Point Arena Memorial Forest
A 40-acre coastal redwood sanctuary on California’s rugged coast.
Why Point Arena?
A natural alternative to traditional cemeteries
Point Arena Memorial Forest offers a meaningful way to return ashes to the earth within a protected forest sanctuary.
Trees instead of tombstones honor loved ones with a memorial that grows.
Ashes naturally nourish the forest—no harmful chemicals, low impact.
Every memorial funds conservation, protecting forest and wildlife habitats.
Legally protected in perpetuity—the forest is never developed or disturbed.
A coastal oasis where mountains meet the sea
Experience a thriving coastal redwood ecosystem unlike any traditional memorial—where ancient
trees tower, Pacific breezes drift through the canopy, and nature brings life to the forest.
Peaceful design
Serene trails wind past the Founders Memorial to a modern Visitor’s Center overlooking the forest.
Living forest
Listen for birdsong and tree frogs in the canopy, watch for black-tailed deer in a vibrant ecosystem.
Seasonal splendor
Discover a flowing creek, blooming rhododendrons, wild huckleberries and forest mushrooms.
Your memorial
protects the forest
Your memorial does more than honor a life—it protects an ecosystem. Each purchase funds a Stewardship Trust to preserve the forest and provides you irrevocable access rights in perpetuity.
Return to nature,
make it beautiful
After cremation, families need a place to remember. With Better Place, ashes find a permanent home in a protected Memorial Forest—not on a mantle, not scattered without a place to return.
It’s simpler than traditional burial, more comprehensive than direct cremation, and designed for how we want to be remembered—as part of something living.
Need cremation services? We offer carbon-neutral cremation.
Three perfect memorial locations
Within Point Arena Memorial Forest are three distinct locations, each with its own character and natural beauty. Discover the one that speaks to you.
Oceanview Meadow
Serene trails wind past the Founders Memorial to a modern Visitor’s Center overlooking the forest.
Highland Ridge
The highest elevation where sunlight filters through the forest canopy.
Creekside
The heart of the forest with ancient redwoods and seasonal creek.
Two ways to create a living memorial
Memorial Tree
- Multiple people & pets at one tree
- You choose tree & location
- Add a personalized Guide-led ceremony
- Add customized Memorial Marker
Your tree. Your forest. Your choices.
Starting at $6,200 • View Pricing
Bundle with cremation • Save $1,000
Spreading Grove
- Honors one life in a shared grove
- Location chosen for you
- Simple self-led memorial ceremony
- Includes small, simple marker
A grove. A forest. A place to rest.
Starting at $2,250 • View Pricing
Bundle with cremation • Save $1,000
Nature Memorial Ceremony
A personalized ceremony with loved ones to return ashes to the earth.
Starting at $100
Memorial Marker
A customized bronze marker placed at a tree or grove to honor a life.
Starting at $500
Point Arena tree species
Point Arena features three native Northern California coastal tree species, each with their own symbolism and strength for honoring your loved one. Explore trees virtually or visit the forest in-person.
Coastal Redwood
Earth’s tallest tree, living up to 2,000 years. Their interconnected root systems symbolize family bonds that span generations.
Tanoak
Moss-covered and elegant, living up to 1,000 years. These acorn-bearing trees provide vital sustenance for forest wildlife.
Douglas Fir
Among the world’s tallest trees, living up to 1,000 years. Valued wildlife habitat and a symbol of enduring adaptability.
What to expect
What happens when you explore with a Guide
A Guide helps you understand your options, answers your questions,
and walks you through next steps—no pressure.
How does it work? What’s included? Is this right for me?
Guides can show you trees virtually or plan a forest visit.
Every detail is shaped around your family’s values.
We’ll help you understand what’s right for you.
Schedule an online tour or an in-person forest visit.
Visit Point Arena Memorial Forest
Find out what a living memorial looks like. Walk the forest paths, view Memorial Trees, and find the right resting place—by appointment, in person or online.
- 25284 Ten Mile Cutoff Point Arena, CA 95468
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
What families say
"Absolutely beautiful and peaceful! Best decision we've made—it's given us incredible peace of mind."
Better Place Memorial Forests
Our protected forests span America—from the redwoods of the Mendocino Coast to the ridgetops of the Berkshires. Some of the most beautiful, biodiverse places in the country.
Talk to a Guide, 24/7
When you’re ready, we’re here.
Explore at your own pace
See the two ways families honor a life.
Questions?
We're here to help.
What is a Memorial Forest?
A Memorial Forest is a protected natural area designed as an alternative to a traditional cemetery where cremated ashes are returned to the earth at the base of a chosen, established tree or in dedicated groves.
Is a Memorial Forest in Point Arena the right choice for me or my loved one?
Absolutely. Instead of tombstones in a cemetery, your loved one’s ashes become part of the Point Arena Memorial Forest ecosystem, protected forever through conservation. Your memorial grows and evolves with the seasons, celebrating the cycle of life.
How much does it cost to spread ashes in Point Arena Memorial Forest?
In Point Arena, you can choose a shared Spreading Grove or private Memorial Tree to spread ashes. View pricing here
What are the benefits of Point Arena Memorial Forest compared to cremation or funeral homes?
Point Arena provides a meaningful alternative to traditional options: a protected forest resting place without funeral home pressure. Your memorial supports conservation, becomes part of a living ecosystem, and gives your family a permanent place to visit.
Why choose Point Arena Memorial Forest over other Memorial Forests?
People may choose Point Arena Memorial Forest for its beautiful native tree species, sentimental value, and its commitment to stewarding the land.
Can I visit Point Arena Memorial Forest anytime?
Yes! You can arrange an in-person visit anytime by contacting a Guide. Get Started
Can you get buried in Point Arena Memorial Forest?
Point Arena Memorial Forest allows spreading ashes, not traditional burial.
What are the steps to choosing a Memorial Tree in Point Arena Memorial Forest?
Choosing a Memorial Tree is easy. Select the tree size, species, and location within the forest. You can choose online with the help of a Guide or visit the forest in person, whichever is easiest for your situation. Get Started
What to consider when choosing a Memorial Tree in Point Arena Memorial Forest?
Think about whether you want a Memorial Tree along an accessible path, in a sunny meadow where you can picnic, or in a more secluded location.
