Our Favorite Family Friendly Beaches in Sonoma County

Doran Beach

* our vote for overall best family beach in SoCo!

  • Doran Beach is considered one of the best for families in Sonoma County. It has a long sandy shoreline with gentle waves, plenty of space to play, and amenities like restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and camping spots.

  • Great for swimming in calmer sections, kite flying, beach games, birdwatching, and even spotting seals and birds.

  • The Bodega Bay town itself has shops, seafood restaurants, and easy access right off Highway 1. Perfect for a family day or weekend getaway.

Doran Beach

Salmon Creek/Bodega Dunes

Great for scenic beach walks and exploring:

  • Salmon Creek State Beach (North and South) offers wide sandy stretches and dramatic coastal views.

  • Bodega Dunes Beach has dunes and sand that’s fun for kids to roam and explore.

  • These beaches are best for beachcombing and picnics rather than swimming but beware, currents on the open coast can be strong.

Salmon Creek/Bodega Dunes

Goat Rock Beach & Sonoma Coast State Beach

wide open sand & easy access from the parking lot

  • Part of Sonoma Coast State Beach, this area is wild and beautiful with dramatic coastline views. 

  • Great for tide-pooling, beach picnics, and exploring — but be cautious with kids around waves and cliffs

  • Nearby Blind Beach is another pretty stop if you want space and quiet.

Goat Rock/Sonoma Coast State Beach

Dillon Beach

Wide, sandy beach with lots of room for kids to play

  • Gentler conditions than much of the Sonoma Coast (still the Pacific, but often calmer… still super cold temp!)

  • Great tide pools at low tide. Perfect for curious kids

  • Easy access from the parking area (less trekking than some beaches)

  • Dog-friendly

  • Picnic tables and a small general store/café nearby

  • Less rugged and cliffy than beaches farther north or south

  • Feels more like a beach “destination” than a quick roadside stop

  • Vacation rentals available which makes it great for weekend stays with kids

Dillon Beach

Tips for Families

  • Parking & amenities: Doran Beach and Salmon Creek have easier access and facilities (parking, bathrooms). Good for little kids and long days at the beach.

  • Ocean safety: Pacific beaches can have strong currents and cold water. Be sure to stick close to shore, watch kids closely, and enjoy tide-pooling and exploring safely.

  • Best time: Summer or warm fall days are lovely for beach picnics; spring and fall bring dramatic views and fewer crowds.