College Cove

Protected from the wind and big surf, College Cove is among the most popular places for surfing in Humboldt County. Some say it is on par with Hawaii, if not for the swells that attract local surfers then for the crowds of young singles who come here to sunbathe and enjoy the sun and sand.

College Cove is divided into two beach sections. College Cove North attracts the more traditional beachgoers and visitors for volleyball, jogging, and swimming. It is relatively easy to reach from the north end of the dirt parking lot by following a path that has steps leading down to the shore. College Cove South is for the more adventurous and a bit harder to reach. Take the steep and eroded trail that starts at the south end of the parking area. It is not so difficult going down, but the return trip can be a chore.

Both beach areas have plenty of sand and driftwood, but no park facilities. The two sections are both considered "clothing optional" by local residents, although as many as half the visitors at College Cove South may go au natural, compared only a few at the north beach. As with most naturist beaches in California, the nudity laws can be a bit vague, so sun worshippers go bare at their own risk.