Doran for Days

Relax and Picnic at Doran Regional Park in Sonoma County

08.07.2024

Want the best seats in the house for your beachside picnic or barbecue? Beeline to Bodega Bay’s sprawling Doran Beach (aka Doran Regional Park). Just get there early because summer parking fills fast! At Doran you’ll have 2 miles of sandy beach and a BBQ area.

The drive there is beautiful too, out on a scenic spit of land protecting Bodega Harbor from the rollicking Pacific. Picnic tables with fire rings are sheltered from wind by crescent-shaped walls, with great views too!

Tomales Point sits to the south, with the bluffs of Bodega Head to the west. Even if you’re opting for a simple picnic, this beach can be beautiful for spreading a blanket and relaxing.

And if it’s one of those windy days … well, a little drama isn’t so bad – just be sure to bring layers!

Tip: Doran Regional Park also has several coastal campsites, some of which overlook Bodega Bay. 

Doran Beach is in Bodega Bay (map). There is a parking entrance fee. Beach wheelchairs are available upon request. Arrive early as parking fills quickly and closes if full. More info. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

    View

  2. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  3. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View

  3. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View