California’s Mendocino Coast

Point Arena Memorial Forest

A 40-acre coastal redwood sanctuary on California’s rugged coast.

Existing Customers

Manage Your Memorial

Schedule a Visit

Visit your tree or grove by appointment.

Plan a Ceremony

Arrange a guided or self-led ceremony.

Tree Owner Login

See your memorial and account details.

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.

Living memorial

Trees instead of tombstones honor loved ones with a memorial that grows.

Eco-friendly

Ashes naturally nourish the forest—no harmful chemicals, low impact.

Supports conservation

Every memorial funds conservation, protecting forest and wildlife habitats.

Forever protected

Legally protected in perpetuity—the forest is never developed or disturbed.

What makes Point Arena special?

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.

Eco-friendly memorial services

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.

Resting place in nature

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.

Where in the forest?

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.

Memorial Types

Two ways to create a living memorial

Most Personal

Memorial Tree

A private tree in a protected forest for family and pets.

Your tree. Your forest. Your choices.

Starting at $6,200 • View Pricing
Bundle with cremation • Save $1,000

Most Accessible

Spreading Grove

A dedicated, shared grove in a protected forest.

A grove. A forest. A place to rest.

Starting at $2,250 • View Pricing
Bundle with cremation • Save $1,000

Add-On

Nature Memorial Ceremony

A personalized ceremony with loved ones to return ashes to the earth.

Starting at $100

Add-On

Memorial Marker

A customized bronze marker placed at a tree or grove to honor a life.

Starting at $500

What kind of tree?

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.

Majestic & Towering

Coastal Redwood

Earth’s tallest tree, living up to 2,000 years. Their interconnected root systems symbolize family bonds that span generations.

Stately & Reverent

Tanoak

Moss-covered and elegant, living up to 1,000 years. These acorn-bearing trees provide vital sustenance for forest wildlife.

Versatile & Resilient

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.

You ask questions. They answer honestly.

How does it work? What’s included? Is this right for me?

You explore options at your pace.

Guides can show you trees virtually or plan a forest visit.

You learn what a ceremony can look like.

Every detail is shaped around your family’s values.

You get clarity, not a sales pitch.

We’ll help you understand what’s right for you.

Schedule an online tour or an in-person forest visit.

Location

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.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

What families say

"Absolutely beautiful and peaceful! Best decision we've made, it's given us incredible peace of mind."

Dr. V. | Point Arena Memorial Forest

       
 
   5.0121 reviews

Read our Google Reviews

       
 
   5.0121 reviews

           
   Judy Aleman 
 441 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  My oldest sister and nephew are part of Tree #1, right near the winding white walls. Our family name is engraved on top of walls too. It’s a beautiful place, very serene, lots of trees and facing the ocean. We try to go every few years. I’m glad I found this place.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Mark Fitch 
 446 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We enjoyed our visit very much. The Better Place Forest is such a calm, beautiful, respectful place. The staff had set up a bench for us to sit and enjoy our Family Memorial Tree. This visit we noticed a brand new Redwood Sorel plant starting to grow heavenward.
We were refreshed and renewed.
Thank you!
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Yates Watson 
 455 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Lost my spouse about five months ago. Our  17th wedding anniversary came up. I needed to be there together with my spouse. I wasn't sure if I could make the 3 Hour drive alone.
I sent an email visitation request asking permission. Although The Forest was closed and unattended. I was allowed to visit. It meant a lot to successfully make The drive alone. To be there and hug the tree with my spouse. Everything was exactly the way we left it. It meant everything was going to be alright. After a while. I began hearing strange noises. My brain started thinking about the wild animals. So I started to run back to the car. I walked straight to the tree from the car . Going back I realized it was easier to get to the tree than  away from it.
The visit made my day and built my confidence in knowing that My Spouse is safe and okay in The forest.
      
 
    
 
    
 
    +1
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Tony A 
 480 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  It's beautiful out here though very far out. However, it's super peaceful and my mom, though not currently wanting to die, is looking forward to joining my dad out here.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Gail Valeskie 
 537 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I went on my birthday, May 16, 2025, to bury the cremains of six of my cats at the Pt Arena forest, to have them "waiting for me" when my time comes.

It was very nice to meet Jessica and Heather yesterday.  My friend, Barbara, and I truly enjoyed our visit  The little service made the whole experience a lovely ritual for placing my fur babies there to await their surviving other cat brother and my own arrival when the time comes.  It's a peaceful setting and I am quite pleased with my tree's location as well.  Even with the cold and wind, it was a rewarding day.

I wish them lots of future success to get the word out about Better Place Forest. The whole concept of cremation and adding to the Cycle of Life by composting remains with proper soil for the trees is what hooked me but it was being able to be buried with my pets for eternity that sealed the deal.

I will continue to sing the praises for Better Place Forests!
      
 
    
 
    
 
    +5
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Heidi Seavers 
 607 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  It’s been a year since we were last here to say goodbye to our loved one. Coming back today was beautiful and peaceful. We are thankful to return and have such a wonderful forest to visit.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Overland Alliance 
 612 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Amazing area on the coast
      
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Mary Kay Cocharo 
 717 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Jessica was a kind, knowledgeable, and patient guide for me and my guests in the forest. It was a beautiful, chilly day. We all enjoyed the beauty of the trees and the serenity of this environment.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Shirley Parenteau 
 721 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  What a beautiful, heart-warming forest. In late October, my three grown children and I visited for the first time. The weather was perfect with sunlight filtering through the trees. We knew at once this was the perfect place for my late husband's ashes. Jessica guided us through a compassionate gathering to mix Bill's ashes with rich local earth and flower petals, then to scatter the mix beneath his tree. Our thanks to Jessica for her kindness in guiding us through an emotional and beautiful time.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Pat Schwinn 
 835 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I am so glad that my husband and I found Better Place Forests years ago. Visiting yesterday with a friend whose Aunt’s cremains are there was so peaceful. It really reinforced our decision. And my friend was so pleased to see the beautiful forest where her Aunt is now buried.
      
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Dee E. 
 841 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  A gorgeous, peaceful place to spend an afterlife.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Carol McCormick 
 865 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  It’s just a year since my husband died. Only 7 months since family joined me to scatter his ashes around the roots of his lovely tree, which stands tall and strong on a slope facing a Better Place Forest’s Founders’ Memorial. Yesterday I visited my husband’s tree with my sisters to support me. We and many others had gathered there to celebrate the forest around the Summer Solstice, sort of an open house.

Ten to fifteen minutes drive from Point Arena, CA, the Better Place Forest is peaceful, stunningly beautiful, and a wonderful spot to visit to remember my dear husband. Others were visiting as well on Saturday, but, given the BPF covers some 20 acres, our visit still felt private and serene. The sight of his sturdy tree comforted me, as if his ashes had nourished it. We took advantage of the herbs and flowers station to make a small bouquet which we laid at the base of his tree.

The staff were kind and welcoming (Alethea, both young women named Jessica, and a fourth young person whose name I cannot recall - I thank them all.) The pretty welcoming center sits gracefully nearby. A restroom is available there plus maps of the pathways for strolling. I’m grateful BPF exists because of my husband’s tree and because I’ll be added to it when I’m gone.
      
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Carolyn Carnell 
 865 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  The summer solstice celebration at Better Place Forests exceeded any expectations I may have had. The event was very well attended. Refreshments were tasty and tastefully presented. My husband and I brought a picnic lunch and spoke to many lovely people with whom we all share the forest. We shared stories about our departed loved ones and saw each other's tree locations. We enjoyed the beautiful sunshine, and made lovely bouquets to place at our trees using flowers from Gillian's garden. Thank you so much for creating this wonderful event and celebration!
      
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Sharon Moore 
 877 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  My forest visit exceeded expectations! Amazing experience. Thank you to Jessica the forest steward who guided us. Knowing I will become a part of it forever was so life giving.💚
      
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Rob Friedman 
 915 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  A serene location with warm and thoughtful people taking care of their visitors and their sublime surroundings.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Viktor Collazo 
 951 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Every time I have an opportunity to share my incredible experience with Better Place Forrest im always happy to do so. I bought the tree 🌲 when my first pup 🐶 Luli (blue great chihuahua) suddenly passed away. Now me and my boys will have a beautiful final resting place. Thanks you Better Place Forrest for giving me this eternal gift of peace and love!!!
      
 
    
 
    
 
    +1
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Proton Saga 
 951 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Good
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   julie griffin 
 984 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Visited my personal Tanoak in Better Place Forest Point Arena this past weekend 💜.
So luv this memorial forest & the memorial team 🥰.
Thanks to Gillian Nye for an outstanding tour & sharing the supportive/reciprocal benefits of 'Giving Trees' in the redwood lands.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Joleen Bishop 
 1032 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I have a redwood tree in Pt Arena and it is a beautiful and a serene place to rest and to visit.  Wonderful and helpful staff who help you decide and choose what is THE place.   I highly recommend you consider this as an option for your final rest.
      
 
 
 
 
 
      
   Karen Dickerson 
 1036 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I have been so happy with Better Place Forest - Point Arena. Staff is empathetic and so helpful with any request we have.  We love the idea that my husband lives on nurturing the forest.  These photos are from our visit on New Year's Day.  My grandson gave his Grandpa a big hug.
      
 
    
 
    
 
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Memorial Forests near me

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.

California

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RESOURCES

Want to know more?

Memorial

Turn Ashes Into a Living Memorial Tree

Local Guides

First-Time Guide to Point Arena Forest in Northern California: What to Expect on a Breathtaking Visit

Memorial

10 Memorial Forest Traditions to Memorialize a Loved One

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.