Eureka

Pacific Coast Highway Travel describes Eureka in California, including its history, location, climate, beaches, and things to do.

The Carter House Inn in Eureka

Eureka, California, is a charming coastal city with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors. Here's an overview of Eureka:

Location

Northern California Coast: Eureka is located on the North Coast of California, about 270 miles north of San Francisco.

Nearest Major Cities:

San Francisco: Approximately 270 miles south
Portland, Oregon: Approximately 100 miles north

Population: 26,000

History of Eureka

Founded in 1850: Eureka was established during the California Gold Rush and named after the Greek word "Eureka," meaning "I have found it."

Logging Industry: The city grew significantly during the 19th and 20th centuries as a center for the logging industry, with redwood forests providing a major source of timber.

Victorian Architecture: Eureka boasts a collection of beautifully preserved Victorian homes, a testament to its past prosperity. The Carson Mansion, a stunning example of Second Empire architecture, is a local landmark.

Eureka Climate

Mild and Temperate: Eureka enjoys a mild, temperate climate with cool, rainy winters and mild, foggy summers.

Coastal Influence: The city's proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures and brings frequent fog.

Things to Do in Eureka

Victorian Buildings in Eureka

Explore Old Town: Wander through the historic Old Town district, admire the Victorian architecture, and browse unique shops and art galleries.

Visit the Sequoia Park Zoo: Sequoia Park Zoo is the oldest zoo in California, founded in 1907. It's a small but charming zoo, covering about seven acres and home to over 150 animals from around 50 different species. The zoo is nestled next to a beautiful old-growth redwood forest, which makes for a picturesque setting.

Some highlights of the zoo include:

Redwood Sky Walk: The longest sky walk in the western United States, allowing visitors to walk over 100 feet above the forest floor.

Conservation Efforts: The zoo is involved in various conservation programs, including Species Survival Plan breeding programs.

Educational Programs: They offer a range of educational activities and lectures to inspire wonder and respect for the natural world.

The zoo is open daily (except Mondays in winter) and offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, such as Zoo Lights during the holiday season.

Hike in Redwood Forests: Explore the majestic redwood forests in nearby Redwood National and State Parks.

Go Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life.

Enjoy the Waterfront: Stroll along the waterfront, visit the Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum on the far side of the bay, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum: The Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum is located in Samoa, California, just across Humboldt Bay from Eureka. Founded in 1977, the museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the maritime history of California's North Coast.

Here are some details:

Location: The museum is situated in the former head cook's house next to the historic Samoa Cookhouse.
Collections: It houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and library archives related to the maritime history of the region. This includes shipwreck artifacts, a 4th order Fresnel lens, and small skiffs.
Vessels: The museum owns two floating vessels: the 1910 motor vessel Madaket, which has been restored and is Coast Guard certified to carry passengers, and the 1917 fishing vessel Stephanie, which is currently undergoing restoration.
Exhibits: The museum offers exhibits on shipbuilding, shipwrecks, lighthouses, ferry launches, and the history of the first explorers in the area.
Cruises: The museum operates the Madaket for harbor cruises, providing narrated tours of Humboldt Bay, where visitors can learn about local history, industries, and wildlife.
Opening Times: The museum is open from Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

The Carson Mansion: The Carson Mansion, also known as Ingomar Club, is a private club housed in a restored Victorian mansion offering fine dining and social activities for members.

Location: 143 M St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Phone: +1 707-443-5665
Website: http://www.ingomar.org/
Hours: Private club, hours vary
Description: Grand Victorian house built in an ornate, eclectic style with turrets & gables.

Our Pick of the Northern California Guides

Eureka Beaches

Humboldt Bay: While not a traditional beach, Humboldt Bay offers opportunities for kayaking, boating, and birdwatching.

Nearby Beaches: Eureka and its surrounding areas have some beautiful beaches that are perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure. Here are a few recommendations:

Samoa Beach: Just a short drive from Eureka, this beach is known for its stunning sunsets and peaceful environment. It's a great spot for a family picnic or a leisurely walk.

Trinidad State Beach: Located a bit further up the coast, this beach offers scenic hikes, picturesque views of offshore rocks, and the historic Trinidad Head Lighthouse.

Clam Beach County Park: This wide, sandy beach is ideal for outdoor activities like horseback riding, kite flying, and camping. It's also a popular spot for clamming.

Moonstone Beach: Nestled in the small town of Trinidad, this beach is famous for its colorful pebbles and abundant sea life in tide pools. It's a bit steep to access, but the beauty is worth the trek.

Gold Bluffs Beach: Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this beach offers a beautiful stretch of golden sand and a campground right by the beach.