Bodega Bay, presently too shallow to be a viable port, was once the site of a Russian outpost. It was established in 1781 and actively engaged in fur trading until 1870. Further north, on the Russian River, was another Russian controlled settlement at Fort Ross.
A small spit of land, named Bodega Head, protects the north end of the harbor. The rocky headland and jetty provides access to hiking trails and a popular crabbing area. From atop this bluff the view is spectacular and also provides tourists a thrill when migrating gray whales are spotted.