This Spud's For You!

Hike at Bodega Head and Dine Casually at Spud Point Crab Company

Feeling crabby? You’re not the only one. Dungeness crab season is scheduled to open in Sonoma County. Combine some casual seafood dining with a gorgeous coastal hike. Work up your appetite on the trails at Bodega Head. This tiny outcropping offers mighty views of the Pacific thanks to its cliff-above-ocean setting, with excellent vantages for spotting gray whales.

Bodega Head Trail is 2 miles of mellow—a coastal loop path slinking along the side of hulking cliffs with the drama of spiky sea stacks immediately below and the placid luster of Bodega Harbor and Tomales Bay in opposite directions. There’s also a grand view of Tomales Point. Toward the hike’s end you’ll find a lone bench overlooking some of the best scenery.

Afterward, head to nearby Spud Point Crab Company (1860 Westshore Road) for their World Famous Clam Chowder and some tasty crab. This family business run by a retired firefighter, Tony, and his wife, Carol, is a local gem. Spud Point Crab Company commercially fishes from its namesake marina, and cooks up delicious seafood meals. The clam chowder here is so flavorful, you might find yourself ordering seconds. Spud Point Crab Company closes at 5 p.m. Grab a seat at a picnic table out front and get crabby with it!

From Hwy. 1 in Bodega Bay, take Eastshore Rd. Go half a mile and turn right on Westshore Rd. Go another 3.5 miles to Bodega Head’s west parking lot. The hike starts on the Bodega Head Trail, behind the restrooms on the south side of the parking area. No dogs at Bodega Head. Spud Point Crab Company is dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Redwoods Star Power

    Go on a 5-mile (round-trip) redwoods hike that starts from Chabot’s Moon Gate entrance and through Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, then visit the Chabot Space and Science Center for a rooftop telescope star viewing or a space

    View
  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

    View
  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  4. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

    View
  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View