Humboldt Lagoons

  • Address: Humboldt Lagoons, Between Trinidad & Orick
  • Trinidad, CA 95521
  • Visit Website

A magical collection of landlocked waters, right on the coast but protected from the Pacific ocean and offering unlimited recreation with miles of beach access. Hike, Fish, Paddle or Sail.

The Humboldt Lagoons - Big Lagoon, Dry Lagoon, Stone Lagoon and Freshwater Lagoon, are unique ecosystems that provide unlimited outdoor recreation with miles of beach access.

Big Lagoon is an especially family friendly water playground. On warm sunny days you will see families and friends frolicking in the water along the sandy shoreline that separates the Big Lagoon from the ocean. Big Lagoon is also a favorite for kayaks, year-round. Managed by the County, Big Lagoon also has a campground available year round on a first come, first serve basis. It has bathrooms and water, with spaces for small trailers and campers. Group campsite also. For more info call 707-445-7651.

Stone Lagoon's shores border Hwy 101. The lagoon from the outlook at the visitor's center as the early morning fog wisps away, looks like a bucolic lake surrounded by mountains with only a thin strip of sand separating it from the Pacific Ocean. This is another great spot for fishing and kayaking with boat access next to the visitor center adjacent to Hwy 101. The northern entrance has parking and beach access. There are six primitive campsites that can only be reached by boating or hiking. Obtain permit at Sue-Meg State Park - For more info call 707-677-3570.

Dry Lagoon as its name implies, has no water, but is a great place to spend the day hiking the beach and camping, with access to a three mile coastal trail that will lead to the Stone Lagoon's environmental campsites.

Freshwater Lagoon, the northernmost lagoon is set off on the opposite side of Hwy 101 and offers some shelter from onshore winds. Laced with grasses and fronds, this lagoon is a favorite spot for fishing.

Day use picnic areas at all four lagoons - sunrise to sunset year-round.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Coastal/temperate. Summer 50-60 with coastal fog common. Winter 40-50 with 60" annual rainfall occurring mostly Nov.-April. Spring & fall are typically very nice. Summer is foggy and cool. Bring warm/layered clothing. Directions: 40 miles north of Eureka and 55 miles south of Crescent City, CA on Hwy 101.
Latitude/Longitude: 41.1900 / -124.1206

For group reservations & weddings please contact:
Permit Coordinator
redw_special_use_permits@nps.gov
707-465-7307

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