Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘The Birds’ Filming Locations in Bodega Bay

After filming “Shadow of a Doubt” in Santa Rosa in the early 1940s, Alfred Hitchcock returned to Sonoma County in 1963 to film “The Birds,” and it became one of the director’s most notable movies.

Known as a precursor to modern horror movies, The Birds remains etched on the minds of many who are eager to see the landmark film locations on a visit to the beautiful Sonoma Coast that inspired Hitchcock. While the thriller was primarily shot at the former Potter Schoolhouse on Bodega Lane in the town of Bodega, there were several other prominent local establishments and businesses featured throughout the film.

Here’s your guide to these famous Hitchcock film locations in Sonoma Wine Country.

Potter Schoolhouse, Bodega

The Potter Schoolhouse, a soaring white wood building built in 1873, played a prominent role in the filming of The Birds. Once upon a time, this old schoolhouse served as a local community center, inn, and restaurant. The property was abandoned before Hitchcock chose this location, and so when his crews shored up and rebuilt the schoolhouse for filming, it saved this landmark building.

Today, it’s a private residence, and visitors should admire it from a distance to respect the privacy of the current owners.

St. Teresa of Avila Church, Bodega

Directly in front of the schoolhouse sits St. Teresa of Avila Church, which is featured in the background of several pivotal scenes throughout The Birds.

This beautiful church was built in 1860 on a hilltop overlooking the bay and is also the subject of a famous 1953 Ansel Adams photograph titled “Church and Road.” 

Fun Fact: Many locals have stated that Hitchcock attended church services at St. Teresa of Avila while filming the movie.

The Tides Wharf & Restaurant, Bodega Bay

The scenes featuring the boat dock and restaurant in The Birds were filmed in and around The Tides Wharf & Restaurant. According to The Inn at the Tides, the 1960s owner of The Tides, Mitch Zankich, had Hitchcock agree to three stipulations before he allowed him to film on his property: The town in the movie would be called “Bodega Bay,” the male lead would be named “Mitch,” and Zankich would receive a speaking part in the film.

The welcoming, water-side restaurant has since been remodeled but preserves a replica of its original facade in the gift shop. 

The Town of Valley Ford

One of the film’s most iconic scenes is when Lydia (played by Jessica Tandy) discovers her neighbor Dan’s body. This scene was filmed on a farm in the small town of Valley Ford. Set in the heart of Sonoma County’s dairy belt, Valley Ford is a quaint community rooted in history. Here, you can experience what life was like while filming “The Birds” by exploring the town and staying the night at the Valley Ford Hotel, which was built in 1864.

Celebrating Hitchcock’s “The Birds”

Each year, the Artisans’ Co-op of Bodega celebrates The Birds with a movie event and art inspired by the film. This celebration is located down the street from the Potter Schoolhouse and is a fantastic way to support local artists while also learning about the iconic film, its famous director, and the picture-perfect Sonoma County setting.

Visit other movie locations in Sonoma County.