Sunset Views From Jenner-by-the-Sea

Sunset at River's End in Jenner

Perched on a bluff high above the mouth of the Russian River, the tiny coastal village of Jenner boasts some of the most jaw-dropping views on the California West Coast. 

The panorama encompasses the river estuary, dozens of harbor seals on a sand spit at the river’s mouth, mile after mile of coastal prairie, offshore sea stacks (large rock pillars), coves, beaches, and sheer-sided cliffs. Not to mention the ocean fading into the western horizon and the contest-worthy setting and rising of the sun.

A view of Goat Rock along the Sonoma Coast at sunset in Sonoma County
Goat Rock Beach

A stay in Jenner provides extra-special treats. For example, watching the sun set while relaxing over dinner. Or meandering along the river’s mouth to watch dawn color the world. Or having Goat Rock Beach all to yourselves in the early morning hours.
 
The former Jenner Boathouse houses the Jenner Visitors Center. The center offers interesting interpretive displays that illustrate local history, flora, and fauna, as well as a nature store with an excellent assortment of educational sales items. You’ll also find helpful maps, money-saving coupons, informative brochures about sights and activities on Sonoma’s coast, lodging and restaurant information, and knowledgeable volunteer docents happy to answer questions.
 
Although Jenner is tiny – 136 residents at the last census – accommodations and dining get high marks.

The exterior of the Jenner Inn is surrounded by coastal plants on the Sonoma Coast
Jenner Inn

Jenner Inn offers a range of beautifully-designed rooms and suites, as well as two vacation homes (some rooms are dog-friendly). The inn’s restaurant serves dinner Wednesday through Sunday, and the full bar features local beers, Sonoma County wines, and premium spirits.

River’s End Restaurant & Inn sits atop a bluff overlooking the river and ocean, and includes a superb restaurant plus six view cabins ‘designed for couples looking to rejuvenate.’ 

Whether you want to watch a sunrise or sunset, prefer ocean or river views, choose to wander a sandy beach or hike along a towering bluff top, or just want to watch harbor seals and other wildlife, Jenner is the place.

For more ideas, read 48 Hours in Jenner on the California Coast and Highlights of the Sonoma Coast.

You Might Also Like

handmade pizza at Glen Ellen Star
Trip Itineraries

As a Sonoma local, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing Sonoma County’s finest offerings and generally end up with the…

Movie Prop Car On Display at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Occidental
Activities

As you meander the wee 60-yard block of downtown, strolling its wooden sidewalks past 19th-century, false-front buildings, you’ll feel as…

Winter scenery at Luther Burbank in Sebastopol CA
Outdoor Activities

Lush greenery, foggy coastlines, seasonal harvests and unique wildlife sightings – Sonoma County in winter is a place where visitors…

Hot air balloon ride in sonoma county
Sightseeing & Tours

Without a doubt, Wine Country is one of the world’s most breathtaking regions to travel through whether you are looking…

Girls Getaway in Sonoma County
Food & Wine

Winter might be considered the off-season for many of the world’s hottest travel destinations, but a Wine Country visit between…

Pig at Charlie's Acres
Sustainable Travel

Need a pick-me-up? These nonprofits offer ways to spend time with cute animals — you could even try some goat…

Yellow wildflowers covering field
Outdoor Activities

Springtime in Sonoma County is hard to beat! Plan ahead with our weekend-by-weekend, month-by-month collection of popular experiences — from…

Wingo, California, Sonoma County’s Ghost Town, photographed by @chrisjkam
Outdoor Activities

Traveling mindfully to Sonoma County allows us to have experiences that can be savored in a place focused on and…

Tolay Lake Regional Park
Outdoor/Nature

More than (just) a premier Wine Country destination, Sonoma County’s myriad of options allow travelers to connect with the destination…

Couple at beach with dog
Outdoor Activities

Find hidden gems, outdoor adventures and more with tips from those who know the coast better than anyone: The locals….

See What’s Happening

Share your experience using #SonomaCounty or #LifeOpensUp