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Local Insights • February 5, 2025

Neighborhood Spotlight: The Best Areas to Live in McKinleyville, CA

by Kira Middleton

Perched along the rugged Northern California coastline, McKinleyville, CA, offers a perfect mix of small-town charm, stunning natural beauty, and modern conveniences. Known for its sweeping ocean views, expansive open spaces, and welcoming community, McKinleyville is an ideal place to call home for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a little more space while staying close to amenities.

Whether you’re drawn to coastal retreats, wooded hillside escapes, or friendly neighborhoods with a strong sense of community, McKinleyville has something for everyone.

1. Central McKinleyville – Convenient & Community-Oriented

If you love having everything within reach, Central McKinleyville is the place to be. This neighborhood is close to:
🏡 A mix of charming ranch-style homes and newer developments
🛍️ Shopping & dining at McKinleyville Shopping Center and local favorites like Eureka Natural Foods, Bigfoot Taproom, and Six Rivers Brewery
🏫 Schools, parks, and the McKinleyville Activity Center, making it a great spot for families

2. Azalea Hill – A Quiet Retreat in the Redwoods

For those who want a peaceful, scenic neighborhood with easy access to town, Azalea Hill is a hidden gem. This sought-after area offers:
🌳 Homes tucked into the redwoods, providing privacy and a natural setting
🏡 Well-maintained properties with spacious yards and a mix of architectural styles
🌄 Easy access to the Hammond Trail and nearby parks, perfect for outdoor lovers

3. Clam Beach & Dows Prairie – Coastal Living with a Rural Feel

For those dreaming of ocean breezes and open space, Clam Beach and Dows Prairie offer the best of both worlds. Residents here enjoy:
🌊 Proximity to Clam Beach County Park, perfect for beachcombing, dog walking, and horseback riding
🌾 Larger lots and rural properties, offering more privacy and space to garden, raise animals, or simply enjoy nature
🌅 Gorgeous sunsets and coastal views, with easy access to Highway 101 for quick trips to Arcata or Trinidad

4. Hiller Park & McKinleyville Bluff – Nature Right at Your Doorstep

If you love outdoor recreation, the Hiller Park and McKinleyville Bluff areas offer:
🌲 Direct access to Hiller Park, featuring walking trails, dog-friendly spaces, and scenic overlooks
🚴 The Hammond Trail, a beloved multi-use path connecting Mckinleyville to Arcata; perfect for biking, running, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Mad River and Pacific Ocean
🏡 A mix of single-family homes and townhouses, ideal for those looking for a balance of nature and community

5. Fieldbrook – A Rural Oasis with a Strong Community

Just a short drive from McKinleyville, Fieldbrook offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere with a strong sense of community. This charming area is perfect for those looking for:
🌲 Expansive properties surrounded by redwoods, offering privacy and stunning natural beauty
🏡 A mix of custom homes, farmhouses, and artist retreats, many with large yards and gardens
🍷 Local gems like Fieldbrook Winery, where you can enjoy wine tasting and live music in a scenic setting
🌾 A friendly, tight-knit community, where neighbors look out for one another

Why McKinleyville?

McKinleyville embodies a relaxed, welcoming lifestyle that blends small-town warmth with incredible natural surroundings. Whether you’re catching a stunning sunset at Clam Beach, hiking or biking in the Community Forest, or enjoying a weekend at Fieldbrook Winery, there’s always something to love about life here.

Thinking of making McKinleyville your home? Let’s connect! I’d love to help you find the perfect place in this beautiful coastal town.

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