Garberville Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Garberville, California. This comprehensive travel guide highlights the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and more.


Garberville, California Travel Guide

Garberville is a beautiful town located in Humboldt County, North Coast, California. It is nestled in the heart of the Redwood Forest and boasts of several natural attractions and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is famed for its rich history, friendly locals, and vibrant food and drink scene.

In this comprehensive Garberville travel guide, we’ve put together everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to this beautiful town. From the best places to see to the most exciting things to do, we’ve got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Garberville

Garberville offers a variety of exciting attractions for both locals and visitors. Here’s a list of our top picks for the must-visit places in Garberville.

Culturally Important Attractions - Museums and Historical Places

  • The Benbow Historic Inn - This inn is a historic landmark, located in a beautiful redwood setting. Built in the early 1920s, it has a lot of history and holds many events throughout the year.
  • The Casterlin Museum - This museum is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the history of Garberville and the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of Garberville - Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Redwood National Park - A true natural wonder, Redwood National Park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and bird watching.
  • Humboldt Redwoods State Park - This park is home to California’s tallest redwoods and offers several trails for hiking and cycling.
  • Avenue of the Giants - The scenic drive in the Avenue of the Giants offers a stunning view of the redwood forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Garberville

Garberville is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes that make it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of our favorite routes:

  • Lost Coast Trail - This challenging trail in the King Range National Conservation Area features beautiful coastal views, rugged cliffs, and a wide variety of flora and fauna.
  • Eel River Nature Trail - This trail in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park winds through towering redwoods and features several beautiful waterfalls.
  • Perimeter Loop Trail - This easy trail in Benbow State Recreation Area offers stunning views of the mountains and Eel River.

Best Things to Do in Garberville - Activities and Tours

Garberville offers a variety of exciting activities and tours that will leave you with an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the best things to do in Garberville:

  • Kayaking and Rafting - Experience the wild and scenic Eel River with a kayaking or rafting tour.
  • Fishing - Garberville is home to several rivers, making it an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Marijuana Tours - Garberville is known for its thriving marijuana industry, and several tours offer a glimpse into the cultivation and production process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Garberville

If you’re planning to spend a week in Garberville, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Day Activities
1 Benbow Historic Inn & Avenue of the Giants
2 Redwood National Park & Beachcombing
3 Humboldt Redwoods State Park & Fishing
4 Eel River Bluffs Trail & Kayaking
5 Lost Coast Trail & Marijauna Tours
6 Casterlin Museum & Local Shops
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Garberville

Garberville offers a vibrant food and drink scene with plenty of options to tantalize even the most discerning palates. Here’s a rundown of what you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Deep-fried Mushrooms - Freshly harvested and deep-fried to perfection, these mushrooms are a real treat.
  • Fresh Crab - Garberville is famous for its fresh crab, and several local restaurants offer mouth-watering seafood dishes.
  • Handmade Pizzas - Local pizzerias in Garberville are known for their handmade pizzas with fresh ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Redwood Rootbeer - Made with the finest extracts, this local rootbeer is a must-try.
  • Humboldt Cellars Wine - Sample some of the best wines in Humboldt County at the Humboldt Cellars winery.
  • Marijuana-infused Beer - Garberville is known for its marijuana-infused beer, which you can enjoy at several local pubs and breweries.

Where to Stay in Garberville - Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Garberville offers a variety of accommodations that range from rustic cabins to upscale lodgings. Here are some of the best options:

  • Benbow Historic Inn - This inn, built-in 1926, is a luxurious and elegant option that guarantees a comfortable stay.
  • Garberville Motel - This budget-friendly motel offers clean, comfortable, and affordable accommodations.
  • Redwoods River Resort and Campground - If you’re looking for a rustic, outdoor experience, this campground is perfect.

What to Buy in Garberville - Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Garberville is known for its unique and authentic souvenirs, so make sure to bring home something special to commemorate your visit. Some noteworthy items include:

  • Local Art - Garberville has a thriving art scene, and several shops offer unique and colorful art pieces.
  • Marijuana Products - Garberville is one of the centers of the marijuana industry in California, and several dispensaries offer unique and locally grown marijuana products.
  • Handmade Jewelry - Several local artists create beautiful and unique jewelry pieces that make for perfect souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Garberville

Garberville is known for its friendly locals, vibrant arts scene, and relaxed lifestyle. The town has a diverse population, including the Native American tribes who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

Best Time to Visit Garberville

The best time to visit Garberville is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry, and the trees are green and lush. However, If you’re looking for a quieter and less crowded time to visit, the fall season is also a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Garberville

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their way of life.
  • Try the local food and drink scene.
  • Explore the natural scenery and participate in outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Smoke marijuana or consume in public places.
  • Leave trash or litter in public spaces.
  • Disrupt the peace of the community with loud noise or boisterous behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Garberville

Garberville is generally a safe destination, but it can be dangerous if you venture off the beaten path. It’s best to stick to well-known areas and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Garberville

Garberville and Humboldt County offer excellent medical facilities and hospitals for any health-related issues. However, make sure to bring mosquito repellent as the Eel River is a breeding ground for mosquitos.

Getting to Garberville - Transportation Options and Logistics

Garberville is well connected to major transport hubs in California. Here are some transportation options and tips to help you plan your trip:

Airports Near Garberville

  • Arcata-Eureka Airport - This airport is the closest airport to Garberville, located about 45 minutes away.
  • San Francisco International Airport - This international airport is located about four hours away from Garberville.

Bus Stations Near Garberville

  • Greyhound Bus Station - This station is located in Eureka, roughly 45 minutes away from Garberville.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - If you’re planning a road trip to Garberville, renting a car is a great option.
  • Private Shuttle Services - Several private shuttle services operate in the area and offer transportation to and from Garberville.

How to Get Around in Garberville

Garberville is a small town with a compact downtown area, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, renting a car is recommended if you plan to explore the surrounding areas or take a trip to the national parks.

Where to Go Next from Garberville - Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Garberville is a great destination to explore by itself, but if you’re looking for more adventure, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • Avenue of the Giants - This scenic drive takes visitors through a 31-mile stretch of California’s giant redwoods.
  • Lost Coast - The remote and rugged coastline of the Lost Coast is renowned for its beauty and offers a great excursion opportunity.

Conclusion

Garberville is a beautiful town that offers visitors a unique experience. From its stunning natural scenery to its vibrant food and drink scene, there’s something for everyone in Garberville. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to this beautiful town and make the most of your visit. Plan accordingly, and enjoy the trip!