Sonoma County Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sonoma County, California with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Sonoma County

Sonoma County is a stunning destination located in North Coast, California. Among the rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, Sonoma County has something for everyone. It is known for its world-renowned wine, farm-to-table cuisine, and outdoor activities. Whether you want to taste fine wine, hike the trails, or explore the charming towns, Sonoma County should be on your travel list.

List of Places to Visit in Sonoma County

Here are some of the must-visit places in Sonoma County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sonoma Plaza: The heart of Sonoma County, Sonoma Plaza is a historic landmark with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
  • Charles M. Schulz Museum: Dedicated to the creator of Peanuts comic strip, this museum features original illustrations, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.
  • Jack London State Historic Park: Former home of the famous writer, this park is a natural oasis with hiking trails and historic landmarks.

Natural Attractions of Sonoma County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Russian River: A popular spot for kayaking, canoeing and tubing, Russian River is a beautiful destination surrounded by stunning scenery.
  • Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve: Home to towering redwoods, this reserve is a perfect spot for hiking and camping.
  • Bodega Bay: Known for its rugged coastal beauty, Bodega Bay is a charming fishing village with breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sonoma County

Embark on these top hiking and biking routes for an unforgettable adventure:

  • Sonoma Valley Regional Park: This park offers over 14 miles of hiking trails through hills and meadows.
  • Annadel State Park: With 5,000 acres of forests, grasslands, and streams, this park is a mecca for hikers and bikers.
  • Sugarloaf Ridge State Park: Enjoy stunning views of the valley from the 25 miles of trails in this beautiful park.

Best Things to Do in Sonoma County: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to include in your trip to Sonoma County:

  • Wine tasting tours: Sonoma County is known worldwide for its wine production, and a popular way to experience it is through a wine tasting tour.
  • Hot air balloon ride: See Sonoma County from above on a hot air balloon ride for a perspective you’ll never forget.
  • Farmers Market tour: Discover the local farm-fresh produce at one of the many farmers markets located in Sonoma County.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sonoma County

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Sonoma County:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Sonoma Plaza, visit the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, and enjoy a wine tasting
Day 2 Hike the trails at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and explore the charming towns of Guerneville and Jenner
Day 3 Embark on a wine tasting tour through the Russian River Valley and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 4 Tour the Charles M. Schulz Museum and enjoy the scenic views of Bodega Bay
Day 5 Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards and visit the local farmers market
Day 6 Go kayaking on the Russian River and visit the wineries of Sonoma Valley
Day 7 Visit the Jack London State Historic Park, explore the wineries in Dry Creek Valley, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Sonoma County

Sonoma County has a diverse food and drink scene that emphasizes farm-to-table dining and locally sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grilled artichokes: Locally grown artichokes grilled to perfection served with garlic aioli and lemon wedges are a treat to taste buds.
  • Fresh seafood: Coastal area of Sonoma is recognized for amazing seafood especially clam chowder and freshly caught crabs.
  • Sonoma County cheese: The area is filled with great cheese makers producing a variety of unique cheeses with a great taste.

Local Beverages

  • Wines: Sonoma wines are world-famous, with many different varieties to choose from, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and zinfandel.
  • Craft beer: With so many local breweries populating Sonoma County, beer lovers will never run out of new brews to try.
  • Apple ciders: Locally made apple ciders are a refreshing alternative to wine and beer and a great way to taste the essence of Sonoma.

Where to Stay in Sonoma County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury resorts to affordable guesthouses, Sonoma County has a range of accommodations to choose from. Here are some popular options:

  • Farmhouse Inn: Located in Forestville, this luxury hotel is surrounded by vineyards and offers spa services.
  • The Grape Leaf Inn: Located in Healdsburg, the 10-room historic inn is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway.
  • H2hotel: This eco-chic hotel in Healdsburg features a rooftop bar and organic bath products.

What to Buy in Sonoma County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the quintessential Sonoma County souvenirs to take home with you:

  • Wine: Purchase a bottle of your favorite Sonoma County wine to savor the taste of your trip long after you return home.
  • Olive oil: With numerous olive oil groves, Sonoma County is an excellent place to find high-quality, locally produced oils.
  • Handcrafted ceramics: From unique coffee mugs to elegant vases, Sonoma County is home to many talented potters and ceramicists.

Local Culture and Customs of Sonoma County

Sonoma County’s diverse culture is influenced by its farming heritage, Spanish and Mexican history, and modern-day innovation. Visitors should be respectful of the area’s natural beauty, support the local businesses and enjoy the laid back approach to life.

Best Time to Visit Sonoma County

The best time to travel to Sonoma County is between May and October when the weather is warm and there is no rain. The region can get crowded during high season, but it’s an experience not to be missed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sonoma County

Do:

  • Try the local wine and farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Respect the natural environment by avoiding littering and respecting designated areas.
  • Support the locally-owned businesses and art galleries.

Don’t:

  • Forget to plan ahead, especially during peak season.
  • Trespass on private property. Sonoma County is home to many working farms and vineyards, which are not open to the public.
  • Fast drive and speeding through the countryside. Sonoma County roads can be narrow and winding, and there are often bikers and pedestrians on the road.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sonoma County

Overall Sonoma County is a safe destination. Drive cautiously and follow driving safety rules while traveling in the county.

Health in Sonoma County

Due to Covid-19, please, follow statewide travel restrictions if you’re traveling from outside California. All of California’s counties are in the blueprint tier system, which varies based on metrics such as test positivity rate and the number of cases. In general traveling during the pandemic should be approached with caution.

Getting to Sonoma County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sonoma County is located about a 1.5 hours drive north of San Francisco. Here are the transportation options to reach Sonoma County.

Airports Near Sonoma County

  • Santa Rosa Airport: Located in Santa Rosa, the Charles M. Schulz airport serves several airlines.
  • San Francisco International Airport: San Francisco International Airport is 65 miles away from Sonoma County.

Bus Stations Near Sonoma County

  • Greyhound: Greyhound buses connect major cities, including San Francisco, to Santa Rosa.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Many car rental companies offer services at the airports and allow you to explore Sonoma County at your own pace.
  • Private shuttle: Airport or downtown San Francisco shuttle services can take you to Sonoma County.

How to Get Around in Sonoma County

To move around Sonoma County during the day we recommend renting a car. There is also an extensive bus service operated by Sonoma County Transit. Another great way is to explore the region on bicycles, which can be rented at many shops and rental agencies in the area.

Where to Go Next from Sonoma County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Sonoma County, extend your trip to some of these nearby destinations:

  • Napa Valley: Visit the famous wine country which offers world-class restaurants, superb hotels, and of course, some of the best wine in the world.
  • Mendocino: Located on the coast of Northern California, the village of Mendocino offers stunning views, unique shops, and a charming small-town vibe.

Conclusion

Sonoma County, California is a must-visit destination whether you are a wine connoisseur, foodie, or nature lover. With its excellent food scene, outstanding wines, and beautiful outdoors, Sonoma County is an ideal getaway for weekend or a week-long trip. We hope this comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Sonoma County.

Vineyards in Russian River, Sonoma Vineyards in Russian River, Sonoma


    Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
    Bodega Bay
    Cotati
    El Verano
    Forestville
    Fort Ross
    Geyserville
    Glen Ellen
    Jenner
    Kenwood
    Petaluma
    Rohnert Park
    Santa Rosa
    Sea Ranch