The Big Blue Cafe

846 G Street Arcata, CA 95521

Hours

Open Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

About

Colorful murals and the eggs sizzling on the griddle are what you'll experience at the Big Blue Cafe. This breakfast and lunch hotspot opened in 2002 and has remained a popular choice for students, families, and travelers with its generous portions, fresh produce, and a menu that caters to all. The name is a reference to the ocean and the general boisterous, colorful nature of the place.

The owners and staff at Big Blue Cafe are passionate about great food and genuine hospitality. Their approach is simple: serve delicious, creative meals in a space that feels like home. It’s the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name, newcomers are welcomed with a smile, and everyone leaves full and happy. Over the years, the café has become a go-to spot for everything from casual brunches to celebratory breakfasts before big events.

Vibe

Walking up to Big Blue Cafe, you’ll spot its bold, ocean-inspired exterior and welcoming sign. Step inside, and you’re greeted by bright blue walls, quirky murals, and a cozy, eclectic vibe. The café is filled with a mix of tables and booths, perfect for solo diners, couples, or big groups. Sunlight streams in through large windows, and the buzz of happy conversation fills the air.

It's a very casual, lively atmosphere with a constant background of laughter, the clink of mugs, and general chatter from staff and customers. The reviews are full of praise for the friendly, attentive service and the real sense of community thatyou get there. It's a place you can go to grab a coffee and a bite for the day or just have a relaxed lunch, and you'll always feel like you're part of the "in crowd".

Big Blue Cafe: Menu & Drinks

Big Blue Cafe's menu is a breakfast lover's dream. The "Big Blue Scramble" is a full-on affair with eggs, spinach, mushrooms, and feta, served with home fries and toast. For the sweet tooth, the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are light and fluffy with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. If you're after something more on the savory side, then the "Huevos Rancheros" are a winner with their house salsa, black beans and perfectly cooked eggs all on crispy corn tortillas.

The café also has a good range of burgers, some very creative salads and an abundance of veg and vegan options. The coffee is always fresh and good, with a full espresso bar if you need that extra kick. There's a range of freshly squeezed juices and house smoothies to complete the offering, so there's something for every taste.

Dining at Big Blue Cafe is about more than the food, really. It's about the atmosphere, the sense of community, the creativity of the food, and just the general feeling of starting the day with a smile. It's a place you have to go.

Local Tips

  • Arrive early on the weekends to avoid a wait.
  • Check the specials board for the unique creations and seasonal favorites.
  • The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
  • Parking is available nearby.

Location

846 G Street Arcata, CA 95521

Frequently Asked Questions

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.


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.

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.

More questions

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