Alright road warriors, buckle up because we’re about to take you on a wild ride up the Northern California coast starting right in the heart of Eureka! Nestled in Humboldt County, this funky, artsy little city is your gateway to one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous drives in the country — the legendary Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. Think redwoods so big you’ll feel like an ant, beaches where the ocean crashes right up to misty cliffs, and tiny towns that look straight outta a movie set. Whether you’re chasing adventure, ocean breezes, or just a peaceful break from the daily grind, here are the absolute must-stops along this unforgettable route.

🌲 1. Avenue of the Giants (Just south of Eureka via Highway 101)

• A 31-mile detour through the heart of Humboldt Redwoods State Park — YES PLEASE

• Home to some of the tallest, oldest redwoods in the world (like, 300+ feet tall kind of tall!)

• Loads of roadside pull-offs for selfies, tree-hugging, or just to catch your breath in awe

• Don’t miss Founder’s Grove and the Dyerville Giant — spoiler alert: it’s massive
  

🏡 2. Ferndale, CA (About 25 mins from Eureka)

• This place is like walking into a Victorian dream — cute homes, candy shops, and antique stores galore

• Grab a coffee at Mind’s Eye Manufactory & Coffee Lounge or check out the sweet murals scattered around town

• The Ferndale Cemetery is oddly peaceful and offers killer views over the town

• Movie buffs, heads up — Ferndale was the backdrop for "The Majestic" starring Jim Carrey
  

🌊 3. Trinidad State Beach (Approx. 30 minutes north of Eureka)

• A cliffside gem with hiking trails, tide pools, and postcard-worthy coastal views

• The hike down to the beach is steep but so worth it — don’t forget your camera

• Take the Trinidad Head Trail for breezy panoramic shots of the Pacific

• Stop by the Trinidad Pier and grab some clam chowder at the Seascape Restaurant
  

🌿 4. Patrick’s Point State Park / Sue-meg State Park (Further up the coast from Trinidad)

• A coastal park packed with ancient redwoods, wildflowers, and cultural history

• Agate Beach is perfect for beachcombing — bring a bag for your finds

• Sue-meg Village offers a glimpse into the Yurok Tribe’s traditional living spaces

• Whale watching from the Wedding Rock overlook is unbeatable during migration seasons
  

🐳 5. Klamath River Overlook (Just past Orick, heading toward Crescent City)

• A quiet cliffside stop where the river crashes into the Pacific — epic for sunrise and sunset

• Spot migrating whales, sea lions, and osprey

• Bonus: You might spot a Roosevelt elk grazing nearby
  

🌲 6. Trees of Mystery (Right outside Klamath — can’t miss it, there’s a giant Paul Bunyan statue!)

• A quirky, classic roadside attraction that’s been luring travelers since 1946

• SkyTrail gondola takes you high above the forest for aerial redwood views

• The End of the Trail Museum is a surprisingly awesome collection of Indigenous artifacts

• Great stop if you’ve got kids or just wanna feel like a kid again
  

⚓ 7. Crescent City, CA (About 90 mins north of Eureka — your perfect day-end destination)

• Chill coastal town with plenty of charm

• Visit the Battery Point Lighthouse (timing’s key, you can only walk to it at low tide!)

• Hit up Ocean World to check out seals and sea lions

• Cap off your trip with fish & chips by the harbor — nothing beats seafood this fresh
  

💡 Pro Tips for the Ride:

• Bring layers — the coast can go from sunny to foggy real fast

• Cell service is spotty in some areas, so download your maps beforehand

• Book your lodging ahead of time if you’re staying overnight — especially in summer

• Keep your eyes peeled — this road is made for slow driving and scenic pullouts
  

📍 Starting from Eureka? Here's What You Should Know:

• Eureka itself is a cool launchpad, full of public art, boutique shops, and cool hangouts like the Clarke Historical Museum and Old Town Eureka

• Don’t skip breakfast at Los Bagels or grab a craft brew at Humboldt Bay Provisions

• The Waterfront Trail is perfect for a bike ride or quick stroll before you head out
  

🚘 Time to Ride in Style
You’ve got the route, the recs, and the wanderlust — now all you need is the wheels. Whether you’re hugging curves on Highway 101 or cruising under cathedral-tall redwoods, you’ll want a comfy, reliable ride to get you there. That’s where we come in. Book your rental car today with Humboldt Rental Cars so you can roll through the redwoods in style. Click here to reserve or give us a call at +1 707-335-2010 — trust us, your road trip adventure starts with the right set of wheels.