Summertime in Sonoma County calls for several beach trips to cool off in the water or sunbathe on the shore while sipping a cold drink.
Scroll on below to find the best beaches in Sonoma County for all your summer waterfront needs.
Note: Due to an Aug. 30, 2024, breach in the Vacation Beach summer dam on the lower Russian River, Sonoma County Public Infrastructure has closed the summer road and bridge off Neely Road for the season.
Best for those who like some space: Blind Beach
Nestled near Goat Rock south of Jenner, this narrow pebble beach offers great views of the ocean and the impressive Arch Rock. It’s the perfect beach sanctuary for those who want to get away from it all while listening to waves crashing against rocks. Highway 1 and Goat Rock Road, Jenner, parks.ca.gov
Best for kids/families: Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach
Sometimes it can be difficult to find a beach that’s both entertaining and safe for kids. Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach offers essential summer activities, has lifeguard patrols and provides life vests to loan for free. River’s Edge Kayak & Canoe Trips is located nearby, off Healdsburg Avenue, to help plan your family river excursions. 13839 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Best for beachcombers: Schoolhouse Beach
Enclosed by rocky headlands, this beach has a glorious pebble shore and a low tide that sea scavengers will enjoy. The vibrantly colored and ocean-polished small stones and seashells are great for collecting, and the tidepools are teeming with colorful marine life, such as starfish, mussels, hermit crabs, sea anemones and other interesting critters and crustaceans. Viking Strand and Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
Best for dogs: Doran Beach
This regional park beach is popular for a number of activities: picnicking, fishing, paddling, bird watching, kite flying and even horseback riding. But perhaps one of its most beloved aspects is that it’s dog-friendly (on a leash, that is). Take your playful pup on a trail through the grassy dunes or wade by the gentle seashore for a memorable time. 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Best for couples: Sea Ranch
There are six public access trails in Sea Ranch leading to coastal beaches, such as Shell Beach and Stengel Beach (temporarily closed to replace a wooden staircase) with its seasonal waterfalls. But perhaps the best beach for couples here is Black Point, a long sandy cove accessed via a steep wooden staircase. The beach is typically secluded and enjoys beautiful ocean views. Access Black Point Beach via Sea Walk Drive, located off Coast Highway 1, The Sea Ranch, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Best for surfers: Salmon Creek beaches
Both North and South Salmon Creek beaches are popular spots for the local surfing community. On days when conditions are just right, experienced riders can enjoy some powerful swells while navigating gnarly rip currents. It’s also a good place for beginners when the waves are less intense. The sandy bottom of the ocean floor lessens the blows of wipeouts. 3095 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
Best for water activities: Johnson’s Beach
Floating down the river is what summer is all about. This Guerneville beach is perfect for those who want to kayak down the flowing currents or simply relax on the water in inner tubes with a cold drink in hand. Whether you want to paddleboard solo or canoe with a group of friends, there’s no shortage of summer fun here. 16215 First St., Guerneville, johnsonsbeach.com
Best for land activities: Monte Rio Beach
While there are plenty of water sports to enjoy at Monte Rio Beach, its shore is superb for landlubbers. Volleyball courts and horseshoe pits are free. There are also barbecue areas to grill by the beach and a food concession stand with summer grub. 20488 Highway 116, Monte Rio, mrrpd.org
Best for animal sightings: Goat Rock Beach
This beach is a great destination for animal lovers. Go birdwatching for gliding seabirds like gulls and sandpipers, catch a glimpse of breaching whales during migrating season and see a colony of Pacific Harbor seals with their pups throughout summer. No dogs are allowed and people should stay at least 300 feet away from the seals, especially during pupping season from March to August. Highway 1 and Goat Rock Road, Jenner, parks.ca.gov
Best for sunsets: Portuguese Beach
While any beach along the Sonoma Coast can provide excellent sunsets views, this is the ideal spot to get comfortable and really soak them in. Whether you’re fishing from the rocky bluffs, strolling on the wide sandy beach or relaxing on the grassy knoll by the parking lot, there’s no bad spot here to watch a stunning, golden sunset over the ocean. Eureka Drive and Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
