Bodega Bay California Journey Information: Weekend Getaway

What do you get if you combine coastal allure, contemporary seafood, and a splash of journey? Bodega Bay! One second, you’re mountaineering alongside the shoreline, and the subsequent, you’re devouring a plate of freshly shucked oysters at a seaside spot. This cute northern California city affords the proper mixture of scenic hikes, quaint retailers, and peaceable shoreline strolls.

However there’s a lot extra! From flying kites to exploring native artwork galleries, the checklist of issues to do in Bodega Bay is as infinite because the ocean views. Let’s get to it—right here’s all the pieces it’s essential to know to plan your excellent weekend getaway.

Planning Ideas for Visiting Bodega Bay

Greatest Time of Yr to Go

In Bodega Bay, the dry season (roughly from Could to October) is when the climate is at its greatest. There’s delicate, sunny days with a bit of coastal breeze, and hardly any rain. Temperatures normally vary from a snug 60°F to 75°F, however only a heads up—that is when vacationers and locals flock to city, so issues is perhaps a bit busier.

I’ve been throughout each season and most not too long ago went in December. Whereas there was a chill within the air, the sunshine greater than made up for it. However, be warned the fog at the moment of yr is extra frequent than not.

How Many Days to Spend in Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is the form of place the place you’ll be able to pop in for a fast escape or settle in for an extended keep. Positive, you may cowl the must-see spots in a day (contemporary seafood feast? Examine. Scenic hike alongside Bodega Head? Double verify), however you’d be lacking out on so many hidden gems. In the event you can, carve out a weekend—two to 3 days is ideal. This provides you time to soak within the sunsets, savor wine at native vineyards, and perhaps even spot some migrating whales with out feeling rushed.

In the event you’re quick on time, try my One Day in Bodega Bay itinerary—it’s full of all of the must-do highlights!

Getting Round

Getting round Bodega Bay is greatest executed with a rental automobile. The world is spread-out, and having your individual automobile offers you the liberty to discover at your individual tempo. In contrast to metropolis facilities, there’s no public transport system to depend on, so a rental automobile is essential for hopping between scenic spots. You may verify Uncover Vehicles for the most effective pricing. 

The place to Keep

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is the proper retreat whilst you’re staying in Bodega Bay. Just lately topped the #1 Resort within the World by Condé Nast Traveler readers, this resort affords all the pieces it’s essential to unwind. It’s positioned proper subsequent to Doran Seaside, you’ll be able to stroll out of your room to the shore in minutes or get pleasure from a scenic stroll alongside the Chicken Stroll Coastal Entry Path, a peaceable loop by wetlands the place birdwatchers can spot Nice Blue Herons and different wildlife. 

The lodge strikes the proper steadiness of seclusion and comfort, with cozy fireplace pits, nature trails, and easy accessibility to Bodega Bay’s cute retailers, contemporary seafood eating places, and prime mountaineering spots.

The on-site facilities solely elevate the expertise. Eating at Drake’s is a should, whether or not you’re indulging in a  fancier meal in the primary eating room or sipping wine by the hearth on the Hearth Lounge throughout sundown. The spa affords therapies just like the Sonoma Coastal Therapeutic massage, whereas the outside scorching tub and sauna present the last word rest.

The rooms are equally inviting, with fireplaces, Nespresso machines, and breathtaking views of the bay. Whether or not you’re toasting marshmallows for nightly s’mores, having fun with a glass of wine by a hearth pit, or just taking within the serene environment, each element at The Lodge is designed that can assist you calm down and recharge.

Examine Charges & Availability for The Lodge at Bodega Bay

**If you’re searching for one thing rather less dear, then try Sonoma Coast Villa. It has good scores and is only a few miles from Bodega Bay.

What to Do in Bodega Bay (Prime 5 Issues to Do)

Hike On A Coastal Path 

One of the crucial in style coastal trails is the Bodega Head Path, a 1.67-mile (2.7 km) path that takes you across the iconic Bodega Head peninsula, providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. One other nice path is the Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Entry Path, which fits by a gulch that results in a seashore on the backside. 

Go Wine Tasting

Simply since you’re on the coast, doesn’t imply you’ll be able to’t do some wine tasting. Begin your vino journey at Sonoma Coast Vineyards, the place the cool coastal local weather creates splendid situations for producing some nice wines. 

For a very immersive expertise, make your method to Fort Ross Vineyards, positioned on the hills of Fort Ross State Historic Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This family-owned vineyard focuses on cool-climate wines, together with their acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Go to a Filming Location of Hitchcock’s “The Birds” at Potter Schoolhouse

Pay homage to a bit of cinematic historical past by visiting the long-lasting filming places of Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds” in Bodega Bay and the encompassing space.

One of the crucial memorable filming places is the Potter Schoolhouse, located inland within the city of Bodega. Nevertheless, it’s now a personal residence, so you’ll be able to solely admire it from the skin. Adjoining to the schoolhouse, you’ll discover one other important web site from the movie, the St. Teresa of Avila Church. 

Benefit from the Seaside

You may’t actually go to Bodega Bay with out hitting up one of many seashores, and there are lots to select from! Listed here are my prime picks: 

Purchase Treats at Patrick’s of Bodega Bay Salt Water Taffy

Don’t miss moving into the recognizable pink and white store of Patrick’s, the place a wide range of handmade saltwater taffy will fulfill your candy cravings. From traditional flavors like vanilla (my favourite!) and watermelon to engaging combined taffy packs such because the Dessert Combine and Berries and Cream, there’s a taffy for each style. 

Need extra enjoyable actions? See my 28 nice issues to do in Bodega Bay.

What + The place to Eat (My Prime 3)

Bodega’s meals scene is loaded with yummy seafood spots and these are my prime 3. However for those who’d like all my favourite restaurant picks, try my checklist of the greatest Bodega Bay eating places.

Fishetarian Fish Market

This spot is hands-down my favourite informal go-to each time I’m in Bodega Bay. From their completely crispy fish & chips and creamy clam chowder to the oh-so-delicious shrimp tacos, each chew is a win. One of the best half? They’re all about sustainable sourcing, so you’ll be able to get pleasure from your meal with out a shred of eco-guilt. It’s a laid-back place with principally outside seating the place you’ll be able to seize a fast chew whereas absorbing the salty sea breeze.

Rocker Oysterfeller’s

If Southern consolation meals meets coastal seafood feels like your vibe, then Rocker Oysterfeller’s is a must-visit. Whereas they’re well-known for his or her oysters Rockefeller (clearly!), it was their clam chowder that was my favourite. It’s wealthy with out being overly creamy and served with a aspect of heat, garlicky bread that’s excellent for dipping—pure consolation on a cool Bodega Bay day. 

Drakes Sonoma Coast

In the event you’re craving a extra upscale eating expertise in Bodega Bay, Drakes Sonoma Coast at The Lodge at Bodega Bay is the place to be. The Lodge was simply voted the #1 resort on the earth by Condé Nast Traveler, so you understand you’re in for one thing particular. Their farm-to-table method means you’ll be indulging in contemporary, native seafood that’s been elevated to perfection. 

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