We invite you to make your way to Trinidad-by-the-Sea, a unique coastal village that draws visitors from all over the world. Whether, it is for world class fishing, ocean recreation, stunning views, parks, redwoods or to enjoy its quiet North Coast charm. The rich and diverse history and cultural significance of the Trinidad Harbor creates a character all its own. Trinidad Harbor encompasses an ancient Yurok village of "Tsurai", the earliest known inhabitants of Trinidad. It's fleet of commercial and sport fishing boats are nestled behind Trinidad Head, California's last natural harbor in commercial use. The fishing out of Trinidad Harbor plays a critical role to both local tourism and the greater Humboldt County commercial fishing industry. The history of this coastal town goes back many, many years and can be better understood by visiting the Trinidad Museum. Surrounded by lush, alder and redwood-forested bluffs and hills, our coastline, bay, beaches and trails will leave you spellbound with the scenes that unfold around each bend.
Trinidad Lighthouse
Trinidad Head, a large domed prominence rising to a height of 380 feet, is connected to the mainland only on its northern end, thus forming the beautiful and natural Trinidad Bay on its eastern side. On the bluffs overlooking the bay, Trinidad, the oldest town on the northern California coast, was founded on April 8, 1850. Early on, the town was a vital link between ships anchored in the bay and miners testing their luck in the Klamath, Trinity, Salmon River, and Gold Bluff Mines. As the gold rush slowed, Trinidad Bay, like most bays along the Redwood Coast, became home to multiple sawmills. To aid vessels engaged in the lumber trade, a lighthouse was proposed for the ocean-facing side of the headland in 1854.
Trinidad Head Historical Lighthouse
An appropriation for the lighthouse was made in June 1860 and forty-two acres on the southern portion of the headland were purchased in 1866. An incredible sight to see