Looking for a local Microadventure the whole family will enjoy? Then head to the rugged and picturesque Sonoma Coast and explore all that Bodega Bay has to offer.
Walk Along the Beach. Doran Region Park and Beach is a lovely strip of sand formed by the currents of Bodega Bay. It has a bay side, complete with clam flats and salt marsh where a wide variety of birds can be found as well as an ocean side which offers protected surfing, kayaking and swimming with modest waves most of the time. The beach can get windy at times, so layering your clothes is highly recommended.
Take a Hike. There are numerous trails in Bodega Bay to explore the coastline at its best. Whether you explore the peninsula of Bodega Head or walk from Bodega Harbor to Pacific Ocean in the Bodega Dunes, there are a number of trails which allow for exploration, fun and adventure. A list of local trails and adventures can be found here.
Watching Birds. Coastal Bodega Bay is famous as one of the best birding areas in the region; the Sonoma Coast and Pacific Flyway offer a number of coastal birding hotspots year round for all levels. Did you know? Bodega Bay and the neighboring town of Bodega are famously remembered for their location in Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds. The Tides Wharf & Restaurant protected characters during the attack, but has expanded into a hotel complex since the film was made. The iconic schoolhouse from the movie still stands in Bodega, but is a private residence today.
Dine on Local Food. The region is famous for its fresh seafood, with clam chowder, fish and Dungeness crab (excellent this season) being the most popular items on menus. If you are looking for a more formal dining setting, visit The Duck Club, The Bluewater Bistro & Bar, The Tides Wharf and the casual yet elegant atmosphere of The Bay View Restaurant & Lounge. More informal dining the whole family will enjoy can also be found throughout the town. Try Lucas Wharf, Spud Point Crab Company, Fisherman’s Cove, The Bird’s Café, Fishetarian and finally The Dog House, for those seeking casual, non-seafood dining.
Relax and Unwind. There are a number of spas where you can relax and rejuvenate during your trip to the coast. The Bodega Bay Lodge offers a number of spa treatments, massages and facials. Sonoma Coast Villa & Spa provides a full line of rejuvenating treatments as well. And for those of you looking for a truly unique spa experience, you’ll want to schedule a treatment at Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary in nearby Freestone. It’s a short drive from Bodega but worth the effort, just take a look at the review by Yelper Taffie H. – “The most relaxed I’ve ever been! I highly recommend the “full experience”—cedar enzyme bath, facial and massage. Worth. Every. Penny. Be sure to leave extra time either before or after your treatment to spend some time in the gardens!”
If you have time, be sure to take in the end of the day as the sun sets on the horizon of the Pacific Ocean. It’s hard to beat the entire sky lit up with vibrant reds, oranges and yellows; it’s a perfect ending to a perfect Microadventure. So pack up the car and head to the coast for some regional fun in this truly unique and relaxing setting. Happy Travels.
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