On California’s wild Lost Coast 90 minutes from the Oregon border, the small seaside village of Trinidad boasts big trees, untamed beaches, and jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. In fact, Trinidad is designated as a California Coastal National Monument Gateway — a title given to sections of the coast that are important as both a tourist destination and wildlife habitat. Just off the coast, Green Rock and Flatiron Rock provide a home to a dozen species of seabirds — the most diverse seabird population in California.

To experience the natural beauty of the town up close, you can hike or bike the Trinidad Head Trail Loop, which winds along the coast through stands of towering redwood and spruce trees. A walk on the Trinidad Pier, which juts out into the protected waters of the Trinidad Harbor, offers the chance to experience the rocky coastline from a different perspective. The pier is also a great place to try your hand at fishing or crabbing, as you listen to the waters hitting the shore.

May through early November is generally considered the best time to stay in a vacation rental in Trinidad. Not only are the temperatures warm and the seas calm during this time, but the skies tend to be clear once the morning fog rises. This is also considered the region’s dry season, although you may still have to account for the occasional rain shower. During this time, you can also find numerous events and festivals held around town, like the Trinidad Fish Festival, where you will find fresh fish dishes, live music, and a kid’s zone on the third Sunday in June. If you make the trip during the rainy season — November through April — you will likely witness a winter storm and cold weather, so come prepared with warm waterproof boots and a coat.

Sue-Meg State Park

Located around 10 minutes north of Trinidad in the heart of redwood country, the Sue-Meg State Park covers 640 acres of diverse landscape, including sandy shoreline, rocky cliffs, and lush forests with mature spruce, redwoods, and pines. You can explore the varying scenic views and wildlife along one of the numerous trails here. Several exhibits showcasing the cultural and natural history of the park are also available. During the summer months, kids can enjoy Junior Ranger programs with nature walks through the park.

Trinidad Head Memorial Lighthouse

Located in the harbor around two minutes from downtown Trinidad, the Trinidad Head Memorial Lighthouse is a 25-foot lighthouse built in 1949 as a replica of the original 1871 Trinidad Head Lighthouse. It is an important site in the area’s rich maritime history, not only acting as a monument to those lost at sea, but also as the site of the 1971 Fourth Order Fresnel Lens and the 1898 Fog Bell.

Trinidad Museum

Located in a historic home that dates back to the turn of the 20th century. The Trinidad Museum focuses on the history of the area. Here, you’ll find five exhibit rooms focused on the original Tsurai Village, Yurok traditions, the Gold Rush, fishing, logging, and the Trinidad Head Lighthouse. Outside of the museum, you can enjoy the native garden and pond.