The Top 7 Things to do in Jenner

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Serene and quiet Jenner beckons to visitors looking to get away from the urban bustle in favor of connecting with the tranquility of nature. Known for its coastal beauty, this seaside town offers quite a few opportunities for adventure and recreation where the wonders of this area’s nature and history can be fully appreciated. To enjoy Jenner to its fullest, here are our top picks:

A Historic Park and Fort

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Image Source: Yelp
Fort Ross State Historic Park
19005 Coast Hwy
Jenner, CA 95450
(707) 847-3437
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 190 reviews

Fort Ross State Historic Park is home to 3,400 acres of untamed wilderness and a Russian-era fort that has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. During low season, the fort is only open for visits Friday through Monday, so if it fits with the schedule, visit the Fort Ross Visitor Center and Museum to learn about the history of the area.

Insider tip: Schedule a walking tour of the fort in advance.

A Pacific Coast Park

salt-point-state-park
Image Source: Yelp
Salt Point State Park
25050 Hwy 1
Jenner, CA 95450
(707) 847-3221
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 89 reviews

20 miles of stunning hiking trails amble through Salt Point State Park, along six miles of Pacific Coast. The trails are not all well marked, so pick up a map at the visitors’ center before setting out for the day. Make sure to pack some gear if your interests reach beyond a simple hike: the park is a popular destination for horseback riding, scuba diving, fishing, and camping, too.

Insider tip: Make reservations far in advance to camp at the park. Check out Gerstle Cove for a pretty, large campground with great facilities and trails leading down to the beach.

Wine Tasting

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Image Source: Yelp
Fort Ross Vineyard Tasting Room
15725 Meyers Grade Rd
Jenner, CA 95450
(707) 847-3460
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 24 reviews
Reservations: Not required

The closest vineyard to the Pacific Ocean, Fort Ross Vineyard and Tasting Room is only a mile from the coast. The small-production winery and tasting room beckons to visitors with its beautiful views and delicious Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but owners Lester and Linda Schwartz also grow pinotage—the signature grape variety of their native South Africa. The tastings are poured in the modern, rustic tasting room, or on the relaxing balcony.

Insider tip: It’s possible to purchase a full bottle to enjoy with a charcuterie or cheese plate instead of doing a traditional wine tasting here.

Picnic By the Sea

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Image Source: Yelp
Sonoma Coast State Beach
Hwy 1
Between Jenner and Bodega Bay
(707) 875-3483
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 119 reviews

Sonoma Coast State Beach stretches for 17 miles along the Pacific Ocean. The park has over a dozen access points to the beach, including Goat Rock, a long, sandy parcel of beach suitable for enjoying the beauty of the surf while enjoying a picnic of local fare. Pick up some Sonoma County cheese, charcuterie, and fresh baguette beforehand, and chill out at a table on the shore.

Insider tip: Due to the wildlife and protected status of the local colony of harbor seals at Goat Rock, dogs are not allowed at this beach.

Camping at Stillwater Cove Regional Park

stillwater-cove-regional-park
Image Source: Yelp
Stillwater Cove Regional Park
22455 Hwy 1
Jenner, CA 95450
(707) 847-3245
TripAdvisor: 5 stars, 1 review

The 210 acres of Stillwater Cove Regional Park are home to redwood forests, open meadows, and beautiful coastal seascapes. The park has ocean access, providing ample opportunity for camping, hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Book in advance to claim a good spot in the campground, just a short walk from the beach.

Insider tip: A beach launch facility is available at Stillwater Cove Beach for launching kayaks and boats into the water.

Kayaking in the Russian River

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Image Source: Yelp
WaterTreks Eco Tours
10438 Hwy 1
Jenner, CA 95450
(707) 865-2249
TripAdvisor: 5 stars, 1 review
Rent kayaks at WaterTreks Eco Tours to take into the Russian River, or into the Pacific for ocean kayaking. To survey the local wildlife, check out the State Park Estuary and Goat Rock Beach Biological Preserve, great spots for birding and watching the harbor seals.

Insider tip: Rentals are available Friday-Monday, but weekday pickups are available with advanced reservations.

Seals and Sea Lions

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Image Source: Seals and Sea Lions
Hwy 1 Overlook
Jenner, CA 95450

Every spring, a large sand spit is formed at the mouth of the Russian River as it meets the Pacific Ocean, creating the Russian River Estuary. This phenomenon attracts harbor seals, pelicans, and great blue herons, but you might also catch a glimpse of the California sea lions and elephant seals in the water off of the coast.

Insider tip: This spot is best visited during the spring and summer, when harbor seals and their young flock to the sand spit.

A visit to Jenner is a soothing experience for mind and soul. If unplugging is the goal, plan to spend some time viewing the native wildlife, tasting the local wines, and visiting the natural parks and beaches.


Author

WineCountry Collective

WineCountry is made up of a dedicated and passionate team of wine, food, and travel aficionados. We diligently explore regions, both near and far, to curate the best ideas and resources. Whether you're musing over your next wine escapade, planning a romantic weekend away, embracing the Wine Country lifestyle at home, or are simply looking to be entertained for a moment, trust us to be your comprehensive guide.