Best Time to Visit Eureka

Pacific Coast Highway travel picks the best time to visit Eureka, with a month-ny-month breakdown of the likely weather, hotel prices and any special events.

Victorian Houses in Eureka

Nestled along California’s rugged northern coast, Eureka is a gateway to the majestic redwoods, Victorian architecture, and a laid-back Pacific vibe. With its temperate oceanic climate, Eureka offers mild summers, cool winters, and frequent fog that adds a mystical touch to its scenic beauty.

Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance, or a family planning a nature-filled escape, timing your visit can make all the difference. This guide breaks down Eureka’s weather, hotel prices, and events month by month to help you plan the perfect trip.

The Best Time to Visit Eureka: Month-by-Month

📅 January

Weather: Average high of 53.8°F (12.1°C), low of 44.2°F (6.8°C)
Rainfall: 6.5 inches (165 mm)
Snowfall: Rare, but possible in surrounding hills
Events: Quiet month with fewer tourists—ideal for peaceful walks through Old Town or the Redwood forests
Hotel Prices: Low to moderate; winter discounts are common

January is cool and wet, but the rain brings out the lushness of the surrounding forests. It’s a great time for budget travelers who don’t mind bundling up.

📅 February

Weather: High of 52.9°F (11.6°C), low of 42.4°F (5.8°C)
Rainfall: 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Snowfall: Minimal
Events: Valentine’s Day specials at local inns and restaurants
Hotel Prices: Still low; romantic getaways are affordable

February continues the cool, damp trend but offers cozy vibes perfect for couples. The foggy mornings and quiet streets make Eureka feel like a hidden gem.

📅 March

Weather: High of 53.8°F (12.1°C), low of 43.2°F (6.2°C)
Rainfall: 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Events: Humboldt County Home and Garden Show
Hotel Prices: Moderate; spring break may cause slight uptick

March marks the beginning of spring, with longer days and blooming gardens. It’s a transitional month—still wet, but with hints of sunshine.

Eureka is almost 300 miles north of San Francisco
Map (c) Google Maps

📅 April

Weather: High of 55.9°F (13.3°C), low of 44.2°F (6.8°C)
Rainfall: 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Events: Rhododendron Parade and Festival
Hotel Prices: Moderate; event weekends may be pricier

April is a lovely time to visit, with flowers in bloom and the Rhododendron Festival bringing color and community spirit. Expect mild weather and manageable crowds.

📅 May

Weather: High of 59.9°F (15.5°C), low of 46.4°F (8°C)
Rainfall: 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Events: Memorial Day weekend activities
Hotel Prices: Rising toward summer rates

May offers comfortable temperatures and fewer rainy days. It’s a great month for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the coast before peak season hits.

📅 June

Weather: High of 63.5°F (17.5°C), low of 49.6°F (9.8°C)
Rainfall: 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Events: Eureka Street Art Festival begins
Hotel Prices: Moderate to high; summer rates begin

June brings longer days and the start of summer festivities. The Street Art Festival adds vibrancy to the city, and the weather is ideal for outdoor adventures.

Victorian Houses in Eureka

📅 July

Weather: High of 67.6°F (19.8°C), low of 52.3°F (11.3°C)
Rainfall: 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Events: Fourth of July fireworks over Humboldt Bay
Hotel Prices: High; book early for holiday weekends

July is Eureka’s warmest and driest month, perfect for beach days and forest hikes. The Fourth of July celebrations are a highlight, drawing both locals and tourists.

📅 August

Weather: High of 68.4°F (20.2°C), low of 52.9°F (11.6°C)
Rainfall: 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Events: Arts Alive! and Humboldt County Fair
Hotel Prices: High; peak tourist season

August continues the summer magic with warm days and minimal rain. The Humboldt County Fair offers family-friendly fun, while Arts Alive! showcases local creativity.

📅 September

Weather: High of 64°F (17.8°C), low of 51°F (10.5°C)
Rainfall: 0.68 inches (17 mm)
Events: North Country Fair in nearby Arcata
Hotel Prices: Moderate; post-summer dip begins

September is a sweet spot—pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. The North Country Fair is a bohemian celebration worth the short drive.

Eureka Hotels

📅 October

Weather: High of 62°F (16.7°C), low of 47°F (8.3°C)
Rainfall: 2.31 inches (59 mm)
Events: Halloween festivities in Old Town
Hotel Prices: Moderate to low

October brings crisp air and autumn colors. Halloween in Eureka is charming, with Victorian houses decked out and spooky tours available.

Seafood Suppers!

Eureka’s harbor is one of the busiest commercial fishing ports in California. The local seafood scene is top-notch, especially if you’re into fresh crab and oysters.

📅 November

Weather: High of 58°F (14.4°C), low of 43°F (6.1°C)
Rainfall: 4.89 inches (124 mm)
Events: Thanksgiving specials and early holiday markets
Hotel Prices: Low; off-season deals

November is cool and wet, but cozy. It’s a great time for indoor activities like museum visits and antique shopping, with fewer tourists around.

📅 December

Weather: High of 52.9°F (11.6°C), low of 42.4°F (5.8°C)
Rainfall: 6.3 inches (160 mm)
Snowfall: Rare in town, possible in nearby mountains
Events: Christmas Tree Lighting, holiday markets
Hotel Prices: Low to moderate; festive deals available

December wraps the year with holiday cheer. While rain is frequent, the festive atmosphere and twinkling lights make Eureka feel magical.

Fun Fact

Eureka boasts the largest collection of Victorian homes in California. The Carson Mansion, built in 1884, is one of the most photographed Victorian houses in the U.S. and looks like it leapt out of a gothic fairytale.

🌟 Best Time to Visit Eureka: When Should You Go?

Best for Sunshine and Events: July and August
Best for Budget Travelers: January, February, November
Best for Mild Weather and Fewer Crowds: May and September
Best for Holiday Charm: December

Eureka's Name

“Eureka” is Greek for “I have found it!”—a nod to California’s Gold Rush heritage. It’s also the state motto, and Eureka was founded in 1850 during that very boom.

Other Eureka Pages

Eureka Inns
Of all Eureka inns, The Carter House Inns are the most romantic and historic, with one of the best restaurants in Northern California.
Eureka
Pacific Coast Highway Travel describes Eureka in California, including its history, location, climate, beaches, and things to do.