10 Amazing Things to Do in Northern California's Humboldt County
Northern California is one of those places that never gets old. My sister has lived in the Humboldt County area for years, which means I've been lucky enough to visit again and again. Every trip looks a little different, but there are certain experiences I never skip.
If you're planning a trip to Northern California and wondering where to start, these are the places, activities, and local favorites I recommend most.
1. Eat at Los Bagels
If I could only choose one restaurant in Humboldt County, it would be Los Bagels.
This Arcata favorite serves house-baked bagels with a unique blend of California, Jewish, and Mexican influences. Every visit begins here.
My go-to order is:
Izzy's Guac 'N Lox
Cucumbin
And before you leave, grab a bottle of their famous Larrupin Dill Sauce to bring home. You'll thank me later.
Other great breakfast/coffee options:
2. Walk Among the Redwoods
One of the things that makes Humboldt County so special is how easy it is to access incredible redwood forests.
My favorite places include:
There is something magical about standing beneath trees that have been growing for hundreds of years.
3. Spend Time at the Beach
Whether you're walking, collecting driftwood, or simply enjoying the views, the beaches here are worth visiting.
Some favorites:
Even on foggy days, the coastline is beautiful.
4. Hunt for Agates
If you've followed my blog for long, you know I love treasure hunting.
In Humboldt County, that often means searching for agates along the shoreline.
There is nothing quite like spotting a beautiful agate tucked between ordinary stones and carrying home a souvenir that nature created itself.
5. Explore Fern Canyon
Fern Canyon feels like stepping into another world.
Towering walls covered in lush green ferns surround a narrow creek bed, creating one of the most unique hikes in Northern California.
It's easy to see why scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed here.
6. Eat Fresh Oysters & Enjoy Great Cocktails
Humboldt County has some incredible food.
One of my favorite ways to spend an evening is enjoying fresh oysters followed by craft cocktails at one of the area's local restaurants.
The combination of fresh seafood, local ingredients, and relaxed coastal atmosphere is hard to beat.
Some favorites:
7. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Getting out on the water offers a completely different perspective of the area.
Whether you're kayaking Humboldt Bay or paddleboarding on calmer waters, it's a peaceful way to experience the coastline and wildlife.
8. Ride Horses in the Redwoods
Few experiences feel more "Northern California" than horseback riding amongst the trees.
If you have the opportunity, this is absolutely worth adding to your trip.
9. See Humboldt County from the Sky
One of the most memorable experiences I've ever had here was flying over the coastline and redwood forests with friends who own a small plane.
Seeing the beaches, rivers, forests, and towns from above gave me an entirely new appreciation for how beautiful this area really is.
10. Visit the Redwood Sky Walk or Trees of Mystery
If it's your first visit, make time for at least one iconic redwood attraction.
The Redwood Sky Walk lets you experience the forest canopy from above, while Trees of Mystery offers a classic Northern California roadside attraction experience.
Both are memorable and well worth a stop.
Final Thoughts
Humboldt County is one of my favorite places in the country because it offers such a unique combination of towering redwoods, rugged coastline, outdoor adventure, and quirky local culture.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend or spending a full week exploring Northern California, these are the experiences I find myself returning to again and again.
