

Picnics to DIY For
Longer days and sunshine have us dreaming of picnics. And here in Humboldt, we don’t have to travel far to spread a cloth and enjoy a meal in a setting that inspires likes and envy when you post a photo online. The Arcata Marsh, Humboldt Wildlife Refuge and Big Lagoon County Park are favorite spots.…
Backyard of Boats
Cody Hills leans back in the stern of the small boat owned by Humboldt Baykeeper, which is zipping north through the Eureka channel of Humboldt Bay. He looks as relaxed as if he were reclining on his living-room couch. Around him the water crinkles and winks, like smoothed-out foil gift wrap. Two frothy white tracks…
Summer Music Festival Guide
The 24th Annual Arcata Bay Oyster Festival. Bivalves are front and center, but the local music lineup touches all the bases including Bayou Swamis, Striped Pig Stringband, the Jim Lahman Band, Motherlode (working the fest circuit this summer) and Best Kept Secret with the ad hoc All Star Rockoystra, whose members are being kept secret. Saturday, June…
Outside Man
These days Don Banducci describes himself as “primarily a hook and gun kinda guy.” Bluff and avuncular, with a penchant for offbeat jokes and a contagious, gravelly chuckle, it’s easy to imagine him exchanging fish stories in front of a campfire or striding, rifle in hand, through a field accompanied by his pack of Springer…
Perfect Summer Trips
So, did you pack your hiking boots or a sketchpad? Are you scoping out galleries or restaurants (or both)? Are you looking for a little history, or just hoping to wear out the kids? Whether you’re searching for trailheads or artisanal breads, we’ve got you covered with customized itineraries so you can coast through your…
Splish Splash
I grew up in the Midwest, where the preferred swimming holes were made of concrete and dotted with diving boards. So I had to adjust to swimming outside in Humboldt County. Sure, diving into North Coast rivers and ocean waters qualifies one for “Polar Bear Club” membership but even when the marine layer has made…
Three Squares
Breakfast Use this magazine to stake out a sidewalk table at Cafe Brio (791 G St., Arcata), then line up inside to place your order at the counter. Think you know what you want? Your time peering at the sweet options in the pastry case will test your resolve. The quiche is old-school bistro richness…
Take It With You
Save a little room in your bags for these local treasures — all made with love and attention — for friends and loved ones. The Blacksmith Shop (455 Main Street, Ferndale, 707-786-4516) is a showcase for masters — and it’s the largest of its kind in the United States. There are items at nearly any price…
In the Drink
Just walking into Five Eleven (511 Second Street, Eureka) is relaxing. The restaurant and bar’s softly vibrant blue tones ease you into a happy thirst, and pulling up a white stool to their beautifully tiled bar is like dipping your toes into a pool. Try the Day Spa and the Cool Breeze ($9). Like their…






