Looking to spend a day by the coast but want to avoid the crowds? These seven secret spots and unique experiences are perfect for the solitary ocean aficionado. Click through the above gallery for all the details.
7 Secret Spots Along the Sonoma Coast
These seven secret spots on the Sonoma Coast are perfect for those who like to experience the ocean without the crowds.
Picnic on the rocks above Portuguese Beach: Rather than strolling down to the sometimes busy Portuguese Beach below, set up a picnic blanket on the plateau overlooking the ocean. Don’t forget snacks to munch on while you watch waves crash onto the rocks. Eureka Drive and Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov (Sonoma County Tourism)
Take in coastal sights on horseback: Five Brooks at Chanslor Ranch in Bodega Bay offers guided coastal trail rides, taking riders through beautiful green hills and sand dunes onto the beach. 2660 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-589-5040, fivebrooksbodegabay.com (Sonoma County Tourism)
A tiny treat at Miwok Beach: It is rare to see more than just a few people, if any, on this tiny beach. Located off Highway 1, just north of Bodega Bay, it can be reached via a short trail that takes visitors over a small wooden bridge to the sandy beach below. The best time to visit is at low tide on a warm summer day. Coast Highway 1, between Carmet and Salmon Creek, parks.ca.gov (Sonoma County Tourism)
Take in panoramic views at Duncan’s Landing: This secluded spot offers panoramic views of the Sonoma coastline. There is plenty of parking areas and visitors can wander along the roundabout, looking deep into the ocean below. For an even better view, climb up to the rocks in the center of the driving circle or take a steep set of stairs into the sandy cove below. Emry Road and Coast Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov (Sonoma County Tourism)
Spot a beautiful landmark from Blind Beach: Just South of Jenner, this beach offers views of the famed Arch Rock just offshore, without the hordes of people normally found at more popular beaches. To get here, turn onto Goat Rock Road and look for the sign for Blind Beach. Highway 1 and Goat Rock Road, Jenner, parks.ca.gov (Sonoma County Tourism)
Views from South Gerstle Cove: This cove offers beautiful views of the ocean. The cove’s beach is located directly below Salt Point State Park's visitor center. Gerstle Cove Road off Highway 1, Jenner, saltpoint.org (Shutterstock)
Camp in Gualala Point Park: This regional park, near the Mendocino County border, features 23 campsites for an overnight experience away from the crowds. Hike to the beach, kayak on the river or explore the bluff trail for ocean views. 42401 Coast Highway 1, Gualala, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat)
