Mariposa de la Luz

Explore the best walks to see Sonoma County autumn colors. Discover scenic trails, gardens, and vineyard views that make walks unforgettable.

Bodega Bay is home to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful coastline in Northern California. Craggy bluffs with epic drops jut out into the sun-splashed sea. Stunning rock formations dot the background while colorful wildflowers enchant in the foreground. And on certain days, dense, low-lying fog rolls across the mystical seascape presenting what can only be described as an ocean of clouds. With no fewer than two dozen beaches in this idyllic seaside village nestled between San Francisco and Wine Country, Bodega Bay is a dreamy slice of paradise. From horseback riding at Bodega Dunes, to windsurfing and kitesurfing at Bodega Harbor, catching waves at Salmon Creek, or sipping wine overlooking the sunset on the ocean, Bodega Bay has an experience for every taste. And while it is undeniable that some of the most striking vistas in Sonoma County are found in Bodega Bay, the views are not its only claim to fame. Many movies have been filmed in this quaint beach town, including Alfred Hitchcock’s classic, The Birds. If you get high enough, you might even find yourself channeling your inner Tippi Hedren and running away from the film’s iconic schoolhouse with your arms flailing for a hilariously Instagrammable moment to remember – or if you’re really high enough, forget. And since there’s nothing quite like launching into the stratosphere while you’re literally already elevated, Bodega Head, with its stunning bluff-top views, is a must. Here, every vista is worth savoring. There are many hiking trails that lead to the beach below, where you’ll find small, sandy coves to enjoy your altitude in. Remember, in California it is illegal to consume cannabis in public places. Be discreet, take your roaches with you when you leave and please respect Mother Nature when visiting these beautiful lands.]]>