exploring Humboldt County -a visitors guide-

Humboldt County offers a remarkable variety of hiking spots, stunning vistas, and unforgettable experiences, making it a truly unique destination. With so much to explore, planning your visit can feel overwhelming. To help, here’s a curated list of my favorite places and activities to enjoy while passing through on the 101!

FOOD

Situated right by the ocean, Humboldt County boasts incredible bay views and an abundance of fresh, locally caught seafood.

• Dinner

  • Larapins in Trinidad (a more upscale option)

  • The Sea Grill (clam chowder is a must-try)

  • The Sushi Spot (try the Dragonfly roll)

  • Gills by the Bay

• Lunch

  • Los Bagels in Eureka or Arcata (try the off-menu Seafood Delilah)

  • Ferndale Pizza Co. in Ferndale

• Breakfast/Snacks

  • Ranatas Creperie (Arcata) THE BEST crepes (the amber rose and hungry farmer are my favorites!)

  • Sweet Greens Juice Bar in Old Town Eureka

  • Ramone’s in Arcata (to-go sandwiches and fresh bread)

  • Wildberries Marketplace in Arcata (grab a pottery mug and a green smoothie)

  • Cafe Waterfront

  • Marina Cafe

• Coffee & Treats

  • Dick Taylor Chocolate in Eureka (old town Eureka)

  • Living the Dream ice cream (on the Eureka boardwalk)

• Hard Cider

  • Humboldt Cider Co

STAY

• Benbow Inn

• Fern and Forest (a new airbnb in the middle of the redwoods!)

• Gingerbread Mansion in Ferndale

• Cozy Airbnbs in Ferndale, one of the cutest towns around

SHOP

• Timber Boutique(old town Eureka)

• Land of Lovely (old town Eureka)

• Blue Ox Boutique (old town Eureka)

• Tulip (old town eureka)

• Plaza (on the plaza in Arcata)

SPA

• Esperanza Del Mar (old town Eureka)

• Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs

WALK & EXPLORE

• Avenue of the Giants

• Melel Dunes (Friday to Monday)

• Sequoia Park, Eureka

• Trinidad State Park

• Ferndale (possibly the cutest town anywhere!)

• Sue Meg Wedding Rock, Trinidad

• Prairie Creek (Fern Canyon and elk viewing—day-of reservations May through September)

• Lady Bird Johnson Trail (a must-see)

ACTIVITIES

• Kayaking with a chance to spot whales (book through local outfitters)

• Searching for agates at Agate Beach

• Camping at Sue Meg State Park

• Scenic drive to A.W. Way near Petrolia

Before you leave, be sure to capture dreamy photos in the redwoods. I’d be delighted to work with you to create timeless images of your visit. Reach out to book your session!