Best LGBTQ Beaches in Orick

Fern Canyon Beach, located at the north end of Gold Bluffs Beach in Orick, California, is a stunning natural gem within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. This beach is uniquely defined by the dramatic Fern Canyon, where steep canyon walls covered with lush, green ferns soar 50 to 80 feet high, creating a magical and shaded environment. The canyon is carved by Home Creek, which gently flows through the canyon floor, offering a scenic and tranquil experience. With its moist, fern-covered walls that sparkle with thousands of droplets in sunlight, Fern Canyon Beach offers a captivating blend of coastal and forest environments that attract nature lovers and hikers alike.
Visitors access the canyon via an easy, level loop trail about a mile long, providing a family-friendly hike through a fairy-tale like setting. The beach area at the canyon’s mouth offers a peaceful oceanfront experience with sandy shores bordered by driftwood. Visitors should note that a day-use permit is required from mid-May to mid-September due to high visitor volume, ensuring controlled access to preserve the fragile environment. The remote location, accessed by a scenic drive on Gold Bluffs Beach Road, brings an adventurous vibe, rewarding visitors with a blend of rainforest and coastal beauty that is rare in California.
The vibe at Fern Canyon Beach is serene and enchanting, with opportunities to explore diverse landscapes in one visit. It’s a favored destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography, offering a quiet refuge immersed in natural wonder far from urban bustle.

Orick Fishing Access Beach is a serene and lesser-known spot located on the north side of Redwood Creek's mouth in Orick, California. It is part of Redwood National Park and offers a tranquil atmosphere with gray sand beaches, numerous drift logs, and large rocks. The beach is ideal for those seeking a peaceful day by the ocean, away from crowds. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, beachcombing, and wildlife watching amidst the stunning backdrop of Redwood National Park.

The beach's proximity to Redwood Creek Beach and Picnic Area provides additional amenities for day trips, including a visitor center and picnic facilities. The area is surrounded by the majestic redwood forests, making it a nature lover's paradise.

Access to the beach is via Hufford Road, and while it is free, the narrow road prohibits RVs and trailers. Dogs are allowed on leashes, though enforcement is not strict.

Redwood Inlet Beach, located in Orick, California, is a stunning coastal destination nestled near Redwood National and State Parks. This approximately 1-mile-long beach offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking tranquility amidst nature. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including the majestic Roosevelt elk, and offers numerous hiking trails and scenic spots like Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach.

The beach itself is part of a larger ecosystem that includes nearby lagoons and forests, providing a diverse range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, or simply exploring the unique redwood forests. Orick, the nearby town, hosts events like the Orick Rodeo and offers a glimpse into Native American culture through events at nearby Sue-Meg State Park.

The combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences makes Redwood Inlet Beach an appealing destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.