From Our Cottage to You

Stories, tips, and local insights from our corner of Dillon Beach

Packing essentials for a Dillon Beach getaway — sun hat, sandals, and camera

April 6, 2026

What to Pack for Dillon Beach — A Guest’s Checklist

Our host-curated packing list for the coast. What to bring, what we provide at Sea Esta, and what to leave at home.

A quiet seaside table with an ocean view near Dillon Beach

April 6, 2026

Our Favorite Dillon Beach Restaurants — Host Picks

From Tomales Bay oysters to the best clam chowder on the coast. Kellie and Brandt share their personal restaurant guide with drive times and ordering tips.

Fog over the coastal cliffs at Dillon Beach in winter

April 6, 2026

Dillon Beach in Winter — Why the Off-Season is Magical

Storm watching, whale migration, empty beaches, and cozy nights by the fire. Why winter might be the best time to visit.

A beachside fire pit glowing at twilight near Sea Esta in Dillon Beach

April 6, 2026

Sea Esta Fire Pit Guide — S’mores, Stargazing, and Wine

How to use the gas fire pit, s’mores tips, Sonoma Coast wine picks, and stargazing from the deck.

A bright coastal cottage mid-renovation — building Sea Esta in Dillon Beach

April 6, 2026

How We Built Sea Esta — Our Dillon Beach Renovation Story

The story behind Sea Esta: heated floors, coffee-rich kitchen, ocean-view windows, and why we chose Dillon Beach.

An ocean sunset from the Sea Esta deck in Dillon Beach

April 6, 2026

5 Sunsets You’ll See from the Sea Esta Deck

From golden hour classics to the elusive green flash — five types of sunsets and how to photograph each one.

A quiet coastal road leading to Dillon Beach, California

April 10, 2026

A Weekend Guide to Dillon Beach, California

Plan your Dillon Beach weekend with this local guide to beaches, tide pools, hiking, Lawson’s Landing, Point Reyes, and dining.

Coastal vacation homes overlooking the calm Pacific at Dillon Beach

April 10, 2026

Why Book Sea Esta in Dillon Beach Instead of a Hotel

There are no hotels in Dillon Beach. Here’s why a vacation rental is the best way to stay — more space, ocean views, and direct booking savings.

Tide pools and marine life along the Dillon Beach shoreline

April 10, 2026

Dillon Beach Tide Pools and Wildlife: A Visitor’s Guide

Explore Dillon Beach tide pools, harbor seals, and coastal wildlife. Best spots, what to look for, and low tide timing.