Bodega Bay-cation

A HIDDEN GEM NESTLED IN THE SONOMA COAST , BODEGA BAY IS A SMALL TOWN FAMOUS FOR THE FILMING OF ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S 1963 FILM “THE BIRDS.” IF YOU’VE SEEN IT, THIS CLASSIC FLICK MAY BE THE REASON FOR A PHOBIA OF FOWL. BUT HAVE NO FEAR, BODEGA BAY’S BIRDS ARE HARMLESS; IN FACT, THEY ARE ONE OF THE BELOVED ATTRACTIONS OF THE AREA.

Bodega Bay can turn an average bird lover into an ornithophile waiting to dive into bird guides and binoculars. For two miles of beach ideal for birdwatching, kite surfing, paddling, surfing or picnicking, take a cruise over to Doran Regional Park. The shoreline connects to the Bird Walk Coastal Access Trail. Also, if you want to stick to a Hitchcock bird theme, scenes from the movie were filmed at The Tides Wharf & Restaurant and The Birds Cafe.

While bird-watching may be what draws some visitors in, other nearby outdoor adventures include flying kites, whale watching, kayaking, fishing, clamming, horseback riding, golfing and hiking.

Bodega Bay is a romantic region surrounded by lush greens, marshland and sea. The tranquil town provides more than just a pit stop on a road trip. There are fun and quirky shops, like the popular Candy & Kites, which is filled with everything from kites to souvenirs to books to sweet treats. And with numerous outdoor activities and eateries, Bodega Bay’s unique rugged beauty and breathtaking vistas provide the perfect backdrop for your next vacation.

So, while "The Birds" may have put Bodega Bay on the map, the fresh seafood, cheese and wine, paired with offbeat wildlife adventures, are what keep visitors coming back. A working fishing community, this friendly town is notable for its fresh and sustainably caught seafood. Filled with fishing boats, wharves and marinas, the Bodega Harbor is home to fresh-off-the-boat seafood spots.

Spud Point Crab Company, voted best White Clam Chowder on the Sonoma Coast, totes in fresh seafood straight from the local fishing boats. Enjoy items ranging from sandwiches to cocktails (the food kind) at this seafood eatery, all experienced with adjacent bay views.

Fishetarian Fish Market is a Bodega Bay staple. The low-key waterfront outdoor restaurant serves freshly and sustainably caught seafood ranging from Maui Wowie Oysters to Fish-n-Chips to Clam Chowder to Prawn Tacos and more. For those who don’t enjoy delights from the sea, the Adult Grilled Cheese is a must eat. Oozing with Valley Ford’s cheese, grilled onions and fig jam, it definitely won’t make you feel like you are sitting at the kiddie table.

For more of that delicious cheese, Valley Ford Cheese & Creamery is just 10 minutes outside of Bodega Bay in Sonoma County. The family-owned company produces delectably handcrafted cheeses made from 100% Jersey cows’ milk. The flavorsome cheeses are featured in several dishes at local restaurants, but can also be enjoyed at the storefront, along with other bites, soft serve and coffee beverages.

However, if it is wine that your tastebuds are craving, Sonoma Coast Vineyards provides visitors a relaxed flight tasting experience with sweeping ocean views. Wine aficionados can enjoy a part of the Sonoma Coast without the drive to wine country. Though, if you are up for the drive, there are plenty of notable vineyards nearby.

Bodega Head Trail is a relaxed 1.9-mile hike through wildlife with scenic trails and beautiful bluff top views. Sightseers may spot seabirds, whales, seals and additional marine life. The picture-worthy Bodega Head is also accessible by car. A few minutes before Bodega Head is the epic PG&E fail turned noteworthy spot, Hole in the Head. When activists stopped the plans of a nuclear plant, the project was dropped and the excavated hole has since filled with water over the years and turned into a playground for birds and other wildlife. The hole can be accessed via Campbell Cove.

While this small Northern California town has plenty of options to host your next stay, our choice is The Lodge at Bodega Bay. Guests can enjoy neverending scenery through private balconies overlooking the ocean and marshland. The spacious rooms are equipped with fireplaces offering warmth during brisk nights. >>

Early morning walks on the acres of flawlessly landscaped grounds are mysteriously serene with the fog encasing the property. Within hours, the fog rolls out and it is time to start the day. The Lodge offers complimentary morning yoga, Pilates and guided mediation with stunning coastal views. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s amenities — heated pool, infinity hot tub, sauna, spotless gym, fire pits and bocce ball court. A quick walk or bike (with complimentary cruisers from The Lodge) sets guests in the nearby bird sanctuary and nature preserve — perfect for more bird watching.

In addition, the resort provides informational booklets wrapped around the room keys. From bird species to eateries to wine tasting, these handy booklets will set you on the right path to Sonoma County's must-see spots.

The on-property restaurant, Drakes Sonoma Coast, infuses The Lodge’s garden-picked herbs with local produce and products to create fresh one-of-a-kind dishes. Chef Damon Jones hones in on the region’s abundance of fresh seafood, meat and local cheese along with honey from the property’s own beehives to create seasonal menu items. Sip and savor your way through dinner with perfectly paired wine for each course. The refined lodge atmosphere provides incredible eats without feeling stuffy — while getting stuffed. After dinner, sip on a craft cocktail at the 300year-old Elm Tree bar, located inside the restaurant.

Outside, guests can cozy up at Drakes Fireside Lounge near a fire pit table. The outdoor spot provides a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy similar Drakes menu items in a more comfy setting — not to take away from the exceptional dining experience inside the restaurant.

Additional resort offerings include tasty services like S’mores S’Monday where guests can roast and enjoy the treat in the lobby. Lodgers can also experience local wines and light snacks in the Den from Thursday to Saturday evenings at The Lodge’s Wine Receptions.

The Lodge at Bodega Bay underwent a multimillion renovation amid its 50th anniversary. The gorgeous updates turned this hotel into an elegant coastal hideaway intertwined in the natural beauty of the wild woodland and Pacific Ocean. Blending comforting calmness with exciting eats, The Lodge at Bodega Bay provides a home base for the busy traveler’s body and mind.

To see it all, a car is a great option to explore Bodega Bay and Sonoma County as a whole. However, Bodega Bay is easily explored on foot, bikes and quick Lyft/Uber rides. No matter your mode of transportation, this hidden gem is a don’t miss g