2 Best Sights in The North Coast, California

The park's gorgeous sandy coves stretch for 17 miles from Bodega Head to 4 miles north of Jenner. Bodega Head is a popular whale-watching perch in winter and spring, and Rock Point, Duncan's Landing, and Wright's Beach, at about the halfway mark, have good picnic areas. Rogue waves have swept people off the rocks at Duncan's Landing Overlook, so don't stray past signs warning you away. About 2 miles north, calmer Shell Beach is known for beachcombing, tide-pooling, and fishing. Walk part of the bluff-top Kortum Trail or drive about 2½ miles north of Shell Beach to Blind Beach. Near the mouth of the Russian River just north of here at Goat Rock Beach, you'll find harbor seals; pupping season is from March through August. Bring binoculars and walk north from the parking lot to view the seals. Lifeguards are on duty at some beaches during summer, but strong rip currents and heavy surf keep most visitors onshore. Amenities: parking (fee); toilets. Best for: solitude; sunset; walking.

The easiest access to the sandy shore below Elk's cliff-top lodgings is at this state beach, whose parking lot sits across Highway 1 from the town's general store. A trail leads from the lot down to the shore, where the waves crashing against the huge offshore rocks are the perfect backdrop. Amenities: parking (no fee). Good for: sunset; walking.