Sonoma County

Featured Lists

Zandcee / CC BY-SA 3.0

Sonoma County Essentials

Sonoma County features a diverse range of landmarks, from the towering old-growth trees of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve to the rugged Pacific cliffs at Bodega Head. This selection highlights the region's historical depth, including the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt site at Sonoma Plaza and Mission San Francisco Solano. Oenophiles can explore California's oldest commercial winery at Buena Vista or the champagne cellars of Korbel. The list also encompasses unique cultural sites like the Charles M. Schulz Museum and the rolling hills that served as the iconic Windows XP 'Bliss' wallpaper.

15 places

Coastal Escapes

Sonoma County's coastline stretches over 50 miles, featuring a mix of rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and river estuaries. This collection includes protected sites within Sonoma Coast State Park and Salt Point State Park. Key highlights include the Russian River mouth at Goat Rock, the extensive tide pools of Shell Beach, and the pebble shores of Fisk Mill Cove. These locations provide opportunities for birdwatching and observing Pacific harbor seal colonies.

15 places

Charles Creek Vineyard / Public domain

Sonoma Wineries & Vineyards

Sonoma County’s viticultural heritage is showcased through this collection of historic estates and modern tasting rooms. The list features California’s oldest commercial winery, Buena Vista, alongside architectural landmarks like the French Normandy-style Ledson Castle and the 1920s estate of Chateau St. Jean. These sites span diverse microclimates, from the cool-climate sparkling wine houses of the Russian River Valley to the robust Zinfandel producers of Dry Creek Valley, highlighting the region's long-standing traditions in sustainable and biodynamic farming.

20 places

Camping and Outdoor Dining

This collection pairs Sonoma County’s coastal and riverside campgrounds with notable outdoor dining venues. Coastal sites like Bodega Dunes and Gerstle Cove offer access to the Pacific shoreline and Salt Point State Park's marine reserves. Inland, sites along the Russian River and Lake Sonoma provide forested settings for tents and RVs. Complementing these are culinary destinations featuring garden seating, including Michelin-starred American cuisine in Kenwood and French-inspired dishes on the Sonoma Plaza.

13 places

Introvert / CC BY-SA 2.5

Sonoma Nature & Parks

Sonoma County’s diverse terrain encompasses the rugged Pacific coastline at Bodega Head and the inland peaks of Mount Hood and Sonoma Mountain. This collection highlights significant landmarks, including the Russian fur-trading outpost at Fort Ross and Jack London’s historic ranch. It also features iconic landscapes like Bliss Hill—the original Windows XP wallpaper—alongside the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt site at Sonoma Plaza and the coastal dunes of Doran Regional Park.

12 places

Sonoma County — Map

Climate & when to visit

Best time to visit: May, June, July, August, September, October

Practical information

Tours & Activities