Eureka is a coastal city in northwestern California. It is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland. The entire city is a registered state historic landmark, due to its 19th century Victorian buildings. Eureka combines historic charm with stunning coastal beauty.
Visiting Eureka feels like taking a step back in time. The city’s most famous landmark is the Carson Mansion, which is the most photographed Victorian mansion in the world. It is one of many beautiful old Victorian homes in Eureka.
The coast in Eureka offers dramatic cliffs that shoot up from the coastline. One of the best ways to soak it in is to drive the Redwood Highway, where you can view the coast as well as the gigantic redwood forests. The area offers some magnificent hiking.
Eureka celebrates its rich history through a variety of cultural museums and centers. The Clarke Historical Museum has rotating displays that feature local history, from the Native American roots to European settlement to World War 2 events. The Humboldt Botanical Garden is another popular escape for a stroll through the gardens.
Winter can be very rainy. It is probably the worst time of year to visit.
Late spring is a nice time to visit as the weather dries and warms. Make sure to avoid scheduling around graduation weekend at Humboldt State University as hotel rates go up.
Summers are dry, sunny, and mild. Highs are usually only in the mid-60s. Visitors come for hiking and boating during the summers.
Many people suggest that fall is the best time to visit. Eureka, like much of the Pacific Coast, gets a bit of an Indian summer. The colors are quite beautiful in October.