If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in McKinleyville, CA, and you've got a rental car, you're sitting on pure gold when it comes to quick getaways. This little NorCal town is surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping coastal scenery, lush redwood forests, and quirky towns you’ll ever see—making it a prime launchpad for unforgettable day trips. All you need is a good playlist, a charged phone for pics, and the open road ahead of you. Let’s roll through some top-tier spots that are just a short drive away from McKinleyville—and trust me, you’re gonna wanna hit every single one.

First up, we gotta talk about Trinidad, just 15 minutes north. It’s a tiny beach town with major charm—think rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and foggy vistas straight out of a movie. Stop at Trinidad State Beach or hike the Trinidad Head Trail for panoramic ocean views that’ll blow your mind. The town itself is cute as a button, with a handful of shops and cafes worth checking out, and the Lighthouse Memorial is a low-key iconic photo op. If you’re into art or coastal history, the Trinidad Museum is small but surprisingly fascinating.

Next, point that GPS toward Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park—about an hour south of McKinleyville but 1000% worth the drive. This canyon is straight-up magical: think 50-foot walls covered in moss and ferns, with a creek running right through the middle. If it looks familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen it in Jurassic Park 2. Yeah, it’s that kind of epic. Getting there involves a scenic drive through redwood forests and a bit of gravel road action, but if you’re rolling in a solid rental from Humboldt Rental Cars, you’re all good. Just wear waterproof shoes because it gets splashy.

If you want something more lowkey but still beautiful, cruise down to Arcata, just 10-15 minutes from McKinleyville. This college town’s got a cool, artsy vibe thanks to Cal Poly Humboldt, and it’s packed with indie coffee shops, local boutiques, and great eats. Walk around the Plaza, hit up Wildberries Marketplace for local goodies, and don’t miss the Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary—great for a chill nature walk with loads of birdwatching.

Feeling bold? Take a longer drive to Shelter Cove on the Lost Coast. It’s about 3 hours away, but the road there is a trip in itself—twisty, scenic, and surrounded by untouched wilderness. Once you get there, you’ll find black sand beaches, tidepools, and the famous Cape Mendocino Lighthouse. It’s rugged and remote, and that’s exactly why it’s amazing.

And if redwoods are calling your name, hit up the Avenue of the Giants, about 90 minutes southeast. It’s one of California’s most legendary drives, winding through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. We’re talkin’ ancient trees taller than skyscrapers and little roadside attractions like the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree. It’s pure NorCal magic, and you’ll be stopping every few minutes just to soak it all in.

So yeah, McKinleyville isn’t just a place to kick back—it’s a portal to some of the coolest natural spots California has to offer. And the best way to explore all of them? Behind the wheel of a reliable ride from Humboldt Rental Cars. Whether you’re plotting a coastal cruise or a forest adventure, we’ve got the wheels to get you there in comfort and style. Want in? Swing by 1606 Pickett Rd in McKinleyville, or better yet, Visit Humboldt Rental Cars to book your car right now through this link or give us a call at +1 707-335-2010. Your Humboldt road trip starts here—let’s make some memories.