Ferndale's neighbor, Loleta, is a small, picturesque dairy community about 10 miles south of Eureka. Originally called Swauger's Station, in 1897 the community changed its name to what was believed to be a Wiyot word meaning “pleasant place at the end of the water.” While that translation has since been questioned, it does appear that “Loleta” may have come from the place name of a trail along the top of Table Bluff that had been called “Laloeka” by the Wiyot.

Loleta sits on the gentle rolling foothills of the Eel River Valley, and commands a spectacular view of the valley, river, dairy ranches and the Pacific Ocean and Humboldt Bay beyond. It is noted for its award-winning dairy products, and is home to the always fun Bear River Casino & Hotel as well as the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the Table Bluff Reservation of the Wiyot Tribe. Since 1971, Loleta has hosted one of the largest antique shows in Northern California.