Conference and Event Facilities
Host your conference, workshop, or retreat at Bodega Marine Laboratory, where stunning coastal scenery meets state-of-the-art facilities. Our event spaces accommodate groups of all sizes, with flexible meeting rooms, on-site catering, and comfortable housing options. Whether you're planning a multi-day retreat or a single-day gathering, our team is here to support a seamless and memorable experience.
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Booking and Policies | Meeting & Event Spaces | Catering & Dining | Lodging | Frequently Asked Questions
Contact
Conference and Events Manager:
Cherrise Hannon
707-303-0716
Booking:
After contacting the Conference & Events Manager, please submit an application form and activity request through our reservation system, using the link below, to reserve conference space or accommodations.
Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email with arrival details and any additional information needed.
Policies:
Reservations & Availability
To reserve housing, conference rooms, or event spaces at Bodega Marine Laboratory, contact the Conference & Events Manager. Reservations are subject to availability, and priority is given to UC-affiliated groups.
Check-In & Check-Out
Check-in and check-out procedures vary by accommodation type. Guests will receive specific instructions upon booking.
General Policies
- Visitors must follow all posted safety and facility guidelines while on-site.
- Quiet hours and respectful conduct are expected in shared spaces.
- Parking is only permitted in designated areas.
- BML IT does not provide on-site meeting or conference support. Conference groups should designate a technical contact to meet with IT in advance and assist presenters during the event.
- All Bodega Marine Reserve users must sign a Bodega Marine Reserve Waiver before accessing the Reserve, including areas near housing. Exceptions apply only to UC employees on duty and UC students with instructor-signed class waivers. Minors under 18 must have waivers signed by a parent or guardian
- Recreational Use of the Bodega Marine Reserve is limited to developed enclaves as outlined in the Bodega Marine Laboratory and Reserve Policies & Procedures.
Cancelation Policy
For planning purposes, we ask for two weeks' notice for final count for lodging and meal service. Shorter notice than 14 days will result in a $350 cancellation fee. Any cancellations after the 14-day notice will be subject to charges for the meal service as well.
Lecture Hall
The James S. Clegg lecture hall comfortably seats up to 120 people with attached tables and is equipped with a projector, large screen, audio system, and Blu-ray player. Visitors can use the provided laptop or bring their own for presentations, with Mini DP, HDMI, and VGA input options.
Web conferencing is available with wireless access, lapel and podium mics, and room speakers; however, visitors must bring their own camera and mic for capturing audio/video. Groups are responsible for setting up and operating their own web conferencing equipment.
Conference Room
With seating for up to 20 people, the conference room offers stunning views of the Bodega Marine Reserve and the Pacific Ocean, along with a small balcony overlooking the water. It features a 75" 4K screen with Mini DP and HDMI inputs, an audio system, and a Polycom SoundStation VTX 1000 conference phone.
For web conferencing, a Meeting Owl provides an all-in-one camera, mic, and speaker setup, but visitors must bring their own laptop and be prepared to configure and operate the system independently.
South Wing Lounge
The South Wing Lounge offers seating for up to 45 people and a scenic balcony overlooking the Bodega Marine Reserve and Horseshoe Cove. Outside, picnic tables and seating areas offer a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view.
Equipped with a projector and a 70" 4K screen (Mini DP and HDMI inputs), it provides a comfortable setting for meetings and small gatherings. Visitors must bring their own laptop and necessary display adapters. For web conferencing, guests must provide their own equipment and be prepared to set up and operate the system independently.
Public Education Room
The Public Education Room accommodates up to 40 people and is equipped with a projector (VGA input only), a mid-sized screen, a Blu-ray player, and an audio system. Visitors must bring their own laptop and any necessary display adapters. For web conferencing, guests must provide their own equipment and be prepared to set up and operate the system independently.
Full meal service is available to conference groups in the Housing Dining Hall or, by special arrangement, in the Laboratory. A variety of meal options can be customized to meet the needs of your group, including sandwiches, salads, barbecued oysters, and cakes.
For meal rates, see Housing and Conference Rates.
If you plan to serve alcohol, a permit is required. For more information on obtaining a permit to serve alcohol, see Permit to Serve Alcoholic Beverages.
Contact the Conference & Events Manager at 707-303-0716 for additional details on meal service and special arrangements.
The BML Housing Enclave offers a variety of accommodations, including single and double rooms, some with private baths and kitchenettes, as well as one- to two-bedroom units. Housing is located about a mile from the Laboratory, with parking available at both locations. Visitors can easily walk, bike, or drive between Housing and the Lab.
For details, see Accommodations and Rates.
Contact the Housing Manager for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Technology & Internet Access
- Does BML provide IT or web conferencing support?
- BML IT does not provide on-site support for web conferencing. While we strive to offer a stable network, our remote location makes us susceptible to power and communication outages. We recommend having a backup plan in case of technical issues. Groups should designate a technical contact and prepare in advance.
- Is wireless internet available at BML?
Yes. At the Laboratory, visitors can use the "BML Guest" network, which requires no password—just agree to the terms of use in your browser.
At BML Housing visitors can use the "Housing" network using the password posted throughout the facilities.
- Will the internet speed be reliable?
- At the Lab, bandwidth is better, and wireless coverage is strong. At Housing, performance depends on occupancy and demand. If you require a stable connection for important work, we recommend using the Lab network instead.
- How are network issues handled?
Peak season (June 15 - Oct 1): Issues will be addressed as soon as possible during business hours (M-F, 8 AM - 5 PM)
Off-season (Oct 2 - June 14): Issues will be addressed within ~24 hours during business hours
Parking & Transportation
- What are the gate hours for BML and Housing?
The Lab entry road gate is closed 5:00 PM - 7:45 AM (M-F) and all day on weekends/holidays.
The Housing gate is closed at all times, contact the Conference & Events Manager 707-303-0716 for gate access.
- Where can I park?
Parking is free and available at both Housing and the Lab.
At housing, please do not block the propane tank, generator, or dumpsters.
Speed limits: 15 mph at BML Housing, 20 mph on the main Lab road. These speed limits help protect wildlife on the Reserve and minimize dust on the roads.
Keys & Access
- How do I get my room key?
- Keys are distributed at check-in and must be returned at check-out. Residents are responsible for their keys—always lock your doors and carry your key when leaving.
- What if I arrive after hours?
- Contact the Conference & Events Manager (707-303-0716) for after-hours key pickup arrangements.
Weather & Packing Tips
- What is the weather like?
- Bodega Head is foggy, windy, and cool year-round. Ocean temperatures average 54°F, and summer air temperatures are usually in the mid-50s°F.
- What should I pack?
Layers (warm clothing for cold, wet, and windy conditions)
Waterproof gear if you plan to be outdoors
Comfortable walking shoes
Other Policies
- Do I need to sign a waiver to access the Bodega Marine Reserve?
Yes. Anyone walking on the Reserve (including near Housing) must sign a waiver unless they are a UC employee on duty or a UC student covered by a class waiver.
Minors under 18 need a parent/guardian-signed waiver.
- Where can I go for recreation on the Bodega Marine Reserve?
Recreational activities are limited to the developed enclaves as described here:
- Can I bring my pet?
- No. Pets are not allowed at the Lab or Housing facilities.
Emergency & Contact Information
- Is there a landline at Housing?
- Yes. Dining Hall Pay Phone: 707-875-9993
- Who should I call in case of issues?
BML Main Line (8 AM - 5 PM): 707-875-2211
or Conference & Events Manager: 707-303-0716
- How is cell reception?
- It varies but is generally good. Some areas may have spotty coverage.