Bodega Head, located within Sonoma Coast State Beach, is an outcropping which juts into the Pacific. Goat Rock, within Sonoma Coast State Park is located off Highway 1 at the mouth of the Russian River. Dozens of mature harbor seals and seal pups can be observed on the sandy shores of the Russian River where it meets the ocean. Although the seals may appear tame, they frighten easily and, like all wild animals, can inflict serious bites. During the March through June pupping season, people or dogs approaching too closely are serious threats to the pregnant females and newborn pups.
Pups are unable to swim, and when left alone on land they are defenseless against predators.
This site includes four campgrounds and a picnic area. State Park Fort Ross Historic State Park is located on the coast, approximately 17 miles North of Jenner, off Highway 1. From 1812 to 1839, Fort Ross was the first major white settlement in the California coastal region north of San Francisco. The fortification, gun towers and the buildings, including a Russian Orthodox chapel have been restored and rebuilt. An excellent small museum and a gift shop tell the story of the Russian settlers and the native Americans who lived in this area.