Eureka is the largest city on the North Coast of California and serves as the center for government, business, culture, entertainment and tourism of Humboldt County.

  Situated on Humboldt Bay, the city has a rich history and is frequently the first stop for visitors looking to take advantage of a multitude of recreational activities in the region.

  The city is surrounded on all sides by adventurous opportunities. Within 40 miles driving distance from Eureka, visitors can find lots of great spots for camping, backpacking, river rafting, surfing, biking, hiking, kayaking or rock climbing. Among the attractions for residents and visitors are the Avenue of the Giants, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, the Trees of Mystery, the Victorian village of Ferndale and the Arcata Marsh.

  Eureka was founded in 1850 and grew around a bustling port on Humboldt Bay. Historically the port served the needs of the forest products and commercial fishing industries. Some of Eureka’s first settlers were gold miners, fishermen and loggers who relocated to the area to tap into employment opportunities that existed in this pristine wilderness.

  Over the years, the architectural influence of the Victorian era found a home in Eureka, and many of the relics of the traditional manors and buildings remain. Today residents and visitors marvel at the architectural majesty of the Carson Mansion and the ornate “Pink Lady” in downtown Eureka.

  The city’s historic Old Town district with its eclectic array of shops, restaurants and galleries is another popular place to take a stroll. The boardwalk along the bay, located at the foot of F Street, is a recently finished project that is currently attracting new businesses and visitors alike.

  The city’s lodging and dining choices are abundant and suit every taste and budget. Of special interest is the bounty of fresh local seafood. Fresh cracked Dungeness crab. Oysters and king salmon are a few of the many marine delicacies from local waters.