One of the most popular and spectacular beaches in Humboldt County, Trinidad State Beach is a rock-strewn, mile-long expanse of sandy beach that stretches from Trinidad Head north to Elk Head. The southern portion of the beach is easily accessible from the parking lot located at the beach's edge by Bay Street and Lighthouse Road, just off Edwards Street. Kid-friendly and dog-friendly, this section is perfect for building sand castles and splashing in the surf, or just plain relaxing.

More adventurous visitors will find the trek down a long flight of rustic stairs from Elk Head Trail to College Cove at the beach's northern end particularly rewarding, with dramatic views of the cove and Pewetole Island. The northern end of Trinidad State Beach is also home to small caves, a natural arch, and fantastic tide pools during low tide. At negative tides, visitors can walk out to Pewetole Island for a unique and rewarding experience.

A third trail leads down to the middle of the beach from State Park Road, off Stagecoach Road. At the trailhead to that access point, visitors will find restrooms, parking, and a small picnic area with tables, stoves and an open field that lends itself nicely to frisbee-tossing.
WHERE: Trinidad State Beach is a no-fee day use area located 19 miles north of Eureka, a short distance off Hwy 101.
MORE INFO: 707-677-3570, www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=418