Bodega Bay, a small coastal village of about 1200 people, is steeped in history and beauty. It offers the traveler endless opportunities to explore nature, dine on fresh coastal seafood, and relax. However, while visiting Bodega Bay, please watch out for the birds.
Situated on the Sonoma Coast, Bodega Bay and the neighboring village of Bodega are possibly best known as the locations for Alfred Hitchcock’s horror film, The Birds. Nearly three years in the making, The Birds was released in 1963, starting an age of horror fantasy films that brought interest to this area that has lasted sixty-plus years.

A lesser-known fact and one of historical importance was an event that culminated in 1964, a year after The Birds was released.
In 1958, PG&E announced plans to build a steam-powered generating plant at Bodega Head, on Bodega Bay. However, as details emerged, the plans were for this to become the world’s first commercially viable nuclear power plant. (sonomacountygazette.com/sonoma-county-news/how-bodega-head-almost-ended-up-with-a-nuclear-power-plant).
As information spread, a grassroots movement evolved from the local residents such as a waitress, a housewife with children, a widowed landowner, and others who lived in and were concerned about the community. These ordinary citizens formed a solid opposition to PG&E’s plans. Finally, in 1964, these plans were decertified when PG&E withdrew their application.

“The Birds” may have put Bodega squarely on the map in the eyes of the world due to Hitchcock’s masterpiece; however, Bodega Bay and the surrounding communities had a much more significant national and international effect, showing what activism can do. This small, quaint coastal village may be most important as “the birthplace of the anti-nuclear and environmental movement,” as local concerned citizens took up the mantle of protecting the environment.
Whether visiting the area to steep yourself in the history of movie-making or the environmental movement or to relax, regroup, and recharge your mind, body, and spirit, Bodega Bay offers an atmosphere long lost in most areas. It is a quaint fishing village filled with coastal diners, fish markets, small local stores, hikes, water activities, and beautiful unspoiled views. Check it out for yourself.

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Don’t forget to visit some of “The Birds” historical film locations around Bodega.
• Potter School House (now a private residence)
• St. Teresa of Avila Church
• The Tides Wharf and Restaurant
• The town of Valley Ford (One of the film’s most iconic scenes is when Lydia, played by Jessica Tandy, discovers her neighbor Dan’s body. This scene was filmed on a farm in the small town of Valley Ford).

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Where to Stay, Eat and Play

Six decades after filming The Birds, tourists, film buffs, travelers, and adventurers continue to flock to Bodega Bay to explore this Sonoma Coast fishing village.
Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino discovered the area in 1602, and over 150 years later, in 1775, Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra sailed into the bay, establishing contact with the Native Americans and beginning a fur and agricultural trading center. When you visit Bodega Bay, take some time to close your eyes and visualize the history of this area.
There are several lodging choices in Bodega Bay, from camping to small inns, cottages, and luxury resorts. One such place where I recently stayed was The Inn at the Tides. The inn is built on a hillside with a magical bay view. While you sip a glass of wine, watching the sparkling bay stretched out in front of you, with windsurfers and kiteboarders zipping back and forth, you can reach out and touch them. Although a luxury lodging, it is unpretentious and tasteful, with a friendly staff and exquisite grounds.  

Located across the street from the Inn is The Tides Wharf Restaurant (which was filmed in The Birds). You can have dinner here and your breakfast, (which is included), sitting bayside and relaxing. The Inn at the Tides is only one of many delightful choices that fit any taste and budget. Newly opened next door is Rocker Oysterfeller’s. The cozy atmosphere, combined with stunning views of the coastal landscape, makes it a perfect spot for seafood enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy the vibrant flavors while soaking in the charm of Bodega. In addition, Bay View Restaurant has just reopened (dinners Thurday-Sunday only) with a new chef and weekly specials.

Seafood, seafood, and more seafood is abundant. Here are a few more choices to consider: Terrapin Creek, Gourmet Au Bay, Spud Point Crab Company, or Anello Family Crab and Seafood.
As you drive along the bayside road, you will see fun stores dot the coastal route, so be sure to stop in and visit the following: Patrick’s of Bodega Bay (since 1960) is for the saltwater taffy lover! Candy and Kites (since 1983) features a large selection of kites to take down to the beach and oh-so-fun garden art to take home!  For beachy souviners, visit the gift shop at The Tides Wharf Restaurant or Harbor View Gifts and Goodies.

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Take a drive out to Bodega Head – where, if it weren’t for visionaries and activists, there could be a nuclear power plant instead of shorebirds, clear water, sheep and cows, trees and scrub brush.

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Sporting opportunities are plentiful: Surfing, whale watching, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, horseback riding. Or, just meander around the bay and local areas – you will feel frozen in a wonderful time warp.