Sonoma Coast State Beach

Located north of Bodega Bay and due west of Santa Rosa, Sonoma Coast State Beach is not a single beach, but a collection of many beaches. It includes Blind Beach, Schoolhouse Beach, Wright's Beach, and Shell Beach, among others. They are secluded from Highway 1, hidden behind bluffs or tucked within rocky coves, making them quite difficult to see while driving along.

In total, Sonoma Coast State Beach covers over 5,000 acres. Its shoreline stretches out for ten miles between Bodega Head and the Russian River, making it one of California's largest beach areas. It features coastal reefs, inlets, coves, dunes, tide pools, headlands, and a number of fascinating natural formations, such as Arched Rock and Goat Rock. The Sonoma Coast Trail runs through it, too, offering challenging hikes of four to six miles.

Wildlife here is abundant. Seabirds are plentiful, and the coast is home to one of the state's biggest seal rookeries. Whale-watching is possible during the winter months, and both ocean and river fishing are offered, with perch, salmon, steelhead, and smelt being the main species caught.

A number of campsites are accessible here, with kiosks open for paying fees from 10am till dusk. Among the facilities available are fire rings, a dock, a dump station, a picnic area, restrooms, showers, and pay telephones. Additional activities include beachcombing, horseback riding, and water sports. The address for Sonoma Coast State Beach is 3095 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, California 94923.