Luffenholtz Beach

About

Perhaps the most stunning beach in all of Trinidad due to the massive rock formations lining the shore, this is a popular stop off on Scenic Drive. It's also one of the most popular activities in the Redwood Coast.

Scenic Drive is a two-way street along the Coast in Trinidad, California. It offers plenty of parking spots and stop off points for all the beautiful beaches. Another popular beach along this road is Baker Beach. The main difference between these two beaches is that nudity is allowed at Baker Beach.

There are plenty of wildlife animals, birds, and tide pools to explore in the area. Or, simply lay a towel down and enjoy the sounds of shores crashing. Since dogs are allowed here, you can play a game of fetch.

Owned by the Trinidad Coastal Land Trust, there are many planned improvements for the near future. Some of these plans include restrooms, additional visitor infrastructure improvements, and trail/parking upgrades. The group has already implemented new trail steps and increased maintenance for the safety of all visitors. They are also planning many improvements around other areas of Scenic Drive and Trinidad as a whole. To support their cause and projects, visit their website.

Getting There

Luffenholtz is at the lower/early end of Scenic Road, found easily with GPS by searching for Luffenholtz Beach. Parking is numerous along the street, but on busy days, it will be difficult to snag a spot. However, there are plenty of parking spots lining all of Scenic Road and you can walk enjoy a beautiful stroll to the beach of your choosing. There is free public parking available here.

Basic Rules

No camping or fires allowed

You must pick up all your trash

Dogs are allowed, but you must pick up after them

Dogs are not allowed on the Tepona Point Trail

Luffenholtz Beach Park is open every day from 7AM-7PM.

Local Tips

Dog-friendly except on the Tepona Point Trail
Great spot for tide-pooling, fishing, and observing the marine wildlife.
Luffenholtz Beach Park is open daily from 7AM-7PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to the Redwood Coast?

By air: The closest airport to McKinleyville, Eureka, and Arcata is the California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV). Also known as the Eureka/Arcata airport, ACV is located in McKinleyville and serviced by United and Avelo airlines, providing direct connections to/from several hubs.

The closest major international airports to the Redwood Coast are located in San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento at about 5½ driving distance each.

By car: As a key drive-to destination, traveling along California or Oregon’s west coast provides spectacular scenery for the journey. Linking to Coastal Highway 101 from San Francisco and Sacramento is about a 5-hour drive to Eureka. For those driving southbound on Highway 101 from Oregon, it is about a 2-hour drive to Trinidad just north of Eureka.

When is the best time of year to visit the Redwood Coast?

Both the Redwoods National and State Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park are open throughout the year, closing only for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Winter Hours also frequently include closures mid-week, while parks are open daily from late spring through fall. Each season offers its own feel for the Redwoods, though some like to plan around the rainier season from late October through April.

Where is McKinleyville located and how far is it to the Redwood National and State Parks?

McKinleyville is a coastal community on Highway 101 situated between the redwoods and the ocean, making it an ideal base camp for adventure on California’s North Coast. The Redwood National and State Parks are located about half an hour north of McKinleyville, with the southern gateway to the parks found in the town of Orick on Highway 101.

Luffenholtz Beach

Hours

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