10 Things To Do In Bodega Bay California
Tucked along the stunning Sonoma Coast, is a little slice of California heaven called, Bodega Bay. A drive up highway 1 will land you in this funky little coastal town with lots of quirky gift shops, art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants. Day trippers, weekend adventurers, and week-long vacationers will fall in love with this coastal gem. Here are 10 can’t-miss things to do in Bodega Bay California.
P.S. – I added some annual events at the end that you might not want to miss if you happen to be traveling at a particular time of year.
Explore Bodega Head
This iconic bluff is the perfect spot for whale watching (December through April) or just soaking in panoramic ocean views. Just don’t forget to pack a picnic and your camera. You’ll find some very Instagrammable views here.
From Highway 1 – Heading north on Highway 1, turn left onto Eastshore Road. Follow the signs to the Bodega Head parking area.
From Sebastopol – Take Bodega Highway west to Highway 1, then follow signs to Eastshore Road and Bodega Head.
Walk Along Doran Beach
A long, sandy stretch perfect for a walk along the beach, flying a kite, or letting your pup splash in the waves. You’ll even find kinds blowing huge bubbles that float around the beach from time to time, which is a lot of fun for little kids and dogs to run around trying to catch. In fact, it’s worth bringing your own to share the fun.
Hint – While Doran Beach is incredible any time of year, it becomes hauntingly beautiful from October through January. It’s truly an epic time of year there.
Bonus – Tide pools pop up at low tide for your inner marine biologist to geek out.
To Know – Fog is common on this beach. But fog doesn’t always equal cold. Dress in layers for a day on the beach here.
From Highway 1 – Continue north on Highway 1 and turn right onto Doran Park Road. The beach entrance is clearly marked.
From Sebastopol – From Bodega Highway, merge onto Highway 1 north and turn right onto Doran Park Road.
Visit the Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory
For the science-curious, this lab offers tours where you can learn about marine life and local ecosystems. It’s like Shark Week but in real life.
From Highway 1 – Take Highway 1 north to Eastside Road, then follow signs to the lab.
From Sebastopol – Follow Bodega Highway to Eastside Road, then follow signs.
Kayak Or Paddle-board On The Bay
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddle-board and get up close with seals, birds, and other wildlife. Calm waters make it beginner-friendly, too. Just be sure you keep a safe distance from the local wildlife. Just because you can see them doesn’t mean you should interact with them.
From Highway 1 – Many rental shops are located directly off Highway 1; check near the marina.
From Sebastopol – Head to Highway 1 and look for rental shops near the marina.
Check Out “The Birds” Filming Locations
Alfred Hitchcock’s classic movie put Bodega Bay on the map. Visit the Potter Schoolhouse and other spooky spots featured in the film. Bonus points if you recreate a dramatic “running from birds” photo. Note that this is located in the town of Bodega which is a bit inland from the town of Bodega Bay about 5 to 10 minutes by car.
From Highway 1 – Follow Highway 1 to Bodega, and look for signs for the Potter Schoolhouse and other iconic spots.
From Sebastopol – Drive west on Bodega Highway to the town of Bodega; locations are well-marked.
Sample Local Seafood
You’re in a fishing town, so live it up! Head to Spud Point Crab Company for fresh clam chowder or try the fish tacos at Fishetarian Fish Market. I can personally recommend Spud Point Crab Company for their chowder. Just don’t forget to grab a loaf of sourdough to go with it. Yes, the whole loaf. You won’t regret it.
From Highway 1 – Spud Point Crab Company is located in central Bodega Bay. You’ll be turning off the main road to head through some side streets down to the water. But it’s quite scenic, so enjoy it. It’s about a 5-10 minute drive from the main road.
Fishetarian Fish Market is directly on Highway 1.
From Sebastopol – Use Highway 1 to access Spud Point Crab Company and Fishetarian Fish Market in Bodega Bay.
Get Some Incredible Ice Cream
Okay, so this isn’t technically in Bodega Bay or even the town of Bodega. But just 20 minutes or so into Sebastopol will have you enjoying delicious ice cream at Screamin’ Mimi’s. This ice cream made on site is some of the creamiest and most delicious ice cream you’ll find in the area and comes in a broad range of flavors. They even have a crowded map of stickpins showing where their customers have visited from. Yes, there are a LOT of stickpins!
From Bodega Bay – Take Highway 1 south to Bodega Highway. Turn left and follow it to Sebastopol. Screamin’ Mimi’s is located at 6902 Sebastopol Avenue.
Take a Horseback Ride on the Beach
Horse N Around Trail Rides offers unforgettable guided rides along the coast. Feel like the main character in a romance novel—even if you’re flying solo.
From Highway 1 – Turn off Highway 1 onto Bay Flat Road; Horse N Around Trail Rides is well-signposted.
From Sebastopol – Drive west on Bodega Highway, merge onto Highway 1, and follow signs to Bay Flat Road.
Hike Pinnacle Gulch Trail
This moderate hike leads to a secluded beach, complete with tide pools and epic views. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want a little exercise with their sightseeing.
From Highway 1 – From Highway 1, turn onto South Harbour Way, then follow signs to the trailhead.
From Sebastopol – Merge onto Highway 1 north, then follow directions to South Harbour Way.
Shop Local Art And Souvenirs
The town’s small galleries and shops are packed with coastal-inspired artwork, pottery, and gifts. Don’t leave without something to remind you of your trip—like that mermaid-shaped mug you definitely needed.
From Highway 1 – Many shops are clustered along Highway 1 in the town center.
From Sebastopol – Shops are located along Highway 1, accessible from Bodega Highway.
Bonus: Annual Events Worth Timing Your Trip For
Fisherman’s Festival
Held every April, this event celebrates the town’s fishing heritage with live music, a boat parade, and local food and wine. A highlight is the wooden boat challenge—where teams race boats they built themselves. Spoiler: some sink.
Bodega Bay Film Festival
This fall event showcases indie films, documentaries, and, of course, tributes to Alfred Hitchcock. It’s a cinephile’s dream with ocean views.
Artisans’ Festival
In late summer, local artists display and sell their work at this open-air market. Think coastal vibes meet creative energy—perfect for finding unique treasures.
Bodega Bay is the kind of place where you’ll want to keep your camera handy and your itinerary loose. Whether you’re here for the fresh seafood, the natural beauty, or just to breathe in that salty ocean air, this charming coastal town has something for everyone. So grab your sunnies, your comfiest walking shoes, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget.
Planning Your Trip
Keep in mind that Bodega Bay is all about relaxing. Schedule a massage to help you calm down and slow down on your first day if you need to. But you have to truly slow down to get the full effect of this place.
Keep your plans flexible and grab your sun hat. You’ll be so glad you made the trip.
Ready to book your stay in Bodega Bay? Head over to my booking platform to plan and book your trip!
