Sonoma County, California
Goat Rock Beach, Jenner
Located north of the San Francisco Bay Area lies some of the most famous wine regions in the world. Sonoma County spans just shy of 200 square miles and starts at the top of San Pablo Bay & extends north past the tip of Lake Sonoma. Arriving to Sonoma Country is an easy drive from both Oakland and San Francisco airports and takes just over an hour by car. Despite its world-renowned wine & picturesque vineyards nestled amongst the rolling Sonoma Mountains, Sonoma County offers so much more than just a beautiful place to enjoy a glass of wine.
Sonoma Plaza Park
For your first stop, visit the quaint city of Sonoma. Plaza Park is a charming square with a rose garden, ample green space and a lovely city hall. Grab an ice cream and make your way around the square to partake in some shopping, wine tastings and to grab some lunch. Just off the city center, you’ll find the Sonoma Mission where you can view historical exhibits and art installations. Just south of the square you’ll find the world’s first Williams Sonoma which serves as a museum, a cooking school and a retail store.
Sweet Scoops Ice Cream, Sonoma
Armstrong Redwoods Natural Reserve
Armstrong Redwoods Natural Reserve, Guerneville
Once you’ve seen the city of Sonoma, I suggest heading northwest towards Guerneville to visit the impressive Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Take an easy walk amongst the towering California redwoods with some trees over 2,000 years old and reaching heights of 350 feet. In addition to the awe this park inspires, it is also impressively quiet and provides a very tranquil experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and peaceful.
Armstrong Redwoods Natural Reserve, Guerneville
Head to the Coast
Cafe Aquatica, Jenner
Continuing your journey west along the Russian River you will reach the town of Jenner where the river meets the Pacific Ocean. Take a respite at Café Aquatica for lunch and coffee as you look out on the river. Jenner also offers multiple kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals and tours to explore the river further. Once you’ve made it to the coast, head south on Highway 1 for a coastal, scenic drive. Notable stops along your route include Goat Rock Beach, Sonoma Coast State Park and Bodega Head. Bodega Head Beach is the most western point of the county and is a famously good spot for whale watching.
Goat Rock Beach, Jenner
Go on a Safari
Safari West, Santa Rosa
A unique experience that brings the wildlife of Africa to California is Safari West. Located north of the city of Santa Rosa, Safari West is a 400-acre nature preserve home abundant African wildlife. Climb aboard a safari vehicle to get up and close to giraffes, antelope, zebras and rhinos. You will also walk through other areas of the park home to lemurs, cheetahs and an array of wild birds. If you want the full safari experience, book an overnight stay glamping style in one of the thirty tents located on site within a short walk to the animals.
Safari West, Santa Rosa
Wine Country
Porter-Bass Winery, Guerneville
Despite the many non-wine-based experiences Sonoma County offers, you would be remiss not to experience some of the best wines in the world. Schedule a tour at one of the 400+ wineries in Sonoma County. From grand, elegant chateaus to quaint, family vineyards there are ample opportunities to have a delicious glass while enjoying beautiful surroundings. I had the pleasure of tasting Sonoma’s best under a shady tree at the quaint Porter-Bass Winery. Taft Street Winery has lovely wines and a lovely, welcoming staff. I couldn’t resist signing up for their wine club! Be sure to pair your wine with local cheeses sourced from one of the many Sonoma County creameries.
Cheers!
