Beaches in Arcata, California

With a summer climate more suited to flannel shirts than swimwear, the town of Arcata sits at the northern end of California's Humboldt Bay, with redwoods to its back and the timber industry firmly planted in its history. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and arts and environment-focused state university, Arcata is home to an innovative wastewater treatment plant and a wildlife sanctuary where thousands of migrating waterfowl feed, rest and nest throughout the year. For traditional beach fun, head for the coast located west or north of downtown.

Mad River Beach

• To reach Mad River Beach, drive or bike west on Giuntoli Lane and follow the signs to the county park. While the ocean here discourages surfing and swimming, given a treacherous undertow, some anglers take advantage of the park's boat launch to fish salmon from the Mad River. Others troll the surf for ocean perch. Dogs romp with their beach combing owners, while equestrians enjoy full-out gallops on their favorite steeds. The park permits driftwood-fueled beach fires to take the edge off the ocean chill. Other simple comforts include picnic tables and flush toilets. Camping is off-limits, but day use of this -- and every Humboldt County park -- is free.

Clam Beach

• California’s beach campsites are few and far between. For a nominal nightly fee, however, Clam Beach County Park welcomes beach campers in tents and accommodates RVs that don't need hookups. Stays are limited to three days on a first come, first served basis. Conveniences include picnic tables, firewood for cooking and vault toilets. Bring a fishing license and wait for low tide to dig for razorback clams buried up to a 1/2 mile off shore. Or else loft a kite on the ocean breeze while your dog chases the whitecaps. You can get to Clam Beach from Arcata by driving 7.5 miles north on Highway 101 to the Clam Beach Park exit.

Little River State Beach

• Little River State Beach extends from the northern end of Clam Beach to the mouth of the Little River. Find it by exiting Highway 101 at the Clam Beach exit, turning left on Clam Beach Drive and parking in the lot on the east side of the road. The broad, dune-bordered beach is open only during the day, when you can kayak or swim in the river, surf or fish in the ocean or simply stretch you legs. Like the majority of California's state beaches, Little River State Beach has a no dogs policy. If letting Fido run free in the sand is an indispensable part of your fun, confine your visits to adjacent Clam or Moonstone Beach County Parks.

Moonstone Beach

• Just north of the Little River, Moonstone Beach County Park beckons explorers with its tide pools, sea caves and rock-strewn coves. Trailer in your horse, pack in your surfboard or bring a camera to capture the stunning headland views. Bring your own beach chairs, however; portable toilets provide the single nod to civilization in Moonstone, the most primitive of the Humboldt County parks. No camping or fires are allowed, but the nearby town of Trinidad has a bluff-top restaurant with a beach view. Weekend parking in the park's lot is at a premium, so plan your arrival time accordingly. To reach Moonstone, take Highway 101 north from Arcata to the Westhaven exit.