In 1857 Lieutenant Horatio Gibson was dispatched to the North Coast to establish a military base one mile north of the Noyo River on land that had once been Mendocino Indian Reservation. He named the outpast Fort Bragg. This seaside town is often confused with the active U.S. Army Fort of the same name in North Carolina; but the name is the only thing these two places have in common. This Fort Bragg is a "good time" kind of place!

Fort Bragg is the home of the Skunk Railway, a narrow gauge railroad which travels through splendid scenery of the redwood forests and is a "must" for coastal visitors. Many hometown celebrations such as Paul Bunyan Days, The World's Largest Salmon Barbeque, and the Whale Festival delight locals and visitors throughout the year. There are also museums, theaters, galleries, inns, and a local microbrewery and coffee roaster to enjoy.

Nearby Noyo Harbor is alive with the bustle of fishing boats as they ply the waters of this quaint seaport. Huge California Sea Lions entertain visitors with their antics and announce their presence with their loud barking. Restaurants offer mesmerizing views and local, fresh seafood specialities.