Located on the remote Northern California coast, a five-six hour drive from San Francisco, Humboldt County, home of the redwood coast, is a region that is often forgotten, even by Californians. But if you’re feeling the need to get away from it all without leaving the state, this gorgeous misty, forested, coastal region is the perfect northern California road trip destination.
Northern California Road Trip Day 1: Eureka
If you get to Eureka early enough to hang out before dinner, I recommend stopping for a tasting flight or pint of cider at Humboldt Cider’s taproom or cider garden. Then, take a walk in charmingly funky downtown Eureka.
For an early or light dinner, you can’t go wrong with fresh-from-the-bay oysters and local cheese or small plates at Humboldt Bay Provisions.
If you’re looking for after-dinner drinks, I like Phatsy Kline’s and The Siren’s Song. Phatsy Kline’s has a super cute old-school interior and furnishings that feel like they’ve been there for a century. They also make a phenomenal Old Fashioned. The Siren’s Song is laid back and casual, and also has that old-school classic feel (versus the vibe you get in more modern, shiny, taproom type joints) that fits so well in remote coastal towns, plus a great craft beer and cider selection.
Northern California Road Trip Day 2: Trinidad Head and Arcata
Head North from Arcata or Eureka towards Trinidad and the Trinidad Head trails, a gorgeous network of cliffside trails and brambled awnings that offer stunning ocean views and a great morning workout. When you’re done with your hike/workout head back into Trinidad to visit the picturesque Trinidad lighthouse.
For lunch, try Wildflower Cafe in Arcata. Their rotating menu of hearty fresh, vegetarian and vegan friendly fare (don’t worry the food is so good it makes EVERYone happy :)) always hits the spot.
For dessert, swing by Slice of Humboldt Pie to pick up a slice of lemon or chocolate mousse (my two favorites-and they always have a few gluten free options!) pie.
In the mood for a short hike? Drive a few miles over to the Arcata Community forest and enjoy the lush forested trails and giant redwoods before heading back into town for lunch. Finish your day with a sunset view. Two of the best places to enjoy sunset are Wedding Rock (inside Patrick’s Point Park) or Moonstone Beach (Trinidad).
Northern California Road Trip Day 3: Hit the Humboldt Beaches
Start the day with a toasted gluten-free bagel (they have gluten-free bagels freshly baked by Arise Bakery in Arcata!) at Los Bagels and a to-go coffee from Northtown Coffee (they make the best espresso beverages in town) or an omelet at Phoenix Cafe in Arcata.
Then, drop by to select a decadent chocolate treat at Dick Taylor Chocolate, a local, artisan, bean-to-bar chocolate factory and shop in downtown Eureka, on your way South.
I also usually like to hit a couple of Humboldt County beaches and pretty waterfront spots as I work my way South-with a walk on the beach before breakfast and then another after breakfast.
Between Trinidad and just South of Arcata, here are my picks for a few wonderful Humboldt County destinations with ocean or Bay views.
Moonstone Beach (Trinidad)
Agate Beach (Trinidad)
Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Have you traveled to the Humboldt region? What is your favorite northern California road trip destination?
More Northern California posts:
10 of the Best Northern California Hiking Trails
Best Places to Visit in Northern California for Hiking and Views
Year-Round Farmers’ Markets in Marin, Sonoma, and Napa Counties
Sonoma Coast Wineries You Should Visit