Black Sands Beach Trailhead — Attraction in Fortuna

I drove from the Redwoods to visit the wild and isolated Black Sand Beach on the Lost Coast.

The one road into Shelter Cove is very narrow with a number of curves and is a slow drive.

The beach is the trailhead for the Lost Coast Trail that is more than twenty miles along and can be difficult to hike at high tides.

The sound of the crashing waves in the heavy surf is the first you notice on the walk down to the beach.

The beach is full of small black rocks and the sand can be difficult to walk on as it is not solid.

You will find a few people on the beach. but it is mostly isolated and a place to admire the beauty of the King Range and the ocean.

I did find an information table on the King Range with volunteers on the way down the beach.

Located near Shelter Cove about an hour from Hwy 101 and the Humboldt Redwoods.

A nice place to stop on the way from the Redwoods with an isolated beach with long trail on the beach, crashing waves, and...

This is a great change of pace from the usual crowded beach and is excellent if you are looking to enjoy a more pristine age primal ocean vibe where you are more spectator than participant.

This is not for people looking to get in the water or have a typical day at the beach. Indeed, the numerous warning signs routinely remind you that the ocean is more than happy to turn you into food (though I may be paraphrasing).

If you are planning a trip here that is focused on exploring this section of the coast, you definitely want to read up on the various requirements, limitations, and precautions you need to take.

For example, permits are needed for some things (such as camping) and there are a limited number available each day. You are also expected to familiarize yourself with the tide charts for your own safety as some areas...

Great trailhead with good parking lot up on the bluff above the beach. The parking lot has some tables, two lookouts, and restrooms as well as water fountains to fill up before you begin your hike. The parking lot is up on a hill so you will have to walk down the concrete sidewalk next to the road to get down to the trailhead proper. (There are also a couple of parking spots next to the trailhead itself at the bottom of the hill for those with disabilities and in need of easier access). You will find a map of the trail as well as warnings and current conditions posted at the start of the trailhead. You can find good backpacking camping sites just a few miles north along the trail from Black Sands...