This state park is a beautiful place to stop on your way driving from San Francisco to Humboldt County. 30 minutes south of Eureka, it is one of the best spots to see the Eel River and old growth Redwood trees. If looking for a quick hike to break up your drive, completing the Founders Grove Loop is a great place to start.
Taking a 20 minute drive north of Eureka will take you to the small oceanside town of Trinidad. Here you will get some of the best views of the Northern California coastline as you walk around the small town looking at art galleries, wine tasting and spots for clam chowder. We love to visit starting with a short hike that takes you over the ocean called "Trinidad Head", then grabbing lunch at The Eatery for some delicious cafe classics.
This state park has it all: Epic coastline views, long stretches of beach where you can look for Agates (semi-precious gems that wash up on the beach), easy hiking trails taking you through old growth Sitka Spruce and Redwood trees, and Yurok Native American historical sites where you can learn about one of our local tribe's culture and practices. If you make it out here be sure to walk to the top of Wedding Rock for a view and down to Agate Beach for a hike.
This is the location of our first date and continues to be our go-to spot (along with everyone else in town). The small brewery is the best around. Order the Sticky Fingers IPA (Matt's favorite), the Belgian Pale Ale (Julie's favorite) or their classic Imperial Golden Ale "IGA". A food truck on site sells burgers, salads and the best black garlic fries you've ever had. If you're making it to "The Curtain" on your visit, be sure to go over the the Arcata Plaza and check out our downtown. There are many shops, restaurants and even the self proclaimed "Oldest Movie Theatre in California", The Minor Theatre.
Eureka is the largest city in our area, home to 27,000. Eureka's "Old Town" sits on the bay, where shops and restaurants are just a short walk to views of the bay and Crane Rookeries. At the heart of the ‘Redwood Curtain,’ Eureka is most famous for its unique Victorian architecture, creative artistic culture, unique shops, restaurants, and artisanal businesses. When you walk around town, be sure to check out a few of our favorite spots: 🍽️ For a casual bite to eat: Los Bagels or Vista Del Mar 🍸 For a cocktail: The Speakeasy, Phatsy Kleins, Tavern 1888 or Five Eleven Restaurant 🛥️ For an authentic Eureka Experience: Cafe Waterfront, walk by the Carson Mansion, take a ride on the Madaket (Ferry in the Humboldt Bay boasting the "world's smallest bar") *reservations made online recommended.