Last updated on April 27th, 2023 at 12:32 pm
Best Dog-Friendly Beach in Bodega Bay. Complete Guide
Table of Contents
13 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Bodega Bay
Here’s a complete list of pet-friendly beaches in Bodega Bay:
- Bird Walk Coastal Access
- Campbell Cove Beach
- Carmet Beach
- Dillon Beach
- Doran Beach
- Furlong Gulch Beach
- Marshall Gulch Beach
- Pinnacle Gulch Beach
- Portuguese Beach
- Schoolhouse Beach
- Shorttail Gulch Beach
- Westside Park
- Wrights Beach
Looking for a place to take your furry friend on vacation? Bodega Bay is a great destination for dog lovers. There are 13 different beaches that allow dogs, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your pup. From coastal walks to sandy shores, there’s something for every dog in Bodega Bay.
However, we have an unquestionable favorite – the best dog-friendly beach Bodega Bay, and that is Doran Beach. Read about it and the rest of the dog-friendly beaches on our blog.
The Bodega Bay region is a one-of-a-kind location on the Pacific Coast. Bodega Head, an part of land in the Pacific Ocean that projects into the sea, protects Bodega Harbor and much of Bodega Bay, ensuring that these regions’ waters are very calm and serene, making Bodega Bay an ideal destination for a beach vacation with your pet.
Bird Walk Coastal Access
- Park Name: Bird Walk Coastal Access Regional Park
- Address: 355 Highway 1, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Bodega Harbor is a popular birdwatching destination, and the area offers many other activities for visitors. Bird Walk Coastal Access is a Sonoma County park on Bodega Bay with hiking trails and marshes that have been revived by the Department of Parks.
Coastal Access in Bodega Bay is right on the water, making it perfect for bird watching. The park has an accessible loop trail with benches that goes around ponds and through the wetlands. The parking lot is located off Highway 1 and there is a fee for parking. Dogs are allowed on leash.
You can also walk to Doran Beach from the park. The bird walk trail is open to bikes, so you can explore the area even more. This is a great spot to come and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Campbell Cove Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: Westshore Rd, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed on the beach
Campbell Cove Beach is a sandy beach on Bodega Head, just within the entrance to Bodega Harbor in Bodega Bay, California. The beach is flat at low tide and completely submerged at high tide due to its shape. There is a tiny basin behind the parking lot called “Hole in the Head” that contains a few tide pools. The beach is great for fishing, bird watching, and picnicking.
Dogs are allowed on the beach but must be leashed at all times. There is a designated area for dogs to play in the water.
A plank walkway leads to the Hole, where you may see the birds in this one-of-a-kind location while staying aware that Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds was filmed here. Stop by here to learn about Bodega Head’s history and the unresolved mystery of how the Hole was formed (a planned Nuclear Power Plant). Campbell Cove Beach is located in Sonoma Coast State Park.
Carmet Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: 4790 N Hwy 1, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on the beach
Carmet is a tiny housing community north of Bodega Bay, CA, with a rocky shoreline and the name Carmet Beach. This beach is one of several fishing beaches in Sonoma Coast State Park.
There are steep trails that drop down to beaches on both sides from the parking lot along Highway 1. The southern cove is the largest and sandiest, connecting to Marshall Gulch Beach. The rocky beach at the northern cove stretches north up a small boulder-filled shoreline before ending at Schoolhouse Beach. Because of the strong surf and limited width of the beach, Carmet is not recommended for swimming.
Carmet Beach is a great place to take your dog for a walk, as they are allowed on the beach. The beach is also perfect for fishing, as there are many rocky areas where you can cast your line.
Dillon Beach
- Address: 1 Beach Avenue, Dillon Beach, CA 94929
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Dillon Beach is a privately-owned beach located in town of Dillon Beach, CA. The beach is owned by the Dillon Beach Resort, but anyone can enjoy it for a small fee. The waves at Dillon Beach are bigger than at nearby Lawson’s Landing, making it a popular spot for surfers. When the tide is low, visitors can explore the tide pools.
The resort has a cafe, general store, surf shop, and cabins for rent. To get to Dillon Beach, take Dillon Beach Road from Tomales, CA.
Doran Beach
- Park Name: Doran Regional Park
- Address: 201 Doran Beach Rd, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Are dogs allowed on Doran Beach? Yes, leashed dogs allowed.
Doran Beach is located in Doran Regional Park, on the spit at the entrance to Bodega Harbor from Bodega Bay. The wide beach on the bay side is a great place for walking, and the harbor side beach is narrow but still offers beautiful views. There are many trails throughout the park for exploring, and fishing is also a popular activity.
To get to Doran Beach, take Doran Beach Road off of Highway 1 in Bodega Bay. There is a small fee to enter the park, but it is well worth it for the beauty and amenities the park has to offer.
Furlong Gulch Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: Hwy 1 and Carlevaro Way, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed on the beach
Furlong Gulch Beach is located in the Sonoma Coast State Park where Furlong Gulch Creek meets the Pacific Ocean. It is situated between Shell Beach and Wrights Beach. The beach is not especially big, but it is stunning, with numerous rocks and seastacks in the surf, especially when viewed from the north.
If you’re looking to get to Furlong Gulch Beach, start from Highway 1 and turn onto Carlevaro Way. Once on Carlevaro Way, the road will split–take the northern route on Grill Way to get to the trailhead for Furlong Gulch Beach.
Keep in mind that it’s best not to swim in the waters there because of the strong currents.
Marshall Gulch Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: Carmet Dr and Hwy 1, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Marshall Gulch Beach is a small beach located in Sonoma Coast State Park. The beach is below Highway 1 and is only accessible at low tide. There is a large rock called Arched Rock that is visible from the surf. The hole in the rock is only visible from Arched Rock Beach, which is south of Marshall Gulch Beach.
Pinnacle Gulch Beach
- Park Name: Pinnacle Gulch Public Beach Access Trail
- Address: 20600 Mockingbird Rd, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Pinnacle Gulch Beach is a beautiful, hidden beach located at the bottom of Pinnacle Gulch in the Bodega Harbor housing community in Bodega Bay, California. To get to the beach, visitors must hike a wide mile-long trail that begins across the road from the parking lot.
The beach is narrow, so visitors should avoid high tide. However, at lower tides there are tide pools to discover, especially on the south end of the cove. There is a larger beach to the south, accessible via a road. This beach is in a semicircular cove with high bluffs.
The Pinnacle Gulch parking lot is located past homes and a golf course in Bodega Harbor. To get to the parking lot, visitors should drive the Heron Drive loop road to Mockingbird Road and follow it to the left. Parking is not free. Across the street from this lot is a parking area with an entrance fee.
Portuguese Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: Eureka Dr and Hwy 1, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed on the beach
In Sonoma County, Portuguese Beach is a broad, open beach that runs between Bodega Bay and the Russian River. The beach is one of the largest sandy beaches in the area and features a main parking lot at the south end, as well as another pullout parking area just north along Highway 1.
At low tide, visitors can walk the beach up to Scotty Creek Beach. It’s important to note that swimming is not advised at Portuguese Beach due to cold temperatures and strong rip currents.
Schoolhouse Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: Viking Strand and Hwy 1, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed on the beach
Schoolhouse Beach is a wide beach located on the Sonoma Coast between Bodega Bay and the Russian River. The beach, which belongs to Sonoma Coast State Park, is popular for fishing. At any tide level, Schoolhouse Beach and Portuguese Beach are fantastic places to explore.
The parking lot for Schoolhouse Beach is situated just off Highway 1 at the north end of Carmet, a tiny housing community. Because the water is cold and has strong rip currents, swimming is not advised.
Shorttail Gulch Beach
- Park Name: Shorttail Public Beach Access Trail
- Address: 20600 Mockingbird Rd, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Shorttail Gulch Beach is a great option for those looking for a little more privacy and solitude, as it is hidden away in the Bodega Harbor housing community. To reach the beach, you’ll have to take a half-mile trail with steps down to the sand – but it’s well worth it once you get there. At low tide, you can explore the tide pools at the north end of the beach, and if you continue in that direction you can make a loop hike back to your car via the Pinnacle Gulch Trail. Just be sure to park in the Pinnacle Gulch parking lot – not at the Shorttail Gulch Trailhead – as there is no parking available at the trailhead itself.
Westside Park
- Park Name: Westside Regional Park
- Address: 2400 Westshore Rd, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Westside Park is a beautiful regional park located on the west side of Bodega Harbor in Bodega Bay, CA. The park is extremely popular among fishermen due to its many facilities that allow for both day-use and overnight camping.
In addition to being a great spot for fishing, Westside Park also has a boat ramp and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a day on the water or relax on the shore.
For those who love canoeing and kayaking, this is also an excellent spot to put in and explore the bay or harbor. And if you’re looking for a sandy beach, Campbell Cove is just a short drive down the road. Beyond that, the road leads up to Bodega Head, where you’ll find another parking lot and a wonderful loop trail with incredible views.
To reach Westside Park from Highway 1 in Bodega Bay, simply drive out Eastshore Road and turn onto Bay Flat Road, which will become Westshore Road. The park is located just south of the Spud Point Marina.
Wrights Beach
- Park Name: Sonoma Coast State Park
- Address: Shoreline Highway, Bodega Bay CA 94923
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed
Wrights Beach is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a sandy beach between Bodega Bay and the Russian River. The campground is small, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation if you’re planning on visiting during the summer.
Duncans Landing, also known as “Death Rock”, is another day-use area at the south end of the beach that’s definitely worth checking out. Just be careful around the area where waves crash on the rocks.
In addition to being a great spot for swimming, Wrights Beach is also perfect for hiking. The Kortum Trail starts here and continues north to Shell Beach. This is just one of the many trails available in Sonoma Coast State Park.
Whether you’re looking to swim, hike, or just enjoy the scenery, Wrights Beach is a great destination for a day trip or overnight stay.
Pet-Friendly Activities
Of course, Bodega Bay is not only the beaches and state parks of California. Here, as well as in the nearby cities, you can try many other activities. And they will also be dog-friendly
Pet-Friendly Wineries
In the Bodega Bay area, everyone can find a Dog-Friendly Winery to their liking. Here learn about wine tasting, vineyards, and how grapes are grown.
- Mutt Lynch Winery (Windsor)
- Sip Sip Lounge at Matrix Winery (Healdsburg)
- West Wines (Healdsburg)
- Bartholomew Estate Winery (Sonoma county)
- Larson Family Winery (Sonoma county)
- Kunde Family Winery (Kenwood)
Pet-Friendly State Parks in Sonoma County
Sonoma County Regional Parks
Has 50+ recreational sites that allow dogs on leashes no longer than six feet. This park district include:
- Doran Regional Park (Bodega Bay)
- Forestville River Access with a wide, sandy beach along the Russian River
- Gualala Pointe Regional Park (The Sea Ranch)
- Hood Mountain Regional Park (Santa Rosa)
- Riverfront Regional Park (Healdsburg)
- Steelhead Beach (Forestville) with a picnic tables;
- Sunset Beach River Park (Forestville) with a picnic tables.
Monte Rio Community Beach (Monte Rio)
Dogs on leashes and with dog licenses or rabies certificate are permitted on the Sandy Beach section (west of the bridge) of this Russian River beach in Monte Rio, California, which is managed by the Monte Rio Recreation and Park District.
California State Parks
Pet Policy:
- Dogs are allowed in most state parks, however they must be leashed no longer than six feet long
- Non-service dogs are not allowed in buildings or on trails where dogs are prohibited
- Dogs are not permitted on most state beaches for sanitary reasons
- Dogs are not allowed on any state coastal trails or at Goat Rock beach in Sonoma County
State parks in Sonoma County include:
- Austin Creek State Recreation Area
- Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
- Jack London State Historic Park
- Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Everyone’s visit to California State Parks should be pleasant, so don’t leave your pet unattended and remember to clean up after them.
Watch this space for more information about when your furry friend can enjoy the beach again:
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Fines for Dog Owners on the Beaches in Bodega Bay
Bodega Bay is a popular destination for dog owners, with its beautiful beaches and scenic trails. However, it’s important for dog owners to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding dogs on the beaches in Bodega Bay. Failure to follow these rules can result in fines and penalties.
Firstly, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times when on the beach. This is to ensure the safety of both your dog and other beachgoers. If your dog is found off-leash, you may face a fine of up to $500.
Secondly, there are designated areas on the beaches where dogs are allowed. It’s important to stick to these areas and not bring your dog into non-dog-friendly areas. If your dog is found in a non-dog-friendly area, you may face a fine of up to $500.
Thirdly, it’s important to clean up after your dog. This includes picking up any poop and disposing of it properly. If you fail to clean up after your dog, you may face a fine of up to $250.
Lastly, it’s important to be respectful of other beachgoers and their space. Your dog should not be allowed to disturb other beachgoers or their belongings. If your dog is found causing a disturbance, you may face a fine of up to $250.
In summary, dog owners in Bodega Bay must follow the rules and regulations regarding dogs on the beaches to avoid fines and penalties. These rules include keeping your dog on a leash, sticking to designated dog-friendly areas, cleaning up after your dog, and being respectful of other beachgoers. By following these rules, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience for all.
FAQ
Does Goat Rock Beach Allow Dogs?
No, dogs are not allowed north of Goat Rock and south of Marshall Gulch.
What is the best dog-friendly beach in Bodega Bay?
The best dog-friendly beach in Bodega Bay is Doran Regional Park. This beach is known for its long stretch of sand, calm waters, and plenty of room for your furry friend to run and play.
Are there any restrictions for dogs at Doran Regional Park?
Yes, there are some restrictions for dogs at Doran Regional Park. Dogs must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed on the picnic and BBQ areas. However, there are designated dog-friendly areas where your dog can run off-leash and enjoy the beach.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near the dog-friendly beaches in Bodega Bay?
Yes, there are several pet-friendly accommodations near the dog-friendly beaches in Bodega Bay, including Bodega Bay Lodge, Inn at the Tides, and Bodega Coast Inn & Suites.
What other activities can I do with my dog in Bodega Bay?
In addition to visiting the dog-friendly beaches, there are several other activities you can do with your dog in Bodega Bay. You can go hiking at the nearby Sonoma Coast State Park or enjoy a scenic drive along the coastline. You can also take your dog on a wine tasting tour at one of the many dog-friendly wineries in the area.
Are dogs allowed at Bodega Dunes State Park?
Dogs are allowed at Bodega Dunes State Park and there are no additional pet fees. Dogs must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long.
Are dogs allowed at Bodega Bay Dunes?
Dogs are not allowed at Bodega Bay Dunes. This area is a protected wildlife habitat, and dogs can disturb the wildlife and damage the delicate ecosystem.
Which beach is easiest to access in Bodega Bay?
The easiest beach to access in Bodega Bay is Doran Beach. This beach has a large parking lot right next to the beach, making it easy to unload your beach gear and get straight onto the sand. There are also restrooms, showers, and picnic areas nearby.
Are dogs allowed at Bodega Bay Trailhead?
No, dogs are not permitted. According to the bay area hiker website, there are no dogs allowed at Bodega Bay trailhead.
Is Bodega Bay beach dog friendly?
Dogs are allowed on the beach, but must be leashed.
Can I bring my dog to the Russian River?
The Russian River region is dog-friendly, with accommodations and parks to explore. There are several vacation rentals, resorts, B&Bs, and inns that welcome dogs. The regulation on all the parks will be “6 foot leashes.” Some coastal beaches do not allow dogs at all.
Are dogs allowed on Sonoma County beaches?
You may take your leashed dog to the following Sonoma Coast State Park locations in picnic/camping areas and on beaches. At all times, each dog must be on a six-foot-maximum leash and cannot be left alone.
Conclusion.
Overall, Bodega Bay is a great place to bring your dog. There are many beaches, state parks, and wineries that are dog-friendly. However, there are some restrictions in place, so be sure to check before you go. All in all, your pup will have a great time exploring all that Bodega Bay has to offer!
As more and more beaches start to allow your furry friend, we’ll keep you posted so that way there is no need for worry:
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