Humboldt Bay Beaches & Dunes

The beaches, dunes and wetlands of the Humboldt Bay area can offer an outdoor adventure or that solitude you've been searching for.  All within minutes of Eureka or Arcata.
 

Mad River County Park with coastal access
This is one of the Redwood Coast's best beaches for picnics in the dunes, beachcombing and fishing. Both beach and river access complete with a boat launch. Be sure to check your tide table for boat launching. Pet Friendly. Just minutes from Arcata at the end of Mad River Road.  MAP

Ma-le'l Dunes

The most pristine remaining dune system in the Pacific Northwest just a few miles from Arcata. A place where sand dunes, forestland & wetlands meet. Open during daylight hours to pedestrians only. Another adventure just minutes from Arcata.   Hwy 255 to Manila.  MAP

Humboldt Coastal Nature Center
Stamps House Visitor Center - This newest visitor center in Humboldt County offers visitors a chance to learn about the amazing dune system on our coastline and opportunity to walk several self guided trails through the dunes and to the ocean.   Guided walks are also offered during the month. Check the event calendar on the Friends of Dunes website. 220 Stamp Ln., Manila,  just south of the Ma-le'l Dunes.   

Samoa Dunes Recreation Area
Samoa Penninsula- A 300-acre coastal park in Eureka's backyard, Samoa Dunes offers a surprising mix of beach combing, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, surfing, boating and OHV trails. Boat ramp at Samoa campground. With access to several ocean beaches, the bay and the dolos on the north jetty. Only 5 minutes out of Eureka over the bridge. 

South Humboldt Bay & Ocean Access
Locally know as the South Spit, this narrow, four-and-a-half-mile-long strip of sand dunes separates Humboldt Bay from the Pacific Ocean. A scenic drive will lead you through the wetlands, up on the bluffs and then down to the ocean with its expansive wave of sculpted beaches, windswept dunes and the marshy bayshore. A recreation destination for hunters, anglers, birders, surfers, hangliders and picnickers. Drive time from Eureka - about 30 minutes