Perched on the second largest enclosed bay in California, Eureka is ideally situated for water recreation. Kayakers and canoers can drift down one of the four rivers, spotting birds along the way, or paddle through the saltwater waves of the Pacific in Humboldt Lagoon. You'll find that anglers who speak of the abundant salmon and steelhead in the area aren't just telling fish stories. Or visitors can charter a boat for ocean fishing and haul in some halibut, snapper, and petrale sole. Visitors can also stroll the waterfront boardwalk and watch the comings and goings of colorful fishing boats, pleasure craft and seafaring vessels.
But Eureka isn't just about water recreation. There's also wildlife viewing at the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, where those with a quick eye can spot over 400 different species of birds. Perhaps you'd like to hit the trails. Whether it's by bike or by foot, the state parks surrounding Eureka have you covered. Set up camp amongst the country's tallest trees in Humboldt Redwoods State Park or on the shoreline at Clam Beach or Gold Bluff Beach. Big Lagoon County Park gives you the best of both land and shore with easy access for canoes and kayaks.
If you tire of rugged outdoor life, head back to civilization. The town of Eureka is the largest on the north coast. Once a raucous lumber town, Eureka has mellowed and now the Victorian storefronts and houses, especially in Old Town, feel more like a seaside resort full of coffee houses, galleries, museums, and a variety of unusual boutiques. In operation since 1907, The Sequoia Park Zoo has long been considered one of the most important cultural facilities in the area, and takes pride in being one of the smallest institutions that has been accredited by the Association of American Zoos and Aquariums. Tucked away on the south side of town, this 77-acre tract of old-growth redwoods contains nature trails, a duck pond, two playgrounds and the charming small zoo.
Eureka is located alongside Humboldt Bay, 270 miles north of the San Francisco Bay Area via Highway 101.
