Hi Lisa, not sure if it's too late and you've already made your decision but I like to think I have a pretty good grasp in Arcata. First off, it's possibly the best place in California to be close to the ocean AND mountains and be able to afford it. It's so beautiful and, while it does rain, it's a little over-hyped. The worst of the rain is usually in March and that's really the only time it "gets" to me. Otherwise, I love the weather. In terms of coffeehouses and restaurants, the places to eat here are decent but there are only a handful of "amazing restaurants." Being a college town though there are wonderful coffeehouses. Cafe Mocka, Brio, Mosgos, and Couple Cups to name a few. I used to love huddling in a corner and writing. Walking is a breeze since the town is so compact. In fact, most people choose to walk over any other form of transportation. As for a writing community, I know that one exists but I'm not sure how many people are part of it or how strong it is. I had some professors who were part of an active writing community and they loved it. If you have any other questions, feel free to hit me up!
Eric | Gilroy, CA | Report Abuse

Lisa, Did you move to Humboldt County? I'm in a similar situation (moving from Oakland). If you did move there, do you like it? Pros and cons? Some of the comments on this site are extremely negative.
Katherine | Emeryville, CA | Report Abuse

One thing I've got to say where I disagree with Lisa, is that we have fabulous restaurants on the ocean strip here close to Arcata. There are places in Trinidad, which is just a few miles up the road. "The Seascape" is one of them. There is also "Jack's" in Eureka, and "Shamus T Bones." There are half a dozen local breweries that serve up good beer and food. In Eureka, Arcata, and McKinleyville we have excellent Mexican food restaurants , one of my favorites is "Carmella's," which has a location in Arcata and McKinleyville. Fabulous Mexican food. Let me not forget Rita's Mexican food just off the square in Arcata. Also in Arcata there is "Mazzotti's" on the square. "Toni's Restaurant" which has great breakfast and hamburgers, they even have a gluten-free bun that is excellent. Toni's has been in its spot since I was a teenager,..quite a few years ago. It is extremely popular, and they also have in restaurant baked pies and cakes, and delicious other treats. Since this information was originally put on here a lot has gotten quite excellent! Including our weather is better than ever. We go for a good six months during the summer/fall time with no rain or at least very little. Yes it is cooler here but this past summer 2019, we had 80 degree weather and even escalated up into the 90s. But just for a few days. So for someone who doesn't like hot weather this is the perfect spot. And if you want a little bit of hot weather you can go one hour in land, and you will be in Willow Creek and it is beautiful and hot and dry, and the river is right there very special place! And they have good pizza up their, and they also have the Bigfoot restaurant which has fabulous dining. Very special place! Sincerely Tammie??
Tammie | | Report Abuse