Sonoma escape

WHERE TO EAT

Cup O' Mud. Tiny, friendly cafe (really a cart with a roof) serves excellent coffee. On a nice day, seats out front are a good place to discuss surf conditions and gossip. 17192 Bodega Hwy., Bodega; 707/876-1810.

Pangaea. A small, colorfully painted dining room houses the area's outstanding restaurant. Locally grown ingredients prepared with a light, sophisticated touch are spotlighted here, as are area wines. $$$; closed Mon-Tue; 39165 State 1, Gualala; 707/884-9669.

St. Orres. Distinctive dome-topped redwood building, a nod to the area's Russian history, houses an inn and a quirky restaurant with an inventive menu that blends local foods and unusual flavors. Upstairs are pleasingly spare shared-bath rooms; property also has private cabins with baths. Restaurant $$$$; shared-bath rooms from $90, cottages from $120; 36601 State 1, Gualala; www.saintorres.com or 707/884-3335.

Sandpiper Restaurant. Located by the piers en route to Bodega Head, this is the spot for fresh fish, sandwiches, and fish and chips. $$; 1410 Bay Flat Rd., Bodega Bay; 707/875-2278.

Seaweed Cafe. Weekend brunch and tasty dinners, made mostly with local and organic ingredients, in a bright dining room. $$$; closed Mon-Wed; 1580 E. Shore Rd., Bodega Bay; 707/875-2700.

Twofish Baking Company. Tucked off Annapolis Rd., the small breakfast and lunch spot offers fresh breads, sandwiches, and coffee. Closed Mon-Wed; 35590 Verdant View Dr. (in Ranch Center complex), Sea Ranch; 707/785-2443.