Eureka Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs of Eureka, California, in this comprehensive tour guide. Plan your next trip now!


Introduction to Eureka

Eureka is a charming seaside city in Humboldt County, located in North Coast, California. It is known for its Victorian architecture, historic landmarks, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventures. Many travelers visit Eureka to explore its rich culture and natural wonders, such as the Redwood National and State Parks, the Humboldt Bay, and the Trinity Alps. Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway or an action-packed vacation, Eureka is the perfect destination for you. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will show you the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs of Eureka.

List of Places to Visit in Eureka

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Clarke Historical Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Humboldt County through its exhibits of Native American artifacts, Victorian-era antiques, and local artwork.
  • The Morris Graves Museum of Art: This museum features contemporary art exhibits by local and national artists, with a focus on abstract and expressionist styles.
  • The Carter House Inn and Restaurant: This historic inn and restaurant is known for its signature dish, the 1860 Salad, and its Victorian charm, which includes a museum-style wine cellar.

Natural Attractions of Eureka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Redwood National and State Parks: This park is home to giant coastal redwoods, some of which are over 2,000 years old. Visitors can hike, mountain bike, camp, or go on guided tours through the park.
  • The Humboldt Bay: This bay is the second-largest estuary in California, and it boasts a variety of recreational activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.
  • The Trinity Alps: This range offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as hiking and backpacking trails for all skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eureka

  • The Hikshari Trail: This trail is a scenic, 1.5-mile walk along the Eureka Waterfront, with views of the bay and its wildlife.
  • The Hammond Trail: This trail is a 5.5-mile moderate hike or bike ride that spans the coast from Arcata to McKinleyville, with views of the ocean and the redwoods.
  • The Lost Coast Trail: This trail is a challenging, 24-mile hike along the rugged coastline of Mendocino and Humboldt Counties, with stunning ocean views and secluded beaches.

Best Things to Do in Eureka: Activities and Tours

  • The Old Town Eureka Walking Tour: This tour is a guided walk through Eureka’s historic district, with stops at Victorian landmarks, local shops, and restaurants.
  • The Humboldt Bay Oyster Tour: This tour is a culinary adventure that takes visitors to seafood farms and restaurants along the bay, with oyster tastings and wine pairings.
  • The Pacific Outfitters Fishing Tour: This tour is a fishing expedition that takes visitors to the best spots for salmon, steelhead, and trout in the Klamath River, with experienced guides and all gear included.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eureka

Day Activity
Day 1 Clarke Historical Museum and Old Town Eureka Walking Tour
Day 2 Redwood National and State Parks
Day 3 Humboldt Bay Oyster Tour
Day 4 Trinity Alps Hiking Trail
Day 5 The Morris Graves Museum of Art and Carter House Inn and Restaurant
Day 6 Pacific Outfitters Fishing Tour
Day 7 Lost Coast Trail Hike

Food and Drink Scene of Eureka

Must-Try Dishes

  • The 1860 Salad: This unique salad consists of mixed greens, candied pecans, garlic and parmesan croutons, dried cranberries, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. It is a signature dish at the Carter House Inn and Restaurant.
  • The Oyster Po’ Boy: This sandwich is made with fried oysters, mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato, and it is a popular dish at many seafood restaurants in Eureka.
  • The Redwood Stout: This dark beer is brewed with locally sourced redwood tips, giving it a unique flavor and aroma. It is a popular beverage at the local pubs and breweries in Eureka.

Local Beverages

  • Humboldt Bay Coffee: This coffee is roasted locally and features a wide variety of organic and fair-trade blends. It is a popular drink at the local cafes and coffee shops in Eureka.
  • Humboldt County Wine: This wine region produces high-quality wines in a variety of styles, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. Visitors can go on wine tasting tours at several wineries and vineyards in the area.
  • North Coast Brewing Company Beer: This brewery is known for its award-winning beers, such as the Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout, the Scrimshaw Pilsner, and the Red Seal Ale. It offers tastings and brewery tours for visitors.

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

  • The Gingerbread Mansion Inn: This Victorian-style inn is located in Old Town Eureka, and it features luxurious rooms with antique furnishings and modern amenities, such as jacuzzis and fireplaces.
  • The Eureka Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located in downtown Eureka, and it offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • The Carter House Inns: This historic inn and restaurant features three elegant Victorian-style buildings with spacious suites and rooms, as well as gourmet dining and wine cellar tours.

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

  • Redwood Handcrafted Products: This local craft shop sells handmade items made from redwood, such as cutting boards, bowls, and picture frames.
  • Humboldt Bay Sea Glass Jewelry: This artisan jewelry store sells unique pieces made from sea glass found along the Humboldt Bay.
  • North Coast Breweries Merchandise: This gift shop sells t-shirts, hats, and glassware from the local breweries in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Eureka

Eureka has a rich culture and history, with strong ties to the Native American tribes who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about the local culture and customs through the many festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the Klamath Salmon Festival, the Redwood Coast Music Festival, and the Kinetic Grand Championship.

Best Time to Visit Eureka

The best time to visit Eureka is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is sunny and mild, with average temperatures in the upper 60s to low 70s. However, visitors should be aware that the summer months can be crowded and expensive, so it is advisable to book accommodations and activities well in advance. Fall and spring are also good times to visit Eureka, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but the weather can be unpredictable and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eureka

Do:

  • Do explore the historic district of Old Town Eureka and its many museums, boutiques, and restaurants.
  • Do hike or bike through the Redwood National and State Parks, and enjoy the majestic beauty of the coastal redwoods.
  • Do try local seafood dishes, such as oysters, salmon, and crab, which are fresh and delicious.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs, and learn about the history and traditions of the Native American tribes in the area.
  • Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable and cool, even in the summer months.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or pollute the natural areas of Eureka, such as the parks, beaches, and bay.
  • Don’t trespass on private property, especially in the rural areas outside of town.
  • Don’t venture off-trail in the parks or the wilderness areas, as it can be dangerous and ecologically damaging.
  • Don’t underestimate the strength and power of the ocean and the rivers, as the currents and tides can be treacherous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eureka

Eureka is a generally safe city, but visitors should exercise common sense and caution, especially at night or in secluded areas. It is advisable to lock the doors of your car and accommodations, and to keep valuables out of sight. Visitors should also be aware of the local wildlife, such as bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes, and should take precautions when hiking or camping.

Health in Eureka

Eureka has good healthcare facilities, such as the St. Joseph Hospital and the Redwood Memorial Hospital, as well as several private clinics and urgent care centers. Visitors should have medical insurance and be prepared for emergencies, especially if engaging in outdoor activities. It is also important to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus and Zika virus, by wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent.

Getting to Eureka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eureka is accessible by several modes of transportation, including air, bus, train, and car.

Airports Near Eureka

  • Arcata-Eureka Airport: This airport is located in McKinleyville, about 15 minutes north of Eureka, and it offers flights by United Airlines and Alaska Airlines to San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Portland.
  • Redding Municipal Airport: This airport is located in Redding, about 2.5 hours south of Eureka, and it offers flights by United Airlines to San Francisco.

Bus Stations Near Eureka

  • Greyhound Bus Station: This bus station is located in downtown Eureka, and it offers bus service to major cities in California and Oregon.
  • Redwood Transit System: This local bus system serves Humboldt County and the surrounding areas, with routes to Eureka, Arcata, and other towns.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station: This train station is located in nearby Martinez, about 4 hours south of Eureka, and it offers train service by the Coast Starlight from Seattle to Los Angeles.
  • Car Rental Companies: Several car rental companies, such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget, operate in Eureka and nearby towns, and offer car rental services for visitors.

How to Get Around in Eureka

Eureka is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also use several modes of transportation to get around, such as:

  • The Eureka Transit Service: This local bus system operates in Eureka and offers several routes to major attractions and neighborhoods, with fares starting at $1.50.
  • Biking and Hiking Trails: Eureka has several well-marked bike and hike trails that provide easy access to the parks, the bay, and other areas, such as the Hikshari Trail and the Waterfront Trail.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Several taxi and ride-sharing services, such as Yellow Cab and Uber, operate in Eureka and offer 24-hour service.

Where to Go Next from Eureka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eureka is a great base for exploring other attractions and destinations in Northern California and Southern Oregon, such as:

  • The Avenue of the Giants: This scenic drive is a 31-mile stretch of Highway 101 that winds through the Redwood National and State Parks, with views of ancient redwoods, waterfalls, and rivers.
  • The Oregon Caves National Monument: This park is located in Cave Junction, about 2 hours north of Eureka, and features guided tours of a limestone cave system, as well as hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
  • The Crater Lake National Park: This park is located in southern Oregon, about 4 hours north of Eureka, and it features a stunning volcanic lake with crystal-clear water, as well as hiking and caming opportunities.

Conclusion

Eureka is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to nature and adventure. Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat or a thrilling vacation, Eureka has it all. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has given you a good sense of what Eureka has to offer, and has inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful coastal city.