NOYO

• Latitude: 39.42484
• Longitude: -123.8038
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: Fort Bragg CA US

Noyo Harbor is a small but significant port located on the Pacific Coast of northern California near the town of Fort Bragg, Mendocino County. Here's a detailed description and specification of Noyo Harbor:

Port Description:

Noyo Harbor is set along the Noyo River, which flows into the Pacific Ocean. It's known for its scenic beauty and serves primarily as a commercial fishing and recreational port. The area around the harbor is picturesque, featuring rugged cliffs and lush forests, making it not only a functional port but also a tourist attraction.

Key Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Latitude/Longitude: Approximately 39.4262° N, 123.8053° W
   • State: California
   • County: Mendocino

2. Harbor Facilities:

   • Docking: The harbor offers multiple docks for fishing vessels, recreational boats, and other small vessels.
   • Marina: There are facilities for boaters, including slips for transient and resident vessels, boat launches, and refueling stations.
   • Harbor Office: Provides administrative services and support for harbor operations.

3. Depth and Draft:

   • Channel Depth: Typically around 10-15 feet, but this can vary with seasonal sedimentation and dredging activities.
   • Berth Depth: Varies, but generally suitable for small to medium-sized fishing vessels and recreational boats.

4. Navigational Aids:

   • The entrance to Noyo Harbor is marked by a series of navigational aids, including buoys and lights to assist vessels in safely navigating the harbor mouth, which can be narrow and subject to strong currents.

5. Commercial Activity:

   • Fishing Industry: The harbor supports a robust commercial fishing industry, known particularly for its Dungeness crab, salmon, rockfish, and sea urchin fisheries.
   • Fish Processing: On-site facilities for processing and shipping seafood.

6. Recreational Use:

   • Charter Services: Offers fishing charters, whale watching, and sightseeing tours.
   • Kayaking and Boating: Popular for recreational kayaking and pleasure boating along the river and into the coastal waters.

7. Support Services:

   • Fueling Stations: Marine diesel and gasoline are available.
   • Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services are available, including haul-out facilities for small vessels.
   • Supplies: Marine supply stores provide necessary equipment and supplies for both commercial and recreational vessels.

8. Amenities:

   • Restaurants and Shops: There are several seafood restaurants and shops in and around the harbor area.
   • Parking: Ample parking for visitors, including spaces for trailers and RVs.

9. Environmental Considerations:

   • Noyo Harbor is subject to environmental regulations designed to protect the local ecosystem, including the Noyo River and surrounding coastal habitats.

Access:

• Road Access: Easily accessible via California State Route 1, which runs along the Pacific Coast.
• Nearby Airports: Closest major airport is Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport, located in Santa Rosa, approximately 140 miles south of Fort Bragg.

Tourism:

• Noyo Harbor is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions and activities related to the maritime and coastal environment, making it a hub for both economic activity and leisure.

Challenges:

• Weather Conditions: The area can be affected by severe weather conditions, particularly during winter storms which can impact harbor operations.
• Sedimentation: Regular dredging may be required to maintain navigable depths.

Noyo Harbor is a vital component of the local economy, supporting both commercial and recreational maritime activities while providing a beautiful spot for visitors and local residents alike.