10 Hidden Spots Along the Sonoma Coast

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Picnic on the rocks above Portugese beach: Rather than strolling down to the sometimes busy Portugese Beach below, walk onto the plateau straight ahead and set up a picnic blanket on the flat surface. Don’t forget snacks to munch on while you watch waves crash onto the rocks below. (Photo courtesy of Yelp)

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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 better-known beaches. Turn onto Goat Rock Road and look for the sign for Blind Beach. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

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Mussel Point: Sit on the cliff (but not too close to the edge) and stare into the bright blue water pooling below. Mussel Point offers quiet views of the beautiful rocky coastline. (Photo courtesy of Paint Your Landscape)

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Horseshoe Cove: This is the perfect picturesque location - green cliffs jut out into the sea below, and deep blue waters will cause a sharp intake of breath. Enjoy the scene alone or with a loved one on any given day. This cove looks lovely in any weather. (Photo courtesy of Trip Advisor)

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Views from South Gerstle Cove: This cove offers a beautifully exposed view of the ocean, protected by the Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve. The cove’s beach is directly below the visitor’s center for Salt Point State Park. On a good day during the right season, you may spot an abalone diver with his catch of the day. (Photo courtesy of Trip Advisor)

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A tiny treat at Miwok Beach: When visiting this tiny beach named after the Coastal Miwok tribe, it is rare to see more than a few people - if any - on the sand. The beach is off Highway 1, just north of Bodega Bay, and can be reached by 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, when you aren’t in the mood for a crowd. (Photo courtesy of California Beaches)

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Take in the panoramic views at Duncan’s Landing: Seemingly on the edge of the world, this sweet spot offers panoramic views of the Sonoma coastline from different angles. There is plenty of parking areas, and you can wander along the roundabout, looking deep into the ocean below. You can also climb up to the rocks in the center of the driving circle and get an even better view, or you can take a steep set of stairs into the sandy cove itself. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

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Spend a day in Fisk Mill Cove: You can settle into Fisk Mill Cove for a day of barbequeing and picnicking on the picnic tables while the bishop pines provide protection from the winds. There are bathrooms and access to water, so roughing it is not required. (Photo courtesy of Mike Shoys)

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Enjoy a guided trail ride with Chanslor Stables: Let the coastal sights take your breath away from the back of a horse. Start at Chanslor Stables and ride through beautiful greenery onto the beach with your friends and an experienced guide at your side. (Photo courtesy of Yelp)

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Camp in Gualala Point Park: This campground, near the Mendocino County border, offers 23 different sites for an experience away from the city. Hike to the beach, kayak on the river or explore the bluff trail for ocean views. (Photo by Kent Porter)

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