MileHacker Logo
Redwood Coast Travel Resources

Redwood Coast Travel Resources

Redwood Coast California, USA Travel Guide

Emergency & Medical Info

Emergency Contacts

  • Emergency Services:

    Dial 911 for Police, Fire, Ambulance.

  • NPS Dispatch:

    Call 707-465-7307 for non-life-threatening park incidents.

  • Lost Documents:

    Get in touch with local police for a report; your embassy for travel documents.

  • Earthquake:

    If shaking occurs, "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" under sturdy furniture.

  • Tsunami:

    Near the coast, evacuate to higher ground after strong quakes or warnings.

Hospital Locations

  • Eureka:

    Providence St. Joseph Hospital.

  • Arcata:

    Mad River Community Hospital.

  • Crescent City:

    Sutter Coast Hospital.

  • Urgent Care:

    For cheaper severe needs, find centers in Eureka and Arcata.

  • Wildfire:

    Obey evacuation orders from authorities; monitor air quality.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Films

'America's National Parks' features Redwood National and State Parks.

Music & Art

Explore local folk, bluegrass, and reggae, especially in Humboldt County.

Online Communities

Reddit forums like r/Humboldt, r/NationalParks offer community insights.

Preparation Timeline

Bookings

  • Flights, rental cars, and popular accommodations.
  • Campgrounds for summer visits.
  • Tall Trees Grove and Fern Canyon vehicle permits.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed.

Research & Home Prep

  • Understand redwood history and conservation.
  • Familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles.
  • Check road and park conditions, especially in winter/spring.
  • Secure your home, stop mail, unplug unnecessary electronics.

Local Publications

North Coast Journal

  • Weekly alternative newspaper for local news, events, arts.
  • Source for current happenings.
  • Provides local perspectives.
  • Distributed widely in the region.

Humboldt County Guide

  • Available at visitor centers.
  • Tourism info specific to Humboldt County.
  • Features attractions, dining, and lodging.
  • Includes local maps for easy navigation.

Additional Guides

  • Pick up free guides upon arrival.
  • Often include local maps.
  • Provide useful visitor information.
  • Look for specialized nature or trail guides.

Departure Information

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Local shops offer one-of-a-kind goods.
  • Confirm customs regulations if shipping items.
  • Check shipping costs beforehand.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time for rental car return.
  • Allow time for airport check-in.
  • Consider traffic conditions to the airport.

Return Trip Prep

  • Confirm flight details or other return travel.
  • Pack liquids or restricted items appropriately.
  • Return any rented equipment.
  • Verify if there are any last-minute travel advisories.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear border control and customs (international travelers).
  • Pick up your rental car from the airport.
  • Navigate to your accommodation and check in.

Orientation Strategies

  • Visit a green space visitor center for maps and advice.
  • Grab local visitor guides from centers or hotels.
  • Find the closest grocery store and gas station.

Continued Arrival Steps

Currency & Purchases

  • Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed.
  • Purchase groceries and water for your stay.
  • Keep receipts for expense tracking.

Transportation from Entry

  • Utilize pre-booked rental car.
  • Consider local taxi or public transit options.
  • Inquire about airport shuttle services if available.

Financial Considerations

VAT Refund Procedures

  1. The U.S. Does not have a federal VAT or sales tax refund program.
  2. Sales tax is paid at the point of purchase.
  3. Cannot be refunded upon departure.
  4. This applies to all goods and services.
  5. Check with retailers for any individual store return policies.

Pre-Departure Logistics

  1. Allow ample time for rental car return.
  2. Ensure sufficient time for airport check-in.
  3. Review specific timing recommendations for regional airports.
  4. Check flight status before leaving for the airport.
  5. Pack according to TSA guidelines for carry-on and checked luggage.

Arrival & Departure Tips

Smooth Arrival

Visit a park visitor center for maps and advice upon arrival.

Timely Departures

Allow ample time for rental car return and the airport check-in.

Local Navigation

Use your rental car for flexibility; public transport is an option for towns.

Lost Document Protocol

Contact local police immediately to file a report if papers are lost or taken. Notify your embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.

Chronological Planning

-6 Months Before

Flights & Cars

  • Flights:

    Book to Arcata-Eureka (ACV) or Del Norte (CEC) if flying.

  • Rental Car:

    Secure your rental vehicle, most significantly during busy periods.

  • Accommodations:

    Reserve campgrounds or popular lodging, useful for summer.

Documents & Permits

  • Visa/ESTA:

    International travelers, complete your ESTA or U.S. Visa application.

  • Passport:

    Confirm passport is valid for at least six months past your stay.

  • Permits:

    Investigate any permits for areas like Tall Trees Grove or Fern Canyon.

-2 Months Before

Finalize Bookings

Confirm all accommodation reservations.

Driving & Insurance

Obtain an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English.

Get travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.

Gear & Prep

Purchase necessary gear like waterproof hiking boots or rain equipment.

-4 Weeks Before

Digital & Financial

  • Download offline maps and travel apps.
  • Confirm all reservations (flights, lodging, activities).
  • Notify bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
  • Arrange pet care or house-sitting if needed.

Document Copies

  • Make photocopies and digital copies of important documents.
  • Store copies separately from originals.
  • Share itinerary with a trusted contact.
  • Protected journeys documents in a safe place.

Week Before

Packing & Tech

  • Pack luggage based on the latest weather forecast.
  • Charge all electronics.
  • Prepare a small first aid kit with any personal medications.
  • Purchase non-perishable snacks for your journey and daily outings.

Last Checks

  • Confirm transportation to the airport.
  • Check for any last-minute alerts or changes.
  • Empty trash and secure perishables at home.
  • Unplug unnecessary appliances.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home by locking all doors and windows. Notify neighbors of your absence. Stop mail and newspaper delivery. Unplug unnecessary electronics for energy saving and safety.

← Previous
Redwood Coast Travel Hacks
← Back to Redwood Coast
Next →
Redwood Coast Travel Checklist

Next Up: Redwood Coast Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Redwood Coast Travel Checklist
Redwood Coast Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts