Portuguese Beach


Very easy to access; sheltered coves between rocky outcroppings.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Schoolhouse Beach

0.3 MILES

A very pleasant beach with parking (but no other facilities); can be prone to riptides so swimmers should take care.

2. Salmon Creek Beach

1.4 MILES

Situated around a lagoon, with 2 miles of hiking and good waves for surfing.

3. Duncan’s Landing

1.41 MILES

Small boats unload near this rocky headland in the morning. A good place to spot wildflowers in the spring.

4. Shell Beach

3.09 MILES

Just south of the small town of Jenner, a boardwalk and trail leads out to a stretch perfect for tide-pooling and beachcombing.

5. Ren Brown Collection Gallery

3.24 MILES

The renowned collection of modern Japanese prints and California works at this small gallery is a tranquil escape from the elements. Check out the…

6. Bodega Marine Laboratory & Reserve

4.11 MILES

Run by University of California (UC) Davis, this spectacularly diverse teaching and research reserve surrounds the research lab, which has studied Bodega…

7. Bodega Head

4.64 MILES

At the peninsula’s tip, Bodega Head rises 265ft above sea level. It’s great for whale-watching. Landlubbers enjoy hiking above the surf, where several…

8. Grove of the Old Trees

5 MILES

Outside Occidental and up on a ridge off Fitzpatrick Lane, Grove of the Old Trees is a peaceful, 28-acre forest of old-growth redwoods. The forest and its…