There are many unnamed beaches along the remote Mattole Road near the town of Petrolia in Humboldt County, and they remain refreshingly quiet compared to more famous coastal spots. These beaches aren’t crowded—partly because access isn’t obvious and partly because most people don’t venture this far north along the Lost Coast.

The northern portion of Mattole Road is off-limits. A large ranch owned by the Russ Ranch and Timber Company has posted signs and fences around their property, blocking beach access up there. But the southern stretch is open, with several spots where you can actually reach the sand.

Your best bet is the southernmost access point, where a trail begins at a pullout on the hill just before the road drops down to the coast. This beach rewards exploring—you’ll find a striking rock arch at Mussel Point that’s worth the walk. The scale and exposure of the coastline here remind you how wild this stretch is compared to developed beaches further south.

If you’re heading north, look for the access point near a steel bridge close to Steamboat Rock, which genuinely does resemble a ship when you’re viewing it from the shore. It’s an odd bit of geology that catches your eye immediately.

Between these main spots are various pullouts scattered along the road. Some lead to accessible beach; others are dead ends or require climbing down steeper terrain. The unpredictability is part of the charm if you enjoy exploring, though it also means going slow and keeping your dog on a secure lead if they’re the type to dash off unexpectedly.

Bring water because there’s nothing out here—no services, no facilities, no other people. The beaches are rocky and rugged rather than sandy, so pack dog booties if your dog has sensitive paws. This is genuinely remote coastline, and that’s exactly what makes it worth the drive.