$455,332Average Value$166Average Price per Sq Ft54Homes 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 due to its steep terrain and rugged topography. The community is accessible only by a mountainous two-lane road, by boat or by 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.
Ocean-themed murals appear throughout the Shelter Cove community.
A fisherman monument marks the entrance to the coastal community of Shelter Cove.
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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.
Views from Abalone Point stretch across the Pacific Ocean.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park preserves towering redwoods north of Garberville.
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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 a handful of homes within several hundred yards of the ocean, offering majestic views of the coastline. 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."
Ranch-style homes are scattered among Shelter Cove’s eclectic hillside properties.
Some newer homes in Shelter Cove are elevated to take in Pacific Ocean views.
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Locals rely on Shelter Cove General Store for everyday goods
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.
Shelter Cove General Store, open since 1984, supplies everyday groceries locally.
Eel River Café is a dining stop in Garberville, about 20 miles from Shelter Cove.
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Drive over the hill to public schools
Students will need to trek over the mountain to get to 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.
Miranda Junior High School serves students who commute over the mountain from Shelter Cove.
South Fork High School serves older students from Shelter Cove and nearby mountain towns.
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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 provides a route for flying in and out of the community to nearby regional airports, though it's only available for private use.
Increased risk of wildfires
Shelter Cove is an area of Northern California that’s at risk for wildfires. In August 2020, the August Complex fire burned more than 1 million acres and destroyed more than 900 structures in the region.
Photography Contributed By
Daniel Reagan
Video By
Mike Dunleavy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kelly Zimmerman,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Shelter Cove, CA sell after 142 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Shelter Cove, CA over the last 12 months is $55,000, up 83% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This is an oversized, mostly fenced, corner lot located in the Zoo neighborhood above the fog line. there is a designated green belt on one side. This is a great opportunity, in a great community.
Build your dream coastal retreat in the quiet Shelter Cove community. This vacant parcel offers peace and privacy with easy access to the nearby beach, fishing, hiking, and the natural beauty of the Lost Coast. A great opportunity to create a custom getaway surrounded by redwoods and ocean air. Walking distance to the nearby store.
Bring ALL offers! Perched above the fog line on desirable Pepperwood Drive, this easy-build 1/3-acre parcel offers the perfect blend of convenience, privacy, and coastal beauty. The mostly flat terrain makes for a straightforward build, with a septic design and perc test already completed in 2008, saving you time and getting you one step closer to your dream home. Take in expansive ocean views
Discover your dream coastal escape on this premier double lot with city sewer access. Positioned above Eileen Rd, enjoy a serene, flat terrain offering a private park-like ambiance. Water and power utilities conveniently available at the street. Embrace the allure of ocean living in this idyllic setting.
Perched above Shelter Cove, this 1.74-acre property spans three lots with breathtaking ocean and mountain views. All reports and permits are completed and approved--just pay a small county transfer fee and start building! Plans feature a 3-bedroom, 3-bath, 1,755 sq. ft. home. Utilities including water, power, and sewer are available at the street. A rare opportunity to skip the red tape and bring
Excellent value for this easy-to-build lot just a short 1⁄2-mile to Abalone Point, where you can enjoy warm sand and crashing waves. This vibrant ocean community offers everything you need—restaurants, a gas station, general store, golf course, and great fishing. A perfect spot to create your coastal getaway or forever home.
Perched above the Pacific, this Mostly Flat Buildable Shelter Cove property offers stunning coastal views and endless potential. Enjoy nearby Black Sands beach, hiking trails, golf, local amenities and restaurants just minutes away. Utilities are available at the street, making development more accessible. If you're looking for a larger footprint the lot next door is also for sale.
Slightly sloping ocean-view lot sits above neighboring homes, offering excellent sunset views over the Pacific. This usable parcel provides plenty of space for a garden, pets, or your future coastal retreat. Enjoy the peaceful setting while still being conveniently close to local restaurants, shops, and the beach.
Soak in panoramic ocean scenery and the rhythmic sound of surf from this inviting 2 bed 2 bath coastal Vacation Rental near Black Sands Beach. A bright, 1450 sf open-concept design highlights the main level, featuring a generous living area, airy kitchen, and a private bedroom with a full en-suite bath. The upper level offers a versatile loft-style bedroom and an additional full bath, ideal for
Discover a rare slice of paradise in this ocean-side community! This .89-acre property combines three lots, including two mostly flat parcels ideal for building. A seasonal creek runs along the property line, adding natural charm. Located in one of the few areas of the Cove not covered in dense Douglas fir, this unique setting offers more sunlight, more usability, and more opportunity. Don't miss
Perched above stunning Black Sands Beach, this sloped lot offers breathtaking ocean views that will leave you in awe. Nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac, it's just minutes from local restaurants, golfing, and a convenient boat ramp. Whether you're looking for a serene vacation getaway or the perfect spot for remote living, this lot checks all the boxes. Embrace the tranquility and beauty of coastal
Nice corner lot slightly sloping with possible view. Just 5 minutes from the beach. Come experience the wonderous North Coast where the Redwoods meet the Ocean. Call for more information.
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