Avoid Swimming At One Of California's Notoriously Deadly Beaches On The Sonoma Coast

California is home to plenty of underrated beaches for your Sunshine Coast exploration, but some of them are better for the views than for swimming. Tucked between the California towns of Bodega Bay and Jenner, Portuguese Beach in Sonoma County is scenic — but it's also one of California's most treacherous coastlines. The Press Democrat lists it among the deadliest Sonoma Coast beaches because of its steep drop-offs, cold temperatures, strong undertows, and sneaker waves that can pull swimmers out to sea with no warning. As now-retired lifeguard Brit Horn explained to the newspaper, "You take five steps into the water and you are over your head."

More than half of the 89 drownings along Sonoma's beaches from 1986 to 2008 happened within this 10-mile stretch, and Portuguese Beach is right in the danger zone. Visitors are drawn to the rugged beauty of the coast and its rock formations, but the ocean here comes with deadly waves and currents that are unforgiving. When it comes to Portuguese Beach, Horn warns the tide is much stronger than it might look. "The waves expend and unload all their energy on the beach, they put all their energy into rushing up the beach," Horn said.

The result is a beach that looks postcard-perfect, yet behaves like a beast. If you're drawn to dramatic coastal panoramas, Portuguese Beach delivers — so be sure to bring your camera. Just err on the side of caution and take it all in from a safe distance away from the water.

Although Portuguese Beach is a no-go for swimming, the Sonoma Coast offers some safer alternatives if you want to take a dip. Doran Regional Park in Bodega Bay is a great choice for families — protected by a jetty, the calmer water is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. Families also enjoy Doran for beach picnics, and the park has walking trails and campsites for visitors planning to stay longer. 

About an hour northeast of Portuguese Beach, Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach offers safer swimming along the Russian River — a Sonoma County scenic hotspot — with lifeguards on duty during the summer season from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Pick up free-to-use life vests for extra protection — they're available at the life vest stand during the summer. Another popular summer choice is Spring Lake Regional Park in Santa Rosa. Here, visitors can enjoy a swimming lagoon with a floating playground monitored by lifeguards. Admission ranges from $7 to $12, and it's a good idea to make reservations online ahead of time. 

That said, Sonoma's more rugged beaches are still worth a visit. When visiting Portuguese and similar wild beaches, always stay well above the waterline, watch for changing tide and surf conditions, and never turn your back to the ocean. If you want to explore tide pools, do so at low tide and never step on slippery rocks during high surf. Check surf advisories and weather reports to plan your visit during calm, clear weather. Respecting the strength of this part of the coastline is the best way to take in its beauty while staying safe.