Sonoma Coast State Park Beaches
Thirteen beaches along the ocean-front of Sonoma Coast State Park vary from long expanses of sand to hidden pockets among jagged rocks. For those who enjoy the excitement of exploring secret coves, sea caves, rugged points dashed by waves, and pristine tide pools, or simply strolling along the sand, the Sonoma Coast beaches are calling.
Hiking trails wind along many of the headlands and bluffs overlooking the ocean, making great places to enjoy spring wildflowers or the winter migration of whales. While the surf is too dangerous for swimming or wading, visitors enjoy fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Summer fog is common, but it usually burns off by noon.
The Best Sonoma Coast State Park Beaches
From South to North
South Salmon Creek Beach
South Salmon Creek Beach extends for two miles south from the creek to Mussel Point on the Bodega Head. An entrance on Bean Avenue off Highway 1 leads to a parking lot adjacent to the beach near the creek. Bodega Dunes Day Use Area is located off the road leading into Bodega Dunes Campground. Trails lead across the dunes and along the shore. Restrooms are located at both parking areas. A picnic area is found at Bodega Dunes. The beach is popular for surf fishing, beachcombing, and picnicking.
North Salmon Creek Beach
When the flow of Salmon Creek is diminished it is easy to wade, or even stroll, across the creek mouth from South Salmon Creek Beach to its northern counterpart. A parking lot is located next to Highway 1 and adjacent to the beach. North Salmon Creek Beach is only a quarter mile long, but it is a popular destination. When surfing is good, the lot can fill quickly. Only experienced surfers venture into these treacherous waters. Restrooms are found at the parking lot.
Schoolhouse Beach
A parking lot on a bluff overlooking Schoolhouse Beach provides a great viewpoint of the area. A fairly good trail leads down to the small beach. There are no facilities here.
Portuguese Beach
Immediately north of Schoolhouse, Portuguese Beach draws more visitors. A similar parking lot on the bluff overlooks the beach. A good trail leads down to its southern end where restrooms are located. The beach itself is about a third of a mile long.
Shell Beach
Anglers know that Shell Beach is one of the best fishing spots in the area. The tide pools at Shell Beach attract groups of school children who are learning about marine life in the intertidal zone. Geologists find the beach area especially interesting for its various rock layers and structures. The trail to the beach is steep and only partially paved. Signs at the beach warn of the dangerous surf.
Goat Rock Beach
At the mouth of the Russian River, Goat Rock Beach is one of the most scenic along this part of the coast. A colony of harbor seals has claimed part of the sand, delighting visitors. Seal pups are born between March and August. At all times of the year visitors are asked to keep at least 50 yards from the seals. Restrooms and picnic tables are located there.
Goat Rock Beach
The Communities of
Bodega Bay and Jenner
The small communities of Bodega Bay and Jenner provide basic services for visitors. Bodega Bay is known for a number of fine restaurants, coffee shops, and delis. Grocery stores and other shops are also found in town. Spud Point Marina in Bodega Bay has docks, fuel, a fishing pier, restrooms, laundry, and even WiFi.
The town of Jenner is much smaller, but they still offer several restaurants. The Sonoma Coast State Park Visitor Center is located in Jenner.
