NY Times Names Point Arena-Stornetta In Mendocino County Among Top World Places To Visit In 2014

POINT ARENA, Mendocino County (CBS SF) — A newly-designated portion of the California Coastal National Monument is near the top of the New York Times global list of 52 places to go in 2014.

Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands in Mendocino County is number three on the list, behind Cape Town, South Africa and Christchurch, New Zealand.

In March, President Obama used an executive proclamation to add Point Arena-Stornetta to the monument. Established in January 2000, the monument encompasses the state's entire coastline, ensuring protection of the tens of thousands of islets and rocky outcroppings along the coast.

The incorporation of Point Arena-Stornetta – with its signature bluffs, sea caves and small islands – adds another 12 coastal miles and 1,300 acres to the monument and allows for public access to areas previously off-limits.

The Point Arena lighthouse has long been a favorite spot for whale-watchers and weddings. Under interim Bureau of Land Management rules, the Point Arena-Stornetta unit can be used for other activities such as hiking, bird watching, fishing, picnicking, photography and public access to the Mendocino Coast.

Motor vehicles, bicycles, horses, and overnight camping are currently prohibited, pending a final management plan.