Goat Rock Beach
Jenner, CA
A beach at the mouth of the Russian River, where harbor seals haul out on the sandbar, especially in spring pupping season. Keep your distance from the seals; the surf here is dangerous for swimming.
Goat Rock Beach is part of Sonoma Coast State Park and lies at the mouth of the Russian River near Jenner. Harbor seals regularly rest on the sandbar; their pups are born here in spring and early summer, and Seal Watch volunteers are on hand on weekends then. Sources give differing periods, from February into summer. There are picnic tables and restrooms.
Stay at least 50 yards (about 46 m) from the animals. Dogs are not allowed, to protect the seals. The beach is not suitable for swimming: rip currents and sneaker waves are dangerous. Bring warm clothing. The coastal road north is winding and in places has no guardrail.
- Nearest town
- Jenner, CA
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 38.4424, -123.1265
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–April and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Duncans Mills Camping Club on the Russian RiverMotorhome stopover4 mi from Goat Rock Beach · 125 pitchesMotorhomes
- Casini Ranch Family CampgroundMotorhome stopover4 mi from Goat Rock Beach · 225 pitchesMotorhomesWi-Fi
- Camp RoyanehCampsite6 mi from Goat Rock Beach
- AutoCamp SonomaMotorhome stopover7 mi from Goat Rock BeachMotorhomesElectricityDrinking waterToiletsWi-Fi
- Camp Russian RiverCampsite8 mi from Goat Rock Beach
- Woodside Upper LoopCampsite13 mi from Goat Rock BeachTentsCaravansDrinking waterToilets
All campsites in California · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Goat Rock Beach?
Goat Rock Beach is in Jenner, CA, at GPS 38.4424, -123.1265. It is about 8 mi from Fort Ross.
Can you camp near Goat Rock Beach?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Wright's Beach Campground, about 3 mi away; within 25 mi there are 36 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Goat Rock Beach?
Goat Rock Beach is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Sonoma and Mendocino coast on Highway 1.
What is there to see near Goat Rock Beach?
Places worth a stop nearby: Fort Ross State Historic Park (8 mi), Bodega Head (10 mi), Point Reyes Lighthouse (31 mi) and Muir Woods National Monument (48 mi).
When is the best time to visit Goat Rock Beach?
The most pleasant months are usually May–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–April and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)