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Patrick's Point State Park

Panoramic Views and Yurok Tribal Village.

A short drive north to Trinidad on Highway 101, brings you to Patrick’s Point State Park. Filled with a treasure-trove of activities and unparalleled panoramic views, the 640 acre park is an outdoor person’s paradise and a perfect playground for kids of all ages.

Upon entering the Patrick’s Point State Park, you will find the information center and entrance to the authentically reconstructed Yurok Indian tribal village, or “Sumeg.” Built in 1990, the village includes family houses, changing houses, a sweathouse, redwood canoes and a brush dance pit. The original Yurok way of life has been meticulously preserved and provides us with a glimpse of the tribe’s cultural traditions.

During the summer, the park offers Family Fun Programs seven days a week where the park rangers give arts and crafts workshops geared for kids. They provide materials and instruction for making sand candles, stamp art, Agate jewelry, baskets, Yurok necklaces and even banana slug sundaes. Call 707-677-3570 for information on the activities.

As you continue down to the shoreline, the evergreen forest gives way to dramatic coastal views. The crashing waves and jagged rocks reaching up from just beyond the water line create breathtaking vistas.

When the tide is low, tide pools dot the shoreline and are teeming with ocean life. Only a few yards out from where the water meets the shore, you will see—and hear—sea lions diving in and out of the waves, barking their greetings. Call ahead for a schedule of the ocean tides.

As you walk along Agate Beach, hunt for rocks polished by the pounding surf and collect unusually shaped pieces of driftwood. You never know what you’ll find on this rugged stretch of beach.

Stay until sunset and watch the warm red colors of evening release into the dusky sky.

Fees: $6 Day $20 Overnight
Directions: Take Hwy.101 North from Arcata 20-25 mi. Patrick's Point Dr. Exit.