$452,317Average Value$415Average Price per Sq Ft3Homes For Sale
A hidden community on Northern California’s Lost Coast
Remote, coastal living is an understatement in Shelter Cove. This Northern California community is tucked away in steep hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, about 20 miles from the nearest small town and a nearly two-hour drive from Eureka. Known for its craggy bluffs and redwood-covered mountains, it’s a prime spot for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a secluded lifestyle.
The area is part of California's "Lost Coast," a large swath of shoreline in the King Mountain Range that's remained mostly untouched because of its steep terrain and unwieldy topography. The community is accessible only by a mountainous two-lane road, by boat or a private, seaside airport. “It’s very secluded. If you own a plane, you can fly right in, but the weather has to be good. You can’t fly at night or if it’s foggy,” says Marcus Schaible, broker and owner of Emerald Realty, who has lived in Humboldt County since 2000 and owns several rental properties in Shelter Cove.
Beaches, cliffs and rugged redwood mountains
Breezy, cliffside walking paths, rugged woodland trails and windswept beaches are minutes from residential streets in Shelter Cove. Black Sands Beach is where locals can stroll along the chilly seaside on dark, pebbly volcanic sand with epic views of the Pacific. Avid golfers can tee up at Shelter Cove Golf Links, a nine-hole, public course that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Just north is King Range National Conservation Area, a woodland park that encompasses more than 68,000 acres and 35 miles of coastline. Hiking and biking trails crisscross steep slopes through rugged landscapes, including King Peak, among the region's tallest mountains at 4,088 feet.
There is a 9-hole golf course that surrounds the small air strip in Shelter Cove.
King Range National Conservation Area is known for scenic hiking trails in Shelter Cove.
A loving couple enjoy the serenity of Black Sands Beach in Shelter Cove.
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Seaside homes, mountain roads
Winding, country roads carve across the hills, leading to eclectic homes on large, private lots. These homes span styles and eras, including everything from early 20th century cabins to modern traditional homes built in the early 2000s. Lots sizes range from a quarter-acre to more than an acre. Some parcels are surrounded by dense, redwood groves while others have stunning ocean views from porches and patios. There are around a handful of homes situated within several hundred yards of the ocean, providing majestic views of seaside scenery. Prices range from $350,000 to $750,000 depending on the size, location and condition of the home. As for the homes closest to the oceanfront, Schaible says “it’s probably the most affordable seafront property in California."
If you’re lucky, you might purchase a home on the beach in Shelter Cove.
This older eclectic home is 2 stories and has a wraparound porch in Shelter Cove.
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Shelter Cove General Store
Shelter Cove General Store is the only shop in the community. Locally owned and operated since 1984, it’s where residents pick up groceries and other goods, saving a 20-mile drive to Redway or Garberville. There’s also a gas station in town where residents fill up. “You’ve got pretty much everything you need there. I know people who haven’t left Shelter Cove for years at a time,” Schaible says. Locals will need to drive to dine at restaurants and or shop at specialty stores in Redway and Garberville. The largest of the area's tiny mountain towns, Garberville, features restaurants like Eel River Café and local dives like Stone Junction. In the summertime, fresh produce can be found at the Garberville Farmers’ Market.
The Surf Point Coffee & Bistro serves the best Grilled Turkey Pesto Sandwich in Shelter Cove.
The Eel River Café is in Garberville just a short drive west of Shelter Cove.
Shelter Cove’s General Store is a local small store for groceries and personal needs.
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Drive over the hill to public schools
Students will need to trek over the mountain to get school. The youngest can start at Redway Elementary School before moving on to Miranda Junior High School and South Fork High School. All three schools earn B-minus ratings from Niche. South Fork High is known for its athletics programs, including its well-ranked varsity football squad.
Redway Elementary School is one of the top schools in the area.
The courses a Miranda Junior High encourage critical thinking and creativity.
South Fork High School offers exceptional educational options.
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Miles from the nearest major roadway
Shelter Cove is about 20 miles from Redway, but the drive takes around 40 minutes because the road is winding, steep and narrow. State Route 101 has an on-ramp right outside Redway, offering a way to get up and down the California coast. It’s about 87 miles to Eureka, the largest city in Humboldt County and 229 miles to San Francisco. Shelter Cove Airport offers an avenue for flying to and from the community to nearby regional airports, although it's only available for private use.
The easy way to get to Shelter Cove is to fly in with its small runway.
Fishing or other transportation methods are by using a boat in Shelter Cove.
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Increased risk of wildfires
Shelter Cove is an area of Northern California that’s at risk for wildfires. In August 2020, a massive fire known as the August Complex fire burned more than 1 million acres and more than 900 structures in the region.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rollin Trehearne,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Abalone Point
Seal Rock
Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Shelter Cove
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
1
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
1
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
1
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Shelter Cove Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Shelter Cove, Rio Dell sell after 177 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Shelter Cove, Rio Dell over the last 12 months is $500,000.
Build Your Dream Home in Shelter Cove. Discover the perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility with this stunning lot in the sought-after Shelter Cove community. Nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this wooded, buildable lot offers breathtaking views and a serene setting for your future home. Surrounding properties have already been percolation tested, providing confidence in the land's
STOP! This is the lot ready for you. You have found an unique parcel in Shelter Cove. A buildable lot within THE SEWER DISTRICT. This means you should be able to connect to sewer services. Power and water at the road. Fairly level area. Great neighborhood. Golf, airport, beaches, brewery and more just a short drive.Check this out before it's gone.(sewer connection must be verified
Quiet, affordable parcel along the beautiful California coast. Shelter Cove offers beaches, trees, and solitude. The parcel has water and power near on the road. Nearby enjoy golf, brewery, hiking, and an airport too.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rollin Trehearne,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
1,129
Median Age
52
Population under 18
14.1%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
33.1%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$38,749
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$45,866
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
90.8%
College Graduates
24.3%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
5.3%
% Population in Labor Force
33.6%
Significantly below the national average
65.1%
Area Factors
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
9/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
