| Another fascinating attraction in the region is Sonoma Coast State Beach, though you may want to note that this beach is NOT for swimming! Just a 20-minute drive from Guerneville, this 5,000-acre coastal stretch offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and excellent opportunities to view local wildlife. It is a seabird paradise and at sunrise, you can enjoy watching hundreds of harbor seals and lone seal lions sleeping on the sandbars. In the winter, experience whale watching from Bodega Head, the rocky headland that forms the entrance into Bodega Harbor. The harbor side provides a popular crabbing area along the jetty.
Goat Rock, near the mouth of the Russian River, is known for its scenic shoreline and sandy beach. Picnic tables and restroom facilities are also available. Goat Rock beach is home to a colony of harbor seals. Please stay 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.
Shell Beach is a favorite location for beachcombing and viewing tide pool life. The beach is used by schools as an outdoor classroom for the study of tidal pool marine life and it enjoys a reputation as a prime fishing spot.
Duncan's Landing is famous for 2 things: as a landing for loading small coastal ships and for being the most dangerous point along the Sonoma Coast. Due to large and unpredictable surf, please heed the signs and stay off the rocks for your own safety.
Portuguese Beach and Schoolhouse Beach are beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by rocky headlands. Rock fishing and surf fishing are popular in these locations.
Salmon Creek Beach is a popular summer destination. Nearly 2 miles of unbroken beach make this an excellent place for surf fishing, beachcombing, and picnicking. Surfers are here when the waves are good. No dogs and no fires are allowed on Salmon Creek Beach due to the protection of the snowy plovers, listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act as a threatened species.
| 
