best places to visit on the Northern California coast, especially for travelers who prefer exceptional wine without the crowds.

Vertical close-up of dark purple and blush-coloured grapes ripening on the vine, surrounded by vibrant green leaves.

Corner view of Tallman Hotel showing 2-storey floor with wraparound balconies surrounded by greenery

Historic Towns & Small Town Magic

  • Upper Lake: For a dose of local character, explore the town of Upper Lake, CA. The streets echo an Old West feel, thanks to preserved 19th-century buildings, restored saloons and vintage-style shopfronts that line Main Street. The town is also home to the historic Tallman Hotel, a beautifully kept property dating back to the early 1900s. When you’re looking for things to do in Upper Lake, CA, wandering through this charming district offers a genuine taste of small-town California history at its most welcoming.
  • Lakeport: One of the biggest towns along Clear Lake, set directly on the water. Its highlight, Library Park, offers lovely views across the lake to Mt Konocti and is a popular spot for fishing or simply relaxing on the grass.

  • Historic Courthouse Museum: The county’s premier museum for local and Native American history, featuring displays on Pomo Indian culture, late-19th and early-20th-century period rooms, a restored courtroom and a gem and mineral collection. It covers the full span of human habitation in Lake County and is open 5 days a week, including weekends.
  • Clarkes Collectibles & Lunchbox Museum: A fun and nostalgic stop filled with retro treasures, including more than 700 vintage lunchboxes, classic toys, Barbies, Pez memorabilia, Hot Wheels, ashtrays and salt-and-pepper shakers.

Large American flag hanging vertically from the stone facade of a classical building with decorative columns.

A view of Tallman Hotel representing a Dining setup on a deck with checkered table cloths with a view of outdoor dining seating

Scenic Drives & Hidden Lakes

Venturing off the beaten track, you’ll uncover the quieter Lake County attractions, particularly in November, when the forests glow with richer colors and the air turns pleasantly crisp.

  • Visit the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lakes for tranquil paddle-boarding and forest-side picnics.
  • Take a scenic drive past the volcanic ridge of Mount Konocti, whose slopes provide panoramic viewing points over the lake.
  • Stop at local farm-stands and roadside fruit stalls, absorbing the mellow pace of inland roads and countryside details.

Outdoor Adventure for All

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with your dog in tow, Lake County welcomes every kind of traveler.

  • Cache Creek Wilderness Area: Explore this 27,000 acre dramatic volcanic landscape, where cool-season light draws clean, defined outlines across the ridgelines. Seasonal white-water rafting on Cache Creek adds extra thrill, and it’s a great place to spot bald eagles in the wild.
  • Bird-watching Across the Pacific Flyway: Lake County’s lakeshores, pine forests, river valleys, marshes and creeks lie within the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory route from Alaska to South America. Blue herons, western grebes, ospreys, barn owls and the American bald eagle are among the many species you can observe throughout the year.
  • Hiking Trails for Every Level: From gentle lakeside strolls to the rewarding ascent of Mount Konocti, where the views feel even clearer in the gentle November atmosphere, hikers of all levels will find trails that match their pace.

A brown and white bird sings loudly from a weathered wooden fence post.

A row of 4 brightly lit slot machines in a dimly casino with 3 cushioned chairs lined up in front of the machines.

  • Family-Friendly Outdoor Fun: With lakeside picnic spots, calm swimming points and open spaces perfect for relaxed exploring, families can enjoy easy, open-air recreation that fits all ages and activity levels.
  • Casinos: For a lively change of pace, Lake County’s casino scene blends entertainment, dining and scenic surroundings. Over 1,700 slot machines, poker rooms, bingo halls and dozens of favourite table games are spread across the region’s casino facilities.
  • Evenings Come Alive in a Softer Way: Open-sky stargazing, peaceful walks, and lakeside sunsets washed in cool November tones, the balance of activity and tranquility adds to its appeal as one of the best places to visit on the Northern California coast region.

An Old Town Road Towards Adventures Worth Remembering

Upper Lake’s location offers the best of both worlds: the laid-back atmosphere you crave after exploring the coast, yet an easy drive to both lake and vineyard adventures. Its compact size means you’ll return each evening to a peaceful base where you actually want to linger rather than rush on to the next stop. With Clear Lake around 5 miles away, historic buildings surrounding you, and vineyards and parks in every direction, the location works beautifully for travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and convenience, the kind of place where ‘county road’ really do lead you home.

Entrance of the Blue Wing Saloon of Tallman Hotel accompanied by a tall tree

The grand Tallman Hotel, a two-story white building with wrap-around porches, stands elegantly amidst lush greenery

Rest, Wine, Dine & Explore at The Tallman Hotel

And here’s where it all comes together. Located in the heart of Upper Lake, the historic Tallman Hotel is a beautifully restored 1890s boutique hotel offering rooms that combine period charm with modern comfort. Our rooms, from airy Veranda Rooms to serene garden-side retreats, each enriched with period details, pair beautifully with the fall season, creating a cocoon of comfort when cooler days and evenings arrive. At the Blue Wing Restaurant & Saloon, we present seasonal dishes and local wines, accompanied by well-regarded live music evenings that honour the property’s longstanding role as a gathering place. A seasonal pool, shaded garden patios, high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary parking and thoughtful seasonal offers come together to create a peaceful boutique retreat just steps from Main Street. Ideally placed for lakeside moments, vineyard visits and nearby nature-trail adventures, our hotel is the perfect base for exploring Lake County attractions.

From coastal cliffs to serene lakes, vineyard afternoons to historic towns, Lake County ties together water, wine, wellness, and unhurried exploration. It’s a region where scenic beauty meets simple pleasures, and the Tallman Hotel complements this perfectly as a historic boutique base steps from Main Street, with easy access to lakes, vineyards, and trails. From this inviting base, every day unfolds at a gentle pace, letting you discover, unwind, and savor the true spirit of Northern California.

FAQs

1. What are the must-visit attractions in Lake County, California?
Some of the must-visit attractions include Clear Lake, Blue Lakes, Mount Konocti, local wineries, historic towns, hot springs, and scenic drives.

2. What are the top activities to do at Clear Lake?
At Clear Lake, visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping at Clear Lake State Park.

3. Which towns are best for exploring Lake County’s history and charm?
Upper Lake, Lakeport, Kelseyville, and Clearlake Oaks are the best towns for exploring history, local culture, and small-town charm.

4. What outdoor adventures can families and pet owners enjoy in Lake County?
Hiking, white-water rafting, lakeside picnics, bird-watching, and stargazing.

5. How far is the Tallman Hotel from Clear Lake, and what makes it a great place to stay?
The Tallman Hotel is about 5 miles from Clear Lake while offering historic charm, modern comfort, on-site dining, garden patios, and a central location that makes exploring the area easy and enjoyable.
 

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