Bodega Bay Travel Guide

Getting There

Car

Bodega Bay is best accessed by car. It’s around 70 miles north of San Francisco.

Train and Bus

You can get to Bodega Bay using Amtrak and Greyhound.

Weather & Climate

The best time to visit Bodega Bay is during the hot summer months of June through September in order to fully enjoy its wonderful outdoors. However, the rest of the year’s weather is moderate.

Things to Do & Attractions

Bodega Bay is a village located in the Bodega Harbor on California's Sonoma Coast.

Protected from the Pacific by a bay, Bodega Bay is a blissful fishing village on California’s Sonoma Coast. Outdoor enthusiasts, wine-lovers, and those seeking peaceful relaxation are sure to treasure their time in Bodega Bay, CA.

The natural beauty of the area is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy the ocean and activities like hiking, horseback riding, camping, and exploring nature. The most popular options include Sonoma Coast State Park ́s scenic shoreline and hiking trails, Bodega Head for a chance to see whales, and Doran Regional Park which includes a beautiful sandy beach, camping areas, and hiking trails.

The area’s natural diversity and breathtaking landscapes are truly great to explore, so make sure you include a visit to the beaches of Duncans Point, Portuguese and Schoolhouse for a calm and relaxing time in semi-secluded beaches

Events

As you could have guessed, the best events in Bodega Bay surround beer and wine. There are beer and wine events taking place almost all year round. For a break from alcohol, plan your trip to see the annual Lavender June Bloom.

Nightlife

Bodega Bay is a relaxing vacation destination and there’s not much in the way of nightlife. Evening activity centers around casual pubs and bistros where you can unwind.

Food & Drink

Dining is Bodega Bay, as with dining in all of Sonoma County, is a truly unique experience. Head to one of the area’s surrounding vineyards for a wine-tasting before visiting one of Bodega Bay’s fine eateries.

Art & Culture

The best art and cultural activities can be found at the nearby vineyards, which sometimes put on workshops, music evenings, and food events. Drive to northern Sonoma Country for an art fix, where you can follow a sculpture trail.

Family Activities

With the endless outdoor possibilities in Bodega, it can be difficult to know where to take the family. To start, head to Doran Regional Park to explore Doran Beach, a two-mile stretch of gorgeous beach perfect for surfing, flying kites, bird watching, and exploring the trail system through the grassy dunes. Bodega Head, a rocky rock outcrop that overlooks the ocean, is the ideal setting for a hike or just to take in the sunset over the bay.

If you fancy some time in the water, head to Bodega Bay Surf Shack for a surf lesson in the picturesque Pacific. If you’d rather spend your time on the water, not in it, charter a fishing boat out of Fisherman’s Cover to catch your own dinner. Explore the coastline by kayak or stand up paddle board and find hidden coves and beaches along the way. It’s great fun for all the family.