Bodega's Beautiful Bird Walk

Enjoy The Bird Walk Coastal Access Trail in Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay may be best known as the backdrop for Alfred Hitchcock’s famous movie The Birds, but there’s a softer side to the dramatic coastline here, and its resident birds!

Thank the Sonoma County Regional Parks Department for revitalizing the saltwater marsh at Bodega’s Bird Walk Coastal Access Trail, which loops around two ponds and provides a bird’s–eye view of serene Bodega Bay. Bird Walk Trail is adjacent to the marsh, which is home to thousands of feathered friends, among them snowy egrets, willets, and northern pintails.

From the small parking area, walk up just a few feet to the 1-mile trail and choose your own direction. You can’t really get lost. A few benches make nice vantage stops. We recommend connecting to the Cheney Creek Bridge Trail, which literally bridges to Doran Regional Park and its 2 miles of white sand beach and BBQ area. Tomales Point unfurls to the south, complemented by the bluffs of Bodega Head to the west. 

Park at the small Bird Walk Coastal Access Trail parking lot on Hwy. 1 (map), or go into Doran Regional Park and start the walk there. Either way there’s a $7 parking fee. Wheelchair accessible trail. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Redwoods Star Power

    Go on a 5-mile (round-trip) redwoods hike that starts from Chabot’s Moon Gate entrance and through Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, then visit the Chabot Space and Science Center for a rooftop telescope star viewing or a space

    View
  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

    View
  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  4. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

    View
  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View