Staff Picks

As always, this much anticipated time of year comes right before the Thanksgiving Holiday and just in time for Hanukkah, Christmas, and the New Year. And since we like to give you the rundown on all things crab, we decided to do a quick list of some of our favorite facts on this delectable crustacean.

Did you know that the Dungeness Crab is considered to be a sustainable seafood, which makes this environmentally friendly dish even more delicious to enjoy? These crabby creatures are named after their habitat—which is a long stretch of sand located in the Pacific Northwest. Another fun fact is that native Californians have traded in their Thanksgiving Turkeys for this sweet, delectable crab meat. If your vacation brings you to Bodega Bay this winter, it is a must that you get a fresh bite of the almighty Dungeness Crab! 

These unique forests have many different functions and are a crucial resource for all types of sea creatures that live in the cold California waters. Kelp is a nutrient-rich algae that triples as a meal, hiding place, and nursery for animals like sea urchins, sea lions, and rockfish. Although kelp looks like a giant green plant, it is actually a fast-growing algae that can grow up to 18-inches a day. This fast-moving leaf seems to be doing just fine, however, it is currently in grave danger of disappearing. With warmer than usual water temperatures, overfishing, and a rise in sea urchin levels, these special forests are beginning to diminish. Help the Kelp is a great program from the Bodega Bay Area to increase the awareness of kelp destruction and to begin to protect and rebuild these crucial habitats. To learn more about the urgent kelp crisis, be sure to check out their landing page here. 

Some of the most beautiful scenery and color-changing takes place during this month, and there are tons of great trails to choose from along the coast and through the vineyards. Serious hikers will enjoy strolling through Jack London Historic State Park, where over 20 miles of fresh trails and tons of turning trees can be found. Or try a hike in the Russian River Corridor, where trails line the plunging cliffs and others are just steps away from the vineyard grapes. Our front desk staff has great recommendations for walking tours or local trails just feet away from our lobby. Get out and take in all the fresh air that Bodega Bay has to offer—it's the type of crisp you'll want to bottle up to bring back home with you. 

A total Northern California bucket list item is to attend the Annual Old Grove Festival at the historic Redwood Forest Theater in Armstrong Redwoods SNR. This delicate, backwoods festival is what dreams are actually made of. Picture yourself in a clearing in the middle of hundreds of giant redwood trees, listening to live music while sipping on wine with twinkling lights, and voilá!—you're at the Annual Old Grove Festival. This antique stage was built in the 1930s for performers to integrate their performances with nature and to bring a unique experience to the audience. And unique it is! Purchase your tickets online to secure your spot at one of Northern California’s most unique musical experiences ever! 

Built in the 1800s as a small family farm, this property began to grow as the wine country in this area started to expand. It was abandoned in the 1990s but recently renovated in the last decade to become the perfect little oasis it is today. The new owners wanted to preserve the uniqueness of the property by maintaining the agriculture values that it was once built to be, which is why you will find several of the original buildings still standing today. The first seeds that were planted were Merlot grapes in 1960, and the property has flourished ever since. Spend an afternoon at this rustic, yet luxe vineyard—it might be the most talked-about part of your trip! 

Oysters are a staple summer food here in the Bodega Bay area—and just as fast as grapes grow on vines, oysters grow just as quickly in the sea! There is nothing quite like the flavor of a freshly plucked oyster that comes right from our backyard in the North Pacific. The fresh, juicy taste of an oyster being shucked right in front of you is not something you can replicate just anywhere. In fact, one of our favorite summertime activities is visiting Hog Island Oyster Co. for the 'Shuck-Your-Own Picnic' with family and friends. This unique BYOB experience includes a picnic table with grill, oyster shucking tools, lemons, hot sauce, freshly grated horseradish, Hogwash, and a quick shucking lesson. Eat and grill your heart out this summer with your very own oyster picnic party! Talk to the front desk to make your reservations in advance.

As of now, there are at least twenty-four craft breweries in the area and people have been flocking to Sonoma lately exclusively for the beer. So much so that the Beer Trail was invented to encourage a similar culture to wine tasting but with craft brews.

June is particularly exciting for craft beer enthusiasts because Beerfest The Good One will be taking place the first weekend in June. This festival showcases over sixty regional breweries and cider mills in one single event. Plus you can feel good about indulging in fine beer because the net proceeds from this festival go directly to Face to Face, a non-profit organization with a mission to end HIV in Sonoma County while supporting the health and well-being of people living with HIV/AIDS. Taste beer and support a great cause the first weekend of summer in Sonoma County! 

Marvel at the breathtaking coastline that kisses the Pacific Ocean from 20,000 feet above sea level. You may even catch sight of a whale tail or two!

The best part about touring by helicopter is the amount of ground that you will cover in such a short amount of time. You can expect to get from the San Francisco Bay to Bodega Bay in under thirty minutes. This adrenaline-fueled adventure is fun for the entire family or perfect for a romantic outing with your favorite person. Plan your wild Bodega Bay excursion today with the help of our front desk staff.  

April 2nd is the 24th Annual Battle of the Brews. It says it in the name but its craft beer time and the competition is fierce. Indulge in local brews and delicious bites at this annual festival by purchasing your tickets online in advance. 

April 27th is the Spring Farm Tours: Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies. Learn about life on a Sonoma County Farm when all the farmers of the area open up their doors for tastings and tricks of the trade. It's a great family-friendly event and a fascinating insight into a world we don't normally see.

April 28th is Fungi Fest. This funky food festival is hosted by Gourmet Mushrooms, Inc. and raises money for the Ceres Community Project, a non-profit organization that focuses on healing humans, the community, and the earth. Feast on mushroom-inspired dishes and dance to live music during this fun daytime outing. 

Each Spring these perfect little pups flock to Goat Rock Beach to frolic and with other frisky new-born pups in the area. From just 50 yards away you can basically see the detail in their little faces and hear their sweet little barks, while their family guards them ferociously during playtime. Goat Rock Beach is located in Sonoma County and is just a skip away from the hotel. Be sure to ask our front desk about the best time of day to catch these little guys in action. We know you are here for the wine, but you might just want to stay for the pups! 

Each February on President’s Day Weekend, the Cloverdale Citrus Fairgrounds are lit up with rides and people from all over the state. The Citrus Fair Grounds are not only home to a weekend of fun rides, delicious eats, and shows, but they also host an abundance of other events all year long.

One of the more well-known events being North America’s largest wine competition, The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition that is held on the same weekend. Be sure to head to the Citrus Fair or even pop over to see the Wine Competition. There is so much to do this weekend at the Clover dale Citrus Fairgrounds! 

It’s Dungeness Crab season here in California and there are so many great ways to celebrate. Crab season begins the first week in November and runs through the month of June—which means, for eight full months you can enjoy freshly caught, delicious meaty crab from ocean to table. Not only can you capitalize on some of the best crab meat while you're in California for every meal, but you can also get your hands dirty and catch your very own crab! 

There are two ways to go crabbing while you are in town. The first option is right on-shore—you can catch up to 10 crabs per season without a permit right from the pier. Or you can hire a boat for the day and have them show you the ropes of what it is like to be a professional crabber. We think both options are awesome! 

Although the Bay area is buzzing around this time of year for the holidays and the new year, it is also a great place to step back, enjoy the natural beauty, and ring in the all the holidays at your own pace. Since Bodega Bay is so centrally located, you have many options on how to spend your holiday season during your visit. If you like the hustle and bustle of a big city, San Francisco is just a quick hop away. If you’re seeking out a more rustic vibe, Sonoma County is right in our own backyard. But if you truly want the essence of nature and a calm spirit, Bodega Bay will be your happy place. All you need is a blanket, beach, and a bottle of wine to make any night here in the Bay special! 

So it was no surprise to us locals when Alfred Hitchcock decided to film “The Birds,” right here in Bodega Bay. Aside from the delicious wine that is developed all around us, a huge point of interest for many tourists here is the film’s landmarks that are located around town. 

Before arriving at Bodega Bay be sure to watch the 1963 thriller to get a full idea of the horror that is perceived to take place in our quaint little town. Once you are acquainted with the film, set out to see a few of the historic sights where the filming took place. A few fan favorites are the Potter Schoolhouse and St. Theresa of Avila Church, located practically side by side.

If you are one of those that can’t get enough of this delicious pink fish, make sure you stop by Bodega Bay to get the full salmon experience. There are charters all throughout the Bodega Bay area that will teach you how to hook and catch your very own salmon, so if you are one that likes to get the full fishing experience, be sure to add this adventure to your trip. Not to worry, if you are more into eating than fishing, you can be sure that all of the salmon you order in local restaurants will be completely fresh and delicious—and almost every eatery will be serving some type of salmon on their menu this season. So sit back relax and enjoy the delicacies of the salty sea.

We know so much, in fact, we wanted to remind you that September marks the first month of grape harvesting season. That’s right, all the freshest grapes will be plucked from their cozy vines and turned into delicious bold wines! It also means, wineries all over Sonoma County will be releasing their yearly anticipated new wines of the season. 

There are a lot of ways to celebrate this fun time in Sonoma County. You can try your hand at grape crushing, or you could do as the locals do and attend one or two Harvest Season events. This is our favorite time of year and we are excited to share it with you, stop by the concierge desk today to find out which party we are recommending while you are in town. 

Lucky for you, Sonoma County has its very own professional baseball team, The Sonoma Stompers. The Stompers are affiliated with the Pacific Association of Professional Baseball Clubs and have been since established since 2014. They play forty home games, all centrally located at the beloved Historic Arnold Field in downtown Sonoma. Grab your baseball cap and your mitt and try your hand at to catching a foul ball for the perfect Sonoma souvenir! Purchase your tickets online or grab them right at the park, but don’t let the summer end before watching a few games downtown. This is just one simple way to ensure that you made this summer a home-run for the entire family. 

No matter what time of year, ocean temperatures are pretty chilly up here in Northern California —however the toasty warm weather of the summer really helps balance out the bite. If you’re an advanced surfer, be sure to grab your board and hit the waves with some of California’s finest beachcombers. But if gliding on a board through a big swell isn’t for you, grab a towel and watch the locals go from the shore. A few of our favorite spots to catch some good wave riding or do some people watching are Salmon Creek and Doran Beach. Both of these beaches fill up quickly in the summertime with tons of people who are ready to hang ten, be sure to grab a spot early!

We are surrounded by so many beautiful nature preserves, redwoods, cliffs and sand dunes. A great way to see Bodega Bay and still be outside is by horseback. One of our favorite companies Horse n’ Around offers trail rides, as well as rides on the beach and all over Bodega Bay. This a great group activity or you can take a ride solo with a trail guide. The state of California is so dynamic with the ocean, mountains, and forest all within a short radius. There is something beautiful about the peaceful trails and quiet ride through the beautiful backcountry of California. Saddle up and grab some of your pals for a fun day out on the ranch!

Spending time out on the course with the fresh ocean breeze is a great way to unwind after traveling, and it has become even more enjoyable as the summer months approach Northern California. Schedule your tee-time online or give them a ring to help schedule the perfect afternoon for you and your friends out on the green. 

If golf isn’t your thing, it's no problem to wait for your pals while touring the gorgeous beaches and marshes of The Links. After your round of golf, stop by the Bluewater Bistro for a crisp glass of California wine. There really isn’t anything quite like the peaceful serenity of the sport.

So fresh in fact, that Petaluma Sunrise Rotary Club has decided to throw an entire festival on their behalf. Mark your calendars for Oysterfest on Saturday, April 14th — $60 gets you in the door for all you can eat raw and barbecued oysters on the half shell, linguine with clams, Caesar salad, and freshly baked French bread. 

The Rotary Club has partnered with Bodega Bay Oyster Company and Hen House Brewery to raise money for the Rotary Fire Relief Fund that is aiding our displaced neighbors from the devastating fires that happened last October. This event is a fun way to give back to the community while still enjoying your Saturday over handcrafted wines, micro beers, fresh oysters and great live music. Buy your tickets here before they all the oysters are shucked!

With a mix of the sea, bay and dry winery areas, Sonoma County has been deemed one of the most important birding destinations in the nation and around the world. Specific birding locations vary in the Bay area, some are tucked away on coastal cliffs or woodlands, and you can see certain species living peacefully in residential neighborhoods too.

There are many types of rare birds that live in the Bay, people are frequently on the lookout for the Great Horned Owl and various types of hawks that can be spotted soaring above the clouds. You can find a full list of locations and birds that can be found in the area on the Sonoma County Bird Watching Spots website here. Drop what you're doing and go get your birding on!

Our in-house spa does it all—choose to remain in the comfort of your own room for your services or come visit us down at the treatment center. All of our treatments mirror the style of living we like to achieve here in Northern California, so you can expect an artisanal experience and fresh, local feel when it comes to our specialty services. We use ingredients from our own backyard to ensure an authentic spa experience. Try out our treatments that infuse cabernet grape seeds and tiger clam seashells—a gentle scrubs that cleans your skin and quiets your mind.

If there is one thing you must know about us here on the Sonoma Coast it is that we don't mess around when it comes to our chowders. This driving event takes you to nine different restaurants in three hours. With two tasting times this year, you can choose between 10a m and 12 pm or 12 pm to 3 pm. Tickets include all 9 tastings, a souvenir spoon, and a voters ballot. 

Grab a few friends and see what the California chowder is all about, compare your results, and aid in selecting 2018’s Chowder King of the year! Each location will have designated parking for participants AND the event is pet-friendly. Come one, come all, join for this year's Chowder Ball! 

Each year the Pacific Grey Whales migrate from the Arctic seas down to the Baja coast for warmer climate and mating. Lucky for us, they can be spotted moving south from the shore of Bodega Bay. What started as awareness for the dwindling numbers of these majestic creatures, has quickly turned into a pastime that people from near and far like to participate in. 

The best time to see the grey whale from the coastline is between the months of March through June, when the mothers swim closer to shore to protect their brand new babies. If you are one that likes to get a little closer to the action, be sure to check out the private whale watching charters in the area that will give you an up-close and personal peek at these beautiful, majestic mammals.

In light of the recent wildfires that have been roaming across Northern California, Bodega Bay has been a relief spot for many—a short drive away from Sonoma County and Santa Rosa but just enough sea breeze to keep the air fresh and the fires away. 

Wildlife preservation is an important aspect to the California community and we are glad to have a safe place for our neighboring cities. Part of preserving our beautiful state is to learn what to do in an emergency—knowing the best escape route, following local campfire laws, and keeping extinguishing equipment nearby, are just a few ways you can protect yourself, loved ones, and the environment from creating a wildfire. Check out Prevent Wildfire CA to learn more about wildfire prevention.

Even more than that, we love to harvest it. All October long, you can count on festive events revolving around the grand harvest in the county. Be sure to check out the Sonoma County Harvest Fair. Try your hand a grape stomping or choose from over 500 different wines to taste, all made with Sonoma County grapes. Pop into any of the wineries throughout the month of October and get a sneak peek of the brand new wines that are being served up. Even though October is the golden month for harvesting it doesn't mean it is the only month to celebrate. Check out the Sonoma County website here to continue the harvest party all year long!

The effort that goes into the conservation of our coastlines is crucial, and Californians have always been Mother-Nature-forward and ready to jump on opportunities that affect our world in a positive way. With at least twelve State Marine Conservation Areas, ten State Marine Reserves and three Recreation Areas, it seems as if recreational activities are extremely limited in Northern California, but the reality is that many of the areas deemed "protected" have learning opportunities available in the Bodega Bay area—not to mention that 80% of open water is available for recreational fishing. The ocean is crucial to our life here on planet earth, especially in the Bodega Bay region, get involved and learn something new while visiting us in NoCal! Check out California’s Marine Protected Areas to learn more about our beloved coastline here!

Much of the California coastline has strict regulations and conservation efforts to keep the ocean thriving and the marine life healthy. The delicate Pacific ecosystem has some of the most unique and crucial elements of the natural environment. The Marine Protected Areas are listed for all to see and specifically target kelp forests, rocky reefs, and tide pools, all which help to sustain the environment. But don’t be afraid to check out these delicate, mystical underwater wonders. Get involved while visiting Bodega Bay by setting up a day tour or educational experience and responsibly encounter the beauty that is Bodega Bay. Don’t be shy! Click here for a quick video about the coasts of California—and you can also check out the live feed of our coastlines here. 

Kick-off your summer vacation with locally sourced foods and a few of our favorite vendors at the Occidental Bohemian Farmers Market every Friday beginning at 4 pm and ending around dusk. The type of afternoon that fills your heart with warmth, this farmers market is the ultimate community builder. People travel from all over the coast to get a bite of vegan Paella, check out the local artists and get their fresh veggies and fruit for the week. Being able to spend time in the open air while handpicking ingredients is paramount to California living. Make your vacation as local as possible and visit the Occidental Bohemian Farmers Market like a true Northern California folk would.

Champagne & Oysters at Korbel’s Champagne Cellars is the perfect excuse to indulge in bubbles and fresh seafood. Swing by on Father's Day and enjoy a selection of Nellies Oysters from Tomales Bay with a few sips of perfectly paired complimentary champagne. 

Take your Dad to the caves for a day at Gloria Ferrer and an afternoon of pizza, beer, and sparkling wine. The coal fire will be blazing and ready for your arrival on this perfect Sunday treat.

Do it yourself and bring your bubbles to the beach. Treat your father to an afternoon near the seashore and bring your own supplies for the perfect family outing. With a handful of beaches to choose from, your sandy adventure can be as private or busy as you would like!

The start of this month is full of activities and rich culture for art, nature, and architecture lovers alike. On May 6th at Dorian Regional Park, you can be swept away into childlike bliss. Spend your day lying on the beach mesmerized by the colorful kites that flood the sky or try your hand at sandcastle sculpting. But if the arts are what peak your interest, you may want to scuttle down to the Salmon Creek Artwalk May 6th and 7th to check out 20 different exhibitions that will be open to the public. On May 13th you can get a sneak peek of California's finest architecture by attending the Architectural Tour and Wine Tasting on the Mendonoma Coast. The summer is here, it’s time to play! 

For the old souls—the ones who love to use their hands—a cheese-making class may be in your destiny. Sheana Davis, owner of The Epicurean Connection, has been hosting monthly cheese-making classes for the last few years and is a notable chef in Sonoma County and abroad. 

The class begins with a locally crafted wine and cheese tasting while Sheana talks you through the different style of cheeses and how they can be used seasonally. The chef then walks you through her process of making fresh cheese from anywhere with ingredients you can find at home. If this isn’t the farm to table California you have dreamed of, we truly don’t know what is.

Spend your morning among the Redwoods in Armstrong Park or get a fresh start to the day at one of the many beaches along the coast. Bodega Bay has a surplus of activities available, all revolving around the natural environment. So much so, that you will find that this lifestyle has even made itself onto your dinner plate! An abundance of produce and meat that is used, has been locally sourced from local farms and fisheries from the region. It is almost a sure bet that nearly anything you consume while you are here, is from somewhere nearby. Grab a glass of wine and a seat among friends—sit back, relax and enjoy your trip here, in Bodega Bay.