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How to Get to Redwood Coast

How to Get to Redwood Coast

Redwood Coast California, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Redwood Coast

The Redwood Coast is served by two main smaller airports. These provide connections to major hubs for broader access. Expect basic amenities at both locations.

Airport Locations

  • Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV): Main commercial airport, located in McKinleyville (15 miles north of Eureka, 8 miles north of Arcata).
  • Del Norte County Airport (CEC): Located in Crescent City, serves the northern Redwood Coast and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
  • Both airports have car rental counters and parking. Food options are limited.

Airlines & Routes

Direct international flights are not available from Redwood Coast airports. International travelers typically fly into major California hubs (SFO, LAX, SMF, OAK) and subsequently connect via domestic flights. Plan for at least one connection.

Connecting Flights

  • ACV: United Airlines (to San Francisco SFO, Denver DEN), Avelo Airlines (to Hollywood Burbank BUR, Las Vegas LAS).
  • CEC: Contour Airlines (to Oakland OAK). This forms a link to the San Francisco Bay Area.
  • Flight frequency increases slightly during peak summer. Prices are higher then. Booking 2-3 months booking ahead is recommended.

Save on Flights

Dollar Flight Club can help you learn about flight deals. Skyscanner for comparing prices.

Car Rental Arrival

Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National/Alamo at ACV. Enterprise at CEC. Pre-booking is highly recommended.

Airport Transfers

Local taxi services and minimal shuttle companies operate from ACV. RTS (Redwood Transit System) connects ACV to Arcata/Eureka but has limited service.

Land Transportation Essentials

Driving Information

  • Requirements: Valid US.S. or International Driver's License/Permit with home country license.
  • Minimum rental age is generally 21 (surcharge under 25).
  • Driving has flexibility for accessing park areas and scenic drives.
  • Many popular redwood groves and coastal viewpoints are reachable only by car.

Public Transport Options

  • Border Crossing: Redwood Coast is within California, no international border crossings.
  • Train: No direct passenger rail. Nearest Amtrak: Klamath Falls, OR or Martinez, CA (requires bus connection).
  • Long-Distance Bus: Amtrak Thruway Bus connects Martinez, CA to Arcata/Eureka. Greyhound offers limited service.
  • DiscoverCars.com for car rental comparison.

Road Conditions & Safety Concerns

Road Network

U.S. California STATE route 101 is the main arterial road, generally well-maintained. Secondary roads (e.g., Bald Hills Road) are narrower, winding, and sometimes steep.

Weather Impacts

Winter rains lead to potholes, rockslides, and fallen trees. Always check Caltrans (California Department of Transportation) for current road conditions before your journey, especially during or after storms.

Driving Awareness

Wildlife (deer, elk) are common, especially at dawn and dusk. Be a cautious driver. Many remote park areas lack cell service; download offline maps for navigation.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Ports

Major sea or river arrivals are not standard ways to reach the Redwood Coast for general tourism. The region lacks major cruise ship ports or regular passenger ferry services for arrival from other regions or countries.

Recreational Boating

  • Recreational river activities like kayaking and rafting are popular.
  • Popular on rivers like the Eel, Klamath, and Smith.
  • These are mainly for local recreation or guided tours, not public transportation.

Unique Local Transport

Cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems are not applicable to the Redwood Coast. The region's transport network focuses on road-based travel.

Accessibility Services

  • Redwood National and State Nature reserves offer some easy-to-access paths and facilities.
  • Paved accessible paths include Newton B. Drury Parkway and Big Tree Wayside.
  • Public transit buses are accessible. Many more substantial hotels have accessible rooms; inquire upon booking.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure for a smooth exit from the Redwood Coast. No specific exit fees or taxes apply beyond what your airline ticket price includes.

Airport Departure Timing

  • For flights from ACV or CEC: Arrive 1-1.FIVE hours ahead of domestic departure.
  • These are small regional airports; check-in and security processes are quicker.
  • For rental car returns: Allow sufficient time for drop-off and shuttle to terminal.

Airport Facilities

Regional airports like ACV and CEC offer limited facilities for departing travelers. Plan to eat before arriving or bring your own snacks. Options for last-minute shopping or extensive dining are very small.

Departure Experience

  • Limited retail and dining options after security.
  • Consider bringing a filled reusable water bottle for your journey.
  • Small airports mean less walking and often a more relaxed departure.

Explore Redwood Coast Travel

Flights

Find the best deals and route options to the region's airports.

Car Rentals

Secure your vehicle for flexible exploration of the parks and towns.

Public Transport

Navigate local communities using convenient bus services.

Seamless Travel

Planning your arrival and departure logistics thoroughly supports a stress-free Redwood Coast experience. Consider pre-booking all ground transport upon airport arrival.

How to Get to Redwood Coast. Flights, Transportation, Airlines