The epic migration of whales peaks from January through May, but is visible during much of the year. Each year gray and blue whales travel south from the Chukchi Sea near Alaska and down to Baja California for winter, then back north for the summer feeding season.

A great vantage point is the Ocean Overlook at Bodega Head, or various whale watching boat trips launching from the local area.

Catch sight of seals and seabirds while paddling around on a stand-up paddle board or in a kayak (on your own or with a customized guided tour).

Visit Bodega Bay Kayak to get started paddling through Bodega Bay, the lower Russian River, the Estero Americano, or Salmon Creek. Beginner kayakers are welcomed and encouraged. Customized guided tours are available. Rentals include all equipment, wetsuit, life vest, and instruction before heading out.

Shell Beach at Sonoma Coast State Park is a great place to explore the tide pools. During spring and summer, there are sometimes docents there to teach you about the colorful flora and fauna.

Alfred Hitchcock filmed one of his most famous movies, 'The Birds,' in Bodega Bay and the nearby tiny village of Bodega, located just four miles inland.

Stroll around this one-block town and you'll spot some of the buildings used in the movie, including the famous Potter schoolhouse and the St. Teresa of Avila Church.

Back in Bodega Bay, the peninsula known as the Bodega Head is another famous 'Birds' filming location, offering incredible scenic blufftop views.

Chanslor Stables, a working western horse ranch, offers guided horseback trail rides with breathtaking ocean views. Private rides are available.

Horse N Around Trail Rides is open year round, and offers a variety of trails or a chance to go riding on the beach. Choose from a 60-minute sand dunes ride that provides panoramic views of the Bodega Bay harbor and Sonoma Coastline; a 90 minute beach ride that includes the dunes and harbor views, plus riding along a long stretch of beach; and trail rides on the Hagemann Ranch Trout Farm, a family-owned ranch with views of the rolling coastal hills.