Long sandy beaches below rugged headlands, a craggy coastline with natural arches and secluded coves are features that make Sonoma Coast State Park one of California’s most scenic attractions. The Beach, actually a series of beaches separated by rock bluffs and headlands, extends 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail located 4 miles north of Jenner. Beachcombers, fishermen, sunbathers and picnickers can access the beach from more than a dozen points along Highway 1.

Marshall Gulch itself offers a quieter entry point if you want to avoid the busier stretches. The coves here have that dramatic Northern California feel—dark sand, churning water, and the kind of wind that actually feels good on a hot day. The rock formations create little protected areas where you can sit and watch your dog explore tide pools or chase the occasional wave. It’s the kind of place where the ocean feels genuinely wild, not sanitized.

While the north coast weather can be foggy in the summer, it usually burns off by midday and the cool ocean breezes make the Sonoma Coast a legitimate escape from inland heat. Even on warmer days, you’re rarely dealing with that oppressive warmth you get inland. The combination of cold water and coastal winds means your dog won’t overheat, which is worth a lot when you’re trying to spend a real afternoon at the beach.

The beach is located between Jenner and Bodega Bay on Highway 1, making it accessible whether you’re coming from the north or south. Parking can be tight on weekends, so arriving early helps. Dogs must be on a maximum 6-foot leash, and watch for sneaker waves if you’re letting your dog get near the water’s edge—the ocean here has genuine power to it.