Bodega Bay California Journey Information: Weekend Getaway

What do you get if you combine coastal attraction, recent seafood, and a splash of journey? Bodega Bay! One second, you’re mountain climbing alongside the shoreline, and the following, you’re devouring a plate of freshly shucked oysters at a seaside spot. This cute northern California city provides the proper mixture of scenic hikes, quaint outlets, and peaceable shoreline strolls.

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

Planning Ideas for Visiting Bodega Bay

Greatest Time of 12 months to Go

In Bodega Bay, the dry season (roughly from Could to October) is when the climate is at its finest. There’s delicate, sunny days with slightly coastal breeze, and hardly any rain. Temperatures often 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 may be 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 12 months is extra widespread than not.

How Many Days to Spend in Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is the sort of place the place you’ll be able to pop in for a fast escape or settle in for an extended keep. Certain, you would cowl the must-see spots in a day (recent seafood feast? Verify. Scenic hike alongside Bodega Head? Double examine), however you’d be lacking out on so many hidden gems. Should you can, carve out a weekend—two to a few days is ideal. This offers you time to soak within the sunsets, savor wine at native vineyards, and possibly even spot some migrating whales with out feeling rushed.

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

Getting Round

Getting round Bodega Bay is finest completed with a rental automotive. The world is spread-out, and having your individual automotive 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 automotive is vital for hopping between scenic spots. You may examine Uncover Automobiles for the perfect pricing. 

The place to Keep

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is the proper retreat when you’re staying in Bodega Bay. Just lately topped the #1 Lodge within the World by Condé Nast Traveler readers, this resort provides all the things you should unwind. It’s situated proper subsequent to Doran Seashore, you’ll be able to stroll out of your room to the shore in minutes or take pleasure in a scenic stroll alongside the Chook Stroll Coastal Entry Path, a peaceable loop by way of wetlands the place birdwatchers can spot Nice Blue Herons and different wildlife. 

The lodge strikes the proper stability of seclusion and comfort, with cozy fireplace pits, nature trails, and easy accessibility to Bodega Bay’s cute outlets, recent seafood eating places, and high mountain climbing 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 fireplace on the Hearth Lounge throughout sundown. The spa provides therapies just like the Sonoma Coastal Therapeutic massage, whereas the out of doors scorching tub and sauna present the last word leisure. T

he 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 chill out and recharge.

Verify Charges & Availability for The Lodge at Bodega Bay

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

Hike On A Coastal Path 

One of the vital standard 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 matches by way of 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 perform a little wine tasting. Begin your vino journey at Sonoma Coast Vineyards, the place the cool coastal local weather creates best situations for producing some nice wines. 

For a really immersive expertise, make your approach to Fort Ross Vineyards, situated on the hills of Fort Ross State Historic Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This family-owned vineyard makes a speciality of 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 chunk of cinematic historical past by visiting the long-lasting filming areas of Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds” in Bodega Bay and the encircling space.

One of the vital memorable filming areas is the Potter Schoolhouse, located inland within the city of Bodega. Nonetheless, it’s now a non-public 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 Seashore

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

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

Don’t miss getting into the recognizable pink and white store of Patrick’s, the place quite a lot of handmade saltwater taffy will fulfill your candy cravings. From basic 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 high 3. However in case you’d like all my favourite restaurant picks, try my record of the finest Bodega Bay eating places.

Fishetarian Fish Market

This spot is hands-down my favourite informal go-to at any time when I’m in Bodega Bay. From their completely crispy fish & chips and creamy clam chowder to the oh-so-delicious shrimp tacos, each chunk is a win. The most effective half? They’re all about sustainable sourcing, so you’ll be able to take pleasure in your meal with no shred of eco-guilt. It’s a laid-back place with principally out of doors seating the place you’ll be able to seize a fast chunk 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 facet of heat, garlicky bread that’s good for dipping—pure consolation on a cool Bodega Bay day. 

Drakes Sonoma Coast

Should 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 this planet by Condé Nast Traveler, so you’re in for one thing particular. Their farm-to-table method means you’ll be indulging in recent, native seafood that’s been elevated to perfection. 

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