Why Sonoma County is Your Perfect Getaway Destination Right Now
Sonoma County boasts legendary wines from hundreds of award-winning wineries, including recent platinum and gold recipients at the 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards. That's reason enough to visit.
Beyond wines, Sonoma County earned spots on Forbes' Top Destinations for 2021 and Travel + Leisure's Best Places to Travel in 2021, thanks to exciting new openings alongside timeless attractions: towering redwoods, rugged coastline, historic towns, and renowned food experiences in this Northern California gem.
Access is easier than ever with expanding direct flights to Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (yes, that Charles M. Schulz—we'll revisit him shortly). Book a weekend or full week and dive in. Here are eight top experiences upon arrival.
Explore a Tale of Two Forests
Whether you're a dedicated tree enthusiast or casual admirer, Sonoma County parks cater to all. Near Healdsburg, Riverfront Park's short Redwood Hill Trail winds through a stunning grove of soaring redwoods.
Contrast this with Salt Point State Park near Gualala, where the self-guided Pygmy Forest Trail reveals mature yet diminutive redwoods, pines, and cypresses—some over 100 years old—stunted by poor soil and low water. Don't miss the park's eerie, honeycomb tafoni formations. Sonoma County inspires nature appreciation and stewardship, amplified by initiatives like Leave No Trace.
Indulge in Wine Country Wellness
Boyes Hot Springs, Fetters Hot Springs, and Agua Caliente—known as "the Springs"—were sacred Native American healing grounds. Since 1900, mineral baths have drawn visitors for therapeutic soaks.
Today, these springs feed upscale spots like the Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. Day passes (Monday-Thursday) include geothermal pools, indoor bathing rituals, and a fireside lounge. For a casual option, try family-friendly Morton's Warm Springs in Glen Ellen—bring a picnic or dog (keep pets poolside).
Sonoma's wellness extends to local ingredients: lavender-olive massages, grape-seed facials. The standout? Farmhouse Inn's Nurtured by Nature treatment, featuring wild mustard masks, apple scrubs, olive balms, and redwood mists.
Meet Iconic Locals
Spot celebrities? Guaranteed at the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, celebrating Peanuts characters created by the longtime resident. Explore archives of original art and artifacts.
Through November 8, 2021: Girl Power in Peanuts. Until January 16, 2022: Adults by Schulz. Ongoing to March 13, 2022: Drawn from Life, revealing real inspirations behind the characters.
Paddle the Russian River
Named for 19th-century Russian settlers at Fort Ross, the 110-mile Russian River offers lush forests, swimming holes, and eco-adventures. Try Russian River Kayak and Canoe Trips in Healdsburg for 3-5 hour beginner paddles.
Advanced? Join WaterTreks Eco-Tours at the river's mouth for estuary kayaking amid eagles, otters, seals, and possibly whales.
Discover the Sonoma Coast
Sonoma Coast State Park spans 17 miles of dramatic cliffs, beaches, and tidepools from Bodega Head to Jenner. View seals at Goat Rock.
North at Fort Ross: Russian history, ranching, and Kashaya exhibits. Stay at Timber Cove for cozy cabin vibes with ocean views, fire pits, and games.
Dine Like a Food Expert
Praised by Robb Report and Food & Wine, Sonoma blends food trucks, farmers' markets, and Michelin stars. Healdsburg's Barndiva earned a new star; SingleThread Farms holds three.
Icons like Dry Creek Kitchen and Bib Gourmand Chalkboard. Hidden gems: Underwood Bar & Bistro, Estero Café. Winery dining at J. Vineyards & Winery, Lynmar Estate, Jordan Winery. John Ash & Co at Vintner's Resort pioneers farm-to-table.
Taste Legendary Wines
Over 425 wineries, from Gundlach Bundschu and Buena Vista to Davis Family Vineyards and Preston. Decanter winners: Frei Brothers Reserve Merlot (platinum), Rodney Strong and Alexander Valley Vineyards. 99% sustainable vineyards.
Savor Local Beers, Ciders & Spirits
Included in Sonoma County Tasting Pass: Parliament Brewing Company, Young & Yonder Spirits (absinthe). At The Barlow: multiple breweries. Others: Henhouse, Russian River Brewing, Shady Oak.
Ciders at Ace Cider, Horse and Plow, Golden State Cider, Tilted Shed. Distilleries: Spirit Works, HelloCello, Griffo. Endless ways to toast Sonoma.
