Natalie’s guidebook
Sightseeing
Goat Rock Beach: This large beach is bordered by the mouth of the Russian River to the north and Goat Rock to the south. Bring a picnic and take in the views from the picnic tables, explore the Kortum hiking trail and view (from a distance of at least 50 meters) the seals that hang out here in spring and summer.
125 locals recommend
Goat Rock Beach
Goat Rock Beach: This large beach is bordered by the mouth of the Russian River to the north and Goat Rock to the south. Bring a picnic and take in the views from the picnic tables, explore the Kortum hiking trail and view (from a distance of at least 50 meters) the seals that hang out here in spring and summer.
A former Russian colony from 1812, the Fort Ross State Historic Park offers a bit of history on the California coast. In fact, the 4th graders at my kids’ school stay at Fort Ross after learning about Russian and Californian history. They pretend to be fishermen, cooks, guards, etc. to act out the roles that Russian settlers would have had at the fort. The park’s cliff-top 3200 acres include original wooden structures, an antique canon and the visitor center with interpretive presentations.
54 locals recommend
Fort Ross State Historic Park
19005 Coast HighwayA former Russian colony from 1812, the Fort Ross State Historic Park offers a bit of history on the California coast. In fact, the 4th graders at my kids’ school stay at Fort Ross after learning about Russian and Californian history. They pretend to be fishermen, cooks, guards, etc. to act out the roles that Russian settlers would have had at the fort. The park’s cliff-top 3200 acres include original wooden structures, an antique canon and the visitor center with interpretive presentations.
One of our favorite things to do on the coast is the hike at Bodega Head, especially on a sunny day. The easy path follows the cliffs, going up before leveling off with a view of Point Reyes in the distance. If you bring kids, be especially careful because there’s no barrier between the path and the cliff’s edge, and leave some time for them to climb around inside the huge cypress tree on the way back to the parking lot. Then stop at the harbor for lunch.
72 locals recommend
Bodega Head
One of our favorite things to do on the coast is the hike at Bodega Head, especially on a sunny day. The easy path follows the cliffs, going up before leveling off with a view of Point Reyes in the distance. If you bring kids, be especially careful because there’s no barrier between the path and the cliff’s edge, and leave some time for them to climb around inside the huge cypress tree on the way back to the parking lot. Then stop at the harbor for lunch.
This 3,500-acre expanse encompasses 30 campsites, 14 miles of trails, dozens of tide pools, and old Pomo village sites. Start with the beautiful rock formations at this State Park
35 locals recommend
Salt Point State Park
25050 CA-1This 3,500-acre expanse encompasses 30 campsites, 14 miles of trails, dozens of tide pools, and old Pomo village sites. Start with the beautiful rock formations at this State Park
Food scene
Great Breakfast or Lunch Place. Delicious food, great outdoor seating along the river.
92 locals recommend
Cafe Aquatica
10439 CA-1Great Breakfast or Lunch Place. Delicious food, great outdoor seating along the river.
Spud Point Crab Company
1910 Westshore RdGreat Place for Clam Chowder, Seafood Lunch!
Fishetarian Fish Market
599 CA-1Great Lunch Place in Bodega Bay right on the wharf
Great Sunset Views right on the water. Good Food, good service!!
31 locals recommend
The Tides Wharf & Restaurant
835 Bay HwyGreat Sunset Views right on the water. Good Food, good service!!
Drakes Sonoma Coast
103 1Great Ambiance, Outdoor bar as well as indoor dining.
River's End Restaurant & Inn
11048 CA-1Beautiful views, great food
Great Outdoor seating, Excellent food, Lunch and Breakfast only
12 locals recommend
Ginochio's Kitchen
1410 Bay Flat RdGreat Outdoor seating, Excellent food, Lunch and Breakfast only
Sonoma Coast Vineyards
555 CA-1Great Wine Tasting
Shopping
This is a cute shopping area with places to eat. Across the street is a Bakery and a Restaurant also.
38 locals recommend
Duncans Mills General Store
25200 CA-116This is a cute shopping area with places to eat. Across the street is a Bakery and a Restaurant also.
City advice
Customs and culture
Sonoma Coast Beaches
Our beaches are not swimming beaches. There are some rough waves out there with horrific undertows. Please don't let your loved ones swim or play close to the waves as sneaker waves have pulled people into the water with disastrous results. Be safe.