Sonoma Coast is a rugged stretch of northern California shoreline between Sonoma and Bodega Bay, known for dramatic cliffs, wide sandy beaches, and surfing-friendly waters.

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Geography

ContinentNorth America
RegionWestern US
SubregionCalifornia Coast
CountryUnited States
StateCalifornia
CountySonoma County
DistrictSonoma County
CitySonoma Coast
TimezoneAmericaLos Angeles
Latitude38.23
Longitude-123.05
Maps
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Sonoma Coast traces the windswept shoreline north of San Francisco Bay and south of Oregon, threading through state parks and protected marine areas. Expect cliffs and headlands that plunge to exposed beaches, stirred by Pacific swell, and where kayaking, tide-pooling, and long-distance hiking along the California Coastal Trail surge in popularity. Towns and landmarks — including Bodega Bay, Jenner, and Sonoma State University — mark key points along the way, each with its own character. The coast is as much about wild scenery and seasonal storms as it is about quiet coves and protected seal habitats; plan for variable weather, and look to local sources for trail conditions and Marine Protected Area boundaries.

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