Why Humboldt County is California’s Best Kept Secret

Why Humboldt County is California’s Best Kept Secret

Humboldt County is mostly known for being the marijuana capital of America, but relatively few people know about what a great getaway destination it is. Notably, the the Northern California county is a wonderful vacation spot for hikes around its towering redwoods, beautiful jagged coastline, and in my opinion, great beers. I am fortunate to have done countless trips to Humboldt because Roger is from the region, but wanted to finally create a list of recommendations for first-timers and those who aren’t familiar with the area. I truly believe it is Northern California’s best kept secret. I personally love Humboldt for its quiet, small town vibes and relaxing outdoorsy offerings. If you’re interested in doing a trip to the lush and inviting Californian destination, here are my top things to do in Humboldt County.


Humboldt County Basics:

  • Accommodations: I recommend staying at a hotel or Airbnb in Eureka or Arcata. A bed and breakfast around Trinidad would be relaxing as well.
  • Weather: It is often foggy and has a very similar climate to the Pacific Northwest. I recommend bringing layers even in the summer!
  • Location: Eureka (Humboldt’s largest city) is a ~5 hour drive north of San Francisco and ~7 hours south of Portland, Oregon.

Our Weekend in Humboldt County Itinerary: 

  • Avenue of the Giants: This is not to be missed. You will be in awe as you stroll through its forest surrounded by towering trees and ginormous fallen redwoods. I recommend going straight to Founders Grove.
  • College Cove (Trinidad): What a hidden gem! A short hike takes you to this very secluded beach where you can spend a quiet afternoon. We took a very steep trail, but there appears to be an easier route.
  • Trinidad, CA hikes: We did a short hike at the Trinidad Head Loop right by Trinidad State Beach, which rewards you with a beautiful view of the Pacific.
  • Arcata Farmers’ Market: This bustling Saturday market offers fresh flowers and produce, delicious eats, and live music.
  • Humboldt Cider Company (Eureka): This was my first time going to a cidery and it was lovely! We got a full fight of ciders (10 for $19) and relaxed in their cider garden.

Other Notable Things to do in Humboldt County: 


The Weekend Trip to Humboldt County in Pictures:

Things to do in Humboldt County

The Founders Tree at Founders Grove (Avenue of the Giants)

Things to do in Humboldt County

A fallen redwood tree at Founders Grove

Things to do in Humboldt County

The roots of a giant redwood tree at Founders Grove

Things to do in Humboldt County

Could this be considered a tree house?

Things to do in Humboldt County

More of Founders Grove. Look at the circumference!

Things to do in Humboldt County

College Cove in Trinidad, CA

Things to do in Humboldt County

Trinidad, CA views

Things to do in Humboldt County

View from the Trinidad Head Loop trail

Things to do in Humboldt County

Saturday Farmers’ Market at the Arcata Plaza

Things to do in Humboldt County

The very random – but entertaining – giraffe at the Arcata Farmers’ Market

Things to do in Humboldt County

Flowers for sale at the Arcata Farmers’ Market

Things to do in Humboldt County

Marigolds at the Arcata Farmers’ Market

Things to do in Humboldt County

Delicious ciders at Humboldt Cider Company in Eureka, CA

 


Questions or Recommendations on Traveling to Humboldt County? Let me know in the comments!


 

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Comments ( 11 )

  1. annmarie1979
    Wow, it looks like there are a lot of things to do in Humboldt County! I'm from Southern California, but would love to take a road trip up north to see those massive redwoods. Lovely photos! Thank you for sharing!
    • Emma @ theweekendabroad.com
      You absolutely should! The drive from Southern California all the way up to Oregon along Highway 1 is beautiful. Let me know if you ever need any other recommendations. Thanks for your kind words, Ann Marie! <3
  2. Amber
    It looks so beautiful and serene. Definitely a place I'd like to go to
    • Emma @ theweekendabroad.com
      If you ever want to do a nice getaway nature trip – definitely head over to Humboldt. And let me know if you need any other recommendations. Thanks, Amber! <3
  3. sarahseyebrows
    It's a beautiful part of California! Very Rural and quiet compared to some of the more busy parts of california.
    • Emma @ theweekendabroad.com
      Exactly! Felt really wonderful to get away from the busy city for a few days. Thanks for your comment, Sarah!
  4. Madhurima Dutta
    Wow..love the roots of that redwood tree..never seen something like that! So cool! Also I just realized that those marigold garlands, you can find in my hometown in India for like 5-7 Rupees, and I think 50-60 rupees is one dollar haha!
    • Emma @ theweekendabroad.com
      No way! I would say everything is more expensive here in California haha. I need to make my way over to India at some point and get me some pretty marigolds (and more)! I'm sure you'll be able to give me a lot more recommendations too :)
  5. kimballesteros21
    I don't know if my previous comment went through, but i really love your blog and ig, I'm following you on both! keep up the awesome job! love all of your pictures! Thank you for sharing!
    • Emma @ theweekendabroad.com
      Hi Kimberly! Thank you so much for your kind words! I also love your blog. Subscribed and followed you back on IG <3 Thanks for the support and keeping doing what you're doing.
  6. kimballesteros21
    Great shots! love this! Really happy I found your blog.I am a fan! following you everywhere lol!

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