Bodega Bay, CA

Travel Guide

Bodega Bay showing a small town or village and tranquil scenes
Doran Beach which includes tranquil scenes, general coastal views and a sandy beach
Doran Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views
Bodega Bay which includes food and drinks or beverages
Doran Beach which includes a beach, tranquil scenes and general coastal views

Wander through trails in coastal parks and enjoy the excellent views of the Pacific Ocean from this vast beach area.

Bodega Bay is a shallow coastal area surrounded by rocky outcrops, parks and a harbor. It comprises several beaches and nature trails that make a family trip fun. Trek through this coastal zone to spot whales, seals and other marine animals.

Stroll along the gentle slopes of Bodega Head and enjoy the marvelous views of the ocean. Capture photos of the rocky base of the cliffs and watch the waves break into white foam. Set up lunch at one of the picnic tables and browse the souvenirs and refreshments available at various kiosks. In summer, expect to see pelicans and seals here.

Nearby is the Bodega Marine Laboratory, which supports diverse natural ecosystems and attempts to solve complex environmental problems. Come here to learn about the research on climate change and preservation.

The northern part of the outcrop contains the Children’s Bell Tower, which stands amid cypress trees and green hills. Photograph the three-tiered steel monument to 7-year-old Nicholas Green, who was killed in a highway robbery while on vacation in Italy in 1994. The monument consists of many bells donated by Italians.

Across from the eastern side of Bodega Head is Doran Beach, which stands at the southern end of its namesake regional park. Take advantage of the occasional strong winds that are great for surfing and flying kites. Warm summers and mild winters make the beaches and nature trails accessible year-round.

At the other end of the regional park find the Links at Bodega Harbour golf course. Practice your swing on the undulating green course that flanks the beach.

The zone is in the northwestern part of California, 65 miles (105 kilometers) north of San Francisco. Drive southwest from Bodega for 10 minutes to reach the area, which is just south of Salmon Creek and north of Dillon Beach. Visit other nearby cities, such as Santa Rosa, Sacramento and Napa.

Enjoy the nature walks, picnic areas and viewing platforms of the idyllic coastal retreat of Bodega Bay.

Where to stay in Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay which includes landscape views, a small town or village and tranquil scenes

Old Town Bodega Bay

4/5(32 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Old Town Bodega Bay and surrounding area, you can visit Bodega Harbour and Bodega Dunes.

Old Town Bodega Bay
The Inn at the Tides

The Inn at the Tides

2.5 out of 5
800 Coast Hwy One, Bodega Bay, CA
$306 nightly
The price is $349 total per night from Sep 17 to Sep 18
$349 total
Sep 17 - Sep 18
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Bodega Bay. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,453 reviews)
"I loved our short stay. The staff was fantastic and very helpful. The spa area was great! The pool was great for swimming laps. The hot tub was perfect temperature. The room was clean and very quiet. I loved the views cows on the hill side."

Reviewed on Aug 13, 2025

The Inn at the Tides
Bodega Coast Inn And Suites

Bodega Coast Inn And Suites

2 out of 5
521 Coast Highway 1, Bodega Bay, CA
$189 nightly
The price is $215 total per night from Aug 18 to Aug 19
$215 total
Aug 18 - Aug 19
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Bodega Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and scuba diving on site. Popular attractions Cayman Practice Range and Bodega Harbour are located ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (286 reviews)
"Clean room, recently updated ( new bathroom fixtures, new paint etc.). Nice balcony with view of the bay, very interesting watching the tide changes. The property grounds still need some work, I am sure next year will be improved. Front desk maintained communication the whole time, checking on us. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

Bodega Coast Inn And Suites
The Lodge at Bodega Bay

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

4 out of 5
103 Coast Highway 1, Bodega Bay, CA
$399 nightly
The price is $456 total per night from Sep 2 to Sep 3
$456 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Bodega Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,002 reviews)
"Beautiful ocean views from our upper floor room. Very large and comfortable room. Super comfortable bed. Fireplace was a nice touch."

Reviewed on Aug 15, 2025

The Lodge at Bodega Bay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Romantic King Bed Studio ~ STUNNING VIEWS Bodega Bay - Perched over the water!

Romantic King Bed Studio ~ STUNNING VIEWS Bodega Bay - Perched over the water!

Bodega Bay
Stay at this vacation home in Bodega Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (338 reviews)
"Nice place right on the water."

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Romantic King Bed Studio ~ STUNNING VIEWS Bodega Bay - Perched over the water!
Oceanfront - Hot Tub - Newly Remodeled Cottage

Oceanfront - Hot Tub - Newly Remodeled Cottage

Bodega Bay
Book a stay at this beach cottage in Bodega Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Wright's Beach and Sonoma Coast State Park ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (367 reviews)
"Serene location, beautiful place"

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2025

Oceanfront - Hot Tub - Newly Remodeled Cottage
Malibu of the North Oceanfront w 3 Suites

Malibu of the North Oceanfront w 3 Suites

Bodega Bay
Stay at this vacation home in Bodega Bay. Enjoy a garden, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Gleason Beach and Portuguese Beach are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
Nice view.
"The curb appeal needs a lot of work. Overgrown weeds make the place look shabby. The kitchen has the basic items. Needs dish towels and a dish rack. Beds and linens are comfortable. The bathrooms - all three- have no toilet tissue holders. Tissue is other on the floor or the top of the toilet tank. ..."

Reviewed on Jul 24, 2025

Malibu of the North Oceanfront w 3 Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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