North Coast of California: Russian River, Sonoma Coast State Park

The most dramatic section of Sonoma Coast State Park is towards the north, where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean between wide beaches of dark-grey sand, while just to the south is the detached peak of Goat Rock, connected to the mainland only by a narrow causeway. An overlook along Highway 1 gives a good perspective of the whole area, while close-up access is provided by a side road, descending directly to the causeway. High surf, steeply-sloping sands and frequent sneaker waves make the beaches here amongst the most dangerous in California.

Location: Sonoma Coast State Park