Menu
64°F
Menu
Menu
64°F
Menu
64°F
64°F
64°F
64°F
You’re never too far from trees and fresh air in Eureka.
You’ll find hikes, beaches and parks both in and outside the city, as well as plenty of water activities on Humboldt Bay located in the center of the city.
The Eureka Waterfront Trail is the heart of the Humboldt Bay Trail system within the city. Spanning over 6 miles, it follows the shoreline from the southern wetlands to the north end of town. Interpretive signage, public art, and resting spots make it more than a path—it’s a journey through Eureka’s past and present, framed by salt marshes, sand dunes, and sweeping bay views.
As the southernmost segment of the Waterfront Trail, the 1.5-mile Hikshari’ Trail runs along the Elk River and southern Humboldt Bay. Rich in ecology and history, the trail features interpretive signs about Wiyot village life, native wildlife, wetland restoration, and the area’s geologic story. It’s a peaceful, educational route perfect for walking, biking, or pausing to watch the birds.
Climb aboard the Madaket and enjoy a relaxing voyage along the shores of Humboldt Bay. The M.V. Madaket, built in 1910, is the last survivor of seven original ferries that transported families and mill workers around Humboldt Bay for decades. Today it sits as the oldest passenger motor vessel in continuous service in the entire United States. Between May and October, you can hop on board for a tour and learn about local history, industries, activities, points of interest and wildlife.
The Redwood Sky Walk is the longest sky walk in the western United States at just under 1/4 mile to the end and back. It was voted #1 Aerial Adventure Park in the nation in 2023 by USA Today readers.
1,000 acres of forestland southeast of Eureka that is in the process of being established into a community forest. You’ll find opportunities for birdwatching, dog walking, running, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing among the redwood giants in this residential Eureka neighborhood forest. Take a break from civilization and find solace amongst the trees.
The Humboldt Botanical Gardens are constructed on a 44.5-acre site south of Eureka near the Humboldt Bay adjacent to the College of the Redwoods. Bring a book, binoculars or a picnic and stay for a while. More adventurous hikers can walk along the secluded, unpaved trails that meander through the gardens. Walk Peter Santino’s labyrinth in the “All Happy Now” garden. This garden is intended to be walked on in the manner of the meditation labyrinths found in churches and cathedrals.
The Eureka Golf Course features tree-lined fairways, small undulated greens, several ponds, and a meandering creek that runs through most of the golf course. The golf course hosts native plants and wildlife including Coastal Redwoods, Rhododendrons, red-tail hawks, osprey, deer, and a variety of waterfowl. The Eureka Golf Course is a prime example of environmental stewardship, certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Sanctuary.
Don’t miss Cocina Mariposa, a delicious Mexican restaurant on the grounds.
Samoa Beach is the long strand of beach on the ocean side of the Samoa peninsula near Eureka. The small community of Samoa and the historic Samoa Cookhouse Restaurant is nearby on the peninsula. The beach here stretches continuously south to Samoa Dunes Recreation Area at the North Jetty and entrance to Humboldt Bay. This is a perfect beachcombing destination with driftwood and other items washing onshore.