Between Northern California’s towering redwoods and its world-famous coastal Pacific shoreline, there are some stunning natural wonders, which are often overlooked by visitors to world-famous sites like Yosemite National Park and Redwood National and State Parks (which is home to the world’s tallest trees). From the incredible turquoise waters of Trinidad to the beautiful El Matador beach just off the Pacific Highway, Northern California offers some of the most underappreciated treasures in the state. One of these gems is Humboldt Lagoons State Park, a series of coastal sanctuaries that offer a rare blend of seclusion and rugged natural beauty, as well as one of the largest lagoon systems in North America.
From lush marshes to dramatic ocean backdrops, the Humboldt Lagoons have become a haven for hikers and birders, as well as for those looking for a nature experience away from the crowds. With coastal trails and historic landscapes, the lagoons invite visitors to explore a lesser-known side of California, a wild sanctuary off the beaten path. Beyond the outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking and water sports that this area of California has to offer, the Humboldt area is also one of great cultural and historical significance, as the ancestral home of the Yurok tribe, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.
The Humboldt Lagoons, a hiker’s paradise
Each of the four lagoons — Big Lagoon, Stone Lagoon, Dry Lagoon, and Freshwater Lagoon — has its own personality and natural rhythm. Of the four, Big Lagoon is the most accessible and, you guessed it, the largest, offering tranquil paddling conditions and plenty of wildlife. For those seeking solitude, Stone Lagoon is more remote. Freshwater Lagoon offers incredibly lush plant diversity and serene landscapes, and is a favorite amongst nature lovers. Meanwhile, Dry Lagoon, a seasonal marshland, is admired for its wildflower displays and is best explored by foot. Together, these interconnected ecosystems form a critical segment of the Pacific Flyway, attracting multiple species of migratory birds.
The Humboldt Lagoons are also a hiker’s paradise. The California Coastal Trail cuts through the park and offers panoramic views of the grassy wetlands, towering redwoods, and windy beaches. Another popular hike begins at Dry Lagoon and leads to Stone Lagoon, a moderately difficult hike that’s totally worth it for intermediate hikers. This route traverses coastal prairies where you may see Roosevelt elk grazing in their natural habitat. The Big Lagoon Beach Trail is best for those wanting to do some beachcombing and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, which seasonally (between April and November) attracts migrating whales. It goes without saying that the lagoons are somewhere you absolutely don’t want to miss on a coastal California road trip.
Enjoy the tranquility of the lagoons from the water
