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7 Things that Make Humboldt, California, So Magical

12/14/2021 by Kristin 7 Comments

It’s a mystery to me how a place like this could be so quiet and tranquil.

In most of the world, the beautiful spots that I found that had the most unique landscape, the most beaches, and the close ties to nature were only getting more popular, but at the very north of California, the Lost Coast still remains one of those places where you can find some solitude, even in the most populous state in the union.

Apart from the tranquility, there a few key things that make Humboldt County so perfect: Access to trails that run through Redwood trees, the tallest in the world, rugged beaches where you won’t see a single umbrella (but you might spot a whale spout or two), and walking and biking trails for days and days.

Last week was my fifth visit to the area, and I figured it high time to put together a guide of some of the best places in this far north part of California, far from the glamour of Hollywood, that can bring out your inner tree-hugger:

Table of Contents

  • Things to Do in Humboldt, California
  • Bonus: See More of Northern California

Things to Do in Humboldt, California

things to do in humboldt california
Mad River Beach

Btw, Have you ever hugged a tree? Honestly it’s pretty awesome. Just try it. No seriously, try it!

Mad River Beach

things to do in humboldt california
When the sunset puts on an epic display of colors

The first beach I ever visited in Humboldt County is Mad River beach, and it remains a favorite mainly for the reason that it’s perfect for lonely sunsets, taking your pups (or in my case, borrowing a friend’s) for a run, and beach bonfires.

The waves can get massive, and the giant logs of driftwood that sometimes cover the beach remind you that indeed, this is Redwood country.

Redwood National and State Parks

things to do in humboldt california
Wow, humbled

Perhaps one of the most impressive and unique things to see in Coastal California is the Coastal Redwood tree – the tallest tree in the world. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Hyperion? It’s the largest living known tree on planet Earth, at a height of 379.1 feet (115.5 meters), and it’s located in this very park.

Though the National Parks are incredible, you don’t have to go that far to enjoy the Redwoods. There are trails running through Eureka, near the college, and all through some of the surroundings forests with Redwood trees. You can also explore Humboldt Redwoods State Park where the crowds are significantly thinner than the National Parks.

Trinidad State Beach

things to do in humboldt california
What you can barely see: a surfer coming out of the water in the distance

I remember the first time I set foot on this beach with its giant rocks and glorious waves – it was so misty that just the peaks of the rocks stood out against the low-hanging clouds. It gave it an ethereal feel, like a fairy could pop out at any moment or a dragon might just lurk out in the sea.

things to do in humboldt california
Glassy sea foam creates a mirror

In reality it’s a favorite place for locals to take their dogs, and surfers to brave the cold and catch some waves. As far as things to do in Humboldt, California, this is a must for me every time I go.

Moonstone Beach

things to do in humboldt california
Dreamy Moonstone on a clear day

Not too far away, Moonstone is another favorite and it’s easy to walk right out to. When the sun sets and the tide comes in, the reflections from all of the streams of water running into the ocean turn into a burst of color.

But even on a cloudy day, there’s still a lot to love as the water carves all kinds of layers into the sand:

things to do in humboldt california
A couple walking their dog on Moonstone

The Scenic Drive

things to do in humboldt california
Whales spotted here

You basically can’t go wrong driving along the scenic drive between Moonstone and Trinidad and beyond. You’ll pass another favorite of mine – Luffenholtz – and several incredible viewpoints.

We (my old college roomie and I) pulled off and spotted a bunch of surfers and the spout of a whale, too!

$1 oysters at Abruzzi in Arcata

things to do in humboldt california
Yum Yum!

If you’ve ever had Kumamoto Oysters before, particularly on the West Coast of the US, you might have been eating oysters from the Humboldt Bay. There’s no better way to get them fresh than to go right to the source and eat them in Humboldt, California, am I right?

Though normally a pretty penny, Abruzzi’s happy hour is an absolute steal if you’re into oysters. From 5-6pm, they’re just $1 each along with a $5 glass of white. I ate 14, seriously!

Humboldt pie and Cider at BitterSweet in Arcata

things to do in humboldt california
Yum and Yum (you can go for porter, like I did, if you’re not a cider lover)

After oysters I had a sweet tooth. Thankfully BitterSweet is just a stone’s throw away and has all kinds of sinfully decadent pies, some that change with the season, on offer.

Definitely go for the peanut butter and chocolate pie!

Honorable mentions: 

  • The Finnish country sauna and hot tubs at Cafe Mokka is a great way to unwind if you’ve done lots of hiking, biking, surfing, or kayaking. Book ahead and go for a full hour if it’s raining – it’s delightful!
  • The mashed potato cone at the Trinidad Lighthouse Grill is awesome, tasting of rosemary, brisket, and gravy. Add cheese and bacon if you dare.
  • The Hammond trail is wonderful for cycling, running, or walking

Bonus: See More of Northern California

Fort Bragg

fort bragg glass beach
Glass Beach in Fort Bragg

Home to some awe-inspiring free state parks and an overall humble vibe, Fort Bragg is a hidden gem in NorCal that you definitely don’t want to miss out on. In Fort Bragg you’ll find the famous Glass Beach, which was once a dump and is now full of sparkling sea glass. The beach has a subtle glow and right next to it you might be able to catch a glimpse of resident seals hanging out on the shore.

Find out more about Fort Bragg here.

Mendocino

mendocino headlands state park
What an epic sunset spot!

Definitely more of an upscale place to visit in NorCal, Mendocino has enchanted poets, novelists, and artists for decades. Why? Well, look at it! With stunning coastal views and a magical atmosphere, it’s hard not to fall in love with Mendocino.

The weather here seems to be in eternal spring, with low temperatures and frequent rainfall. Sometimes the fog falls just right and makes the whole place even more mystical.

Find out what there is to do in Mendocino here.

Those are just a few of my favorite things when it comes to Humboldt county in northern California, but really the most amazing thing about the area is that it’s got an almost endless amount of things to do outside. I love being outside but I don’t love crowds, and this rustic part of my home state offers me exactly what Southern California often can’t – solitude and that gorgeous Redwood tree smell.

Read Next:

The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

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I'm Kristin, and my vision of a better world is one where more women are empowered and living out their dreams. Solo traveling is the best method I've found to become the best, bravest version of me. This site is all about how YOU can have the adventure of a lifetime in an easy, fun, approachable way, so that you can feel empowered, too. Want to learn more about me?

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Comments

  1. Sofia says

    12/14/2016 at 7:02 am

    Thanks for this post. I am one of your readers and I live in Arcata! You hit a lot of the high points–so glad you love it up here!

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      12/15/2016 at 8:53 pm

      Awesome! Always open to more suggestions 🙂

      Reply
  2. Martha says

    12/14/2016 at 9:38 pm

    Aww, this warmed my heart. I graduated from Humboldt State about 10 years ago and don’t get up there too much anymore. Such good memories. Did you make it to Fern Canyon, the most magical of magical places?

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      12/15/2016 at 8:52 pm

      I think we did one of the 5 times I was there 🙂

      Reply
  3. Michelle says

    12/15/2016 at 7:58 am

    Glad you enjoyed your trip here. I’ve lived in Humboldt county for the last ten years and it’s truly my favorite place on earth. <3

    Reply
  4. David says

    10/25/2017 at 11:40 am

    We just got back from Eureka CA. Great little town. The people were super friendly and we enjoyed the beer at Lost Coast Brewery. It was overcast and a little rainy but hey it’s the California Coast so what do you expect. Love the post.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      10/26/2017 at 2:34 am

      It’s pretty much always like that!

      Reply

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