Stranden in Sonoma County

Coastal Escapes

Sonoma County's coastline stretches over 50 miles, featuring a mix of rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and river estuaries. This collection includes protected sites within Sonoma Coast State Park and Salt Point State Park. Key highlights include the Russian River mouth at Goat Rock, the extensive tide pools of Shell Beach, and the pebble shores of Fisk Mill Cove. These locations provide opportunities for birdwatching and observing Pacific harbor seal colonies.

Shell Beach

Known for extensive tide pools accessible during low tide and a steep trail leading down from the bluff-top parking area.

Goat Rock Beach

Features a flat-topped sea stack and serves as a nursery for Pacific harbor seals near the Russian River mouth.

Schoolhouse Beach

A protected cove with coarse sand and tide pools, commonly used for fishing and beachcombing.

Johnson's Beach

A freshwater beach on the Russian River in Guerneville, offering seasonal boat rentals and a designated swimming area.

Jenner Beach

A narrow sandbar at the mouth of the Russian River, often populated by harbor seals and large deposits of driftwood.

Stump Beach

A secluded sandy cove within Salt Point State Park, named for the driftwood logs found along the shore.

Doran Beach

A two-mile sandy spit forming the southern border of Bodega Harbor, featuring a boat launch and birdwatching areas.

Wright's Beach

The largest sandy beach on the Sonoma Coast, known for heavy surf and an adjacent campground.

Portuguese Beach

A wide, sandy beach bordered by high dunes and rocky headlands, popular for surf fishing.

Arched Rock Beach

Named for the massive natural stone arch located just offshore, visible from the cliffside hiking trails.

Blind Beach

Located south of Goat Rock, this beach features dramatic sea stacks and is accessible via a steep coastal trail.

North Salmon Creek Beach

A long sandy beach popular with surfers, situated where Salmon Creek meets the Pacific Ocean.

Fisk Mill Cove

A rugged cove in Salt Point State Park with a pebble beach, surrounded by Bishop pine forests.

Ohlson Beach

A Sea Ranch beach accessible via a public meadow trail, featuring large rock formations and tide pools.

Black Point Beach

A secluded beach in Sea Ranch reached by a long staircase down steep cliffs, known for its dark sand and surfing.