Arcata Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Arcata with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Arcata

Arcata is a small, charming city nestled in Humboldt County, in North Coast, California. Known for its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural scene, Arcata is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking a unique experience. The city is located near redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal location for hiking, biking, surfing, and other outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Arcata

Here are some of the top attractions you should visit during your trip to Arcata:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary: A world-renowned birdwatching site that provides habitat for over 300 bird species. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or join a guided walk.
  • Arcata Plaza: The center of the city, featuring shops, restaurants, and events throughout the year. This is where you’ll find a beautiful memorial statue of McKinley and other historical sites.
  • Humboldt State University: Home to the First Peoples’ Center and an extensive fine arts program in Theatre, Art, Music, and Dance. Head to the Natural History Museum to learn more about the region’s flora and fauna.

Natural Attractions of Arcata: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Redwood National and State Parks: A few miles north of Arcata, these parks are home to some of the largest trees in the world. Plan a hike or a guided tour to explore this amazing ecosystem.
  • Mad River Beach County Park: A popular spot for surfing, beachcombing, and picnicking. There are several access points, plus hiking trails nearby.
  • Headwaters Forest Reserve: Home to some of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike the forest trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arcata

Arcata offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:

  • Arcata Community Forest: This popular park has more than 790 acres of trails and a dozen different hiking and biking routes. You can take a self-guided tour or join a guided hike.
  • Humboldt Bay Bicycle Commuters Association Trails: This nonprofit organization has created more than 120 miles of bike paths throughout the Arcata area.
  • Redwood National and State Parks: This park has over 200 miles of hiking trails through the ancient forests, including the popular Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail.

Best Things to Do in Arcata: Activities and Tours

  • Redwood Coast Whale Watching: Take a tour to see humpback, minke, and gray whales in the Pacific Ocean.
  • Arcata Farmers Market: Open every Saturday year-round, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.
  • Humboldt State University Theatre, Dance & Music Department Performances:

The Theatre, Dance, and Music Department offers a diverse mix of performances throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arcata

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary to make the most of your time in Arcata:

Day Plans
1 Visit the Arcata Plaza and Farmers Market
2 Explore the Arcata Community Forest
3 Take a whale watching tour
4 Visit Humboldt State University
5 Hike Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
6 Surf at Mad River Beach County Park
7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary

Food and Drink Scene of Arcata

Arcata has a thriving food and drink scene, with several local specialties and must-try dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oysters: Humboldt Bay is known for its delicious oysters. You can try them at several seafood restaurants in the area.
  • Meat and Cheese: Arcata produces a variety of artisan meats and cheeses. Try them at the Arcata Farmers Market or local restaurants.
  • Craft Beer: Several local breweries produce some of the best craft beers in the state. Stop by Mad River Brewing Co. or Six Rivers Brewery for a tasting.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Humboldt County is known for its organic coffee. Head to Lotus Mountain or Beachcomber Cafe for a good cup of coffee.
  • Wine: There are several wineries in the region. Visit Elk Prairie Vineyard or Moonstone Crossing Winery for a tasting.

Where to Stay in Arcata: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Arcata has a variety of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly options.

  • Hotel Arcata: A historic hotel located in the heart of downtown Arcata.
  • Red Roof Inn Arcata: A budget-friendly hotel that offers a comfortable stay and easy access to local attractions.
  • HI Humboldt Redwoods State Park: This hostel is located in the nearby Redwood State Park and offers a unique experience for nature lovers.

What to Buy in Arcata: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to take home from Arcata:

  • Artisan crafts: Look for handmade items at the Arcata Farmers Market or local shops.
  • Organic Coffee: Take home some locally roasted coffee beans from Lotus Mountain.
  • Cheese: Arcata produces some of the best artisan cheeses in California. Look for them at local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Arcata

Arcata is known for its liberal and environmentally conscious culture. The city hosts several festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the local community, including the North Country Fair and the Oyster Festival.

Best Time to Visit Arcata

The best time to visit Arcata is from May to October when the weather is mild and dry. The rainy season lasts from November to April and can be quite wet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arcata

Do:

  • Respect the city’s liberal and environmentally conscious culture.
  • Take part in local events and festivals.
  • Be respectful to nature and wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Litter or misuse nature reserves, forests, and beaches.
  • Disrespect local customs and laws.
  • Be overly noisy or disruptive in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arcata

Arcata is generally a safe city, but it’s important to take precautions when traveling. Some tips include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Lock doors and windows of your car or accommodations.

Health in Arcata

Arcata has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Arcata: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Arcata

The nearest airport to Arcata is the Arcata-Eureka Airport, which is 8 miles north of the city. Alternatively, you can fly into San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport and drive or take public transportation to Arcata.

Bus Stations Near Arcata

The Greyhound bus station is located in downtown Arcata, with regular bus connections to other cities in California and Oregon.

Other Options

Renting a car or taking a train are also options to consider when traveling to Arcata.

How to Get Around in Arcata

The best way to get around Arcata is by car, but you can also rent a bike or take the local bus service.

Where to Go Next from Arcata: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Arcata is located in a beautiful part of California, with several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Eureka: Just a few miles north of Arcata, Eureka offers a charming historic district and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
  • Redwood National and State Parks: Explore one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the United States.
  • Ferndale: This nearby town is known for its Victorian architecture and quaint shops and restaurants.

Conclusion

Arcata is a hidden gem on the North Coast of California, offering breathtaking scenery, a thriving cultural scene, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. This comprehensive tour guide should help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Arcata. Happy travels!