Discover Humboldt County: Majestic Redwoods, Coastal Gems, and a Lucky $420 Casino Win
I adore the North Coast of California, especially in fall when the trees burst with vibrant colors. This year, we flew directly into Arcata Airport to explore Humboldt County and southern Oregon, skipping the long drive from San Francisco.
Our 40-passenger flight touched down at one of the smallest airports I've ever visited—even tinier than Luang Prabang, Laos. Renting a car from Alamo was a breeze, launching our adventure effortlessly.
For my companion's first trip to Northern California, we headed south to the iconic Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. This 32-mile scenic drive is flanked by towering redwood trees—a must-do! You can even drive through one.
Grab a map at the southern or northern entrances to catch all the hiking spots. Watch for slugs; we photographed a unique one on our trail, reminiscent of UC Santa Cruz's banana slugs but distinct.
Heading north, we stayed in Eureka at the Travelodge for $55. A receptionist flagged one of our $20 bills as fake using a counterfeit pen—dated 1950, it may not react like newer currency. The rest passed; a reminder to inspect change carefully. It didn't dampen our spirits.
Eureka offers basic lodging and Victorian architecture worth exploring. Don't miss 'Hole in the Wall' Sandwich Shop—massive, delicious sandwiches for about $9, perfect to share amid the parking lot crowd.
Next day, we cruised Scenic Drive, stopping at deserted, overcast beaches like Moonstone, with its eerie cave (bring a flashlight next time).
Near Trinidad Beach, a sign for Cher-Ae Heights Casino caught our eye—matching my mom's tip. At 11 a.m., we joined the Players Club, drawing cards worth $500 (his) and $5 (mine), plus $25 each for our upcoming anniversary. Our $555 in play turned into $420 cash after three winning hours, cashed as 41 tickets. Fittingly, 'Take the Money and Run' played as we left.
We hiked Patrick's Point State Park, overlooking Wedding Rock, then Oregon's coastal trails and natural bridges. In Brookings Harbor, we savored award-winning clam chowder and crab cakes.
Our last night in quirky Arcata featured friendly vibes at Humboldt Brewing Company—wings, salad, falafel, and complimentary beer tasters. Cyclists: Try Library Bike for a $20 refundable deposit bike, returnable up to six months later.
At the airport, locals offered 'green bud'—classic Humboldt hospitality!
