Gateway Town

Crescent City

Gateway Town

County seat with last-stop lodging and supplies before the redwoods. Chain hotels, cafes, working-town pace.

Quick facts

Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
7860
Best Known For
Battery Point Lighthouse (oldest on California coast) and Ocean World aquarium; gateway to nearby redwood state parks.
About This Town
The county seat and only incorporated city in Del Norte County. It's your last major lodging and supply point before Redwood National Park, with a working-town vibe and coastal attractions—Battery Point Lighthouse, Ocean World aquarium, and beach access to Point Saint George.

Town overview

Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
7860
Best Known For
Battery Point Lighthouse (oldest on California coast) and Ocean World aquarium; gateway to nearby redwood state parks.
About This Town
The county seat and only incorporated city in Del Norte County. It's your last major lodging and supply point before Redwood National Park, with a working-town vibe and coastal attractions—Battery Point Lighthouse, Ocean World aquarium, and beach access to Point Saint George.

Park access

Distance From Park
44.4 km north
Shuttle To Park
Redwood Coast Transit provides regional service; most visitors drive to the park.
Nearest Airport
Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) in town with daily flights to Oakland and Los Angeles. Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is 70 miles south; Rogue Valley Airport (MFR) in Medford, OR is 109 miles northeast.

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
17
Bnb Count
1
Lodging Variety
Mix of chain hotels and independent lodges; very limited B&B options.
Restaurant Count
26

Things to do

Main Attractions
Battery Point Lighthouse (oldest on California coast, accessible at low tide), Ocean World aquarium, Point Saint George county park for whale-watching and beach-combing, Enderts Beach, and Tolowa Dunes State Park. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, 15 miles inland, offers deep-interior trails including the Boy Scout Tree Trail.
Summer Activities
Beach-combing at Point Saint George and Enderts Beach, whale-watching and bird-watching, touring Battery Point Lighthouse at low tide, visiting Ocean World aquarium, hiking Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park trails.

Planning advice

Peak Season
June through August; campgrounds and lodging fill early.
Shoulder Season
September and May offer quieter conditions with most services still available.
The Vibe
Crescent City is a working county seat, not a resort town. Car-dependent; most services line US 101. Practical, modest, and affordable—stay here to save money before exploring the redwoods. Summer brings tourists; much of the year it's quiet and low-key.

More details

Winter Scene
Many visitor facilities close or reduce hours October–May; Highway access from inland routes (Highway 299) becomes challenging with possible snow and road closures. Town is quieter but less convenient for park exploration.
Insider Tips
  • Battery Point Lighthouse is accessible at low tide only; check tide schedules in advance.
  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (15 miles inland) features the Boy Scout Tree Trail, locally regarded as one of the most beautiful trails in California.
  • Stout Grove at Jedediah Smith is another must-see redwood destination.
  • Enderts Beach road offers quieter coastal access than Point Saint George.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How far is Redwood National Park from Crescent City?

About 44 km (28 miles) north; 45 minutes to an hour's drive depending on your destination within the park.

Do restaurants and cafes stay open late?

Most close by 9 PM. Plan dinner early or carry snacks for evening activities.

Should I fill up gas here before heading to the park?

Yes. Gas options within the park are limited; fill up in Crescent City to avoid detours.

Is Battery Point Lighthouse typically accessible?

Only at low tide; check tide schedules before planning your visit.

Does Redwood National Park charge an entrance fee?

No. Entrance to Redwood National Park is free. Day-use permits for some areas are also free at visitor centers.

Can I fly into Crescent City?

Yes. Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) is in town and has daily flights to Oakland and Los Angeles.

McKinleyville

Last gas and lodging before Redwood. No park entrance fee.

Klamath

Quiet river gateway 11 miles north. Most things close by 3 PM—eat early.

Arcata

Cal Poly town with bohemian heart. Full lodging, restaurants, shops. Book rooms early in summer.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.