The North Coast has been famous for abalone diving for as far back as I can remember.  In fact it was the fishing and ab diving that first got me hooked on this beautiful place when I was a boy.  And many wonderful memories have included free diving for red abalone.  Recent changes in the regulations and marine preserve areas are governed by the California Department of Fish and Game: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/. 

However, as of September 15, 2011, Fish & Game has closed the abalone season along the entire Sonoma County coast because of a recent abalone die-off, which began August 27 as a result of red tide poisoning or lack of oxygen.  Although the exact reasons for the abalone deaths are not known, invertebrate die-offs have occurred in the past along the northern California coast when similar weather and bloom conditions existed.  Check their website for the latest news.  

Over the years this Coast has also become a destination for art lovers, because of the thriving community of artists of all kinds, and the volunteer-built Gualala Arts Center, which is nestled in the redwoods on 10 gorgeous acres donated by Gualala Redwoods, Inc.  The Arts Center has become a hub of activity, hosting hundreds of public events each year, and in many ways serving as the heartbeat of the larger coastal community.  

Additionally, the Redwood Coast Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, service clubs and interest groups host an almost endless round of activities.  And nature enthusiasts have a field day in this beautiful and unspoiled environment.  Here are some links to websites which will keep you tuned in to much of what is going on, and where to find the action.

Gualala Arts Events Schedule: http://gualalaarts.org/Events/index.html

Gualala Arts on Facebook with photo albums: http://www.facebook.com/GualalaArts1961

Redwood Coast Chamber of Commerce: http://www.redwoodcoastchamber.com/

Sea Ranch Lodge Events: http://www.searanchlodge.com/events.html

Timber Cove Inn Events: http://www.timbercoveinn.com/calendar.php

Independent Coast Observer (local newspaper) Calendar: http://www.mendonoma.com/calendar.htm

Adventure Rents - outfitters on the beautiful Gualala River: http://www.adventurerents.com/index.html

Arena Theatre - Movies, Opera & Live Events: http://www.arenatheater.org/

The Sea Ranch Golf Links: http://www.searanchvillage.com/Golf_Links.html

Four-Eyed Frog Bookstore - events & author readings: http://www.foureyedfrog.com/

St. Orres - things to do: http://www.saintorres.com/