Home to just 300 people and perched on a dramatic stretch of coastline, Trinidad, California often flies under the radar. The city was established in 1850 and is officially recognized as the oldest coastal town in Northern California.
Today, the town offers easy access to nearly a dozen public beaches and a unique glimpse into California’s past — from its role during the Gold Rush to its Indigenous history.
Read on for tips about how to enjoy this hidden coastal treasure up in Northern California.
Indigenous era to the Gold Rush
The Tsurai (Yurok) people lived in the Trinidad area over 350 years ago, with a small village for ceremonies and burials. Spanish explorers arrived in 1775, followed by Russian and other traders in the early 1800s.
In 1849, Gold Rush settler Josiah Gregg helped transform Trinidad into a supply port, and the town was officially founded on April 8, 1850, making it Northern California’s oldest coastal town. Its prominence later declined as Eureka and other nearby port cities grew.
The Tsurai village remained inhabited by Yurok descendants until 1916, and it’s one of the Redwood Coast’s oldest continuously inhabited Native villages. While their continuous residence came to an end, the Tsurai people continue to preserve and honor their ancestral land, now recognized as a California Historical Landmark.
Things to do in Trinidad
Trinidad’s coastline features ten rugged public beaches within the California Coastal National Monument, ideal for tide pooling and hiking. Highlights include Trinidad State Beach, College Cove, and Moonstone Beach.
Just north, Sue-meg State Park offers ancient redwoods, reconstructed Native villages, and whale-watching spots, while Trinidad Head features a scenic coastal bluff and historic lighthouse.
The small town itself sits on bluffs overlooking the bay, with a cozy downtown of shops, galleries, and an oceanfront pier. History enthusiasts can visit the Trinidad Museum or the marker honoring the original Tsurai village.
Trinidad makes a great stop on a coastal road trip up through Northern California, whether you’re exploring Redwood parks, Eureka’s historic architecture, or heading toward Oregon.