Just beyond the city boundaries, Humboldt County also offers 20+ state, national, and community parks, forests, reserves, and more than 30 local beaches – each more pristine and awe-inspiring than the next.
Make Eureka your base camp. Spend the day driving north to college town and hippy-haven Arcata, a bit farther to coastal Trinidad, and even more to Prairie Creek Redwoods.
Down south, visit cannabis capital Garberville, and be awe-struck by the tallest living trees in the entire world at Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
On your way back, don’t forget to get off the highway and take in the 30-mile stretch known as Avenue of the Giants. This place is legendary for a reason.
Home to Humboldt State University, Arcata is located just ten minutes north of Eureka and framed by the Pacific Ocean on the west, forested hills on the east, the Mad River on the North, and Humboldt Bay to the south. At the center of Arcata is the Plaza, surrounded by various local businesses such as bookstores, coffee shops, and restaurants. You'll find a farmers' market on Saturday mornings, complete with music, hula-hoopers, and local goodies. Corporations aren't allowed in the downtown area — take a break from city life and come check out all of the unique local places to eat and drink.
A picturesque community situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean with a backdrop of tree covered mountains, McKinleyville has something for everyone. Drive 20 minutes north of Eureka to check out the bikeable and walkable Hammond Trail and the annual Pony Day Express festival.
It doesn't get more picturesque than Trinidad. Fortify yourself with a hearty bowl of clam chowder. Then, head out to explore the many beaches and trails that line this stunningly beautiful part of California's North Coast.
Hankering for some sunshine? Head east to Blue Lake (nope, no lake, but the town is nestled along the Mad River) for some warmer weather in the summer. Grab a beer at local Mad River Brewing Company and head to the river. Make sure to see if Dell'Arte — a world-renowned physical theatre school — is having a performance.
Nestled between the California redwoods and fabled lost coast, the victorian village of Ferndale is a hidden oasis of small town charm, spectacular architecture, enchanting natural beauty, and welcoming Humboldt County culture. With its fusion of old-fashioned Americana and modern quirkiness - and a scenic setting straight out of the movies - this small but vibrant dairy town minutes from Eureka is the perfect destination for a fun family vacation, rugged outdoor adventure, or romantic weekend getaway.
Sunny Fortuna is located just south of Eureka and offers all of the amenities of a large town with the friendliness of a small community. Don't miss the annual Hops in Humboldt beer festival (postponed until 2021).
Southern Humboldt's natural playground offers visitors the beauty of California in all its majesty. Giant redwoods, wild rivers and streams, Pacific Ocean vistas, and access that most only dream about. Hiking, biking, fishing, great weather, and the unparalleled bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, grass-fed beef, and organic natural food at all turns.
For those who wish to elevate the magic, this is the place. Counter-culture was born here, and with it, a lasting legacy that resonates today. Southern Humboldt awaits with open arms those who seek an authentic cultural experience from America's cannabis heartland.
Head over to visitredwoods.com to plan the rest of your stay in Humboldt County.
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Eureka, CA 95501
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