Whether you’re a seasoned rider or have never ridden, Horse N around Trails is perfect for you! We love trying new things and we opted into the 30 minute ride, which took us on a little loop through their beautiful farm and a small forest. Most of the girls on the ride were also beginners so we appreciated that the horses were calm and easy to direct. We also had a great lead, who not only helped us to get onto the horses but rode in front of us to help direct our path.

Although we weren’t able to take advantage of the spa services due to Covid, we were able to use the massive hot tub and pool. We stayed at the Bodgega Bay Lodge which not only had the most amazing view from our window but also offered amazing spa services like massages and facials. In the evening we were provided a crisp bottle of white wine and in the morning we were given breakfast to go. The rooms all either have a view of the ocean or an indoor fireplace, so either way you’ll have a cozy experience. I recommend visiting when the spa services are available so that you can take advantage of all amenities.

Sonoma Coast Vineyards is one of the most breathtaking wineries I’ve visited. The winery sits directly above the beach, overlooking the bay. The wine is fantastic, the service is amazing and the view is unbelievable. You can take stairs down to the water for a closer look but there isn’t much else to do since this isn't’ an actual beach. If you do plan to visit, make sure to make your reservation about a week in advance in order to save yourself a table, they are very limited. I would also highly recommend purchasing the wine flight which costs about $40. The flight comes in mini carafes of four different wines to taste based on the season. The carafes are large enough that you can share this experience with two people.

Doran Regional Park is not only a beach, but also a great place to picnic or camp. It cost $7 to visit and park your car for the day (cash only) but you can also stay the night if you want to camp. We visited for the day, brought a basket of goodies and drinks and played games on the beach. Most of the spots have tables to sit down but I’d recommend a blanket so that you can sit closer to the water. I’ve visited Doran Park a couple on a couple occasions and the weather can be freezing and windy or it can be warm and sunny. The best way to be safe is to bring a jacket and couple of blankets, because even when it’s cold it’s worth the view.

We did not get a chance to go kayaking because we only visited for two days although there are a few places who offer kayaking and stand up paddle boarding on the bay. The water is fairly calm, unlike an ocean so it makes it a bit easier for those who haven’t tried it. Bodega Bay Kayaking would have been the company we chose to rent kayaks because they not only offer rentals but also offers rentals. Make sure to call and book an appointment before you visit since all of the activities in this area are fairly popular.

Spud Point Crab

Spud point crab company has the best, and I mean THE BEST crab sandwiches you’ll ever eat! They are also the home of my second favorite New England clam chowder (second to the clam chowder in Pismo Beach) and my first favorite Manhattan style chowder. Our group visited during Covid so all of the orders were to go, and the line was a bit long but I promise it’s worth it! The crab sandwiches are a bit small so I would recommend ordering that and either a cocktail or clam chowder. We ordered our food and took it to Doran Park for a picnic, since the outdoor seating didn’t have a view we wanted.

Tony's Seafood

Tony’s Seafood is actually in Tomales Bay but only about a 20 minute drive from Bodega Bay. You need to make a reservation before visiting, and you typically have your reservation for about an hour and a half total. I would recommend ordering the oysters, and the clam chowder. I’m obviously a huge clam chowder fan but this one was much different than any I’ve ever had. Tony’s serves it almost as a creamy sauce on a bed of clams which I really enjoyed. I would also recommend the grilled cheese to share, it’s a bit rich for just one person but the perfect treat to split. We also ordered a bottle of wine that pairs well with the meal and a perfect drink to share with the table.

Fishetarian Fish Market

The Fishertarian market is right next to the winery, so after you spend the afternoon sipping on wine, drive right over to the fish market for dinner. Most places are walkable, although the walk is along the highway and pretty dangerous so I’d recommend driving. If you plan to take your food to go, I would order online or call in because the line for togo orders is fairly long. My favorite meal was the fish and chips along with the fried calamari, both were super fresh. While you’re waiting in line, take a walk over to the dock area, you’ll find a ton of sea lions lounging around during the day.