Sonoma Coast State Park

Sonoma State Beach is nothing short of breathtaking. The coastline unfolds with dramatic beauty, rugged cliffs, rolling waves, and tide pools teeming with vibrant marine life. It is a place where nature speaks loudly yet peacefully. The tide pools are alive with wonder, offering an intimate glimpse into the ocean's delicate ecosystem. Sea stars, crabs, and anemones make this beach a living classroom for both the curious and the contemplative. Parking was surprisingly manageable, even during peak hours. Just be sure to plan ahead and arrive early if you want front row access to the more scenic entry points. Footwear and cleanup prep are essential. Bring an extra pair of shoes, a towel, and water to rinse off after exploring. The beach is clean but rugged, and the reward lies in being prepared. You can follow the main trails or carve out your own adventure along the coastline. There is a feeling of freedom here, a kind of quiet that invites you to explore, reflect, and just breathe. Highly recommended for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a reset from the noise of everyday life. Sonoma State Beach delivers the kind of beauty you carry with you long after the tide goes out.

Family time at the beach... lots of room but get there early as parking can be tough. Beautiful and clean beaches. Stay updated on the weather, it changes daily!

A huge park that contains several beaches with stunning views. It was very windy and foggy when we visited but still very beautiful.

Guys this place is absolutely beautiful. 10/10 am going again. Hiking, fishing, a nice drive with your people, it's defenently worth it. The weather isn't normally too hot, and there's often this mystical fog, especially in the mornings. You have your pick of beach way, rocks, etc. Or just drive a few minuts and youre in forests and hills.

Take the time to come visit this location and enjoy some amazing views of the Pacific coastline. You can do a small easy walk or get crazy and do a challenging hike in this area for even more wonderful sightseeing. I highly recommend you take the time to stop into Fishermans Cove, located at 1850 Bay Flat Road for some delicious Halibut and Chips. The clam chowder was pretty good as well.

Sonoma Coast State Park is a rugged, breathtaking stretch of California coastline. Here's a review highlighting the features you requested: Fog, Black Sand, and Cool Weather: Fog: The iconic California fog is often present, especially in the mornings and evenings. It adds a mystical, ethereal quality to the dramatic landscape. Be prepared for it to roll in quickly, obscuring the views and creating a cool, damp atmosphere. Black Sand: Some of the beaches, like Shell Beach, boast striking black sand thanks to the volcanic rock in the area. It's a unique sight, and the contrast against the crashing white waves and grey fog is stunning. Cool Weather: Even in summer, expect cool temperatures and a persistent breeze. This makes it a refreshing escape from the inland heat, but be sure to pack layers and a windbreaker. Sonoma Coast State Park offers a wild, untamed beauty. It's a place to reconnect with nature, hike along dramatic cliffs, explore tide pools, and simply breathe in the fresh ocean air. If you're seeking a sunny, warm beach day, this might not be the spot. But if you appreciate the raw power of the Pacific Ocean and the moody atmosphere of the fog, you'll fall in love with Sonoma Coast State Park. Tips: Check the weather forecast before you go. Dress warmly in layers. Be aware of the tides and surf conditions. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view. Keep an eye out for wildlife like harbor seals and migrating whales.

Beautiful but very windy and cool even in summer.

This place is absolutely gorgeous! Almost like a painting.... definitely worth the visit, was a little nervous to have my kids there but I kept an eye on them. They also loved it.

The Sonoma Coast State Park is absolutely stunning. It covers 17 miles of the Pacific Coastline and has a ton of different trails along the way. You can choose to walk along the coastline with spectacular views or enjoy more challenging hikes that offer sweeping views of the Sonoma Coast from up above it all. The Sonoma Coast State Park stretches along Highway 1 from Bodega Bay to the town of Jenner. There is plenty of parking and the drive along the Sonoma Coast is absolutely beautiful. If you go during golden hour, you will also have breathtaking views! You will have views of the rugged coastline and it's a great place to spend time soaking in the views!

I solo adventured to Sonoma Coast State Park in approximately 2018. I was looking for a beach a nice drive away from where I was living in the East San Francisco Bay Area and had found this site listed on the California State Parks website. I went exploring around a large rock named Goat Rock. I did not see any of the hoofed ungulates on my visit. To the south of Goat Rock, the beach was a little narrowed with occasional pieces of rounded sea glass and intact mussel shells. I picked one of the shells up and noticed a faint violet color. It was one of those light phenomena where exposure to light drains the color from the shell, meaning the next day the faint violet color was gone. Parking was limited and I was fortunate to arrived before the masses. There were not any trees for shade on the beach, though the cool of the water on my feet did provide reprieve from the warmth for my feet.

I have to pinch myself knowing the proximity of this gorgeous coastal park to where I live. Whether it's sunny or foggy it is beautiful. Today we walked from Shell Beach to Wrights Beach & back via the Kortum Trail.

Nature at it's finest. After working up an appetite at the beach, head over to Jilly's Real Food Roadhouse (just downhill from Goat Rock Beach in Jenner/Bridgehaven on the south side of the river). Great comfort food with awesome views.

Breathtaking doesn't even begin to describe how amazing this place is. I'm in total awe with each and every visit. So much to explore and so little time. Sonoma Coast State Park features a collection of beautiful beaches, campgrounds, and hiking trails that run along the Pacific Coast Highway from Bodega Bay to Jenner. If you've driven down highway 1 passed Bodega Bay, you've literally driven through the park. There are so many amazing beaches along this part of highway 1. And of course, the views of the coast are pretty much numbing. You can pull off to the side of the road, cross the street, and just lose yourself in the scenic coastal views. Although I adore the Bodega Bay beaches, I find that the ones closest to town tend to be the busiest. It makes total sense as these are more convenient. I prefer to drive further down into Jenner. First of all, the drive is so amazingly gorgeous. It'll be hard to focus on the road while driving through because you'll just want to keep on looking out the window. Another reason why prefer the Jenner side over the Bodega side is because it's left crowded and the beaches are way more secluded and peaceful. Two of my favorite Jenner beaches within this park are Blind Beach and Shell Beach. Both are stunning and never super crowded. Parking is usually pretty easy to find. You can actually swim in Shell Beach, but Blind Beach is more of a relax on the sand kind of beach (it's actually pretty dangerous to swim in Blind Beach). The hiking trails are wonderful here too! You've got the more popular hiking trails like Bodega Head and the Kortum Trail which are easy coastal treks. And then there are the more intense hiking trails hidden behind the coast side like the Red Hill and Pomo Canyon trails. Lots of different hiking trails that are all wonderful in their own way. There's also plenty of campsites in this park. I'm not much of a camper, so I can't lend any specifics on this. But, I have hiked through a few campgrounds in the area, and they've always appeared to be very peaceful. The weekends are usually busy and crowded, especially in the summer time. The traffic on highway 1 can turn into an absolute nightmare in the afternoons. You should definitely get here as early as possible or wait until right before sunset if you don't want to be stuck in traffic and/or competing with the crowds. I love picnicking here as well. There are lots of great places to stop on your drive in to pick up food and picnics supplies on the way. All in all, I'm truly in love with this place. It's one of my absolute favorite California coastal destinations. I'm so grateful that it's nearby so that I can take full advantage of its' beauty.

The drive along the Sonoma Coast is beautiful! The stretch from Jenner to Bodega Bay is spectacular! The State Beaches at the Sonoma Coast State Park is one of the most visited parks in California. It is actually a series of beaches separated by rocky bluffs and headlands and stretches 19 miles of spectacular views of the mighty Pacific Ocean as the road hugs the coastline. The drive is really curvy, don't drive too fast. There are more than a dozen view points along the Pacific Coast Highway 1 and there are some parts recommended for fishing, walking and picnicking. Anyone for a swim? NOPE! Sonoma Coast is not for swimming! The water will chill you to the bone! We also read about the dangers of rip tides and strong currents, plus the jagged rocks and powerful waves and the deaths caused by the cold water conditions, backwash and large unpredictable sleeper waves. Soooo we enjoyed the views with caution.... from the parking lots! LoL! Our first stop was seeing the Goat Rock. Blind Beach and Goat Rock Beach are separated by one huge rock (Goat Rock)... Goat Rock beach is home to a colony of harbor seals, we did not know about this until later. We'll be back next time to look for them. Looking forward to stopping and exploring the other beaches along the coast on our next return to Bodega Bay. Review #2188

Beautiful state park right on the coast. It's very beautiful in a nice day! We came on the day after Christmas and the rain. So the air was crisp and the view was amazing. Low to no winds and it wasn't packed when we came around 8 but got pretty packed when we were leaving around 11. We parked near Goat Hill and took Kortum Trail all the way down for 3 miles and back another 3- so 6 miles total. You can probably go further. There are no dogs allowed on this trail, which is a bummer because most dog owners are good and pick up after their dogs, but I know it's the ones that don't and ruin for everyone as we saw some large dog poop and a dog owner near with his large dog. Easy, fun trail, family and kids friendly.

There's something about this place that no other beach in CA has. It's peaceful, calm, & gives you such tranquility. It did for me at least. Instantly, it became one of my top favorite destinations near the ocean. And I live close to some pretty ocean spots in Southern California. This is way up there on my list. Bodega Bay is special. So many Instagram-worthy photo ops, if you're into that! There are picnic areas too. My fiancé and I enjoyed our mini trail here!

Went out to Goat Rock on Sunday and the weather was perfect just perfect and the wind was subtle, and it wasn't crowded at all! such a lovely spot at the coast amongst others!

Used to love coming here with my daughter and granddaughters many moons ago... now it feels run-down and forgotten. Where is the staff?... information picture signs are destroyed or missing... rangers are militant; unfriendly and seem to want to avoid you, instead of engaging and helping out the public... kinda pathetic. DJ

This is a beautiful place.. I have amped here but I have picnicked, hiked,, and photographed. It's about a half hour drive from Santa Rosa on two lane roads that themselves traverse some interesting little towns. The parking is free and it's not crowded, at least on weekdays in the afternoon. It reminds me of Big Sur with craggy rocks and nice clean beaches. Fog is a frequent visitor and it's actually interesting to watch it rolling in and out. You have to slow down and be still to really take it in. Of course hikes are quite pleasant as well but you need to get out of your car and just be there to truly appreciate this place. Parking is free and there's not much infrastructure of stores or food places so you need to bring your picnic baskets but that's a part of the unspoiled charm of the place.

Ofcourse breathtaking views by the water Beaches are always very calming Must must visit while you in Jenner Ca

I don't say this enough...California is one gorgeous State with tons of natural beauty. Mountains, valleys, forests, rivers, and beaches! Ooohhh, the beaches! Gorgeous No Cal beaches. Let me tell you about the Sonoma Coast State Park. It stretches 17 miles from the Bodega head to the Vista Trail about 4 mikes north of Jenner. It contains several beaches (Goat Rock, Shell, Portuguese, Schoolhouse, Salmon Creek) and about a dozen more unnamed access points. Each and everyone of them are gloriously breathtaking. Wild rocky headlands, windswept cliffs, tide pools, and gravely sand with pebbles of varying gorgeous colors. But I know it is tempting to take pebbles off the beach, just to let you know it is is a penalty to do so. Checkout the website for more deets on each individual beach. Also as always, the beach access is free. Gotta love that! However not all the beaches have restrooms. Plus please take note as the other Yelpers stated, these beaches are not really for swimming especially the beaches not sheltered by an inlet; there are riptides, strong currents, no lifeguards, and cold temp waters. Stay alert and never turn your back on the ocean. Enjoy and be safe!

Hiked in Sonoma Coast State Park on Monday morning. Not overly challenging in terms of the trails, but it is a lengthy hike. Well worth the extra time and effort because of the wide-ranging scope of nature you get to explore. Quality: We took a trail that started at Shell Beach went over Red Hill and down through Pomo Canyon before getting back to our starting point. While only two sections were challenging inclines, the length of the hike may dissuade some. However, it is hard to imagine a hike that lets you truly see all the different landscapes of California like this one. From the cliffs near the Pacific Ocean, to a high point providing panoramic views of the area, down to a Redwood forest, it truly is a bit of everything. It just takes some work to get to each. Quantity: Our hike of Red Hill and Pomo Canyon was more than 7 miles, and the park stretches much longer than that. Value: No fee to park or hike the trail. Ambiance: Sonoma Coast State Park is located near the Pacific Ocean just north of Bodega Bay. The park is massive with many different hiking trails and beach areas. We hiked a stretch near Shell Beach, which required traversing a mountain and then heading down a canyon into a Redwood forest. It is a long trail and one that was relatively easy to follow despite some missing signs. The lower route through Pomo Canyon was very muddy, which was surprising since it had not rained for several days. It was not a problem on the higher trail, so it may be a better option especially after recent rain. Crowd: It is a fairly difficult hike and it was Monday morning, so not too surprising to find it pretty empty. Service: The signs on the trail are sporadic, so we ended up passing our turn and needing to double-back. The lower trail was also quite muddy, despite minimal rain in recent days, so be prepared if you take that route. Parking: We parked in a free lot near Shell Beach, but there also appeared to be more parking on the opposite end of the trail in Pomo Canyon.

This 17 mile drive along route 1 impresses at every turn. Though it receives far less press than Big Sur, we enjoyed the drive more as there were more opportunities for stopping at a beautiful, relatively secluded beach or just pulling over at a turnout for photos without the hassle of traffic one experiences in Big Sur.

It's a great view to look at while driving but it's very windy! The water is super cold . The sand area is pretty clean

Came here on a whim in early October 2020 while staying in nearby Healdsburg. Went exploring at Goat Beach area and lots of great ocean views. Even saw Arch Rock too! So serene.

Hi it's Rocket! We are dog travel vlogger on YouTube. We recently visit the park and we loved it there, but be mindful! Dogs aren't allow on the beach. Ask the staff for the map called "where can I take my dog" there will be a list of dog-friendly beaches. We visit one of the dog-friendly beaches in this State park. Here's one called Blind Beach. Check it out. Don't forget to like and subcribe for more dog-friendly destinations https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxTF7YFjxsI

This ocean is all that I want oh the sand is all I have oh nature is spread like a buffet bon appetit yay! Appetite for pretty photo production Cool and fresh unlike an oven Air melts in my mouth and I love it Bon appetit, yay! Looks like nature has been missing I have those hiking eyes I could use some beach and views Because my nature/city level aint right Sonoma coast is a five star review A kobe beef hiking spot I want what my hiking guidebook is cooking, oh Let me go Under the sunlight I can let my eyes shine and dine At a great ocean view And it's okay (sung to the lyrics of "Bon Appetit" by Katy Perry) I knew I would be moving from the Bay Area soon (I did last week) so I had to visit a hiking spot I had not visited. I have been hiking in Marin since I was five, I have been there done that with almost every trail there (although I keep going back and doing them). I have even visited parts of the North Coast but I never actually hiked in Sonoma Coast State Park. Picking a time to hike on the beach is tough in NorCal. The beaches are gorgeous but only on the right day. If it's in the winter, it could rain, if it's in the summer, it could be foggy. But April, I have figured out is the best month for hiking. There's not much rain and it's not May or June when the fog rolls over the beach. So I went in late April. I went along the Kortrum trail from the main beach before Jenner and looked down toward Bodega Bay. Good amount of people but they were nice and I saw lots of beaches as well. I got great pictures of the coastline, hiked a bit more and then drove home. I drove by Bodega Bay and was realizing how it would be a great place to go with your boyfriend or girlfriend, it's quiet, there's nice hiking and nice quiet restaurants too. My only quibble was that the parking and exact trail locations were confusing but once I started hiking and taking pictures, I could not stop. I picked one of the most beautiful days this year to hike here and I am so happy I did. I enjoyed what nature served to me, bon appetit.

Here is one of the most beautiful and magnificent views on Planet Earth. We were at the dog-legal Blind Beach. Offshore are the photogenic sea stacks known as Arch Rock and many others. We entered through the large lot at the base of Goat Rock where we walked south onto the north end of Blind Beach. My family and I spent 1100 - 1600 Christmas afternoon December 2020 here. In backpacks we brought our own food, drinks, tp, towels, soap/hand sanitizer, masks, trash bags, layered clothing, and fully charged cell phones. Be prepared that the gate may be closed to vehicle traffic during day use hours when dangerous ocean conditions prevail. The first thing we noticed is that although there were several other families also enjoying the park that social distancing, carrying out own trash and no camping rules were being followed. We knew enough to be mindful of the dangerous water conditions that could jeopardize our safety. We never turned our backs to the ocean, always kept above the high water line and kept the grandchildren close to the adults. No dogs, including Service Dogs, are allowed on Bodega Dunes Beaches or in the dunes. Since all the adults in my family are Veterans, we all have the DISTINGUISHED VETERAN PASS - No Fee (Lifetime Pass). "Honorably discharged war Veterans who are residents of California with an overall / combined rating at 50% or greater Service-connected disability, or were held as prisoners of war by forces hostile to the United States, or recipients of the Medal of Honor are eligible to receive the Distinguished Veteran Pass. This pass along with a California drivers license or California Identification Card entitles the holder to the use of all basic facilities in California State Parks at no charge. The pass is not valid for group use or sites, special events, commercial use, additional/extra vehicle fees, or for supplemental fees and cannot be used in conjunction with any other pass and/or discount. Admittance and use subject to available space. This pass is a lifetime pass and is valid for use of the pass holder only. Although the benefits are lifetime, the pass holder's pass-card must be renewed every five years." There is a variety of other park passes available. "The RV Filling and Dump Station is closed. Like most north coast beaches, Sonoma Coast is NOT FOR SWIMMING. Strong rip currents, heavy surf and sudden ground swells make surf play dangerous. Picnic tables and restroom facilities are available. Goat Rock beach is home to a colony of harbor seals which are fun to watch, but everyone is required to stay at least 50 yards from the seals, especially during pupping season (March - August.) Due to the protected status of the seals, DOGS are NOT allowed on Goat Rock Beach. Dog are allowed on Blind Beach which is off the south parking lot at Goat Rock. Dogs must remain on leash. Goat Rock is part of the Russian River State Marine Conservation Area (SMRCA) and fishing is not allowed from the north side of the south parking lot to Muniz Ranch."

I have such great memories of this beach. In college we would come here to burn a Christmas tree in July, drinking beer and hanging out. One night the noctiluca were in, and the sea was shining green. Running in the sand left sparkly green footprints, and splashing the water was like throwing emeralds in the sky. It was beautiful. If you go to the left you see the arch rock, goat rock, and a beautiful vista, with a rocky shoreline. If you go to the right you come to a sand beach, and if you walk long enough you'll come to sea lions at the end. Swimming is not suggested on either side, it's a beach for walking and thinking. I visited recently and am again reminded of all the wonderful times spent at this beach, and appreciated again how beautiful and peaceful it is. It's worth visiting.

This is an absolutely gorgeous park! I came here to hike; and while there weren't a lot of trails, I certainly wasn't disappointed. Whether they were from the beach, the numerous overlooks along the road, or on top of the Red Hill trail--the views here were breathtaking!

Into the ocean blue sails One-Eyed Willy's pirate crew. Remember The Goonies? Yep. That's right. The beach scenes of that '80s classic were filmed right here at Goat Rock. Steven Spielberg could not have picked a more enchanting backdrop for the movie's finale. This windswept beach, with its craggy shoreline, is spellbindingly beautiful. And the sound of retreating waves washing over countless pebbles carpeting the shore is simply mesmerizing. p.s.: On the day we visited, no goats were in sight. Instead, thousands of seagulls greeted us (photos of them posted on Yelp).

This one of those places that no one really know about, yet its always packed when you get there... lol Located a mere three miles from Bodega Bay, the state park is perfectly situated at the mouth of the word famous Russian River and provides a magnificent ocean environment for anyone just wanting chill and get away from life. However, if the sight of twenty foot ocean waves scare the hell out you, then you can simply walk over to the portion of the beach that straddles the Russian River and have a mellow picnic lunch by the riverside. Out of all the things you might see here: kite flyer's, families, bbq'ers hikers, and sea lions and maybe the occasional whale if your lucky... The one thing you will NOT see at Goat Rock are swimmers. Goat Rock is one of the most dangerous beaches in California with massive undertows and rip currents. Think Ocean Beach times thousand. So, unless you want to die, I strongly suggest you pay attention to the numerous signs posted throughout the Park basically saying, "If you go into the water, you're going to die!"

I had to make a business listing for this part of Sonoma Coast State Beach because it is not Bodega Bay or Salmon Creek and is significant enough to get its own list. This is strictly a park but what a park. While Sonoma Coast State Beach is quite large it is full of scenery that is so beautiful I wouldn't want to see this part of the park overlooked. I have not seen any photos of this part of the park in any of the other listings so I felt compelled to have to add it as a listing. So I found this part of the park by Google streetview as just a photo, not really a view on the part of the street and as we came closer to this. In case your GPS doesn't register the address I put in (best I could do) try this as the follow coordinates: 38.441537, -123.125737 This should take you to the "rock" at the end of the State Park Rd where these is parking and a view of the rocks to the south in the middle of the ocean and the beach on the right. If you are in Sonoma county I implore you to check out this part of the park. It is breathtaking.

The Sonoma Coast State Park is the most breathtaking of Sonoma's state parks. The terrain is anything but flat. It's all towering cliffs with rocky outcroppings. The visuals make the white knuckle drive worth it. Sometimes, it's overcast, but it's just as amazing as when it's sunny. It's a contrast to Southern California's placid surfing&tanning beaches. Portuguese Beach, Bodega Head, Salt Point, Fort Ross, it's a wealth of sights and sounds. It's great for picnicking&hiking. Some places allow surfing, but check first. It's worth the trek up Highway 116 thru the redwoods- and the redwoods are as much a visual spectacle. A masterpiece of Nature.

Goat Rock Beach is absolutley Magnificent! It reminds me why I love Northern California so much. You are only 30 miles outside of San Francisco and yet you are worlds away. Goat Rock Beach has sandy beaches, with beautiful wildflowers along side Jenners rocky sea cliffs. The Russian River empties into the mouth of this bright green sea that is often a playground for harbor seals and sea lions. It is a beachcombers paradise!

I recently visited this park, and took a hike/stroll with friends. We had a lot of fun. I'd say the photos you'll get, and being out in the fresh, sea air will really perk you up. This is a perfect spot to take visitors, or to hike on a date, or with friends. I do have a word of warning: we hiked around noon on a sunny, Saturday, and had an incredible time. Mild, warm weather, with a light breeze. We enjoyed it so much, we came back later in the day to watch the sunset. The weather changed: it was very windy, and quite cold. Yes, the sunset was beautiful, but if you ever need a reminder how quickly the weather can change by the sea, this is yet another example of that. I strongly advise bringing layers. Even if you just have them in the trunk of your car, if needed. Happy Hiking!

Stay in one place long enough and you will be moved. Light bounced off the clouds and filled the fading sky with a drama deserving of this jagged place. The sun dove and lit the ocean below. Shadows crept across the water and shore. A band of gold on the horizon contrasted with the gray heavens, offering hope for something great in the distance--not out of reach. Served as a reminder that the earth turns and the sun will rise again on a new beginning. Never made it to the beach. Can only say the drive there provides a vista worth sharing for much longer than five minutes--and then some.

My friend brought me to an amazon spot called Sunset Beach! It was beautiful and secluded. The Russian river flows to a very shallow inlet.. You can kayak, body board or just even float. There is a $7.00 parking fee - and you can charge it if you don't have cash. Worth the drive up north!

Our first time here and the scenery is magnificent. The color of the surf pounding the rocks in incredible. Plenty of walking trails along the rocky ledges or hike above on the hills for a different but equally impressive view. Bring a jacket or sweater, the temperature along with the breeze cools things down quite a bit. One caution, while the waves and surf are beautiful, going in the water or out on the rocks is dangerous and not advised.

So happy when we preserve some of the beauty of our magical land. This is a great strip of coastline relatively untouched with 360 degree vistas the entire hike. Walk north towards goat rock and even down to the beach for a great lunch date. This place is often blustery and cold but not without it's rewards. For those less capable it is all reachable via road at several points to also enjoy without the hike. A great section of California coast. If you are inland or in the area it is worth a day trip. A drastic climate difference from inland typically so be prepared with layers, food and water.

This State Park has two great beaches at the bottom of a tremendous cliff that runs along the coast. Blind Beach is a dog friendly beach, Goat Rock is not. Both beaches are magnificent and have amazing rock formations that shape the view. It looks much like Oregon's Cannon Beach (of Goonie's fame). There was ample parking, but no running water. Two outhouses are all you have. Be prepared for a 10 degree drop in air temp compared to 5 miles inland and take a deep breath when sticking your toes in the ocean.... it's like ice cubes and instantly numbs your feet. This is a great beach to pack it in for the day!

Absolutely stunning and great for a quick getaway from the city grind. You will always find the freshest seafood and best beaches here! It does get very busy so if you decide to take a trip along the coast please follow Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines and keep our coast beautiful.

We went on an amazing hike here. We started way far back in the camp ground area at the end of willow creek rd. We hiked a trail called Pomo canyon trail. We went through a beautiful redwood grove, the trail was mostly uphill hill, and mildly challenging. Then the trail opens up to rolling hills, and a breath taking view of the Russian River, and the vast Pacific ocean. At the top of this hill was some very awesome picnicking spots with tables. The view from up here was astonishing, and a great reminder why I pride myself as born, and raised a Sonoma County local. And why now matter where in the world I go, I always want to come back home!!! Anyhow, a more direct route to get to this awesome picnic spot would be to park at Shell beach, and walk across coastal hwy 1, and up the hill on Pomo canyon trail, until you see the picnic tables at the top of the hill. Enjoy... and don't trash the place, or I will hunt you down, and it wont be pretty!!!

We stopped here to have lunch and were pleasantly surprised by the scenery. We ended up spending way more time here than planned because you can't help but stop and take in the views. Most of the beach area is not a swimming beach due to its steep incline into the water. The current will pull you right under. Still a wonderful place to hang out and enjoy the crashing waves and colorful plant life. We saw seals sunning out on the rock cliffs. One was even playing in the water.

This beach on the Sonoma Coast, (near the Russian River, Guerneville), is absolutely gorgeous. Wear layers, it was warm when we were there but the clouds can come in quickly. On the day we went the water was a beautiful jade green, changing to deep blue further out. It's not a swimming beach necessarily (not that most Nor Cal beaches are) because it's got a steep drop off and undertow but it's great for some wading and walking. We also got to see the seals and seal pups, an awesome treat. I haven't seen that many seals out of water, the look like big caterpillars inching across the sand, their movement is fascinating. The rock formations coming out of the water are quite beautiful, this beach is yet another gift from nature.

BEACH ACCESS I am not sure what the beach access is called but its off of Kornum Trail. I think it might be Blind Beach as Goat Rock was closed. Maybe some one will correct mt I think after reading the other reviews that this is it...the big amazing rock formation. Steep walk down through some shrub and steps. If you have babies or lots to carry it could be hard. Beach- small rocky until you get to water. Nice soft sand. Small enough area. Dogs allowed. Didn't see outhouse or any other facilities. Parking either off road or small parking lot. Not swimming as the undertoe seemed rough.

I can't really recall goat rock, but this entire coastline kicks ass. I found so many "secret" beaches that only I knew about. Well... at least for a good half hour before the inevitable motor bikers vroomed on in to spoil my moment. Still, an amazing time. Beauts!

Shell beach is a terrific spot for sunset views, tide-pooling and hiking. There is a wide variety of shells, rocks and pyrite even to be found. Something about the position of the beach makes it a great spot for geologists and folks looking for minerals or rocks. Field trips often visit w/ schoolbuses of kids during the weekdays. Although the bathrooms were worst I have ever seen and on a weekend off season I was surprised at how dirty they were.

Gorgeous state park stretching from North of the Russian river to down to Bodega headlands she'll beach , goat rock state beach , great hiking splendid beaches

Stayed 2 days mid week at Bodega Dunes Campground. Facilities were clean, well maintained and orderly. Rangers and staff were friendly and knowledgeable. We enjoyed our stay.

Joe and I were looking for a fun Northern California trip to get out of the city for a little bit, and the options are numerous at the Sonoma Coast State Park. Truly, some of the most beautiful Northern Cailfornian coastline around -- it is absolutely gorgeous. We went to Shell Beach & Goat Rock -- both worth checking out. In fact, every single beach I'm sure is worth checking out, wish we had more time. A great, gorgeous getaway.

The most beautiful coast in the U.S. Ranks with the Cliffs of Moor and the Amalfi Coast as one of the best views on earth.

Dear Goat Rock - The stuff you witnessed me doing at night as a teenager was both illegal and beautiful. Thank you for coloring my memories. You are also gorgeous now, if not ridiculously windswept in the winter. Thank for taking care of all the seals. I am sure they thank you too. Hope to see you soon. Love, Sarah

Windy as all hell, but absolutely beautiful. The arched rock is particularly amazing!

Please no dogs! I left my dog at home because I follow the rules. 7/19/11-Some young A-holes ignored all the no dog signs and and let their dogs run off leash.The dog ban on CA state beaches is to protect the Snowy Plover bird. The Snowy Plover will not nest if it just sees a dog. My dog loves the beach, so I take him to Sonoma County Beaches. BTW- lodged at rivers end in Jenner, Cabin One was Great

All the previous reviews are spot on and I want to put my vote in as well for this 5 star piece of nature. Spend the morning, afternoon, evening or the whole day and enjoy the splendor of nature. Personally I can't get enough of the views, vistas, panoramas, and wild life at a place that is almost like a private location on some days (especially early). Thank you Sonoma Coast. and Thanks to Duncan Mills for the nice pastries to take to the beach.

For me, Goat Rock Beach is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Located in Jenner where the Russian River empties out into the Pacific Ocean, tour guides aptly describe it as "the gateway to the ruggedly beautiful Sonoma Coast." While driving down to the parking lot along the winding road, park in one of the turn-outs & enjoy the breath-taking view of the vast ocean & craggy rock formations. You can also take a nice walk (about .5) along the trail to Blind Beach. Once you're at the bottom, you can visit the ocean side of the beach, watch the waves pound into the sand (do NOT play tag with the waves -- it's dangerous. California's lack of a significant continental shelf makes for one heck of an undertoad!) & then walk out to the point to watch the harbor seals lolling around. You can walk over to the river side of the beach, which is out of the wind & where it's safe to swim or kayak. It's beautiful & ideal for a picnic. You can enjoy the view of Penny Island (always crowded with pelicans, egrets, cormorants & other birds) & downtown Jenner, & there are also lots of nice, flat, skipping stones, & a sand dune that kids love to slide on. GETTING THERE: From downtown Guerneville & other points east ... take Route 116 West through Monte Rio, Cazadero, & Duncan Mills until the very end where it intersects with Route 1. Make a left to go south. The entrance to Goat Rock Beach is about .01 mile from Sizzling Tandoor (which will be on your left & which has incredibly yummy food)