Activities – Visit Humboldt (2024)

Avenue of the Giants Scenic Drive

Avenue of the Giants Southern Entrance, Redwood Highway, Myers Flat (707) 946-2263

The world famous Avenue of the Giants scenic drive is by far one of the most amazing array of redwoods in Humboldt County. The Avenue of Giants gives you access to countless hiking trailheads, picnic areas, rivers and groves. If you want to window shop, pick up some mementos or buy picnic supplies, stop by one of the numerous small towns along the Avenue such as Pepperwood, Redcrest, Weott, Myers Flat (home to the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree), Miranda and Phillipsville.

Avenue Of The Giants/Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Avenue of the Giants, Redcrest, CA

The Avenue of Giants gives you access to countless hiking trailheads, picnic areas, rivers and groves. If you want to window shop, pick up some mementos or buy picnic supplies, stop by one of the numerous small towns along the Avenue such as Pepperwood, Redcrest, Weott, Myers Flat (home to the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree), Miranda and Phillipsville.

Redwood National Park & Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

US-101 & Redwood Hwy, US-101, Orick (707) 465-7765

An international Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, this park preserves the world’s tallest trees, including the record holder at 380 feet, six stories higher than the Statue of Liberty. Besides hiking, biking and horse trails, the park boasts some of California’s wildest beaches.

Lost Coast & Shelter Cove

Shelter Cove, CA 95589, USA

Shelter Cove boasts a picturesque beauty that only enhances as you journey deeper. From the rugged Lost Coast, relaxing tide pools, peaceful bike trails, to the surreal Black Sand Beach that only Humboldt County has to offer—there’s something for everyone to enjoy. After a whole day of exploring, enjoy delicious cuisine and freshly caught local seafood before retreating to serene lodging.

Redwood Sky Walk

3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 441-4263

This amazing aerial experience in Eureka, California, takes visitors to new heights among the world’s tallest living things. The $4 million canopy trail, the longest in the western United States, rises more than 100 feet above the forest floor in Eureka’s Sequoia Park, a 65-acre community forest that features trees rivaling those of nearby Redwood National Park and the Avenue of the Giants. The quarter-mile sky walk, most of it ADA compliant, is included with admission to Eureka’s Sequoia Park Zoo, the oldest certified zoo in the state of California.

Eureka & Humboldt Bay

As the county seat of Humboldt County, the City of Eureka is the heart of the U.S. redwood coast. Eureka is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland and a frequent stopover point for road trippers exploring the Pacific Northwest. Humboldt Bay is a natural bay and a multi-basin, bar-built coastal lagoon located on the rugged North Coast of California, entirely within Humboldt County.

Victorian Village Of Ferndale

Ferndale, CA, USA (707) 786-4477

Entering Ferndale is like taking a step back in time to the bygone era of Victorian Villages. Whether you’ve been here for five hours or five generations, the hospitality of the locals and the serene surroundings will take your breath away. Marvel at the beautifully preserved homes along with the rows of general stores, ice cream parlors, blacksmith shops, saloons, museums, excellent dining and nostalgically new lodging establishments.

Trinidad, A Seaside Village

Trinidad, CA, USA (707) 677-8645

Oh, for the love of Trinidad! Entire romance novels have yet to be written about this tiny dot on the world map of love. Too poetic? Then you’ve never been here. And now is the time. Your story is about to unfold. Just a quick 20 miles due north of Eureka, this postage-stamp, picture-perfect town teeters on the cliffs above crashing waves. The gateway to the California Coastal National Monument, Trinidad promises tide pool exploration at Trinidad State Beach, leisurely hiking on Trinidad Head, and some crazy-good dining right on the Trinidad pier! Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, picnic supplies, or taste some wine if the mood strikes. Also, be sure to check out the Memorial Lighthouse and the Humboldt State Marine Lab. If you head home without visiting Trinidad…well, that will be one sad story to tell.

Arcata Plaza & Cal Poly Humboldt

Arcata, CA, USA

Home to Cal Poly Humboldt (public university in Arcata, California), one of the nation’s greenest schools. It is one of three polytechnic universities in the California State University system and the northernmost campus in the system. The town of Arcata features chic shopping around the downtown plaza, including organic clothing stores, progressive bookstores, bead and crystal shops and home and gift stores. Don’t miss the historic Jacoby Storehouse.

Willow Creek

Willow Creek, CA, USA (530) 629-2693

Come visit Bigfoot’s old stomping grounds. Where you can learn more about the hairy legend at the China Flat Bigfoot Museum with the world’s largest collection of Bigfoot artifacts. “River fun in the mountain sun” is a life motto here. Relax and enjoy never-ending private swimming holes, rock jumping into deep pools, and some of the best whitewater rafting you’ll ever experience. There’s so much to do in Willow Creek, you’ll find yourself booking a trip to come back before you leave. You can even book a backcountry auto tour and get up close and personal with Six Rivers National Forest, enjoy a variety of wine tasting choices, sample the freshest produce from local farm stands, and (as mentioned earlier) share a little quality-time with Bigfoot.

Fortuna

Fortuna, CA, USA (707) 725-7600

Fortuna may perhaps be the friendliest and most convenient city in the Redwood Forest. With numerous choices for affordable and comfortable lodging and dining, Fortuna is the perfect home base for day trippers, Humboldt history buffs, artistic souls and food lovers alike. Fortuna is only a 15 minute drive to The Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Ferndale, Eureka and the Bear River Casino Resort.

Humboldt Bay Wildlife Refuge

1020 Visitor Center Access Road, Loleta, CA 95551 (707) 733-5406

Put on your waterproof shoes and head over to the Humboldt Bay Wildlife Refuge. Located on the southernmost end of Humboldt Bay, the Wildlife Refuge is a great place to walk flat land trails, see wildlife, and explore wetland habitats. Typically, the best time to view the wildlife is at dawn and dusk but will depend on the tide levels. If you are new to bird watching, beginners can sign out a backpack kit with binoculars, birding guides, and other educational materials.

Humboldt Botanical Garden

7707 Tompkins Hill Rd, Eureka, CA 95503 (707)-442-5139

If you are looking for a labyrinth-filled adventure or to just have a lovely picnic among nature, this is the place for you. The grounds offer spectacular views of Humboldt Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The beautiful Humboldt Botanical Garden has a mixed climate that has helped a variety of plants and floral arrangements grow and thrive since 1991.

Cannabis In Humboldt County

Benbow State Recreation Area

445 Lake Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542

Benbow State Recreation Area is a state park unit of California in the United States. It is located in Humboldt County 2 miles south of Garberville on U.S. Route 101 on the South Fork Eel River.

Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park/Carlotta

16949 State Highway 36, Carlotta, CA 95528 (707) 777-3683

Located on the Van Duzen River is the small yet beautiful Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park. While the park only covers a few acres there are a number of things you can do, such as fishing, swimming, canoeing and hiking. Very few visitors come on a weekday, so it is entirely possible to be the only person in the park.

Rio Dell / Scotia

Scotia, CA, USA (707) 764-5063

Flawless weather, spectacular scenery, gorgeous architecture and nostalgic charm are just a few ways to describe both historic logging towns of Rio Dell and Scotia. Since the 1880s, Scotia has been the longest surviving lumber town in America. Home to an impressive logging museum, locomotives, the historic Winema Theatre, steam donkeys and the largest open-air freshwater aquarium on the North Coast. A stone’s throw to the north, Rio Dell was once home to the workforce for one of the largest lumber mills in the world, the Pacific Lumber Company. Locals gather along the Eel River for summer fun, and refuel in the quaint downtown at Lety’s Cafe or Wildwood Waffles.

Eureka’s Historic Old Town

525 2nd St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 441-4150

Before or after you venture into the redwoods, Old Town Eureka is a must-see. Restaurants, galleries, theaters, coffee houses, boardwalks and antique shops make up only a portion of everything this cozy quaint Victorian town has to offer. The arts are very much alive in Old Town Eureka from the renowned Native American wing in the Clarke Historical Museum to the murals that adorn the walls of buildings in the area. Experience Eureka’s history on walking tours or take in the sights while relaxing in the back seat of a horse-drawn carriage.

Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon, Davison Rd, Orick (707) 464-6101

Hidden to the casual observer, a secret adventure awaits those who persist. Down a long and winding road, travelers will find well-marked paths crossing over a variety of streams beneath towering redwoods, suddenly to come upon a hidden canyon cut deep into the mountainside. Narrow 50-foot walls shoot high above on either side, bathed entirely in a carpet of ferns, clover, and moss. A word of advice: Bring along a bite to eat as you may want to stay awhile…and dream.

Black Sands Beach

Black Sands Beach, Dolphin Drive, Whitethorn (707) 986-5400

Black Sands Beach is well deserving of its name. The black sand that covers 3.5 miles of the beach’s coastline contrasts beautifully against its clear blue tides. To get to this picture perfect beach, take exit 642 off of Highway 101 and follow the winding road down into Shelter Cove. Turn right onto Beach Road, which will lead straight to that gorgeous black sand and uniquely coastal paradise.

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway (Elk)

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Orick, CA 95555 (707) 464-6101

The Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway is a stretch of highway parallel to the 101 past Orick between exits 753 and 756. Passing through Prairie Creek State Park, this 10 mile detour winds alongside an impressive stand of old-growth redwoods. Herds of Roosevelt Elk also roam the park. Watch them graze the safety of your vehicle.

Shrine Drive Thru Tree

13708 Avenue of the Giants, Myers Flat, CA 95554 (707) 943-1975

You know you’ve witnessed some of the largest trees on the planet when you find yourself driving your car through the very center of one. The Shrine Drive-Thru Tree (Myers Flat) allows you to return home again with photographs to prove you were not subject to ingesting some of the local forest mushrooms and did, indeed, pass directly through a living giant.

Lady Bird Johnson Grove

127011 Newton B. Drury Scenic Pkwy, Orick, CA 95555 (707) 464-6101

Upon the creation of Redwood National Park in 1968, this spectacular, world-class redwood grove was dedicated to Lady Bird Johnson, our former First Lady. An easy and level path ushers travelers through a wooded forest of staggeringly immense trees, featuring the occasional blanket of rhododendrons (May – June), mushrooms and moss, as well as an inspiring variety of simple treasures found only in an ancient redwood forest.

Founders Grove

Dyerville Loop Rd, Redcrest, CA 95569 (707) 946-2263

Founders Grove is as big in popularity as it is in size. It is the most visited grove in Humboldt and is a major North Coast redwood attraction, and for good reason.Don’t be surprised if you find yourself next to a neighborly wanderer like yourself staring up at the massive Redwoods.Getting here is easy, maybe too easy. Founders Grove is located next to the Highway 101 off-ramp straight through the Avenue of the Giants.

Rhododendron Trail

Prairie Creek Visitor Center, Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Orick (707) 464-6101

To find the magic of the Rhododendron Trail you must first begin your journey at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center on the edge of scenic Elk Prairie. The trail is lined with lichen-encrusted maples, blackberry brambles, and magnificent redwoods. If you do anything in Humboldt make sure you don’t miss the beautiful scenery of the Rhododendron Trail.

Rockefeller Forest

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571 (707) 946-2263

Purchased and preserved in 1931 by John D. Rockefeller Jr. and the Save-the-Redwoods League, the Rockefeller Forest is the largest remaining old-growth coastal redwood forest in the world. The trees towering overhead combined with the ground softly dusted with redwood needles and fern resembles a scene from a fairytale.

Bull Creek Flats

Bull Creek Flats Road, Redcrest, CA 95569

This day-long trek (depending on where you start) allows one to take in nearly all of the splendor of the Upper and Lower parts of Bull Creek. The full loop can be hiked in the Summer and Fall due to the seasonal footbridge that is typically installed in summer months. If you are looking for solitude the northern side of the park is your best bet, but if your looking to make friends in the forest the south side of Bull Creek is very popular in the summer.

James Irvine Trail

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Orick, CA 95555 (707) 465-7765

The James Irvine Trail is a gorgeously rustic 4.5-mile hiking trail located right behind the Visitor Center at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. If you want to visit nearby Gold Bluffs and Fern Canyon take the nature trail behind the Visitors Center, which will lead you over a bridge and through the woods, straight to a place even more fun than grandmother’s house.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Orick, CA 95555 (707) 464-6101

Come have a new adventure at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, where the oldest redwoods live. Enjoy a 10-mile scenic drive through ancient redwoods on New B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Once you set up camp, go on 75 miles of hiking, biking or backpacking through the awesome regions of the park.

Bald Hills Scenic Drive

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Orick (707) 465-7765

Drive through the magnificent Bald Hills to view elk in the oak woodlands and prairies. The Bald Hills Scenic Drive grants you access to many groves with some of the tallest Redwoods in the world such as the Lady Bird Johnson grove and Tall Tree Grove. Due to steep grades and switchbacks, this road is not recommended for trailers or RV’s.

Lost Coast Trail

Lost Coast Trail, Whitethorn, CA (707) 986-5400

Rolling mountains and windswept coastal bluffs come face-to-face with miles of narrow beaches and crashing waves. Seemingly a land forgotten, this scenic coastal playground provides an endless expanse perfect for wandering, soul-searching and other romantic pursuits. Located along the coastal bluffs south of the Eel River, a short drive just south of Eureka and six easy miles west of Ferndale sits some of the most beautiful and memorable beaches, grasslands and scattered patches of forest.

Rockefeller Forest & Rockefeller Loop

Rockefeller Loop, Lower Bull Creek Flats Road, Redcrest (707) 946-2263

Located alongside the Avenue of the Giants, this 10,000 acre swath of the Humboldt Redwoods State Park is particularly beautiful. Rockefeller Forest is the largest old-growth coastal redwood forest in the world. Here, the clear waters of Bull Creek converge with the winding Eel River. Take the Rockefeller Loop Trail, a .6 mile stroll, into the dark, dense forest where it becomes apparent that time has little meaning for the ancient trees around you.

Founders Grove & Founders Grove Loop

Founders Grove Nature Trail Loop Trailhead, Redcrest, CA (707) 946-2263

When you’re cruising along the Avenue of the Giants, be sure to stop by Founder’s Grove to wander through some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. This easy trek includes a half-mile loop trail with exemplary specimens of the redwoods that give the Avenue its name, including the towering Founders Tree and the Dyerville Giant, a fallen redwood that’s an estimated 2000 years old. Commune with nature beneath the cathedral-like canopy, and be reminded that we are but small pieces in a much larger puzzle.

Carson Mansion

143 M Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 443-5665

Witness this iconic example of Victorian architecture, which towers above the Bay in Old Town Eureka. Since 1884, this gingerbread, storybook mansion–a Eureka landmark–has been one of the most written-about, photographed and celebrated Victorian homes in the country. Built by lumber magnate William Carson, it boasts towers and turrets, columned porches, gables and striking ornate details, all topped off with a radical paint job.

Blue Ox Millworks & Historic Park

1 X Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 444-3437

Humboldt Bay & Woodley Island

Woodley Island, Eureka, CA (707) 443-0801

There is something for everyone down at the Humboldt Bay. Here you can stroll down the wooden pier as the clouds roll by and ships sail back into the harbor after a long day at sea. Enjoy a nice evening of waterfront dining and then book a sunset cruise and see the Pacific Ocean in all of its glory. Venture over to Table Bluff Lighthouse to take photographs of the beautiful landscape on Woodley Island or grab you kayak paddle and hit the waves.

Madaket Cruise on Humboldt Bay

1 C Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 445-1910

Take a one-of-a-kind guided tour on the Madaket, the nation’s oldest passenger ferry. This 8.5-mile, one-hour cruise travels along the inspiring Eureka Waterfront. You will learn everything you ever wanted to know about the colorful Humboldt Bay, the timber industry, wildlife, shipping, maritime lore, local indigenous histories and so much more. Seasonal schedule: Daily Mid-May — October.

Clarke Historical Museum

240 E Street, Old Town, Eureka (707) 443-1947

Located in the historic Old Town district of Eureka, the Clarke Museum houses numerous historical and cultural artifacts from Humboldt County. Exhibits include one of the largest Native American tribe collections in Northern California, Victorian rooms with authentic furniture, Gold Rush memorabilia and much more.

Eureka Waterfront Trail

Waterfront Trl, Eureka, CA 95501

The 6.5 mile Eureka Waterfront Trail (Hikshari’ Trail) is located along the shores of Humboldt Bay. This paved trail invites bikers, walkers, skaters and paddlers to experience the unique ecosystems, including salt marshes, sand dunes and riparian habitats alongside the waterfront. Access points include Herrick Ave Park & Ride, Hilfiker Ln, Foot of Truesdale St, North Bayshore Mall Parking Lot, Foot of Del Norte St, Foot of “C” St, the Samoa Bridge Boat launch off Waterfront Dr and Tydd St. Sunset is an excellent time to hop on the trail.

Sequoia Park Zoo

3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 441-4263

If it’s your first time visiting, you would be surprised to find a zoo of such high caliber in a remote coastal destination like Eureka. Clean, well-designed, delightful attractions populate the lush grounds and feature an impressive variety of unusual animals. Make double sure to pay a visit to the Children’s Barnyard and Petting Zoo. And don’t forget to say hello to the ever-popular red pandas! Then dive deep at the exhilarating River Otter Experience with an up-close and personal view of life beneath the water’s surface. Otters swim, dive and play on every side—even above you.

Sequoia Park Forest

3414 W Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 441-4263

For almost a century, Sequoia Park has been a community treasure well worth discovering. 70 acres of massive, old-growth redwood forest can be found right smack in the middle of town. Runners, cyclists, walkers, picnickers, and lovers abound. With an abundance of inviting trails, Sequoia Creek Trail also offers a paved 3/4 mile (wheelchair and stroller) trail heading from a picture-perfect duck pond out into the forest and meadows. Peaceful and calm, it is a sight to behold for people of all ages.

Dick Taylor Chocolates

333 1st St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 798-6010

Small batch bean to bar craft chocolate maker specializing in single origin chocolate from two ingredients, made on site.

Lost Coast Brewery

1600 Sunset, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 267-9651

Explore one of America’s fastest growing and least conventional microbreweries, and then taste popular beers like Great White and Downtown Brown in the tap room.

Fisherman’s Memorial at Woodley Island

Woodley Island, Eureka, CA

“The Fisherman” statue is a memorial created by Dick Crane to honor the mariners whose lives were claimed by the sea. Grab a bite to eat at Café Marina on the waterfront then go see its namesake statue with fishing net in hand as his eyes scanning the waves for a catch. The statue is large enough to be seen from Old Town Eureka.

Old Town Carriage Co

200 F Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (646) 591-2058

Get whisked away in a horse-drawn carriage down the historic streets of Old Town Eureka. Transport yourself to an era gone by and have a marvelous time learning about the once bustling commercial district of Eureka on unique and fun carriage tours.

Fort Humboldt State Historic Park

3431 Fort Avenue, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 445-6547

Established in 1853, Fort Humboldt was occupied by the U.S. Army for only 13 short years. Among the fort’s early garrison was none other than Captain Ulysses S. Grant, a decorated Civil War general and eventually the president of the United States. Allow plenty of time to meander through outdoor exhibits, historic logging equipment, steam donkeys, locomotives and more. A large, open grassy bluff provides picnic tables and the chance to slow down and take it all. During operating hours you can find a museum, bookstores and restrooms.

Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum

908 Vance Ave, Samoa, CA 95564 (707) 444-9440

Explore the vast history of shipwrecks and the construction of floating vessels off California’s north coast. Visit Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum located next to the Samoa Cookhouse, and view artifacts salvaged from ships and lighthouses throughout Humboldt history. And while you’re in the area, hop aboard the M.V. Madaket, the oldest passenger carrier in operation in the United States, for a narrated tour of the bay.

Redwood Discovery Museum

612 G St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 443-9694

This hands-on science center is packed with interactive exhibits that both amuse and educate, whether giant Lego blocks, a self-starting puppet theater, gadgets that spark, roll and create wind gusts or weather streams.

Morris Graves Museum of Art

636 F St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-0278

The Morris Graves Museum of Art houses seven premier galleries that host diverse displays from artistic youths and music to dance and literary art. Every weekend the arts come to life through a variety of programs such as Mini Masters Kids Club, Night Art Alive, Art Talk Sunday, Family Arts Day, Afternoon of Dance and Wine and Jazz. With free entry for children, discounts for seniors and affordable general admission, it’s the perfect place to bring the family and spend time inspiring your inner creative.

Eureka Mural Tour

1401 3rd St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 443-5097

The arts are very much alive in Humboldt County, and this fact is even more true in Eureka. Many of the buildings in Eureka are adorned with beautiful murals that are painted by local artists. Come experience the magnificence of Eureka’s murals on a self-guided tour that spotlights local artist Duane Flatmo who has painted many of the more humorous and historical murals in the Eureka area.

Wooden Sculpture Garden of Romano Gabriel

315 2nd St, Eureka, CA 95501

Old Town Haunted History Tours

211 F St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 672-5012

Learn what happened in Opera Alley, what lies beneath 2nd street, who lurks upstairs in Ruby’s room and more while walking the Victorian streets of Eureka.

Humboldt County Library

1313 3rd St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 269-1900

The Humboldt County Library consists of a main library in Eureka, ten branch libraries throughout the county, and a bookmobile. The Eureka branch is located on the edge of Old Town, next to the Carson Mansion bordered by the marina. A handsome multi-story redwood structure, the Eureka branch hosts regular community events for children and adults. It also houses the Humboldt Room, an immense space overlooking the waterfront where visitors can access a unique collection of local historic documents and primary research materials.

Victorian Walking Tour in Eureka

1000 F St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 445-8775

Take a stroll down the beautifully nostalgic Victorian-era streets of Eureka. Start your walk or drive through Hillside Street, a neighborhood filled with preserved Queen Anne and Eastlake styled houses. If you want to see more historical Victorian buildings go to Old Town Eureka to see the commercial district and visit the famous Carson Mansion.

Town of Samoa

Samoa, CA 95564, USA

Samoa is located in the northern peninsula of Humboldt Bay and is the site of the Samoa Cookhouse, one of the last remaining original, lumber-camp style cookhouses. The name Samoa is used interchangeably with the peninsula it occupies.

Arcata Plaza

844 H St, Arcata, CA 95521

Home to Cal Poly Humboldt, one of the nation’s greenest schools, Arcata features chic shopping around the downtown plaza, including organic clothing stores, progressive bookstores, bead and crystal shops and home and gift stores. Don’t miss the historic Jacoby Storehouse.

Six Rivers National Forest

1330 Bayshore Way #103, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-1721

The Six Rivers National Forest includes over 1 million acres of land between Humboldt, Trinity, Siskiyou and Del Norte Counties. The Eel, Van Duzen, Klamath, Trinity, Mad and Smith Rivers, which wind like turquoise ribbons through the forest, are also its namesake. With hundreds of acres of old growth redwoods, plentiful wildlife and scenic mountainous terrain, the Six Rivers Forest is an unparalleled destination for fishing, backpacking, camping, hiking and rafting.

Freshwater County Park

3100 Freshwater Rd, Eureka, CA 95503

Surrounded by redwoods, Eureka’s scenic Freshwater County Park features a playground and grassy area, swimming hole, picnic areas with barbecue pits & tables, a gazebo and cooking facilities. It’s the perfect place to host events and activities or spend a sunny afternoon with family. Group reservations available.

Ferndale Museum

515 Shaw Ave, Ferndale, CA 95536 (707) 786-4466

Walk through history like one only can in Ferndale. This is a historical and educational museum that brings the community an appreciation and understanding of the culture and heritage of Ferndale, the Eel River and Mattole Valleys. The museum publishes a magazine, produce original documentary videos, conduct tours of historic houses and businesses, stage photography exhibits, publish original biographies and historic cookbooks, and maintain a constantly enriched and varied collection. The museum’s collections include a working seismograph, player piano, active blacksmith shop, and a vast display of artifacts that pertain to or were used by our forebears. It also assists members in genealogical research, welcomes visitors and new friends, and provides information on the two town cemeteries.

Lost Coast Headlands (Centerville)

Centerville Beach County Park, Centerville Road, Ferndale (707) 786-4477

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and Sandstone Cliffs is the majestic Centerville Beach. On this nine-mile secluded and tranquil white sand beach, you can watch when the whales migrate in April and May with their young. The best viewing point for whale watching is at the bluffs South of the beach. Centerville Beach is the perfect spot to have a picnic, walk your dog, ride horses along the beach, build a bonfire, collect seashells or just take in the stunning beauty of the Northern California coastline.

Russ Park Trail

Bluff Street, Ferndale, CA 95536 (707) 786-4477

Hike through the closed canopies of Sitka Spruces on the Russ Park trail inside the Ferndale bird sanctuary. The park is only open from sunrise to sunset. Experience beautiful views of the town of Ferndale as well as Zipporah pond and Eel Valley. There are four trails through the park: Lytel Ride, Francis Creek, Village Trail and Skunk Cabbage.

Ferndale Historic Cemetery

HP88+J9 Ferndale, CA, USA 707-786-9857

Lost Coast Scenic Drive

Ferndale, California, USA

Rolling mountains and windswept coastal bluffs come face-to-face with miles of narrow beaches and crashing waves. Seemingly a land forgotten, this scenic coastal playground provides an endless expanse perfect for wandering, soul-searching and other romantic pursuits. Located along the coastal bluffs south of the Eel River, a short drive just south of Eureka and six easy miles west of Ferndale sits some of the most beautiful and memorable beaches, grasslands and scattered patches of forest.

Trinidad State Beach

Trinidad State Beach, California, USA (707) 677-8645

It’s always a beautiful day at the beach in the stunning town of Trinidad. Trinidad State Beach is pet-friendly and is a great place to relax and stretch your legs. One of the most popular sections of the beach is College Cove. With a short walk through the woods, over open bluffs, around a field of wildflowers and then through a natural arch near the northern end of the beach, you will find yourself transported to Wonderland. But be warned, you will want to stay forever in Trinidad once you see all it has to offer.

Trinidad Head Memorial Lighthouse

570 Trinity Street, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707) 677-0223

Like everything in Trinidad, the Memorial Lighthouse is too gorgeous to miss. Built-in 1949 to honor those lost at sea, the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse is a replica of the original lighthouse located on the tip of Trinidad Head. Free to the public and open 24 hours a day. It is highly recommended to bring a camera for the garden and sunsets are stunning here.

Sue-Meg State Park

4150 Patricks Point Drive, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707) 677-3570

Sue-Meg State Park is the perfect location to watch whales, sea lions and beautiful sunsets. It is located in the heart of the California redwood coast and considered one of the most magical treasures of the rugged Northern Coast. Take long and memorable strolls over safe, well-marked paths, bridges, steps and stairs winding in and around the crashing blue Pacific. Plus, get up close and personal in an ancient Sumeg village. A good camera is required on Rim Trail, Wedding Rock and Ceremonial Rock for the endless display of why California is famous the world over.

Moonstone Beach County Park

Moonstone Beach Road, Trinidad, CA (707) 445-7651

Wide, expansive, sandy beaches appeal to wanderers and boogie boarders alike. The mouth of Little River, you’ll find ample parking available and plenty of places to spread the picnic blanket. You will, however, need to bring your own frisbee. Climb the rocks, beachcomb, and please, please bring your dog.

Agate Beach

Agate Beach, Patricks Point Drive, Trinidad (707) 677-3570

Agate Beach is remote enough to disconnect from the noise of the world but close enough to connect to the sound of nature. A great way to get to the beach is by parking your car at the Agate Beach campground and hiking the long flight of stairs down to the beach. It is the perfect place to watch the whales, sea lions and numerous shorebirds that reside on the beach. The sea at Agate Beach is best enjoyed from the beach itself with a picnic in hand. While the waters at Agate Beach appear picturesque the sharp cliffs and powerful riptides make swimming highly not recommended. All visitors are cautioned to exercise the utmost safety and care while in the water. Never turn your back on the water, or trust that you can withstand what you may think is a minor wave.

Humboldt Lagoons State Park

15336 U.S. 101, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707) 488-2700

Whether you are fishing, boating, beachcombing, birding or simply basking in the sun, the Humboldt Lagoons wait for you. Fed by natural springs, these gentle lagoons become brackish, breached each winter by the raging sea beyond. Big Lagoon offers plenty of exploring, seashell and rock collecting on majestic Agate Beach. And for those who desire to move off the beaten trail, a fantastic hiking path, easy to find, stretches from Dry Lagoon to Stone Lagoon, each offering a bit more primitive experience.

Luffenholtz Beach

Luffenholtz Beach County Park, Trinidad Scenic Dr, Trinidad (707) 677-2501

Take in a sweeping, panoramic view of the majestic Pacific Ocean from Luffenholtz Beach. Beautiful and inspiring, a scenic picnic area opens up onto an easy trail right down to the beach below. A truly spectacular rocky cove awaits, featuring populated tide pools and a variety of other unusual wildlife. A note of caution, however, stay aware of the incoming tide. The rocks are perfect for exploring, but nobody wants to become stranded on one. Luffenholtz Beach is owned by the Trinidad Coastal Land Trust.

Sumêg Village

4150 Patricks Point Drive, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707)-677-3570

If you are in or around Patrick’s Point State Park, you should visit the reconstructed Yurok village of Sumêg. The village is made up of traditional family styled houses, a sweat house, changing houses, a redwood canoe and a dance house. The village is used by local Yuroks to teach the Yurok youth and the public about their culture.

Telonicher Marine Laboratory

570 Ewing St, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707) 826-3671

Numerous aquariums showcase local sea specimens like the world’s fastest starfish, a shy octopus and a cleverly camouflaged eel grass fish. Touch tanks out back offer kids a tactile way to meet anemones, sea cucumbers, starfish and hermit crabs.

Trinidad Bay Charters

Trinidad, CA 95570, USA (707) 499-8878

Experienced anglers and newbies alike will have a blast aboard the Jumpin’ Jack out on beautiful Trinidad Bay with Captains Bob, Sam, Tom or Chris. The many shallow areas in Trinidad Bay offer the perfect place for light tackle rock cod fishing. If crabbing or salmon fishing floats your boat, they do that, too. Two five hour trips leave daily. There are also half day and full day private charters with room for up to six people.

Trinidad Museum

400 Janis Ct, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707) 677-3883

Near the entrance to the seaside town of Trinidad, you’ll spot the Victorian bungalow that houses the Trinidad Museum. The Museum boasts five exhibit rooms and two spectacular gardens. Native American exhibits include a one-log, hand carved redwood canoe, exquisite Indian baskets, and a mural of the old Tsurai village, photographs and more. Here, you’ll learn about Trinidad’s rich cultural and natural history, with emphasis on local indigenous life and tradition.

Historic Trinidad Pier

Trinidad Wharf, Trinidad, CA 95570

A day in the sweet seaside town of Trinidad would not be complete without a sunset stroll down the Historic Trinidad Pier. California’s northernmost pier juts out into Trinidad Harbor, sheltered on one side from the waves and wind by Trinidad Head. On the other side, a sweeping vista of the crescent shaped coastline extends off into the distance. Fishing vessels and kayakers take advantage of the calm, deep waters here, as do crabbers, who often hunker down on the pier in the early morning hours, pots suspended in the water below.

Cal Poly Humboldt

1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA 95521

California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt is a public university in Arcata, California. It is one of three polytechnic universities in the California State University system and the northernmost campus in the system.

Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary

569 South G Street, Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 826-2359

The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is an internationally popular wetland system. If you enjoy bird watching all year round, this is the place for you. Located at the northern end of the Humboldt Bay, the sanctuary is set along the migration route for thousands of birds that head north to California, Mexico and South and Central America.

Arcata Community Forest

Arcata Community Forest, Arcata, CA (707) 822-8184

Arcata’s hospitality has no end in sight. They have been known to share their plaza, festivals, arts, pools, bagels and spectacular community forest with anyone who asks. Located just a few blocks away from downtown Arcata, journey into 790 acres of woodland wonder. The Arcata Community Forest offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as playgrounds for the little ones and public picnic space.

Holly Yashi

1300 9th St, Arcata, CA 95521 (877) 607-8361

Watch award-winning jewelry, much of it featuring stunning niobium metal, being made in the design studio, then sip espressos and browse the chic gift shop.

Mad River Fish Hatchery

1660 Hatchery Rd, Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 822-0592

This California state fish hatchery is usually full of thousands of hungry juvenile steelhead and rainbow trout, waiting patiently to do water acrobatics when young hands toss them fish pellets. Picnic tables and river trails offer more fun too.

Lighthouse Plaza Mini-Golf

180 Lupin Dr, Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 630-5105

A 40-foot faux lighthouse leads the way to what is certainly the most fun golf in Humboldt: An old-fashioned 18-hole putt-putt course with crazy bends, drops, loops and goofy giant figurines, including a lumberjack and Homer Simpson. Halfway between Eureka and Arcata on Samoa Blvd.

Natural History Museum of Cal Poly Humboldt

1242 G St, Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 826-4479

Prehistoric human skulls. Paleozoic fossils. Weird looking crabs. A pterodactyl in the rafters. A giant whale skull on the floor. A beehive behind a looking glass (Can you find the queen?). For a small space the place packs in a lot of powerfully pleasing science.

Phillips House Museum

7th St & Union St, Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 822-4722

Arcata’s oldest house offers a glimpse into Humboldt County life in the mid-1800s. This sweet little farmhouse is a snapshot of the past. Staged by the Arcata Historical Sites Society, the Phillips House Museum appears exactly as it might have almost 200 years ago—complete with lace curtains, china, quilts and newspapers. This sweet little farmhouse is a snapshot of the past, just a few blocks from the Plaza.

Fortuna Depot Museum

9 Park St, Fortuna, CA 95540 (707) 725-7600

Immerse yourself in the history of the Eel River Valley, with collections of railroad, farm and war era artifacts, baskets and a Children’s Touch Corner, all housed in an original 1893 railway depot building.

Headwaters Forest Reserve (Southern Entrance)

Palco Rd 1, Hydesville, CA

The Salmon Pass Trail at the southern entrance of the 7472-acre Headwaters Forest Reserve winds through striking old- and second-growth redwoods. However, this trail is only accessible by guided tour mid May – mid July. Visit the Bureau of Land Management’s website for tour reservations.

Rohner Park Forest

9 Park St, Fortuna, CA 95540 (707) 725-7600

This 50-acre retreat, in the heart of Fortuna, has miles of peaceful walking trails in second-growth redwoods and showcases native wild shrubs and herbs. Stop at the Fortuna Railroad Depot Museum near the park entrance.

River Lodge Conference Center and River Walk

1800 Riverwalk Dr, Fortuna, CA 95540 (707) 298-8504

The River Lodge Conference Center is located on the Eel River in sunny Fortuna. A handsome 6000 square foot building with rustic, cabin-esque design offers a sophisticated space for meetings and events. The River Walk trail, a two mile stretch beside the Eel River, is accessible from the Conference Center and boasts sweeping pastoral views of farmland and the mountains beyond.

Willow Creek – China Flat Museum

38949 State Highway 299, Willow Creek, CA 95573 (530) 629-2653

Come visit bigfoot’s old stomping grounds. Where you can learn more about the hairy legend at the Willow Creek – China Flat Museum with the world’s largest collection of Bigfoot artifacts. All the information you need from pictures, newspapers articles, maps of sightings and casts of the legendary Bigfoot.

Trinity River Recration Area

Willow Creek, CA, USA

Take Highway 299 east from coastal Highway 101 and leave the fog behind. Up into the mountains you go to the Trinity River Recreation Area, which includes the Six Rivers National Forest, the Trinity River, numerous campgrounds, hiking trails and more. Famously the place Bigfoot calls home, this region offers an array of adventures – from fishing, to hiking, to white water rafting. If a leisurely day sunbathing on the shores of the Trinity is more your thing, there’s plenty of room for that, too. Grab some grub or refuel in the quaint town of Willow Creek, the region’s hub, and prepare for more fun in the mountain sun!

White Water Rafting

Willow Creek, CA, USA

For decades, adventure-seekers have flocked to the Trinity River to white water raft. Its steady flow year round makes for a reliable run. Whether you are a beginner looking for a leisurely float, or a daredevil in pursuit of class VI rapids, the Trinity offers a range of experiences for all ages and capabilities. For those who don’t want to go it alone, there are several guided rafting outfits along the Trinity River, where expert rafters lead groups on half- and full-day excursions.

Fishing on the Trinity River

Willow Creek, CA, USA

The Trinity River, a 165-mile tributary of the Klamath, is fisherman’s paradise and an underrated destination for anglers. Steelhead and trout are plentiful in its cold mountain waters. Set against a stunning backdrop of dense redwood forest, the Trinity offers one of the most scenic river fishing experiences in the state. The best times of year to fish are September-November, with a winter steelhead run in February. Licenses required.

Six Rivers Rafting Company

39008 CA-299, Willow Creek, CA 95573 (707) 599-4221

The Six Rivers Rafting Company provides the most unforgettable whitewater rafting adventures and the most family-friendly routes down the scenic Trinity River. You are guaranteed a high-quality experience while whitewater rafting and kayaking in Northern California. Making this the perfect trip for families, adventure seekers and nature lovers of all ages and levels.

Bigfoot Rafting

40630 CA-299, Willow Creek, CA 95573 (530) 629-2263

Come join the Bigfoot Rafting family for river fun in the mountain sun! Bigfoot Rafting has been popular with tourist and locals alike since 1984, making them one of the largest and most experienced rafting company in Northern California. While they offer action-packed whitewater rafting to calm gentle floats safety always comes first. All guides are CPR, First Aid, and Swift Water Rescue certified. And there is no need to bring anything Bigfoot Rafting has all the gear and rafts you need. They even have a shuttle service that takes you to the rafting site.

Julia Morgan’s Redwood Grove

255 Benbow Dam Road, Garberville, CA (707) 272-8668

Tour the historic Redwood Grove and estate designed by architect Julia Morgan. On the tour, you will see the development of the estate over the years and the different visions of local Humboldt artificers that work with the current owners to restore the property. Before you leave, meet with the artist in residence and master gardener.

Benbow Golf Course

7000 Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542 (707) 923-2777

Baywood Golf and Country Club

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Baywood Golf and Country Club is a private golf and leisure experience, with a skillfully designed, meticulously maintained 18 hole course set against the a dense redwood forest. Membership includes year round access to the club house, pro shop and heated pool. Enjoy a delicious, locally sourced meal at the restaurant & lounge or unwind with friends and family around one of the club house firepits with a drink from the bar after a long day on the green. The clubhouse boasts views of the verdant course and redwoods beyond. The Baywood Golf and Country Club is also a popular event venue, providing an upscale setting, excellent catering and service for weddings and more.

Benbow

Benbow, CA, USA

Moments after leaving the threshold of the redwood forest (Richardson Grove State Park), Highway 101 transports you to the spectacular Benbow Valley. The Benbow Inn has managed to preserve its 19th century Tudor architecture along with 1,200 acres of pristine forest. During the day the Benbow State Recreation Area offers satisfying picnic areas by the river, guided nature walk, and over nine miles of hiking trails cover this peaceful area.

One Log House

705 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542 (707) 247-2717

This famous kitschy roadside attraction was hollowed out in 1946 from the trunk of a 2,000-year-old redwood tree. It toured the county behind a truck for years, but now rests just south of Richardson Grove Redwood State Park.

Richardson Grove State Park & Benbow State Reserve

1600 U.S. 101, Garberville, CA 95542 (707)-247-3318

A generous collection of old growth redwoods will take you through cool, damp areas as well as dappled pools of warm sunlight. Enjoy easy access and walk through the middle of a giant tree! Take full advantage of over nine miles of trails, convenient access to the gorgeous Eel River, swimming, picnicking and the best fishing ever.

Clam Beach County Park

1100 Clam Beach Rd, McKinleyville, CA 95519

On the south side of Little River, this county park is known for tasty giant razor clams, which hunters scoop up at negative tides. Otherwise, regular folks like to tent or RV camp on this sandy stretch between the ocean and Highway 101.

Hammond Trail

Clam Beach Dr & Hammond Trail, McKinleyville, CA 95519 (707) 445-7651

Van Duzen County Park/Cheatham Grove

16718 CA-36, Carlotta, CA 95528

Headwaters Forest Reserve (Northern Entrance)

Enter the Reserve through the Northern Entrance from Elk River Road, about 6 miles off of Highway 101. The Elk River Trail flanks the South Fork Elk river through dense redwoods. Along the trail, you’ll see interpretive signs marking the location of Falk, the company mill town built in 1884 that has all but disappeared, having been slowly reclaimed by nature in the passing decades. A large portion of the trail is paved and accessible for those with limited mobility. Bicycles and dogs (under owners’ control) are allowed on the first 3 miles. Salmon who have returned to spawn upstream are easily visible from the trail in early spring.

Adventure’s Edge

125 West 5th Street, Eureka, CA (707) 445-1711

If you want to have an outdoor adventure but don’t know where to start come to Adventure’s Edge. With over 40 years of experience in providing the best gear, bikes, repairs, information and all outdoor adventure needs. You are guaranteed a wealth of fun in the beautiful mountain sun.

C’mon Sportfishing

Shelter Cove, CA 95589, USA (707) 223-2362

Join Captain Jared Morris for the fishing adventure of a lifetime on the Lost Coast. A third generation Shelter Cove fisherman, Jared has got the expertise and experience to ensure you and yours have a safe, fun and successful day on the tides. Charters include boat room for up to six people, gear and rods. Full day or half day trips available.

E & D Charter Fishing & Whale Watching

Blue Lake, CA, USA (707) 498-1355

If you enjoy fishing for tuna, red snapper, halibut, salmon, and whale watching then we’ve got just the spot for you. E & D Humboldt Charters offers all this and more. Explore the fresh and salty waters of the North Coast on a 28-foot boat whose crew has over 40 years of experience. Be sure to purchase a sports fishing license or any other permit you may need online before you book your charter adventure.

Humboldt Kayak Adventures

601 Startare Dr, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 443-5157

There are many ways to view the natural wonders of Humboldt, but canoeing through the bay really helps you take everything in. Rent a kayak, SUP or canoe to experience the beauty of the bay on your own or schedule an appointment to book a tour with a group. If you would like to kayak and fish at the same time, Malibu Fishing Kayaks are available. These fully loaded kayaks include flush mount, rod holders, tackle crate, anchor, bait bucket, portable cooler and dry bag. Paddle towards to your next adventure now.

Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center

921 Waterfront Dr, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 443-4222

Located on the beautiful Waterfront near Eureka’s Old Town, the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center is a great starting point for folks who want to get their feet wet (or a little more than their feet) out on the Bay. In partnership with Cal Poly Humboldt, the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center offers water and boating safety classes to university students and the local community, plus group paddle and canoe trips on and around the Bay. You can rent watersport equipment and gear, including paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, sail boats and life vests. So, hop on in, the water is great!

Humboldt Bay Oyster Tours

205 G Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 836-3168

Come experience the world-renowned Humboldt Bay Oyster Tour provided by Aqua-Rodeo Farms. Depending on where you would like to start your tour you can book a motorboat from Woodley Island or rent a kayak from the Arcata Marsh. You should wear layers and waterproof footwear in the splashy waters and muddy shores of the Humboldt Bay. But if you don’t wish to get dirty harvesting your own oysters in the bay head over to Humboldt Bay Provisions in Old Town Eureka for fresh-plucked oysters, cheese, bread, beer and a wide variety of wine.

Humboldt Cannabis Tours

215 C St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 839-4640

Half-day and full-day tours on farms and more with California’s most experienced cannabis tourism guide.

Kayak Trinidad

322 Main St, Trinidad, CA 95570 (707) 329-0085

Nestled in the beautiful seaside village of Trinidad, CA is Humboldt’s premium paddlesport instruction and guiding center. Explore the coast 2.5 miles south, towards Little River. View a variety of wildlife from your kayaks such as migratory sea and shorebirds, seals, sea lions, otter sea stars, and much more while you float down the seaside.

Lost Coast Adventure Tours

210 Wave Dr, Whitethorn, CA 95589 (707) 382-1959

Experienced guide and shuttle service-based in Shelter Cove for Lost Coast hikers and bikers.

Northwind Charters

Eureka, CA, USA (707) 616-5238

All that salty ocean air inspiring you to cast a line? Look no further than Northwind Charters, where you can book a sport fishing trip with the experts. Aboard the aptly named Fishy Business, you and your first mates can reel in Rockfish, Salmon, Halibut, Tuna and Crab. All experience levels welcome, with custom trip options available.

Pacific Outfitters

1600 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 443-6328

Pacific Outfitters has been a part of the Humboldt community for years and a one-stop-shop for all your outdoor needs and information in Humboldt . Their appreciation for the outdoors carries over to the products they sell and the service you’ll receive. In each store department, you will find some of the top local experts of the area and provide the advice you’re in search of. Customers come in and share stories and photos, sign up for classes, pick up useful tips, and become educated on the latest cutting-edge gear for the outdoors. The staff is made up of outfitting specialists who hunt, fish, hike, bike, snowboard, dive, kayak, play disc golf and other outdoor sports.

Redwood Adventures

Redwood National and State Parks Visitor Center, U.S. 199, Crescent City (707) 727-9266

If you want to experience all that the Redwood National and State Park has to offer without missing a thing, Redwood Adventures is your best connection. Create your own customized guided tour to fit you or your group’s interests. Hike, bike, fish, kayak or ride a horse amongst the gorgeous backdrop of the Redwood Forest.

Redwood Coast Fishing

2330 18th St, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 601-8757

Redwood Coast Fishing is home to beautiful Humboldt County rivers. The variety of conditions and fish makes it perfect for novice and experienced anglers. No matter which one you are you will always have a patient teacher, clean boat and your guides full support to help you catch a fish.

Redwood Creek Buckarettes Horseback Rides

1000 Drydens Road, Orick, CA 95555 (707) 499-2943

Experience the Redwood National Forest like never before. Saddle up and ride through the mountains and around different stages of redwood forest and groves. You have a wide choice of guided tours such as a one and half hour Goose Pen Ride through the mountains, a two hour Majestic Ride across a beautiful grove, and a four-hour Picnic Ride trek into the ancient redwood forest to have lunch beneath the trees. Commemorate the moment by getting your picture taken on your horse amongst the giant redwoods.

Reel Steel Sportfishing

601 Startare Dr, Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 499-4925

Whether you are an experienced angler or a newbie, Reel Steel Sportfishing Charters will help you hook halibut, salmon, tuna, rockfish, lingcod, crab or even sharks off of the beautiful Redwood Coast. Captain Tim Klassen has over 30 years of ocean sport fishing experience in the waters of Fort Bragg, Shelter Cove, Eureka, Trinidad and Crescent City. Where you and the crew fish—and what you’ll fish for—depends on current fishing regulations, what’s biting and the weather. Tackle, bait and hot coffee are included.

Sea Hawk Sportfishing

533 Machi Rd, Whitethorn, CA 95589 (707) 223-1600

Sea Hawk Sportfishing is the perfect way to get on the water in Shelter Cove. Reel in your dinner like a local with the guidance of lifelong fisherman Jake Mitchell, who will supply gear, bait and the necessary know-how. Four person minimum with full day and half day options available.

Wind Rose Charters

Trinidad, CA 95570, USA (707) 497-4354

Join Captain Curt Wilson aboard the Wind Rose for a half day or full day guided fishing adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to hook your own salmon, halibut, rockfish and crab on the beautiful Trinidad Bay.

Patrick’s Point Fishing Charters

Bay Street, Trinidad, CA (707) 499-8878

Have a fun day sports fishing out on the Trinidad Bay. Only groups of 6 are permitted to be on the charter at a time, so be sure to pick your fishing crew wisely. Some of the most popular fish to catch are rockfish, salmon and Dungeness crab when in season. As soon as you get back to the pier the captain will filet your fresh catch for you.

Shelter Cove Golf Links

1555 Upper Pacific Dr, Whitethorn, CA 95589 (707) 986-7447

Views from the green are unparalleled at Shelter Cove Golf Links. We aren’t talking a sliver of ocean off in the horizon – we’re talking first row seats to the vast, blue Pacific. This nine hole links course covers over 2300 yards and offers both 9 or 18 hole green fees and annual memberships, which can be paid via a kiosk at the start of the course. The nearby Community Clubhouse Recreation Facility boasts a computer for NCGA members to register scores.

Sequoia Children’s Playground

3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 441-4241

A favorite destination of locals with little ones, the Sequoia Park playground is surrounded by Humboldt’s iconic redwoods. There are several play structures, a large grassy field, 10-seat swing set, and a gazebo for picnicking. One of the play structures makes use of the trees situated in and around the park, with stairs leading to a wooden platform and slide in the center of a stand of redwoods that appear to have grown from one single tree. Young and young-at-heart will be impressed.

Beau Pre Golf Club

1777 Norton Rd, McKinleyville, CA 95519 (707) 839-2342

Sequoia Duck Pond

3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 441-4241

King Range National Conservation Area

768 Shelter Cove Rd, Whitethorn, CA 95589

California Federation Women’s Clubs Grove

Avenue of the Giants, Myers Flat, CA

Lesser known but equally as spectacular, The California Federation Women’s Clubs Grove is a stand of ancient redwoods along the Avenue of the Giants. Open for day use, the Women’s Grove includes a picnic area and access to the Eel River. It’s an excellent stop for a peaceful stroll year-round. Unlike the other notable groves along the Ave, The Women’s Clubs Grove features a (wo)man made attraction that draws visitors to it. Built in 1933, the Hearthstone is an immense four-sided fireplace designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan honoring the Federation’s conservation efforts.

Humboldt Redwood State Park Visitor Center

Avenue of the Giants, Myers Flat, CA (707) 946-2263

Redwood Empire Golf and Country Club

352 Country Club Dr, Fortuna, CA 95540 (707) 725-5194

Mike Thompson Wildlife Area, South Spit

S Jetty Rd, Loleta, CA (707) 445-6493

The Mike Thompson Wildlife Area, South Spit is a long strip of land and sand stretching between the mouth of the Eel River near Loleta to the South Jetty. Looking east from the spit, you’ll see the Eureka waterfront and Humboldt Bay. There are picnic areas at the beach and near the Jetty, which is also a popular fishing location. Locals often bring their horses to ride along the beach. Bring your binoculars, the almost 600 acres of coastal land is a habitat for many species and is an excellent place for birdwatching.

Samoa Beach

Samoa, CA 95564, USA

Samoa Beach is a long, flat stretch of dunes and sand on the southwest side of the Samoa Peninsula. It flanks the historic logging town of Samoa, whose famous cookhouse looks and feels just as it did when it served the lumber industry workforce housed nearby. Samoa Beach is easily accessible, with the water’s edge just a short walk from the parking lot. Surfers flock to Samoa Beach year round for its consistent waves. At the end of the peninsula lies the North Jetty, a popular fishing and strolling destination, as well as the Samoa Drag Strip and the Humboldt Bay Social Club.

Punta Gorda Lighthouse

Petrolia, CA 95536, USA

The Punta Gorda Lighthouse in the King National Conservation Area holds vigil over the remote Lost Coast. The lighthouse began operating in 1912 and was used by the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. Ownership was transferred to BLM in 1963, and the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. It’s a three-mile hike from Mattole Campground in Petrolia south to the lighthouse.

Paradise Royale Mountain Bike Trail

768 Shelter Cove Rd, Whitethorn, CA 95589 (707) 986-5400

The Paradise Royale Loop is an excellent way to experience the Lost Coast, and was constructed with mountain bikers in mind. The 25-mile trail system is located near the 2850-foot high Queen Peak, north of Shelter Cove. Best ridden clockwise.

Blue Lake Museum

330 Railroad Ave, Blue Lake, CA 95525 (707) 668-4188

Stationed in the town’s original 1897 train depot, the Blue Lake Museum pays tribute to the rich history of the Mad River Valley. Exhibits include artifacts from the region’s heyday, when the town sprung forth from the burgeoning logging and railroading industries. The Blue Lake Museum is also home to a collection of Native American basketry and extensive research resources. Train buffs will appreciate that the railroad is a Registered California State Historic Landmark.

Trillium Falls Trail

California, USA, (707) 465-7765

This loop trail of about 3 miles climbs a hill with switchbacks, then winds through a magical redwood forest to a steel bridge over Trillium Falls, before returning to your starting point at the Elk Meadow Day Use Area.

Scotia Fishery

169 Main St, Scotia, CA 95565 (707) 601-5546

Samoa Cookhouse & Museum

908 Vance Ave, Samoa, CA 95564 (707) 442-1659

The last lumbercamp cookhouse has been serving up square meals (all you can eat) since 1890; check out the logging and cookhouse museum, plus the Maritime Museum next door.

Elk River Trail

Elk River Rd, Eureka, CA 95503

This 3-mile trail (first mile is paved), perfect for kids and bikes, showcases the Headwaters Forest Reserve past faint traces of the logging ghost town of Falk. Just south of Eureka.

Eureka Municipal Golf Course

4750 Fairway Dr, Eureka, CA 95503 (707) 443-4808

Humboldt Coastal Nature Center

220 Stamps Lane, Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 444-1397

In order to get to the Manila Dunes, you must first go through the Humboldt Coastal Nature Center. When you find the building that resembles a Middle-Earth shire, you have arrived. Once you enter through the doors you will instantly be transported to over 1,000 acres of coastal wildlife habitat.

Gold Bluffs Beach

Gold Bluffs Beach, Orick, CA (707) 488-2171

Gold Bluffs Beach is part of the majestic Prairie Creek Redwood State Park. The road to this magnificent beach is unpaved, so don’t be surpirsed if you are the only person around to experience the 10 miles of golden sand and sublime nature. Stop by the visitor center for trail maps and any other additional questions you may have. Waterproof footwear may be needed for some of the trails that can be quite wet. Dogs are not allowed on the park trails but are allowed in the campgrounds and adjoining beaches as long as they are leashed.

Cape Mendocino Lighthouse at Shelter Cove

1176 Lower Pacific Drive, Whitethorn, CA 95589 (707) 986-7431

Originally this lighthouse resided on Cape Mendocino cliff in 1868 but was relocated due to wear and tear. The new and improved Cape Mendocino is now located at Shelter Cove with great access points to the beach. The lighthouse is gorgeous in itself, but If you linger on you will see the most spectacular sunset shine through the lighthouse windows.

Samoa Dunes Recreation Area

Samoa Dunes Recreation Area, Samoa, CA (707) 825-2300

Samoa Dunes is so much more than just a sandy strip of land extended between Humboldt Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Before you go off on your adventures down at the dunes, enjoy a hot meal and freshly baked bread at Samoa Cookhouse where they have been serving hungry visitors for over 100 years. Once you have finished your feast spend your day surfing, fishing, boating or Off-Highway Vehicle riding down at the Samoa Dunes. Off-Highway Vehicle facilities include an unloading ramp, restroom, tables, cooking grills and a scenic overlook, easy access to 140 acres of “open” terrain.

Orick

Orick, CA, USA (707) 488-2885

Don’t blink! You might miss it. The town of Orick flies by on the 101 North towards Del Norte County, but it’s worth a gander. Orick is the gateway into major old-growth redwood territory, and home to herds of grazing Rosevelt Elk (who will almost certainly cross the 101 in front of you, so stay alert). The California Native Wood shop in Orick, with its magical redwood creations, prepares you for what’s to come: deep, enchanted green forests. Be sure to hike the gentle Trillium Falls Trail or trek through famous Fern Canyon. Orick also boasts Lady Bird Johnson Grove, named after the former first lady who championed its preservation. Refuel post-hike at Edeebee’s on the way back to home base.

McKinleyville

McKinleyville, CA, USA (707) 839-2449

Headed north on the 101, the town of Mckinleyville sits perched atop a hill overlooking a vast stretch of beach. Less eccentric perhaps than the college town to the south, McKinleyville is a rural suburb with all the conveniences necessary for day-to-day life on the North Coast. Still, the locals know how to have a good time. Visit the beautiful Azalea State Natural Reserve, sample local brews at the new Bigfoot Taproom, or stay for dinner and drinks at Six Rivers Brewery, a women-owned brewery and one of the county’s most notable. Don’t miss the annual Clam Beach Run in January or the Pony Express Days festival in late May.

Loleta

Loleta, CA, USA

The sleepy town of Loleta is nestled among the verdant hills and pastures just south of Eureka. Known in times past as Swauger’s Station, Loleta was founded in the 1800s as a railway depot during the boom days of the local dairy industry. The “downtown” features buildings erected in the town’s heyday. Now, Loleta is home to a sunny suburb, as well as two Native American reservations: The Table Bluff Wiyot Reservation and the Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria, which boasts a casino, restaurant and family entertainment center (bowling, anyone?). Loleta also offers access to the Crab Park estuary, the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and stunning views of the South Jetty atop Table Bluff just five 5 miles west. Fun fact: Loleta and the now-crumbling historic Creamery Building were also the film locations of the 1982 campy cult classic Halloween III: Season of the Witch.

Arcata

Arcata, CA, USA (707) 822-5951

Arcata has something for both the city slicker and nature lover in all of us. Giant Redwoods from the Community Forest encompass the slow-paced college town and delightful shop-lined streets. The Plaza in central Arcata is perhaps the liveliest gathering spot in all of Humboldt. From walks down the Lanphere Dunes Preserve Beach, self-guided tours of beautifully restored Victorian homes, Kinetic Sculpture Races, and the world-famous Oyster Festival, you will always find something fun to do in Arcata.