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Home >  United States  >  California  >  Bodega Bay  >  

Shorttail Gulch Beach

Shorttail Gulch Beach(Shorttail Public Beach Access Trail)

United States, California, Bodega Bay 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee

Shorttail Gulch Beach

United States, California, Bodega Bay 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee Shorttail Gulch Beach

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Shorttail Gulch Beach is a picturesque destination located in Bodega Bay, California. It is accessible via the Shorttail Gulch Coastal Access Trail, which offers a scenic route down to the beach. The beach itself is known for its soft white sand and is approximately half a mile long. It provides a serene environment ideal for quiet walks, picnics, bird watching, and shore fishing. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like tide pools and enjoy the tranquility of the area.

The trail is part of the Sonoma County Regional Parks system and is surrounded by coastal scrub, cypress, and willows, creating a natural and peaceful ambiance. The beach is less crowded compared to other popular spots, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature.

At low tide, visitors can extend their walk by hiking along the beach and connecting with other trails like Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Access Trail, allowing for a more extensive exploration of the coastline.

Bodega Bay offers a variety of dining options near Shorttail Gulch Beach. Fisherman's Cove is a popular spot for seafood lovers, specializing in oysters and offering a casual dining experience. Another favorite is Spud Point Crab Company, known for its clam chowder and waterfront views. For a more upscale experience, Drakes Sonoma Coast offers seasonal American cuisine with stunning sunset views. Additionally, Terrapin Creek provides an eclectic menu of locally sourced dishes in a cozy setting.

These restaurants cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone in Bodega Bay.

For accommodations near Shorttail Gulch Beach, Bodega Bay offers several excellent options. The Lodge at Bodega Bay is a coastal hotel featuring fine dining and a spa, with rooms offering ocean views and fireplaces. Bodega Coast Inn & Suites provides a more budget-friendly option with free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Bodega Bay Inn is a family-run inn with a sculpture garden and traditional rooms. Lastly, The Inn at the Tides offers upscale accommodations with bay views and a heated pool.

Each hotel offers unique amenities and settings to suit different traveler preferences.

Shorttail Gulch Beach lacks restroom facilities, with the nearest restrooms available at Pinnacle Gulch. However, the surrounding area offers picnic spots and scenic views, making it ideal for outdoor activities like bird watching and shore fishing. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the coastal scrub and seasonal streams along the trail.

For dining and other amenities, nearby Bodega Bay provides a range of options, including restaurants and shops. The beach itself is more focused on natural beauty and tranquility, encouraging visitors to connect with nature.

Shorttail Gulch Beach is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities like bird watching, shore fishing, and quiet walks. The beach offers a serene environment for picnics and relaxation. At low tide, visitors can explore tide pools and hike along the beach to connect with other trails, such as Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Access Trail.

The area is also great for nature photography and simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the coastal landscape. For more adventurous activities, nearby Bodega Bay offers opportunities for kayaking and whale watching during certain seasons.

While Shorttail Gulch Beach itself does not have specific disability access features, the nearby Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Access Trail offers better accessibility options. However, both trails are unpaved and may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Visitors with disabilities may find it more accessible to explore the beach at low tide when the terrain is more stable.

For dining and accommodations, many nearby restaurants and hotels in Bodega Bay offer wheelchair-accessible facilities, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the broader area.

Parking for Shorttail Gulch Beach is free and located near the trailhead in the Bodega Harbour golf course community. The parking area is small, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. The proximity to the beach is convenient, allowing visitors to easily access the trail and begin their hike down to the shore.

While parking is free, it's limited, so planning ahead is recommended to ensure availability.

Shorttail Gulch Beach is part of the Sonoma County Regional Parks system, which emphasizes preserving natural habitats and providing public access to scenic coastal areas. The beach and its surrounding trails offer a glimpse into the region's unique geology, with ravines eroded through Pleistocene marine deposits.

The area is also known for its diverse wildlife, including birds and marine life visible in the tide pools. Visitors can enjoy learning about the local ecosystem while exploring the trails and beach.

One of the main attractions near Shorttail Gulch Beach is the Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Access Trail, which offers similar scenic views and access to tide pools. Visitors can also explore Doran Beach by hiking north from Pinnacle Gulch at low tide. Additionally, Bodega Head is a nearby attraction known for its scenic views and whale watching opportunities.

The area is rich in natural beauty, with numerous hiking trails and scenic overlooks that provide stunning views of the Pacific Coast.

Basic Details

INParking

INSunrise - Sunset

INRestroom Available

INBeige

IN20061 Oyster Catcher Loop, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

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  • Pebbles

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  • Rocky

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  • LGBTQ+

  • Shorttail Gulch Beach - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Shorttail Gulch Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Shorttail Gulch Beach have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Shorttail Gulch Beach a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Shorttail Gulch Beach good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Shorttail Gulch Beach have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Shorttail Gulch Beach a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Shorttail Gulch Beach?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple restaurant options near or on the beach.

    What are the activities at Shorttail Gulch Beach?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Fishing, Hiking.

    Does Shorttail Gulch Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Shorttail Gulch Beach a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is Shorttail Gulch Beach good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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