Nestled between the rugged Pacific coastline and ancient redwood forests of Northern California, Eureka is home to our program, and is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland. This seaport town consistently ranks among travel magazines as not only a top destination to visit, but an area that provides a high quality of living for those who choose to call Humboldt County’s biggest city home.
A region where nature and culture merge, Humboldt County pays tribute to
its past and present with beautifully restored Victorian era buildings in
Eureka’s Old Town district and
Ferndale’s Main Street. The charm is personified by a still-working seaport in Eureka, where
crusty fishing boats chug in and out of a protected harbor amongst kayaks,
sailboats, and paddle boarders. Seasonally, fresh fish & crab can
be purchased on the dock, right from the boat. Hundreds of ornate 19th-century
homes feature Queen Anne architecture, reflecting the prosperity of the
area’s formative years, when lumber was king. The entire city of
Eureka is a state historic landmark, a captivating mix of nature and culture
with a small-town feel. The neighboring town of Arcata has a unique vibe
all its own. Home to Humboldt State University and dedicated to a green
lifestyle, it boasts many opportunities for yoga, meditation, music, college-town
nightlife, and a
weekly farmers’ market.
Culture abounds in Eureka as well. Boasting one of the highest artist per capita ratios in the nation, Eureka is full of galleries, community art displays, local theatres, an accomplished symphony, and colorful music scene, all channeling the region’s unique esprit de corps.
For the discerning “gastronome”, Humboldt flexes its considerable muscles in the restaurant realm. A multitude of excellent dining establishments will delight even the most traveled gourmand.
Humboldt residents proudly enjoy clean air, clean water, and over 130 miles
of nearly of empty beaches, more than any other county in California.
Although the ocean is too cold year-round to swim comfortably, there are
members of the medical staff who routinely go surfing in wet suits prior
to coming to work in the morning. Just taking a walk along a beach (with
or without a dog) is restorative.
We are just miles away from Redwood National and State Parks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to the tallest tree in the world. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy hiking, whitewater rafting, paddle-boarding, mountain biking, snow skiing, and more—all from just a few minutes to only a few hours’ drive away.
Our climate is also temperate. It is never too hot or too cold. It never snows on the coast, although snow is visible on winter days on the nearby coastal mountains. A hot summer day has temperatures in the 70s. No one needs air conditioning, just open the window!
Come discover the secret that Humboldt residents have long enjoyed – the Redwood Coast is one of the most special places on the planet.
Things to Do