California’s North Coast just grabs you with its wild beauty. There’s something about the way those redwoods tower overhead and the ocean crashes against the cliffs—honestly, it never gets old. After countless trips up and down this rugged coastline, I’ve found seven stops that always make me fall in love with the region all over again.
These spots will have you wandering through ancient forests, standing on dramatic cliffs, and exploring towns that just ooze Northern California charm. You’ll get a taste of what makes this corner of the state so unforgettable, whether you’re chasing outdoor adventures or just looking for some quiet by the waves.
Let’s dig into the practical stuff, too. I’ll share some planning tips, point you toward must-see redwood groves, and let you in on a few secret beaches. There’s plenty here about the best little towns and the outdoor activities that give this region its magic.
How to Plan Your North Coast Adventure
Getting your northern california coast road trip right takes a bit of strategy. Timing matters, and so does picking the right route. I’ve learned the hard way that a little prep goes a long way.
I’ll break down the best months to visit, how to handle the main highways, and what to think about when choosing your wheels.
Best Time to Visit Northern California Coast
Mid-May through September usually means the best weather for a north coast adventure. Skies clear up, the air feels mild, and you can actually see the ocean most days.
Summer days hover around 65-75°F. That famous coastal fog? It usually lifts by afternoon. But fair warning—places like Glass Beach and Avenue of the Giants get crowded.
If you don’t mind a little rain, October to April can be pretty special. Winter storms put on a show out at sea, and most attractions stay open.
I’d skip December and January if you hate heavy rain. Spring brings wildflowers, but the weather can flip on you fast.
Book your stays early for summer—campgrounds in Humboldt Redwoods State Park fill up fast. I’ve missed out before by waiting too long.
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway and Highway 101
Highway 1 hugs the coast from San Francisco up to Mendocino. It’s slower but wow, the ocean views and tiny towns along the way are worth it.
Highway 101 cuts inland through the redwoods. It’s the faster route and gets you right to Avenue of the Giants and Humboldt Redwoods.
I like to mix it up: take Highway 1 north from the Bay Area for those epic coastal scenes, then switch to Highway 101 near Mendocino for the forest.
You’ll want to keep these distances in mind:
- San Francisco to Mendocino: about 3 hours on Highway 1
- Mendocino to Eureka: another 2.5 hours on Highway 101
- The whole Pacific Coast Highway stretch: roughly 400 miles
Cell service drops out a lot, especially in the forests. Download your maps before you go. I always keep my gas tank at least half full between towns—just in case.
Choosing Between Self-Drive, Tours, and Car Rentals
Self-driving gives you all the freedom. You can pull over for hidden beaches or linger in a redwood grove as long as you want.
Rental cars are super handy if you’re flying into the Bay Area. Enterprise and Hertz both have plenty of options at the big airports.
International travelers should check out Discover Cars. They pull rates from a bunch of companies and usually have good insurance deals.
Guided tours take the stress out of planning. Some companies run 3-7 day northern California coast trips from San Francisco.
If you’re into camping, RV rentals let you stay in state parks right on the route. Just make sure to book those campgrounds way ahead—summer gets busy.
Some folks get nervous about Highway 1’s twists and turns. It does get narrow and steep in places, so be honest with yourself before you drive it.
Travel Essentials and Packing Tips
Layering is the name of the game up here. Mornings can be chilly and foggy, but by afternoon you might be sweating in the sun.
Here’s what I always pack:
- Waterproof jacket
- Cozy sweater or fleece
- Good hiking shoes
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Reusable water bottle
Navigation is tricky. Download offline maps and toss a paper map in the glove box for backup. GPS just isn’t reliable in the redwoods.
Bring some cash for park entrances and those tiny diners that still don’t take cards.
If you’re into photography, pack extra batteries. Humid coastal air drains them fast.
Snacks and water in the car are a must. Some towns feel like ghost towns in the off-season—don’t count on finding food whenever you want.
Sunscreen’s important even when it’s cloudy. The sun bounces off the water and sand, so you’ll burn faster than you think.
Redwood Wonders: Exploring Ancient Forests
The North Coast’s redwood forests feel like something out of a dream. Some of these trees soar over 300 feet tall. You can drive right through groves on the Avenue of the Giants or lose yourself on foot in Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Redwood National and State Parks.
Avenue of the Giants Highlights
Avenue of the Giants winds for 31 miles through Humboldt Redwoods State Park along Highway 101. You don’t even have to hike to see jaw-dropping trees.
I always stop at Founders Grove first. The trail’s short, paved, and lets anyone get up close to trees that are over 1,500 years old.
Other favorites along the way:
- Founders Tree (pretty famous, honestly)
- Immortal Tree (this one’s survived floods, fires, and more)
- Drive-through trees (though, between you and me, I’d rather walk among them)
The Rockefeller Loop is a quieter spot. It’s got this moody, shadowy vibe—the trees grow so thick, barely any sunlight sneaks in.
Give yourself 2-3 hours for the drive and stops. If you can, go early in the morning for emptier trails and softer light for photos.
Top Trails in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Humboldt Redwoods State Park protects the biggest chunk of old-growth redwoods left anywhere. The park itself is twice the size of San Francisco—plenty of room to roam.
The Rockefeller Loop Trail is perfect for beginners. It’s an easy 1.3-mile walk through some seriously massive trees (some trunks are over 17 feet wide). The path is flat and easy to follow.
If you want a longer trek, try the Bull Creek Flats Trail. It’s 9 miles of soft, fern-covered forest floor and peaceful redwood groves.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Easy: Rockefeller Loop, Founders Grove
- Moderate: Bull Creek Flats, Grasshopper Peak
- Difficult: King Range trails
The Grasshopper Peak Trail climbs above the trees for big coastal views. On a clear day, you can see all of Humboldt County from up there.
Redwood National and State Parks Must-Sees
Redwood National and State Parks actually roll four parks into one huge protected area. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a personal favorite for classic redwood hikes.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove is a gentle 1.4-mile loop—mostly flat, easy for just about anyone. It’s named for the First Lady who helped dedicate the park in 1969.
The Boy Scout Tree Trail in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a bit tougher. It’s a 5.5-mile round trip, but the payoff is one of the most impressive trees you’ll ever see.
Don’t miss:
- Stout Grove: Tallest trees around
- Fern Canyon: Walls covered in lush ferns, 50 feet high
- Gold Bluffs Beach: Where the redwoods almost touch the Pacific
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is also home to Roosevelt elk. The Cathedral Trees Trail is ridiculously photogenic.
For anyone with mobility concerns, the Revelation Trail is a great option. It’s a boardwalk that brings you right up to the giants—no hiking boots required.
Charming Coastal Towns to Experience
The towns up here are pure California gold. Each one has its own vibe, from storybook Victorian streets to wild, colorful beaches. You can feel the history and local pride everywhere you go.
Mendocino: Historic Village and Ocean Views
Mendocino might just be the prettiest coastal village in California. The town sits high on bluffs, about 90 feet above the crashing Pacific.
Victorian-era buildings and white picket fences make the whole place look like a postcard. Art galleries and cute shops fill the old houses now.
Check out:
- Mendocino Headlands State Park for cliffside walks
- The historic Mendocino Hotel (built in 1878)
- Kelley House Museum for local stories
- Ford House Museum with all sorts of maritime artifacts
The Mendocino Art Center is worth a stop. If you want to splurge, Brewery Gulch Inn has killer ocean views.
Festivals pop up throughout the year. The Mendocino Music Festival in July always draws a fun crowd.
Fort Bragg and Glass Beach
Fort Bragg feels real and unpretentious. It’s a working fishing town with some cool surprises—like the famous Glass Beach, where decades of discarded glass have turned into smooth, colorful stones.
Glass Beach is inside MacKerricher State Park. The way the sunlight hits those glass bits is unreal. Don’t pocket any, though—it’s protected.
Hop on the Skunk Train for a ride through the redwoods. The old-fashioned train runs between Fort Bragg and Willits and gives you great forest views.
Some other highlights:
- Noyo Harbor for fresh seafood
- Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
- Point Cabrillo Light Station
Downtown, you’ll find local breweries and relaxed places to eat. Fort Bragg keeps its working-class edge but welcomes travelers with open arms.
Crescent City Gateway
Crescent City marks the start of Redwood National and State Parks. It’s the northernmost coastal town and feels wild, with huge trees and rocky shores.
The Battery Point Lighthouse sits on a little island you can reach at low tide. Built in 1856, it’s a favorite spot for photos.
Fishing is big here. Local menus are packed with fresh Dungeness crab and salmon. The annual Crab Festival in February draws seafood lovers from all over.
You can:
- Hike among the tallest trees
- Watch for whales from the harbor
- Explore tide pools when the water’s out
Crescent City’s got plenty of affordable places to stay. It makes a great base for redwood adventures.
Jenner and the Sonoma Coast
Jenner is tiny but dramatic, right where the Russian River hits the Pacific. The views are wild, and there’s always something to see.
Harbor seals love to hang out where the river meets the ocean. From March to August, you’ll spot moms with pups on the sand.
The Sonoma Coast is all rugged cliffs and hidden beaches. Goat Rock Beach is a seal-watching hotspot. Portuguese Beach is great for tide pooling.
Nearby, you’ll find:
- Fort Ross State Historic Park (with a dash of Russian history)
- Sonoma County wineries just inland
- Duncan’s Landing for sweeping views
Jenner’s restaurants serve up fresh seafood with sunset views. River’s End Restaurant is a favorite for a special meal.
Dramatic Seascapes and Hidden Beaches
If you’re into wild beaches, this stretch of coast delivers. Think black volcanic sands, rainbow-colored pebbles, and bluffs that make you feel tiny. I’ve tracked down four beaches that always blow me away, from the remote black sands of Shelter Cove to tide pool heaven at Salt Point.
Shelter Cove and Black Sand Beach
Shelter Cove feels like the edge of the world. It’s tucked at the southern tip of the Lost Coast, way off the beaten path. You have to brave a winding mountain road to get there, but it’s totally worth it.
The black sand beach stretches out under massive cliffs. The dark sand and white surf make for a wild, beautiful contrast.
Go at low tide if you can—tide pools appear, full of bright sea anemones and starfish. Even in summer, you’ll probably have the place to yourself.
Why I love it:
- No development, just raw coastline
- Towering 200-foot cliffs
- Great whale watching from shore
- Its remoteness keeps the crowds far away
Driving in takes about 45 minutes from Highway 101. Bring your own snacks and water—there’s not much in the way of services once you arrive.
Moonstone Beach in Trinidad
Moonstone Beach really stands out along the North Coast. I’ve spent lazy afternoons here, scouring the shore for those smooth, glassy stones that give the beach its name.
You’ll spot these moonstone pebbles scattered along the sand, washed up from rocky outcrops just offshore. They come in shades ranging from cloudy white to hints of green and blue—sometimes I can’t help but pocket a few favorites.
After a big winter storm, the tide brings in a fresh batch of stones. I usually head out early, hoping to be the first to spot something special glinting along the waterline.
Beach features:
- A protected cove that keeps the wind at bay
- Super easy walk from the heart of Trinidad
- Handy picnic tables and restrooms just up from the sand
- Swimming’s usually safe when the water’s calm
Trinidad perches right above the beach, a tiny town with a lot of charm. If you’re curious about local history, the Trinidad Museum is worth a stop—especially for stories about the area’s Native American roots and the old lighthouse.
Russian Gulch State Park Adventures
Russian Gulch State Park always surprises me with its wild coastline and odd rock formations. The sea arch and blow hole here are just plain cool.
The Devil’s Punchbowl steals the show. Waves thunder into this giant, circular pit where a sea cave collapsed long ago. It’s loud, messy, and honestly, a little mesmerizing.
I usually take the short 0.25-mile trail out to the blowhole overlook. When the tide’s high or a storm rolls in, water blasts up through the hole like nature’s fountain.
Park highlights:
- A 36-foot waterfall you can reach by trail
- Tide pools packed with marine life
- Campsites with killer ocean views
- Redwood trails that wind through ancient groves
The beach here feels a bit warmer than most spots on the coast. I’ve braved the water a few times and found it surprisingly pleasant compared to more exposed beaches.
Salt Point State Park Highlights
Salt Point State Park stretches for 20 rugged miles north of San Francisco. If you love tide pools, this place is a must.
The shoreline’s sandstone formations look like something from another planet. Wind and waves have sculpted the rock into arches, caves, and wild shapes that beg for a photo.
I always time my visits to Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve for low tide. The tide pools in this protected spot are some of the richest I’ve ever poked around in.
Marine life you’ll find:
- Purple sea urchins
- Flashy orange sea stars
- Green anemones
- Hermit crabs scuttling everywhere
Stump Beach inside the park is famous for abalone diving—just remember, you’ll need a permit. I’ve watched harbor seals lounging on the rocks and even glimpsed a sea otter or two from the cliffs.
Camping here means you can roll out of your tent and hit the sand. If you want a spot for summer or fall, book way ahead—these sites fill up fast.
Outdoor Activities Along the North Coast
Camping up here is something else—towering redwoods on one side, pounding surf on the other. Trails twist through forests that feel ancient, and scenic drives reveal jaw-dropping ocean views.
Best Campgrounds for Coastal Camping
Humboldt Redwoods State Park is my top pick for camping beneath massive trees. Burlington Campground puts you smack in the middle of the redwoods.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park has fantastic sites right by the trails. Elk Prairie Campground is special—you might wake up to Roosevelt elk grazing right outside your tent.
If you’re after ocean views, Salt Point State Park can’t be beat. The Woodside and Gerstle Cove campgrounds sit right above the Pacific.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park hugs the Smith River. The water’s so clear, I always end up taking a swim after a long hike.
| Campground | Setting | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Burlington (Humboldt) | Redwood Forest | Avenue of the Giants access |
| Elk Prairie | Forest/Meadow | Wildlife viewing |
| Salt Point | Coastal Bluffs | Ocean views |
| Jedediah Smith | Riverside | Swimming spots |
Top Hiking Trails in Redwood Country
Fern Canyon Trail at Prairie Creek is like stepping into a green cathedral. Ferns cover 80-foot walls along this 1.5-mile loop—it’s unreal.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove is an easy 1-mile stroll beneath old-growth redwoods. The interpretive signs along the way always teach me something new.
Tall Trees Grove is a bit of a secret. You’ll need a permit, but the 4-mile round trip drops you into a grove filled with some of the tallest trees on earth.
James Irvine Trail links up with Fern Canyon for a longer trek. This 10-mile route takes you from deep woods straight out to the ocean.
Boy Scout Tree Trail brings you to a massive, split-trunk redwood. It’s a 5-mile round trip through a forest that changes at every turn.
Scenic Drives and Lookouts
Avenue of the Giants stretches 31 miles through Humboldt Redwoods. This iconic drive parallels Highway 101 and takes you right through groves that seem to touch the sky.
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway winds for 10 miles through Prairie Creek Redwoods. I’ve spotted elk in the meadows and lost count of the giant trees along this road.
Coastal Drive near Crescent City is a bit rough and unpaved, but the ocean views are worth it. The 8-mile route ends at overlooks where you can watch waves crash on sea stacks.
Howland Hill Road leads straight to Stout Memorial Grove. This narrow dirt road passes some of the most jaw-dropping redwoods in the park system.
Bald Hills Road climbs high above the forest, opening up panoramic views. The 17-mile drive lets you see both the treetops and the distant Pacific.
Iconic Starting and Ending Points: San Francisco and Beyond
San Francisco is the classic gateway to California’s North Coast. You’ll find world-famous sights, and it’s a breeze to hop over to the wine regions or keep exploring Northern California.
Must-See Sights in San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is just as breathtaking as you’d expect. I always check it out from different spots—Crissy Field is great for getting close, but Baker Beach is my pick for sunset photos.
Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 are touristy but fun. The sea lions at Pier 39 never fail to entertain, and you can grab some fresh seafood or quirky souvenirs nearby.
Chinatown is one of the oldest and biggest outside Asia. Grant Avenue is lined with shops and authentic restaurants—if you’re hungry, don’t miss it.
The Painted Ladies at Alamo Square are classic San Francisco. These colorful Victorian homes look best when the late afternoon sun hits them.
Golden Gate Park sprawls over 1,000 acres. I love the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers—both spots are peaceful, even when the city buzzes around you.
The Embarcadero runs along the water from the ballpark up to Fisherman’s Wharf. Walking or biking here is an easy way to take in bay views and stop at the Ferry Building for snacks.
Wine Country Detours: Sonoma and Napa Valley
Sonoma County feels a bit more relaxed than Napa. I’m a fan of the Russian River Valley—great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and the pace is slower.
Napa Valley is famous for a reason. Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail both wind through vineyards and lead to gorgeous tasting rooms.
St. Helena is Napa’s picture-perfect small town. Main Street is all about boutique shops, good food, and a sense of history.
Calistoga is where I go for hot springs and mud baths after a day of wine tasting. It’s got that small-town vibe but still plenty of luxury if you want it.
The Silverado Trail is my secret for a quieter drive. It’s scenic, less busy than Highway 29, and you can linger at wineries without feeling rushed.
Additional Northern California Destinations
Marin County is just a short drive away, and you can wander among coastal redwoods or explore small, charming towns. Honestly, Sausalito’s ferry ride back to San Francisco might be one of my favorite ways to soak in those classic bay views.
Point Reyes National Seashore has a wild, dramatic coastline that’s perfect for hiking. If you’re lucky, you might spot whales near the lighthouse during migration season—bring binoculars, just in case.
Mendocino County feels like a hidden gem with its rugged shoreline and old Victorian buildings. The town of Mendocino itself sits right on the bluffs, so you get these sweeping views of the Pacific that are hard to beat.
Half Moon Bay is a quirky mix—there are pumpkin farms everywhere, and the coastal scenery is beautiful year-round. Every October, the Pumpkin Festival takes over the town, and honestly, it’s worth checking out if you love a good small-town celebration (and fresh produce).
