Humboldt County
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Positives
- Big, consistent swells
- Offshore winds during storms
- Beautiful scenery, huge redwoods
- Uncrowded Californian surf
Negatives
- Unfriendly locals
- Swells often too big
- Harsh, stormy climate
- Sharky
- Cold water
Humboldt County surf travel guide
Humboldt is a beautiful and dramatic place, home to big trees and big waves. It is a rugged cold-water zone that appeals to a certain type of surfer, and while hardly a world-class surf trip the region can produce excellent winter waves. The spots are all beachbreaks, with a few rocky breaks near Trinidad. The surf is consistent and usually bad, but occasionally rewarding for those who time it right and like to charge.
Surf spots in Humboldt County
Research the 18 surf breaks in Humboldt County and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 18 breaks in Humboldt County.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Humboldt County
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Library
Helpful surf travel videos and articles featuring Humboldt County.
Travel Information
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Visas
Due to Covid there are special restrictions so it is essential to check the latest news before booking any trip. Normally most Europeans, Aussies, Kiwis and Japanese are part of the Visa waiver program so do not need a visa to enter the USA for up to 90 days, but they do need to apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) which costs US$14. Other nationalities need to check as the rules are constantly being adjusted.
Getting There
The nearest international airport is San Francisco (SFO). From there, fly directly to the Eureka-Arcata Airport, which is in McKinleyville. Take U.S. Highway 101 to Eureka if travelling by road. Greyhound services all towns in the area.
Getting Around
Rental cars are available at the airport and in Arcata and Eureka (an economy size costs approx. $35/d), and are essential to explore the region. Gas costs about $2.75/gallon. Since most of the surf spots are located along Highway 101, it's easy to find them. Get a local map before heading out.
Accommodation
Eureka has lodging for every budget. McKinleyville and Arcata offer accommodation, but hotels are cheaper in Eureka. Trinidad and the Patrick’s Point area have a few expensive B&Bs. There are campsites at Samoa Boat Ramp County Park, Clam Beach, Patrick’s Point, Big Lagoon, Freshwater Lagoon, Gold Bluffs, and Prairie Creek. Good food is available in most of the towns.
Activities
Eureka is an unremarkable city, but heading north past Arcata, the renowned Redwood Coast scenery begins, featuring some of the world’s biggest trees. Arcata is a liberal college town with plenty to do, whilst Trinidad is a quaint village. North of Trinidad is some of California’s prettiest landscape. Arcata has the best nightlife in the region.
Hazards & hassles
Large, unpredictable waves, heavy currents and the rocks at spots like Trinidad and Patrick's Point. Shark attacks are fairly common and the area is not known for friendly locals.
Handy Hints
A bigger board is necessary to surf Humboldt waves. This area is cold, sharky and powerful - all of these extremes should be planned for. Pleasant surprises await those who don’t expect too much.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.