The enchanting village of Bodega Bay is unlike any other place in the world. It combines many of the things we love about Northern California– moody weather, a beautiful beach perfect for whale-watching, delicious seafood spots, and several wineries.
The bay is known by locals for several things– a great place for a scenic beach picnic, one of the best spots to whale watch, and for tasty seafood.
This Sonoma County coastal village has a population that hovers around 900 people. The busiest months are the summer months, but it’s really just as beautiful in the off-season.
Check out the Bodega Head Trail, a 1.7-mile loop trail with beautiful ocean views on a small peninsula.
The trail is open year-round and is popular, so you likely won’t have it to yourself. And keep your dog at home for this hike, since no pups are allowed on the trial. If you’re not into hiking but want to have a special beachfront experience, book a horseback ride on the beach.
Enjoy a glass of wine at the waterfront Sonoma Coast Vineyards tasting room. A flight with one-of-a-kind wines is $25.
Or try Gourmet Au Bay, a restaurant with a wide selection of wines. Sit out on the casual patio with a glass of wine and their delicious crab cakes served in a cast iron skillet.
Check out the views of Bodega Harbor from The Tides Wharf & Restaurant. This restaurant serves all your seafood favorites: oysters on the half shell, crab cakes, calamari, and the Northern California staple, clam chowder in a bread bowl.
For a more casual dining experience, check out Spud Point Crab Company where you’ll also find a delicious clam chowder, plus seafood sandwiches. Want to take some freshly caught seafood home? Contact the Anello Family Crab & Seafood to schedule a seafood pick-up when you’re in town, or visit them on Saturdays and Sundays at the fisherman's market.
Here’s some fun trivia: Can you guess how many television shows and films have been shot in Bodega Bay? Answer: … 9!
One of the most famous movies filmed in Bodega Bay is the famous Alfred Hitchcock film, The Birds. The ending of the movie The Goonies was also filmed in Bodega Bay at Goat Rock Beach.
Bodega Bay has many fun events throughout the year.
In April there is a Fisherman's Festival, in addition to many small food events. Check the calendar to time your visit with one of the many community events.
What do you think of Bodega Bay? What would you want to do on your visit? Let us know in the comments.
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