Winter days along the Sonoma Coast were made for a cup of warm clam chowder, but choosing where to tuck into a bowl of the seaside delicacy is always tough because there are so many great options.
Bodega Bay’s 23rd annual Chowder Day on Jan. 31 is the best opportunity to find a favorite — or a few of them — once and for all. A dozen restaurants stretching from Spud Point to Valley Ford will fire up their giant kettles and dish out samples of their finest chowder while guests drive and slurp at their own pace.
The event, which supports the Chamber of Commerce and visitor center, is a boon to coastal businesses during the slow season and goes on no matter the weather. If the sun is shining, enjoy a glorious day at the coast. If it’s rainy, slip on boots and a jacket and let the hearty chowders work their magic.
There are two check-in locations for the event, at Valley Ford Hotel (next to Rocker’s Roadhouse) and at the Sonoma Coast Visitor Center. Chowder tastings begin at 10 a.m. and end at 3 p.m., Jan. 31.
Valley Ford Hotel, 14415 Highway 1, Valley Ford. Sonoma Coast Visitor Center, 913 Highway 1, Bodega Bay.
Learn more and purchase $30 tickets at visitbodegabayca.com.