With more than 425 wineries, Sonoma County wine country is known around the world. But there’s so much more to this stretch of scenic Northern California than just vineyards, and all it takes is one trip to The Lodge at Bodega Bay, set on the rugged Sonoma Coast, to understand and appreciate the diversity of the region.
The Lodge at Bodega Bay (formerly known as Bodega Bay Lodge) features 83 rooms spread throughout four stunning acres. All accommodations boast water views. I live an easy drive from the property, so I’ve visited multiple times.
Accommodations
During my most recent getaway, I stayed in the fairly recently renovated Coastal Bodega Bay Upper room category. The second-floor room featured a king bed, a wood-burning fireplace, and a vaulted ceiling. The balcony featured lovely views of Bodega Bay.
The bathroom vanity offered ample room for two. In addition to a walk-in shower, there was a deep soaking tub and a toilet. Other amenities included a small refrigerator, a Nespresso coffee machine, and an electric kettle.
On a previous visit, I stayed in an Ocean Club Suite. Though the room shared walls with other single-story suites, it felt more like a polished seaside cottage than a traditional hotel room. The views of the Pacific Ocean and Bodega Bay from the room’s bay front patio were particularly striking.
The king-size bed didn’t dominate the spacious suite, thanks in part to a generous living space with a wood-burning fireplace, queen sofa bed, cushy chair, and coffee table. Nautical-inspired artwork added fun pops of color to the light and airy space.
Along with a double sink vanity, the bathroom included one of my favorite hotel amenities — heated floors. There was a square walk-in shower, soaking tub, and toilet.
Public Spaces and Facilities
The heated pool, infinity hot tub, and fitness center offer commanding views of the coast. Steps away, there’s also a sauna and a small spa. Wooden chairs and fire pits scattered throughout the grounds make it easy to sit and stay awhile.
Complimentary yoga, mat Pilates, meditation, and nature walks are offered throughout the week. Activity times vary; inquire when checking in.
A wine and cheese reception is offered in the hotel lobby every Thursday through Saturday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. S’mores fixings are available in the lobby every Sunday through Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dining Options
The property’s Drakes Sonoma Coast is open for breakfast and dinner. Start your day with selections such as Huevos Rancheros, Eggs Benedict with spinach, or a fruit smoothie. At dinner, expect a menu studded with options from nearby producers such as fresh oysters from Hog Island Oyster Co., local cheese from Valley Ford Cheese & Creamery, Della Fattoria bread, and locally caught black cod. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for suggestions.
- Get a Car Rental
- Buy Travel Insurance
More than a dozen Northern California wines are offered by the glass. Along with draft beer, there’s also a half-dozen signature cocktails to consider. If you are a rum drinker, The Secret Life of Plants is a standout, and it’s just fun to say.
Good to Know
The property is located about a 10-minute walk from Doran Regional Park. The sheltered stretch of sand is a favorite beach among locals for strolling, surfing, and birdwatching. If you aren’t in the mood to walk to the beach, The Lodge at Bodega Bay has a fleet of complimentary cruiser bikes. You can also drive to Doran Beach; ask the front desk for a pass to avoid the parking fee.
The Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport is the closest airport. It’s only a 26-mile drive, but its convenience can be overshadowed by its somewhat limited flight schedule. Depending on where you are headed, San Francisco International Airport may be your best bet. Give yourself at least two hours to make the 85-mile trip.
The Lodge at Bodega Bay is 30 miles from the popular Sonoma County wine country hotspot, Healdsburg. Plan on a solid 45-minute drive.
ADA rooms are available. If you have any mobility concerns or will be traveling with lots of luggage, it’s important to keep in mind that the lodge does not have elevators.
Rates for rooms in the Coastal Bodega Bay Upper room category range from $740 to $1,440, depending on the time of year. There is no resort fee; Wi-fi and self- parking are included. Electric car chargers are available for an additional fee, but guests must download an app on their phone. I found them complicated to use.
Check rates online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Hotels.com.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by The Lodge at Bodega Bay, but as always, her thoughts and opinions are her own.
