Discovering California's Lost Coast

Between highways of bustling cities and populated towns lies a desolate mecca of untouched land. This is California’s Lost Coast—the minuscule natural oasis tucked away within Humboldt County. The Lost Coast, an undisturbed stretch amid Ferndale and Rockport, is something of a Californian fable. Though it seems inconceivable to find a region so remote and free of any development, the Lost Coast actually exists for its natural constitution. This stretch of steep mountains along the coastline made it too costly for highway construction, resulting in a population exodus in the 1930. Since then, the Lost Coast has preserved its natural state and become a legendary site within Northern California
The Lost Coast, though treacherous to find, is in no way lost—in fact, it attracts up to 24,000 annual visitors who travel through a rollercoaster of oases to get to. Because of the land’s inaccessibility, there is a distinct original mark rather than a human one, making it a natural wonder within California.

Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
Unlike the ordinary road trip route, the Lost Coast comes with a natural obstacle course. The scenic path between State Route 1 and Highway 101 guides along California’s western edge, where visitors head down the 28-mile stretch of Mattadole Road, also know as The Wildcat. After an intrepid journey through alpine forests, tiny towns, and steep backroads, The Wildcat breaks into ocean views and leads to the only restaurant-bar found within miles of the Lost Coast, The Yellow Rose.

Within the coastline terrain are beaches and forests accessible by foot. Centerville Beach, the idyllic waterfront is a desolate spot that attracts picnickers, horseback riders, bird watchers, and even whale watchers in the spring and fall seasons. The wild waves of the coast crash along the sandy shorelines, bluffs, and cliffsides.

The ultimate undisturbed beauty lies in the Lost Coast Headlands National Monument. This spot where ocean meets land is teeming with wildlife. With an estimation of 200,000 seabirds and thousands of marine mammals, it’s an untrammeled habitat for nature lovers. Visitors often spot Steller sea lions hunting through the waters and taking care of their young, before hiking along the Headlands to explore as much of the 463 acres as possible.
The Lost Coast is a deserted terrain that lives outside of reality. It’s an explorer’s paradise, replete with untouched land, wildlife, and natural scenery.
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meet our Local Insider
Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!


Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.


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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
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