As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Smith River is California’s most northern beach town. Visitors to this sleepy beach town will love the moody weather, crashing waves of the wild coast, and the laid-back coastal vibe that is so common in California. The northernmost beach town in Northern California is a great place to spend time with family and friends, and it’s a short drive to some of NorCal’s most incredible natural scenery.
There are so many Airbnb properties for rent in Smith River! We combed through all of them and found three gems that will appeal to various group sizesand budgets, and also what activities and places appeal to you most in Smith River.
First, let us introduce you to Smith River. Smith River is a town and a census-designated place in Del Norte County, located right next to the Oregon border.
We recommended renting a house in the census-designated area called Smith River that overlooks the beach and driving to the downtown if you want to explore it.
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The highlight of Smith River is all the nature. Visitors can explore California’s northernmost beach, Pelican Beach State Park, as well as another ocean-front park, a casino, and several lookout points.
Smith River is also a short drive to Tolowa Dunes State Park, as well as Redwood National and State Parks. We love that it’s never too crowded. Probably because it’s a drive for most Californians– but we promise, it’s worth it.
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Smith River is quite a drive from most major cities in Northern California, but we promise it’s worth it.
From Redding, it’s about a 4.5-hour drive; from Santa Rosa, it’s a 5.5-hour drive; and from Sacramento, it’s a seven-and-a-half-hour drive. If you don’t want to drive, there are regular commercial flights from Oakland International Airport to Del Norte County Airport.
Any visitor to Smith River must make a point to stop by California’s northernmost beach. Pelican State Beach is a secluded beach that is perfect for beachcombing, picnicking, and bird watching.
The cabin sleeps up to 4 guests in 2 bedrooms. With a private Jacuzzi, contactless check-in, and a deck with views of the Pacific Ocean, it’s no surprise that this cabin is rated as a “guest favorite”.
About a 10-minute drive south is a place called Fisherman’s Gulf. At this scenic spot, visitors watch the sea lions lay on the rocks.
Not far from Fisherman’s Gulf is this waterfront gem. “The VUE” sleeps up to 6 guests, and is a nature-lover's dream. The home sits at the mouth of the Smith River and has views of the Pacific Ocean. With a 4.99 rating, a stay at this coastal home will not let you down.
In between these two properties is a charming beach cottage. Within walking distance to Clifford Kamph Memorial Park, another great beach park, is this small and beachy 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage that sleeps up to 4 people.
The cottage is located next to another rental on a 2-acre piece of land. You’ll be so close to the ocean that you’ll be able to hear the crashing waves from the outdoor space at this rental. With the lowest cost per night of all three rentals, this cottage is a perfect choice if you want to get away to the NorCal coast on a budget.
So plan a trip to the northernmost beach town in Northern California. We’ve scoured the places to stay to offer you the best suggestions. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, we’ve found some great places in Smith River you’ll appreciate.
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