Birding around Bodega Bay

Why do we go all the way to Bodega Bay? To see loons close up – the Common, Pacific, and Red-throated species are all possible. To see Brant, the sea geese that spend the winter here. To see Double-crested, Brandt’s and Pelagic cormorants side-by-side, to strengthen our ID skills. This is a great place for birders of all levels and birders new to Northern California.

We’ll meet at 9:30 am at the Tides Wharf and Restaurant, outside on the deck behind the restaurant. There are restrooms here. From the Tides we'll drive out to Bodega Head, and later bird Porto Bodega and other stops around the bay. Precise itinerary tbd by tides and conditions.

This is the Norcal coast so be prepared for damp, cool, breezy weather---regardless of the forecast. Bring lunch, as we will gather for a picnic lunch out near Bodega head. There are restrooms at the meeting point, and pit toilets at several stops along our route.

A carpool location will be announced to registrants. Given the distance, and limited parking at some of our stops, it is helpful to carpool either from our home area or once we set out from the meeting point.

Hike Rating: 1 - Easy, with little elevation change

L eader: Matt Tarlach, bWRiYWZpZWxkdHJpcHMgfCBnbWFpbCAhIGNvbQ==

Meeting point: Behind the Tides Restaurant, Bodega Bay.

GPS: 38.328869668535894, -123.04502163182391

Directions: Take US 101 north to Petaluma. Exit at Washington and head SW. Washington becomes Bodega Ave, which becomes Petaluma-Valley Ford Rd, which eventually merges into CA Hwy 1. Take Hwy 1 to Bodega Bay. After passing the Inn at the Tides, you'll see the Tides Restaurant on the left. From Walnut Creek, it’s about a 2 hour drive.

[image by Pam Lorenz]

Also check out other Meetups in Bodega Bay, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Bodega Bay.