Located on the famous Lost Coast less than two-hours south of Humboldt Bay, Shelter Cove is California's only open-ocean boat launching facility. Approximately 25 miles west of Highway 101 at Garberville/Redway, Shelter Cove is known for its spectacular Black Sands Beach, abalone diving, crabbing, salmon fishing and location at the base of the King Range that surrounds this portion of California's rugged coast. It is also the southern terminus of the Lost Coast Trail, the only access to the longest roadless portion of California’s extensive coastline.

With mountains and the Sinkyone Wilderness Area that drop to the sea, the Cove is perfect for a quiet stroll along the beach or for accessing the abundant ocean fishing right from the boat launch site. The cove faces south, providing an important port of refuge from northwesterly winds and seas. Boats may be self-launched from trailers or carried into the water by a high-clearance vehicle operated by the local boat launching business. Parking is available adjacent to the launching area or uphill in the visitor parking area where there are restaurants, shops, public restrooms, the historic Mendocino Lighthouse and fish cleaning facilities.


District Sublease with the Shelter Cove Fishing Preservation, Inc.
District Lease with Mario's Marina