101 Things To Do in Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay Pro Dive
Full service dive center! Air fills - Scuba lessons - Equipment sales - Service featuring U.S. Divers equipment at competitive prices.
1275 Hwy 1
Bodega Bay
(707) 875-3054

BEACHCOMBING
Driftwood, seaweed, rugged rocks and colorful shells await when you stroll along miles of sandy beaches, often with only the gulls for company. Be prepared for surprises!

BIKE RIDES
Take a bike ride to Bodega Head or over an unexplored back road, and you’ll discover a whole new side to Sonoma County. Bike rentals available with routes for all levels of experience. Click here.

BIRD WATCHING
Visit one of the best birding spots, Bodega Bay, where more rare birds have been seen than in any other area of Sonoma County. Local Audubon chapter organizes birding trips including walkabouts, field trips and beginners’ bird walks. A prime spot for the Christmas bird count. Get out your binoculars!

Bodega Bay is probably the hottest birding spot in Sonoma County. More rare birds have been spotted here than in any other area in the County. Owl Canyon, "Hole-In-The-Head" and the bushes below Diekmann's Store have consistently yielded great finds. Madrone Audubon organizes many birding trips to Bodega Bay, including Walkabouts, Field Trips and Beginners Bird Walks. This is also a prime spot for the Christmas Bird Count.
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BOOGIE BOARDING
It’s fun, it’s easy, it’s a hit for all ages! Rent a boogie board and discover the thrill of scooting magically across wet sand. A big plus for older kids, teens and preteens. Click here.

BUILD A SANDCASTLE
Miles of pristine sandy beaches beckon kids from 3 to 103 to build their dream castles—large, small and every size in between.

CAMPING
Among the dunes or on the Bay at Doran Beach, you’ll find beautiful campsites the whole family will love. Camping supplies, food, equipment locally available. Local RV park offers overnight rentals, full hook-ups, cable TV, hot showers, restaurant, gift shop and coffee house on site. Some campgrounds have special sites for hikers, bicyclists, camping, picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, exhibits, designated underwater areas.

The Sonoma Coast State beaches have several campgrounds between Bodega Bay and Jenner.
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CANOEING
Burke's Russian River Canoe Trips. Open May thru October.
8600 River Road at intersection of Mirabel Road, Forestville
707.887.1222

CHEESE TASTING
Drive over the green hills to find local cheese factories making the most of the coastal flocks of cows, sheep and goats. Does the cheese have an salty, tangy, ocean-scented taste? Try it and judge for yourself!

DIG FOR CLAMS
Get out your boots and shovels and head for the mudflats! The whole family will work up an appetite digging for tasty clams, ready to steam and enjoy.

DUNCANS MILLS
This historic town offers excellent restaurants, fabulous shopping, wonderful classic railroad cars to tour, comfortable camping, horseback rides and great picnic spots.

ESPRESSO AND A BOOK
Time to relax? Curl up with a favorite book and a hot coffee, latte or mocha from one of the local coffee houses featuring organic coffees, muffins, bagels and snacks. Ahhhh!

FISHERMAN’S FESTIVAL
Live music, arts and crafts, the blessing of the fishing fleet and—best of all—lots and lots of the most mouthwatering fresh-from-the-ocean seafood you’ll find anywhere. Be sure to bring your appetite!

BODEGA BAY SEAFOOD, ART & WINE FESTIVAL
August 23 & 24, 2003
2660 Coast Highway 1
Bodega Bay, California 94923 Contact: Michael Ecton. Ph/Fax: (707) 824-8404. Email: seafoodfestival@msn.com 

FLY A KITE
When the breeze is brisk, it’s kite-flying time! Launching a kite brings out the kid in all of us, and there’s no better place to do it than the beaches around Bodega Bay. Local kite retailer Candy & Kites offers a large selection of sport and single line kites, plus flags and windsocks—and gourmet salt water taffy! Order a custom-made kite for a unique keepsake. Candy & Kites

GALLERY HOPPING
Numerous local galleries represent the area's leading fine artists and craftspersons, including painting, sculpture, etchings, photography, jewelry, ceramics and woodwork. One gallery specializes in Japanese printmakers, Northern California artists, and antique Japanese furnishings.

Bodega Landmark Studio Gallery & Showroom
Representing the area's leading artists and craft people since 1978. Fine painting, sculpture, etchings, photography, jewelry, ceramics and woodwork. Located on the corner in Historic Bodega. Open Thursday thru Tuesday 10:30 - 5:30. 17255 Bodega Hwy
P.O. Box 231 94922
(707) 876-3477

Local Color Gallery — Local color is a full service gallery representing many Sonoma County artists. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1580 Eastshore Rd. Bodega Bay, CA 94923 (707) 875-2744

The Ren Brown Collection — Fine art gallery featuring Japanese printmakers, Northern California artists and antique Japanese furnishings. 1781 Hwy 1, PO Box 156, Bodega Bay, CA 94923. (800) 585-2921 or (707) 875-2922

GOLFING
Visit the Bodega Harbour Golf Links to enjoy the 18-hole Scottish links-style course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Open to the public seven days a week, year round. Call for starting times.(707) 875-3538

HARBOR TOURS
Guided tours take you out onto the water of Bodega Bay, and reveal the fascinating history and lore of this beautiful oceanside town. You can tour the harbor by boat, kayak, or with your eyes while you wine and dine at one of our bay side establishments.

HIKING
Some of the most magnificent trails and hiking are right here. Hiking with the ocean breeze encouraging each beat of your heart, pumping fresh oxygen to your lungs is one of the simple pleasures that make life here in Bodega Bay so good! These link to hikes are short loops as well as longer hikes.

Trails:
Kortum Trail: (Sonoma Coast State Beaches; Blind Beach to Shell Beach ,distance: 3 3/4 miles round trip or more, elevation gain: 380 feet 2-3 hours)

Kortum Trail/Shell Beach: (Sonoma Coast State Beach distance: Up to 4-3/4 mile, round-trip, elevation gain: Up to 300 feet, 2-3 hours)

Bodega Head Loop: (Sonoma Coast State Beach distance: 1.5-mile loop,elevation gain: Up to 280 feet, Approximately one hour)

Pomo Canyon to Shell Beach: (Sonoma Coast State Beach, 5.5 miles roundtrip, elevation: 720 feet each way, 3-4 hours, watch for poison)

Fort Ross Loop:
(Fort Ross State Historic Park on the Northern Sonoma Coast, up to 3.25 miles roundtrip, elevation:120 feet, 1-2 hours)

Vista Trail:
(Meyers Grade Road North of Jenner, ¾ mile loop, minimal elevation, ½ to 1 hour)

Pinnacle Gulch
(Bodega Harbour subdivision at Bodega Bay, 1 1/8 miles roundtrip to beach. At low tide you can walk south at least 3/8 mile, and if the tide is low enough, walk the rocky beach north, elevation 200 feet, 1-2 hours)

HITCHCOCK’S “THE BIRDS” Did you know that this horror classic was filmed in the nearby town of Bodega and Bodega Bay? Visit the turn-of-the-century town that appeared in the film as the schoolhouse, and chat with locals who remember Hitchcock and his historic visit.

HORSEBACK RIDING
Hire a horse and ride through the dunes and onto miles of beaches, or up into the hills for fabulous ocean views. Guides and mounts available for all skill levels.

Chanslor Stables - Riding through the dunes and onto the beach. 2660 Highway 1, Bodega Bay 707.875.3333

Armstrong Woods Pack Station - Trail rides through first growth redwoods. Box 287 Guerneville 707.887.2939. Email: laura@redwoodhorses.com 

JOGGING
Miles of beaches, miles of trails, spectacular scenery, and a variety of terrains from flat to rugged—you’ll find jogging routes to suit every taste and challenge level.

KAYAKING
Explore the Estuary and the upper reaches of Salmon Creek with a rented kayak, or try sea kayaking in the Bay itself. Explore the lower Russian River where it joins the sea. Top-of-the line kayaks available for rent.

Bodega Bay Surf Shack
Bodega Bay's Ocean Sport Headquarters. Take a bike ride to Bodega Head, cruise the beaches, kayak or windsurf on the bay or explore the dunes. We rent bikes, kayaks, surfboards, wetsuits and windsurfers! Surfing lessons available! Learn the pleasures of surfing with an experienced instructor. Also check out our latest selection of mens' and womens' casual clothing and beachwear. Please call now to reserve your adventure. Open 7 days a week. Also 24 hour Surf and Weather Info line. Pelican Plaza. Bodega Bay. (707) 875-3944

Gold Coast Kayak Rentals Explore the lower Russian River where it joins the Pacific Ocean. Paddle from Duncans Mills to Pacific Ocean. We rent top-of-the line Aquaterra Kayaks. (707) 865-1441

LAMBING TIME
Little lambs playing with their mothers in green fields—what a wonderful sign of springtime! Drive along the coast at lambing time, and you’ll see these frolicsome four-legged critters everywhere. Kids love ‘em!

OCEAN FISHING
Deep sea fishing all year round! Daily salmon and rock cod fishing aboard fast, modern fiberglass vessels. equipment rental, bait, half-day and full-day excursions.
Aggressor Adventures

Bodega Bay Sport Fishing Center 1500 Bay Flat Rd. Bodega Bay 707.875.3344

Wil's Fishing Adventures 707.875.2323 1580 Eastshore Rd. P.O. Box 1555 Bodega Bay

PICNIC IN THE DUNES
Pack a picnic lunch—you’ll find lots of tasty treats in Bodega Bay’s delis, fish markets and take-out restaurants. Then a quick stroll into the dunes for a picnic you’ll never forget. Be sure to bring the wine!

PLAY TENNIS
The coast does get foggy in the summer time but, take Coleman Valley over to Occidental and warm up at the public courts. By the time you are finished with your game the coastal fog will be a cooling welcome!

RIDE THE BACKROADS
One of the most spectacular drives anywhere in the world is yours to discover when you turn off Highway One onto Coleman Valley Road. The steep, switch backing one-lane road goes up, up, up to a breathtaking overview of the ocean. Fields of wild iris in season line the roadway as you drive along the ridge, through oak forests and hidden valleys, to the town of Occidental, famous for old-time Italian family-style restaurants.

Bodega Days Personal Services - Massage Therapy - Guided Fitness Hikes — Professional healing artists providing advanced massage techniques. We Travel To You! Singles Couples-Small-Large Groups. 15 years experience. Choose from 10 exclusive fitness hikes throughout scenic Sonoma County. Beginning-Intermediate-Advanced Hikes. Lunch available. Package services or ala carte. Call for more information. Teri Simi, CMT Proprietor (707) 824-9491. Gay Jacobsen, C.M.T. (therapeutic massage). Bodega (707) 876-3174

Osmosis Enzyme Bath & Massage — Osmosis is the only day spa in the U.S. that offers the Enzyme Bath, a rejuvenating heat treatment from Japan. The enzyme bath along with our world class 75-minute massage sessions and deluxe aromatherapy facials has prompted Travel & Leisure magazine to rate Osmosis among the top 10-day spas in the US.209 Bohemian Hwy, Freestone, CA 95472. (707) 823-8231

The Language of Touch
Massage Therapy and Natural Skin Care. Suzannah Picchietti, C.M.T. Add an extra touch of relaxation to your vacation. No need to go just anywhere for a great massage. We will come to you. Call for an appointment. 707-433-3855 or Cell 707-481-9619

Yoga—Suzi LaBaron, C.M.T. — Drop in Yoga classes at the Bodega Bay Community Center everyday except Wednesdays. Check at Road House Coffee for the schedule (on the bulletin board).

SCUBA DIVING
What’s under the surface? Discover for yourself the world of ocean diving! For an unsurpassed diving experience, visit the local service dive center for air fills, scuba lessons and equipment sales at competitive prices. Bodega Bay Pro Dive

SEAL WATCHING
Where the Russian River meets the sea at Goat Rock Beach and Jenner, you’ll see scores of seals and their pups lounging on the sand or frolicking in the water. Don’t get too close—it’s best not to disturb the seal families. Bring your binoculars and enjoy!

SEE A GENUINE RUSSIAN FORT
Take a scenic drive up Highway One to Fort Ross, a historic landmark and faithful reconstruction of the only Russian settlement on California’s coast. Russian fur trappers settled here, built the stockade, and constructed the tiny, authentic Eastern Orthodox church that you can visit today. Special “living history” days recreate this fascinating glimpse into California’s past. Fort Ross State Park.

SEE THE HOLE IN THE HEAD
Did you know that in the 1960s, a nuclear power plant was begun at Bodega Head? Environmentalists got construction stopped, but the initial stage of the project—a huge hole—is still quite visible. Makes a great day trip for young and old alike! History.

SHOP FOR ANTIQUES
Explore enticing antique shops in charming small towns like Bodega, Occidental, Jenner and Valley Ford. Take home a unique treasure to remind you of your visit to this historic area.

SHOP FOR GIFTS
Fine art? Funny tee-shirts? Fabulous handmade crafts? No matter what your tastes, you’ll find wonderful treasures in our local shops. Take home some home-made salt water taffy for the kids!

Candy & Kites — Since 1983! Large selection of sport kites and single line kites. Flags, windsocks, toys, books, and gourmet salt water taffy, chocolates, brittles & novelty candy. Custom kites! 1415 Coast Hwy 1, PO Box 8, Bodega Bay.(707) 875-3777

Osmosos
Located in nearby Freestone, the Osmosis Enzyme Bath & Massage Center is the only day spa in the United States that offers the genuine “enzyme bath,” a rejuvenating heat treatment from Japan. World class 75-minute massage sessions and deluxe aroma therapy facials also available. Travel & Leisure magazine rated Osmosis among the top ten day-spas in the country!

STARGAZE
On nights when the moon is dark, the crisp, clear ocean air makes stargazing a whole new experience. The stars look bigger and brighter when there are no city lights to dim their splendor. Look beyond the Milky Way—did you know that some of the stars you see are actually galaxies in their own right? Don’t miss this spectacular night-time display!

ST. TERESA’S CHURCH
In nearby Bodega you’ll find this picture-perfect white-steepled church, still very much in active use by the local Roman Catholic community. Call for Mass schedule.

SURF FISHING ON THE BEACH
Rent all the gear you need from friendly local shops, and catch tonight’s dinner! It’s so relaxing, and the results are so delicious.

SURFING
Get stoked and hang ten on some of the most reliably ride-able waves anywhere. Surfboard rentals available, along with lessons from experienced professionals. Wetsuits? Definitely a good idea!

Bodega Bay Surf Shack
1400 Hwy 1 Suite E, Bodega Bay. (707) 875-3944

Northernlights Surf Shop Bohemian Highway in Bodega

TAKE A CHAMPAGNE CELLAR TOUR
Nearby wineries such as Korbel Cellars specialize in the genuine “methode champenoise” technique to create everyone’s favorite sparkling wine. Learn how true champagne is made, and pick up a few bottles at special winery discounts.

TAKE A SWIM IN THE OCEAN
Protected beaches offer splashy fun in the sun for all ages. The water’s nippy, but when the sun is warm, who cares? Doran Beach is the most protected for swimming. Please, don't turn your back on the ocean. She takes it badly! Watch for "sleeper waves".

TIDEPOOLING
“Look, Mom, I found a hermit crab!” Kids of all ages (not to mention adults) love to discover the mysterious life of tide pools, filled with wavy-armed sea anemones, colorful shells, tiny crabs and so much more.

TOUR THE BODEGA BAY MARINE LAB
Visit this fascinating laboratory, unique in Northern California. Since 1976 the Bodega Marine Lab has been open to the public for tours. Volunteer docents offer tours to drop-in visitors on Fridays from 2 to 4 PM. Group tours are scheduled on other weekdays up to four times a week.
The Bodega Marine Laboratory 2099 Westside Road. 707.875.2211

The Chanslor Wetlands Wildlife Project protects 250 acres of crucial habitat adjoining Bodea Bay. Located on the Pacific Flyway, this varied ecosystem attracts a myriad of migrating hosrebirds, waterfowl, and raptors.  (707) 875-3490

TROUT FISHING
Enjoy trout fishing locally at the Hagemann Ranch Trout Farm, in a picturesque trout pond nestled on a 219-acre sheep ranch. Kids love it! The ranch has poles, bait, food and picnic tables. "You catch 'em, we clean 'em" is their motto—they’ll even bag the fish and ice them too! No fishing license needed. 707.876.3217.

TRY A FITNESS HIKE
Choose from ten exclusive fitness hikes throughout scenic Sonoma County, for beginning, intermediate and advanced levels. Lunches available, too!

VISIT THE NICHOLAS GREEN BELL TOWER
Also known as the Children's Bell Tower, this open-air monument houses a collection of bells, large and small, that were sent by individuals, school children and churches in Italy to commemorate Nicholas Green, a young man whose parents donated his organs to seven Italians after their son was shot to death in Italy. When ocean breezes blow, the gentle sound of the bells makes a fitting memorial.

Located behind the community center. 2003 Highway 1, Bodega Bay.

VISIT THE TOWN OF BODEGA
Historic Bodega, just a few miles away, is home to a wide array of vintage homes, church, schoolhouse and shops. You’ll find antiques, barbecued oysters, fine art, unusual gardens, a wonderful old cemetery, and even the spot where Hitchcock’s classic “The Birds” was filmed!

VISIT THE TOWN OF OCCIDENTAL
This tiny town, surrounded by forest-clad hills, is world-famous for its restaurants featuring six-course family style Italian dinners. Antipasto, soup, salad, pasta, main course and dessert—be sure to bring your appetite! Kids love this place.

VISIT THE WETLANDS
The Chanslor Wetlands Wildlife Project protects 250 acres of crucial habitat adjoining Bodega Bay. Located on the Pacific flyway, this varied ecosystem attracts a myriad of migrating shore birds, waterfowl and raptors. Sonoma Wetlands 707.875.3490

WALK IN THE REDWOODS
See trees older than time when you stroll through towering first-growth redwoods at nearby Armstrong Woods, or rent a horse at the Pack Station for a redwoods trail ride. This spot was sacred to Native Americans—when you visit, you’ll see why. Armstrong Woods Pack Station

WATCH THE SUNSET
Don’t miss the best show in the West! Whether you stop your car along the cliffs, relax on your room’s private deck, or curl up beside a driftwood log on the beach, be sure to watch the golden disk of the sun as it sinks into the shimmering sea. It’s a sight you’ll always remember!

WHALE WATCHING
Get an up-close-and-personal look at migrating whales from September through November, when whales go south to spend the winter off Baja California, and from April through June when they head back to Alaska for the summer.

WILD FLOWERS
From brilliant California poppies to purple wild iris, the coastal hills spring to life with all the colors of nature. A delight for wildflower enthusiasts and photographers!

WIND SURFING
Get out on the Bay and feel the wind power your board! Not for the faint of heart, but great fun for the athletically inclined. Rentals and lessons available.

WINE TASTING
Try “wine surfing” on a bay side deck overlooking the waves. The world-famous California wine country is only minutes away; visit dozens of local wineries for tours and tasting. Bring home a few bottles as gifts—if you can resist opening them yourself!

Gourmet Au Bay — Artisans gift gallery and Wine Surfing Room!! Wines by the glass on bayside deck. 913 Coast Hwy 1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923. (707) 875-9875

Wine Tasting of Sonoma County PO Box 60, 25179 Main St, Duncans Mills, CA 95430. (707)-865-0565. email: wtosl@sonic.net 

Annapolis Winery - Taste and picnic. 26055 Soda Springs Road, Annapolis. 707.886.5460

The Russian River Wine Road is an association of 93 Wineries and 43 Lodgings in the Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley appellations of Northwest Sonoma County. Explore California's most diverse & beautiful wine region. (800) 723-6336. 

WORSHIP
Bodega Bay Union Church
Come and worship with us! You'll meet friendly people of all ages from Bodega Bay, Dillon Beach, Valley Ford, Freestone, Jenner and beyond. Sunday morning Services: Sunday School at 10am - Worship service at 11am. Sunday night Bible study and Wednesday night prayer & worship both start at 7pm. 1320 Bayview Street, Bodega Bay. (707) 875-3559. email: bbucpastor@aol.com 

Occidental Community Church
Join us in Celebration (worship), Communication (education) and Community and Commission (our outreach). Sunday Services at 10:30 am. Second & Church Streets, Occidental. (707) 874-3501

WORK IN A PEACEFUL SETTING
Business Services Unlimited — Enjoy the coast while taking care of business. FAX, Xerox color copies, FedEx & UPS, secretarial services, notary public, internet access and more. Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located in Pelican Plaza. 1400 Hwy 1, Bodega Bay, CA shona@bodegabaycopy.com  (707) 875-2183.  FAX: (707) 875-2952.