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Perhaps the only word that comes close to describing California’s rugged northern coast is drama. With its steep cliffs, raucous waves, fierce wind, and gravity-defyingly twisty roads, the northern coast of our state inspires awe (and perhaps fear) in even the most seasoned driver. And then there’s the fog—which can make you feel either cozily tucked in or on top of the world. One of the most gorgeous stretches of the coast lies in Sonoma County, where it runs through the pocket coves of Bodega Bay and curves gracefully past (but not through) Santa Rosa.

There are plenty of not-to-miss side trips along the way, such as Bowling Ball Beach, a great spot for tidepooling or plain old wonderful beach walking. Surfing, of course, is yours for the taking—drop by Northern Light Surf Shop for the tools of the trade. Or try your hand at mushroom hunting in Salt Point State Park, one of the few places in California where it’s legal for visitors to collect them (the porcinis start in November). 

If you have the time, consider spending a few nights at Mar Vista Cottages at Anchor Bay, a series of restored cottages that surround a vegetable garden and chicken coop, which guests are welcome to pick from. Sea Ranch Lodge and Restaurant is another lovely place to stay, though pricier, and the furthest destination north on the Sonoma coast.

Dining

Sea Ranch Lodge and Restaurant

searanchlodge.com

800-732-7262

Tips: Dining room has great sea view

Terrapin Creek Restaurant

terrapincreekcafe.com

707-875-2700

Tips: Great seafood, “dining that is delicious, affordable, and responsible”

Lodging

Timber Cove Inn

timbercoveinn.com

707-847-3231

Tips: Million-dollar views

Sonoma Coast Villa and Spa

scvilla.com

707-876-9818

Tips: Pool, putting green, Italian garden

Mar Vista Cottage at Anchor Bay

marvistamendocino.com

877-855-3522

Tips: Veggie garden open to guests

Beaches

Bowling Ball Beach

parks.ca.gov

707-937-5804

Tips: Great for tidepooling, park at Schooner Beach and get to Bowling Ball at low tide

Salt Point State Park

parks.ca.gov

707-847-3221

Tips: Mushroom season begins in November

Sonoma Coast State Beach

parks.ca.gov

707-875-3483

Tips: Goat Rock and Portuguese Beach are particularly special.