Northern California is such a unique area because each small town has its own individual character. One of the best parts of living in this region is getting to explore these little towns and discovering the treasures hiding within them. Shelter Cove is a census-designated place located in Humboldt County. Home to just 693 people in a beautiful coastal setting, this place is as close to heaven on earth as you can get. Truly, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In fact, you might just find yourself planning a trip to visit this great community after reading all about the fun and unique things to do in Shelter Cove, California!

Located along California's famous Lost Coast, Shelter Cove is one of the most secluded little towns in the state. If you've been looking for a place that offers sweet solitude, you'll want to plan a trip to this small community.
James Good/Flickr
There's something incredibly unique about this place. It's reminiscent of the small fishing towns of the old days. The atmosphere is full of nostalgia for a bygone era, making Shelter Cove the ideal place to escape from the modern world.
Rene Rivers/Flickr
Shelter Cove has been around for a long time. It's believed that the Sinkyone people were the first to inhabit the area. A variety of industries have supported the town over the decades, but today the most prominent industries are tourism and fishing.
James Good/Flickr
When Highway 1 was built in the early 1900s, it had to bypass the town since the steep terrain made construction impossible. As a result, Shelter Cove has remained one of the most secluded spots on the coast. If you drive into town, you can only access it via a small mountain road.
Cherry Bream/Flickr
It may take some extra effort to get here, but it's definitely worth it. There's a lot to explore in this heavenly region. One of the town's most prominent features is Black Sands Beach. This picturesque beach is unlike any other you've seen before.
Jeffrey F/TripAdvisor

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The sand is composed of small black pebbles. The 20-mile-long coastline is somehow both rugged and utterly beautiful, boasting several remote coves and private beaches to explore.
Elaine H/TripAdvisor
If you're a lighthouse enthusiast, you'll definitely want to check out the Cape Mendocino Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse was relocated to Shelter Cove in 1998. Originally built in 1868, the lighthouse guided ships until it was officially deactivated in 2013.
Loreen P/TripAdvisor
There's definitely no lack of places to sleep in this great little town. The Inn Of The Lost Coast boasts some of the most incredible coastal views you could ask for. Located right on the beach, this inn is like something out of a dream.
Irish4052/TripAdvisor
Can you imagine waking up to the sight of the Pacific Ocean just outside your window? Every one of the inn's suites are packed with special amenities. It's one of the best places to stay during your getaway to Shelter Cove.
management/TripAdvisor
It's impossible not to fall in love with this place. The beauty is indescribable, the community is quaint, and the people are friendly. You simply don't come across quaint towns like this one very often.
Rene Rivers/Flickr

For a glimpse at what makes Shelter Cove, California such a stunning destination to visit, check out the beautiful aerial footage below:

Have you visited this heavenly town? What’s your favorite beautiful town in Northern California? For more travel inspiration, check out these 15 picturesque small towns in Northern California that are perfect for your next adventure.

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things to do in shelter cove, california

Beth C. | March 28, 2023

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Learn more about what makes each of these small towns in Northern California so unique.

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Southern California tends to get all the attention for its beautiful beaches, but the coastal region of Northern California is just as lovely. For proof of this, look no further than the following best beaches to visit in Northern California:

  • Trinidad State Beach
  • Greenwood Beach State Park
  • Centerville Beach
  • Enderts Beach
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  • Jug Handle State Reserve
  • Gualala Point Regional Park
  • Glass Beach
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  • MacKerricher State Park
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These Northern California beaches really are dreamy! And speaking of dreamy, we've even put together a scenic road trip that will take you to some of the most stunning places in Northern California, including the following destinations:

  • Point Reyes National Seashore
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