With California’s cleanest air, America’s oldest lake, and the friendliest folks on Earth, we’re California’s best-kept secret. The best part? We’re just a short drive away! Whether you take the scenic route or the quickest way here, we’re ready to show you want make us Clearly Different.
From San Francisco, Marin & Alameda Counties
If you prefer scenic mountain roads: Take Highway 101 north. At Hopland take Highway 175 for 19 miles to Lakeport.
If you prefer less twists and turns: Stay on Highway 101 past Highway 175. Shortly after Ukiah, take Highway 20 east.
Drive Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
From Alameda, Contra Costa & Napa Counties
Take Highway 29 through Napa Valley and up into Middletown. From there you can take any number of routes to head toward the communities surrounding Clear Lake:
Drive Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
From the Sacramento Valley
Go north on Interstate 5 until you reach Highway 20 in Williams. Take Highway 20 West until you hit Lake County. Travel north towards Lucerne, Nice or Upper Lake, or south for Clearleake, Lower Lake or Middletown.
Go LOCAL for your holiday tree this year! Cobb Mountain Family Christmas Trees has a great selection to choose from. Family owned and operated on the Owens Ranch in beautiful rural Lake County, this seasonal business offers pre-cut Christmas trees just waiting to be adopted by you, your family and friends! Follow their Facebook page for more information. Open today, Monday 11:00am-5:00pm. *Corner of Diener Drive and Seigler Springs Rd. *Accept Venmo, zelle, cash and check.
Here in Lake County we are grateful for the many things we have to share: our incredible vistas, our ancient volcanic Mt. Konocti, our Clear Lake, the largest in California, teeming with record large mouth bass, our award-winning locally crafted wines & dog-friendly tasting rooms; our warm hospitality and laid back vibes….so much to discover! Come see for yourself! Cheers y’all 🍷❤️ Photo at @laujorestatewinery by @karenpavonephotography
Are you looking for accommodations in our beautiful county? Located in a quiet neighborhood near downtown Lakeport, The Carriage House is awaiting your next stay. This recently remodeled gem is part of the historic 1906 Keeling estate, and offers visitors 1200 square feet of living space, privacy, and the ambience of a fine B&B. Ideally located one block from Clear Lake, and a short walk to downtown Lakeport, this lovely retreat has all the comforts of a home-away-from-home, and is perfect for families, couples, business travelers, or a romantic getaway for two. Owners Cheryl & George Smith have added many thoughtful touches to make your stay the best. For more information and available dates, click on the link in our profile. Happy travels!
What are you grateful for? We think our local scenery is one of our best features. Breathe in the calm of this stellar view over beautiful Clear Lake from the vantage point of Featherbed Railroad BnB in Upper Lake. What a glorious way to kick off this Thanksgiving holiday week! Video by @kellerjefffinishcarpenter
If ladybugs signify good fortune, then the local photographer who captured this phenomenon on a recent hike is lucky indeed! In winter months from November to February, thousands, even tens of thousands of ladybugs, can be found congregating in huge clumps on tree trunks and logs. This spectacular insect gathering is called an aggregation. Scientists believe ladybugs, who are usually solitary, aggregate to regulate their internal body temperatures, share mates, enhance their defense, and share resources. This incredible aggregation was captured by Jeff Keller while hiking recently on a local trail that enters the Mendocino National Forest. Just one more amazing example of Mother Nature in Lake County!
Have you heard of Lake County diamonds? These glistening stones are actually pieces of volcanic glass with an enchanting story based on local Native Pomo legend. According to folklore, the Moon was captivated by the Pomo Indian chieftain and could not help but fall in love. Unfortunately, the moon could not stay with the chieftain because she had the responsibility of lighting up the sky at night and marking the seasons. The Moon was so heartbroken to leave her chieftain that she wept and wept. Her tears solidified and became known as “Moon Tears”, or Lake County Diamonds. These treasures can still be found today scattered through our local hills. Just another reason we’re known as a “hidden gem” among destinations! 📷 by @karenpavonephotography
