Roadtrip through Sonoma County, advice and restaurant ideas

Question

My husband and I are taking a roadtrip from our home in Santa Cruz County to Leggett for 4 nights then to Guerneville for 2 nights and Bodega Bay for 2 nights. We planned this sort of last minute, we’re going the 2nd week of July.

I’ve got Leggett covered but I haven’t been to Guerneville since I was a kid in the 70s and I don’t think I’ve ever been to Bodega Bay. Which is surprising.

I mostly need dinner suggestions for one night in Guerneville, extra nice if it’s walking distance from Johnson’s Beach. Nothing fancy. Burgers are fine if they are good!

I also need some ideas on what to do between check out in Guerneville and 3 o’clock check in at Bodega Bay. I have Armstrong Redwoods planned then lunch in Monte Rio possibly. Suggestions on a good spot for lunch if you have them .

I’d like to stop at a beach for a nice walk before Bodega Bay. Suggestions on a scenic beach in the area would be great.

Bodega Bay restaurant suggestions if you have them.

We’re mostly looking to get away from the summer crowds at home and see some small towns that aren’t built up with chain hotels and restaurants. We’re not into wine tasting but my husband would enjoy a brewery.

In Bodega Bay we want to see some of the sights from “The Birds”.

No rush to get home after leaving Bodega Bay. It’s not a long drive. Considering stopping in Tomales Bay for lunch. Suggestions?

Thank you for the ideas. I think I have things well planned but if there’s something I missed that I shouldn’t have please share.

Answer

Your Sonoma County road trip sounds delightful! You’ve got a nice mix of redwoods, coast, and charming small towns. Here are detailed suggestions to help fill in your Guerneville and Bodega Bay days, plus some lunch and scenic stops along the way.

Guerneville Dinner Options (Walking Distance from Johnson’s Beach):

Redwood Cafe: Casual spot with good burgers, sandwiches, and hearty breakfast/brunch options. Relaxed and local vibe.
Big Bottom Market & Deli: Not far from the beach, excellent sandwiches, charcuterie, and casual outdoor seating. Great for lunch or light dinner.
Rio Nido Roadhouse: Cozy pub-style atmosphere with burgers, salads, and local beers. Short drive from Johnson’s Beach if walking is okay.
Guerneville Bank Club: Casual dining in a historic building; burgers and comfort food, usually local crowd.

Between Guerneville and Bodega Bay:

After checking out, you have time to enjoy a scenic drive and short stops before checking in to Bodega Bay. Armstrong Redwoods is perfect for a short 1–2 hour stroll through giant redwoods.

Lunch in Monte Rio: The Boon Eat + Drink offers casual, locally sourced dishes, good sandwiches and salads.
Alternatively, consider Big Bottom Market in Guerneville before leaving town for a quick takeout picnic.
Scenic Beach Stop: Doran Beach in Bodega Bay is wide and great for walking. Salmon Creek Beach is another option slightly north, with dramatic cliffs and tide pools.

Bodega Bay Dinner Recommendations:

Spud Point Crab Company: Famous for clam chowder and fresh seafood; casual and very local.
The Tides Wharf Restaurant: Waterfront dining, fresh seafood, pleasant for sunset views.
Bodega Bay Kitchen: Relaxed, quality seafood and small plates; good option for families.

Other Activities in Bodega Bay:

Visit the “The Birds” filming locations: Bodega Head, the cliffs overlooking the ocean, and the small harbor area.
Walk the Bodega Bay Trail along the cliffs for ocean views and possible whale sightings.
Check out local shops for Alaskan and Sonoma crafts if desired.

Tomales Bay Lunch Stop:

Nick’s Cove: Scenic bay views, seafood and casual dining; reservations recommended.
Point Reyes Oyster Company: Fresh oysters, clam chowder, casual picnic-style eating.
Osteria Stellina: Italian-style casual seafood in Point Reyes Station; a bit inland but lovely stop for a sit-down meal.

Additional Tips:

Guerneville and Bodega Bay are small towns, so reservations are not always necessary but recommended in July for popular spots.
For breweries, Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa is a short detour and a local favorite.
Arrive early at beaches to avoid crowds and get parking; July can be busy even on weekdays.

With this plan, you get a combination of peaceful coastal walks, redwoods, casual dining, and small-town charm, avoiding the major tourist congestion while enjoying the best of Sonoma County.

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