farm tours sonoma county

Visit the Farm

We are excited to share that our Spring Farm Tour season is now in full swing with spring weather and kids (baby goats) arriving! We offer tours by appointment/reservation only and public tours are on Saturdays and Sundays at 1 pm through May 5th.  We also offer private tours Monday through Friday at 1 pm, through May 11th, based on our availability. For a private tour send us a request by emailing [email protected]. Please note all tours are weather permitting.

On your visit you will meet the stars of the farm, our intelligent and capricious dairy goats. Our farm tours offer a variety of activities from “kid cuddling” the newly arriving kids, feeding the adult goats, and a hands-on milking demonstration by a member of our family. And back by popular demand, try your hand at milking a goat! Don’t forget to say hello to our chickens when you arrive and you are welcome to take a walk through the flower field and olive grove. The kid feeding demonstration starts the tour promptly at 1 pm. Our picnic area will be open and available to enjoy at 12 pm if you would like to bring a picnic or snack.

Environmental sustainability has always been a farm priority; come see our sustainability projects in action. The farm has been solar powered for the last 13 years, and we have added rainwater catchment tanks that can collect and store 100,000 gallons of rainwater for summer irrigation use on the farm. We compost our goat manure to use on our many crops and our regenerative farm practices work to sequester carbon.

Redwood Hill Farm, in Sebastopol’s Russian River Valley, was started by our parents, Kenneth and Cynthia Bice in the 1960’s, and today the farm is still owned and operated by our family. We celebrate farm life while producing quality, artisan products under the Capracopia label. Take home seasonal favorites such as olive oil, flower bouquets, goat milk/olive oil soap, and other farm goodies that you can purchase at the farm market stand.

We look forward to meeting and visiting with you at one of our Farm Tours soon!

Please check back here or on our social media sites for updates.

Important: please read our waiver here before you reserve your tour and confirm on reservation page that you have read and agree., join our farm community for latest farm news, special events and exciting new tours..

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Sonoma Coast

One of the best ways to explore Sonoma County’s back roads is by visiting local farms. Throughout Sonoma Coast you can find family farms and artisanal growers who are creating agricultural products that reflect their own unique terroir. Sonoma County encompasses a wide variety of landscapes: from oak-studded hills to flood plains, from redwood groves to windswept beaches.

Agri-tourism

Agri-tourism is alive and well in the heartland of Sonoma County. Small farms have turned to agri-tourism as a method of supplementing income and raising awareness about rural America. Some farms have interactions with the horses, goats, and sheep, as well as tour the organic gardens that supply the farm with fresh vegetables. You may purchase freshly collected organic eggs from the farm’s own hens. Sonoma County Farm Trails , the county’s organization devoted to agri-tourism, also sponsors a special weekend extravaganza (dubbed “Weekend Along Farm Trails”) once a year.

Sonoma Cheese

Achadinha Cheese Company Jim and Donna Pacheco’s 900 goats graze year-round on verdant pastures at the Pacheco Family Dairy, with grass supplemented with alfalfa and brewers’ grain from local breweries. Donna handcrafts all cheeses and makes her own smoked summer goat sausage. Details: 750 Chileno Valley Road, Petaluma, 707-763-1025

Ramini Mozzarella This is the closest you will ever get to real mozzarella di bufala in most of America, since owners Craig and Audrey Ramini raise real Italian water buffalo on their bucolic ranch. Call to schedule a tour and a picnic tasting, then stay to play with the adorable baby buffalo in the pastures and “calf town.” Details: 175 Gericke Road, Tomales, 415-690-6633

McClelland's Dairy This third-generation family dairy was founded by Irish immigrant Robert McClelland, and is now operated by his son George, George’s wife Dora, and their daughter Jana. They specialize in European-style organic artisan butter. Take a farm tour (offered seasonaly, by appointment only) to watch a cow being milked and pet a calf in the nursery. Details: 6475 Bodega Ave., Petaluma, 707-664-0452

Valley Ford Cheese & Creamery

Valley Ford Cheese & Creamery was founded in 2008 and is located on Mountain View Jersey Dairy, off the rural coast of Sonoma County, California. The Bianchi family has owned and operated the 640 acre ranch since 1918 is now occupied by the third, fourth, and fifth generations. We use the sustainable practices our great grandparents brought with them, and taught us, knowing sustainability is our future. It is our job to work closely with nature to grow our crops, produce a healthy dairy product and protect our earth’s resources. Our cheeses: "Highway 1" Fontina Style, "Estero Gold" Montasio Style, Montasio Style "Estero Gold" Reserve "GRAZIN' GIRL" GORGONZOLA STYLE.

http://www.valleyfordcheese.com

Freestone ranch

At Freestone Ranch we raise Black Angus beef with good grassland genetics on gorgeous fog-kissed hills just inland from the Pacific Ocean. We don't use antibiotics, vaccines, or growth hormones. They're delicious because we watch the grass very carefully, and we rotate them regularly, depending on the grass, the weather, the season, and good common sense. We sell direct, in quarters, halves, or whole steers. Individual cuts are available at Bill's Farm Basket or Andy's Produce Market in Sebastopol, CA. Our beef is harvested humanely and locally, and it's dressed locally by butcher shops with deep history in the Sonoma County community. Email us at [email protected] call us at (707) 876-4610.

Salmon Creek Ranch, Bodega, CA

Salmon Creek Ranch is situated between the villages of Bodega and Bodega Bay on the glorious Sonoma coast. We have obtained organic certification for its pastures through the California Certified Organic Farmers and are raising Scottish Highland and Angus cattle for 100% grass-fed/grass finished beef, Kiko goats for meat and breeding stock, as well as producing certified organic duck eggs and other farm-related products. Salmon Creek Ranch is also the home of Timaru Salukis and Anatolian Shepherds. http://www.salmoncreekranch.com/

About Food & Farm Tours

Since 2012, Food & Farm Tours has created authentic, artisanal experiences connecting Bay Area locals and out-of-town guests to the leading purveyors in Northern California’s sustainable and regenerative agriculture scene. As a female and locally owned small business, we are committed to building a stronger local economy, supporting family farmers, and raising awareness about the importance of sustainable agricultural practices for the health and viability of our planet and future generations. By taking a tour with us you are contributing to the preservation of the local agrarian economy to ensure we have a healthy food system and a vibrant farming community here in Marin and Sonoma counties. Come join us to taste artisan food and drink directly from the land and water sources here along the Northern California coastal corridor, just an hour north of San Francisco.

Meet Our Team

Alexandra Fox, Owner

Alex is a 3rd generation San Franciscan and Marin County native passionate about connecting people to the land and their food source. After working for a decade in the organic food industry, including stints at Straus Family Creamery and CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers), Alex has fostered intimate connections with top purveyors making renowned artisanal products here in Marin and Sonoma counties, from cheese and oysters to wine and spirits. These relationships, as well as her extensive knowledge of sustainable, organic, and regenerative agricultural practices (she holds an MBA in Sustainable Enterprise from Dominican University, and BA in Environmental Studies/ Sustainable Agriculture from UC Santa Cruz), make every Food & Farm Tours experience unique and educational. Alex is a true foodie and agricultural enthusiast, always hungry to check out the newest spots in town. She believes wholeheartedly that restoring people’s connection to food can change the world.

Casey Selden, Tour Guide

Before joining the Food & Farm Tours team, Casey spent over a decade helping people feel comfortable in the outdoors. She guided backpacking trips, designed outdoor rock climbing routes, and worked as a teacher/naturalist in the redwoods of Northern California. In 2013, she moved to San Francisco and parlayed her passion for guiding into a career leading tours around the city. In addition to running food tours , she designed neighborhood   walking tours to explore the history, culture and culinary scene of the Bay Area. Food & Farm tours is an ideal combination of her deep appreciation for the outdoors, her passion for food, and her fascination with the stories behind both.

Kim La Vere, Culinary Specialist & Tour Guide

Kim is a natural foods chef and trained in Ayurveda, herbalism, and wellness coaching. She decided to move to Sonoma County four years ago and shift focus from ten years in corporate retail in NYC to connecting to food, the land, and community. She is energetic about building further awareness on the interdependency of health & resilience to that of land & soil health. For the past five years, Kim’s work has revolved around creating experiences that help foster community, promote well-being, and facilitate connection back to the land. In addition to leading our cooking class tours, she does pop-up dinners, is a lead cook at the Occidental Arts & Ecology Center, and ran the Occidental Community Farmers’ Market this past year. When she is not on the land or in the kitchen, you can find Kim lacing up her boots on the soccer field.

Kaya Halpern, Tour Guide

Kaya grew up frolicking in the redwoods of Sonoma County where she fell in love with both exploring nature and having close access to delicious local food. After graduating from UC Berkeley, with a degree in Conservation and Resource Studies, she worked with kids doing habitat restoration and teaching watershed science at Point Blue Conservation Science. In addition to leading Food & Farm Tours, she works as a Naturalist on the outdoor education team at Walker Creek Ranch in West Marin. She loves cooking with the bounty from our foodshed, listening to podcasts, and heading out on backpacking adventures.

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• OUR PRODUCTS

More digestible than cow milk yogurt and less processed than plant-based, our goat milk yogurts and kefirs are rich in essential nutrients like protein and calcium and packed with billions of probiotics.

More than ever, we’re aware of how our food choices impact the health of our planet and our communities. Goats provide a delicious, real-milk option but with a considerably lighter hoofprint than their bovine counterparts.

We source all of our milk from Certified Humane® farms owned by families who take pride in being stewards of their land and their herds.

Tour the Farm

Farm tours are by advance reservation only. Reserve your spot!

If you’ve ever been curious about milking a dairy goat, wanted to cuddle a baby goat, or wished to learn more about sustainable farming, Redwood Hill Farm’s Sonoma County  goat farm tour  is for you! Meet their intelligent, “capricious” animals and the sustainable,  Certified Humane ®  farm where they happily live alongside chickens, beehives and more.

See sustainability in action, from the farm’s solar array and rainwater catchment tanks to its pioneering use of tagasaste, an innovative goat fodder crop. Enjoy and learn about the olive and fruit orchards and new hop yard. You’re welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy after the tour concludes.

The farm’s expanded tour dates make it more convenient than ever to visit. The smaller, individually led format offers a more intimate look at Redwood Hill Farm Tours last for approximately 1½ hours.

Farm tours are by advance reservation only. Reserve your spot  here .

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At Redwood Hill Farm, we’ve been farming gardens and orchards just as long as we’ve been dairy farming—nearly 50 years.

The “kid pile” is a common sight in the barn nursery, as they curl up with with each other for companionship and warmth.

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Family Farm Tours in Marin and Sonoma County

March 19, 2024

Spring is here, and it's time to enjoy a day on the farm! We're lucky to live in an area that's surrounded by some of the country's top agricultural producers, and some of them offer farm tours for the whole family. On a tour, you can meet animals, learn where your food comes from, and find out about the efforts that local farmers take to provide us with high quality food. My kids love to visit farms, especially at this time of year when there are plenty of cute baby animals to see.

Here are some of the farms in Marin and Sonoma County that offer public tours. Some are free, and some require advance reservations and payment. Please keep in mind that these are all real working farms, some of which raise animals for human consumption. All these tours are suitable for families.

Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies, Sonoma County

Various farm locations in Sonoma County www.farmtrails.org

On Saturday and Sunday, May 4 and 5, 2024, Sonoma County Farm Trails offers its annual Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies event, where farm hosts will offer tours, activities, demonstrations, animal petting, crafts for kids, and more. Some farms will offer snacks, lunches, and picnic sites. Admission is free. Learn more and register here .

Slide Ranch, Muir Beach

2025 Shoreline Highway, Muir Beach 94965 (415) 381-6155 slideranch.org

Overlooking the Pacific in Muir Beach, Slide Ranch is a real working farm located on the lands of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Families can visit and explore the grounds, hike the trails, and have a picnic daily from dusk to dawn. The ranch also offers frequent family programs, including Family Farm Days and campouts where you can milk a goat, feed the chickens, harvest vegetables, and much more.

Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT)

Point Reyes Station, 94956 (415) 663-1158 www.malt.org

Visit some of West Marin's farms and ranches on a MALT hike or tour! MALT is an organization that protects Marin County's agricultural lands, and they offer numerous hikes, picnics, tours, and other events throughout the year. Most hikes and tours are open to both members and the general public. Prices vary, but kids under 12 are usually free. Advance reservations are required.

Rancho Compasión, Nicasio

2600 Nicasio Valley Road, Nicasio 94946 (415) 250-1099 www.ranchocompasion.org Want to learn about rescued farmed animals and meet them in person? Every second Saturday of the month from 1:30–3 pm, Rancho Compasión opens its doors to visitors aged 12 and older for a fun-filled and information-packed Visitors Day tour. Nestled in the rolling hills of West Marin, Rancho Compasión provides a forever home to cows, pigs, turkeys, goats, sheep, donkeys, ducks, and chickens. Visitor Days cost $30 per person, and registration ends at 5 pm the Thursday before the event.

Hog Island Oyster Co., Marshall

20125 Shoreline Highway, Marshall 94940 hogislandoysters.com

Learn all about oyster farming at a Hog Island Oyster Co. tour at their location on Tomales Bay. Classic Farm Tours teach you all about the oyster farming and how to shuck and taste an oyster and the Whole Hog Experience includes shucking tools to take home and a chef's tasting. Tours cost $48–$180 for adults and kids under 12 are free on the Classic Farm Tour and pay $50 for the Whole Hog. They also offer educational tours for school groups. (All tours are land-based and do not include a boat ride.)

Toluma Farms & Tomales Farmstead Creamery, Petaluma

5488 Middle Road, Petaluma 94952 (707) 878-2142 www.tolumafarms.com

Tour this goat and sheep dairy in West Marin and learn about the farm's history, visit animals, hike to the pastures, and see how cheese is made. Guided tours take place the first Sunday of each month from 1 to 3 pm and cost $40 for adults, $20 for children, and $5 for kids under 5; reservations required. Private tours for groups of 10 or more are available, as well as school educational tours.

Windrush Farm, Petaluma

2263 Chileno Valley Road, Petaluma 94952 (707) 775-3360 windrushfarm.wordpress.com This working sheep farm in Chileno Valley offers family farm tours by reservation. Meet sheep, lambs, chickens, Bell the Jersey cow, llamas, alpacas, and Duncan the Angora rabbit. Take a walk around the pond learning about the wild side of the farm. You are welcome to bring a lunch or snack and picnic at the pond. Cost: $150 for 2 adults and 2 children or 4 adults (additional adults $35, children over 10 $10).

Acadinha Cheese Company, Petaluma

750 Chileno Valley Road, Petaluma 94952 (707) 763-1025 www.achadinha.com Learn more about ranch life at Acadinha Cheese Company's traditional farm tour ! Guests will be treated to a full ranch tour that includes everything from the cheese plant, milking parlor, and the loafing barns where the girls (goats and cows) hang out, and of course cheese tastings. Tours take place on Saturdays at 11 am and advance reservations are required. Cost: $40 for adults, $10–$20 for children depending on age, free for kids 5 and under.

Charlie's Acres, Sonoma

3201 Napa Road, Sonoma 95476 (707) 204-0020 www.charliesacres.org This farm animal sanctuary in Sonoma offers weekly community tours as well as private tours. 90-minute tours take place on Saturdays and Sundays for a suggested donation of $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Advance reservations are required. Private tours are recommended for families with small children as they can be adjusted to move at a slower pace.

Bees N Blooms Farm, Santa Rosa

Learn more about how lavender is grown and processed and what goes on behind the scenes in a honey bee colony. Free self-guided tours at Bees N Blooms are available on any open-farm weekend, starting Easter weekend, March 30 and 31 and leading into Lavender Daze from May 18–mid July. Get a farm map at the farm stand and go explore the farm! They also offer group tours and mini tours (generally held during Sonoma County Farm Trails weekends).

American Made Miniatures Farm Sanctuary, Petaluma

(707) 778-2060 www.americanmademiniatures.com The public is invited to come visit, feed, pet, and learn about the animals at this farm sanctuary in Petaluma. The farm is open to visitors by appointment only; one-hour tours take place Monday–Saturday from sunrise to sunset and cost $30 for adults and $20 for children.

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Agritourism: Sonoma’s Best Farm Tours

Flatbed Farm in Glen Ellen (photo by Emma K Morris)

Agritourism is not just a clever portmanteau, or mash-up of words: agriculture + tourism. It’s an important and growing travel trend that originated in Italy in 1985 (the agritourismo law regulated and encouraged farm stays to bolster the dwindling farm economy) and has taken root in California, Colorado and other agrarian communities in the US. With the growth of industry, urban centers and of course supermarkets, many Americans have become disconnected from the sources of their food (Whole Foods does not count!). For those yearning to rekindle this sacred connection with agriculture  — or just enjoy a fun and unique outdoor adventure in wine country — agritourism is just the ticket. Sonoma has an impressive array of farms, animal sanctuaries, biodynamic vineyards and other places you can immerse yourself in the rural roots and agricultural bounty of the area. Read on for our roundup of Sonoma’s best farm tours.

Flatbed Farm | Glen Ellen

Flatbed Farm, nestled on a pastoral parcel of land in Glen Ellen, is a small farm that packs a lot of punch. The farm, helmed by Farmer Hayley (pictured above), is comprised of a one-acre field planted to seasonal row crops and flowers, an exquisite greenhouse (a certified nursery) with microgreens and plant starts for the gardens, a chicken coop with over 140 hens, and a charming farm stand. Visitors can drop by the farm stand on Saturdays from 9am-3pm to purchase produce, eggs, estate olive oil, herbs, flowers and plant starts. The farm is also open on Fridays from 9am-1pm for plant starts, flowers and pantry items. Last but not least, Flatbed offers wonderful events and workshops that educate the community on sustainably grown food.

Green String Farm | Petaluma

At the vanguard of sustainable farming in Sonoma County is Green String Farm, a 140-acre property east of Petaluma that practices “natural process agriculture” to grow healthy fruits and vegetables that are free from pesticides and artificial chemicals. The Green String Institute, founded in 2000, offers a certification program that promotes sustainable practices. The farm’s store is open Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-5pm and offers a delicious array of seasonal fruits and vegetables as well as fresh eggs (you can walk over to see the chickens who laid them), preserves, organic honey, and Red Bluff beef and pork.

Charlie’s Acres Animal Farm Sanctuary | Sonoma

Charlie’s Acres is a 32-acre animal sanctuary at the edge of town, tucked off Napa Road surrounded by vineyard vistas. Founder, Tracy Vogt created this haven to rescue farm animals who were abused or “destined for the dinner table.” More than just a safe place for these animals to live out their days in bucolic bliss, Charlie’s Acres is a philanthropic organization and a movement for social change. The organization advocates for thoughtful (and meatless) consumption through face-to-face interaction with their sweet, gentle and wonderfully intelligent animals. Charlie’s Acres welcomes visitors for farm tours (they have 150 animals including sheep, goats, pigs, horses, chickens and ducks) , vegan picnics, seasonal events and the best of all, goat yoga!

If you visit, make sure to meet Amos the Sheep who is lovingly sponsored by MacArthur Place through the farm’s  animal sponsorship program. As Amos’s “animal patron,” we ensure he has ample food, bedding, vet care, enrichment and more. Find Amos in the lush pasture hanging out with his best friend and partner in crime, Michael the Goat.

Bees N Blooms

Bees N Blooms is an 11-acre organic farm and wildlife habitat at the base of Taylor Mountain in Santa Rosa, with a stunning “lavender labyrinth” that contains more than 900 lavender plants and a half-mile of meditative, lavender-scented pathways to stroll. Founded in 2016, Bees N Blooms was founded with a mission to foster environmentally-sensitive connections among flowers, trees, birds, pollinators, humans and the biosphere. Guests of the farm can experience the lavender during their two events below, as well as by perusing their lavender products, honey and wax from ten colonies of honey bees, and cut flowers for arrangements.

• Lavender Daze | June 5, 12, 19 and July 3 | 10am-4pm | $10 per car
• Lavender U-Cut Experience | June 26 & 27 and July 10 & 11 | $5 per bunch

Durell Vineyard Excursion | Sonoma

Available exclusively to guests of MacArthur Place, we invite you to join acclaimed local Pinot Noir & Chardonnay producer,  Three Sticks Wines , for a scenic and immersive vineyard excursion at their crown jewel: Durell Vineyard. Your adventure begins with a picturesque drive to the highest point of the sustainably-farmed property for sweeping vistas of the valley floor below. Next, hop on a Kubota for an off-road ride through the rolling vineyards and volcanic terrain of the 610-acre property. La pièce de résistance – a private Lebanese-inspired luncheon featuring local, farm-fresh ingredients paired with 5 Durell Vineyard wines awaits you beneath the shade of an ancient oak tree, culminating in the quintessential wine country experience.

Beltane Ranch | Glen Ellen

Beltane Ranch is a sixth generation family owned and operated agricultural preserve, vineyard, winery, and historic landmark (c. 1892) farm stay inn. Just 20 minutes north of MacArthur Place on the outskirts of the quaint hamlet of Glen Ellen, this magical 105-acre farm awaits. Guests of Beltane’s inn and members of their wine club can book a guided farm tour on an open-air 4×4 vehicle. The 45-minute tour takes you through the vineyard blocks to learn about the farm’s history and regenerative farming practices, and then you’ll visit and feed the animals — sheep, horses, donkeys, chickens and more! Private picnics and al fresco lunches can also be booked. Currently, Beltane Ranch is only accepting reservations from inn guests and wine club members due to limited capacity per covid. 

Bohemian Highway Travel Co. | Sustainable Farm Tour

If you’d like to leave the curation and the transportation up to the experts, look no further than our friends at Bohemian Highway Travel Co. Their “Sustainable Sonoma” farm tour takes you to several family properties that are leading the way with organic, sustainable, and even biodynamic farming practices — and tasting their incredible wines as you go. These small family farms are bio-diverse, with cattle, goats, sheep, or even llamas. And the produce you’ll sample will quite literally be “farm fresh.”

And when you are plumb tired after a day of exploring Sonoma’s best farms, picking fruit off the tree, petting horses and doing yoga with goats, we recommend a little R&R at MacArthur Place. Many of our guestrooms and suites have private patios and outdoor showers so you can remain immersed in nature. Or grab a seat at a communal firepit for some evening stargazing. The treatments at The Spa at MacArthur utilize the herbs and fruits from our garden and neighboring farms and vineyards. And our restaurant Layla offers fresh, sustainably-sourced Mediterranean dishes and signature cocktails highlighting seasonal ingredients from local farms. At MacArthur Place, agriculture and agritourism comes full circle.

Charlie’s Acres in Sonoma (photo courtesy of Charlie’s Acres)

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Weekend Along the Farm Trails Fall Tour

October 14, 2023 @ 10:00 am – october 15, 2023 @ 5:00 pm.

Join Sonoma County Farm Trails for Weekend Along the Farm Trails Fall Tour, October 14 & 15, 2023, when local farmers and producers open their gates and barn doors to offer a taste of life on the farm! Meet farmers and producers. Pick pumpkins, apples, and flowers. Visit with farm animals. See how cheese, cider, and jam are made. Tour farms, lavender fields, flower fields, and orchards. Enjoy ag-related talks, activities, and demonstrations. Shop from farm stands. Taste delicious locally grown and made food and libations. And enjoy the bounty of Sonoma County! Registration for the tour is free and easy, though some stops may require reservations or charge a small fee. Full details provided following registration. For more info and to register: https://www.farmtrails.org/experience/weekend-along-the-farm-trails/

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A first-timer's guide to Sonoma, California

Apr 30, 2024 • 13 min read

Get to know Sonoma with this guide to its valleys and wineries © Joe Becerra / Shutterstock

Amid velvety green valleys and oak-covered hills, more than 425 wineries flourish on 63,000 acres of vineyards, producing some of the nation’s best pinot noir, zinfandel and chardonnay — 99% of which are sustainable. Welcome to laid-back Sonoma , located an hour north of San Francisco (depending on traffic), yet a world away. 

Before we get going, let’s get one thing straight. There’s Sonoma Valley , which is a winery haven unto itself, featuring California ’s oldest commercial winery and centered on the town of Sonoma. And then there’s Sonoma County, in whose southern realm Sonoma Valley is located, which is an even greater wine haven. The boundaries don’t really make a difference, but just know that when we say Sonoma, we’re talking about a county with many different valleys and 19 distinct wine regions — and it's really fun to explore.

Here you’ll find a variety of small, friendly towns with acutely local farm-fresh cuisine and cozy accommodations for every budget, along with primo wine-centered activities, including wine tasting, wine festivals, spa treatments using local products (Cabernet-grape-seed scrub, anyone?), and “wiking” (hiking and wine-tasting).

But there’s more. Here, too, you can explore 55-plus miles of Pacific coastline, with remote beaches and plummeting cliffs; trail-laced parks shaded by old-growth redwoods; the slow-moving Russian River, ideal for kayaking or just lying on a sandy beach; and plenty of Western history, including California’s northernmost Spanish mission and author Jack London’s former home and ranch. 

Get ready to explore one of California’s most special places, where you can sink into its friendly, farmtown vibe and relax, while tasting some of the world’s best wines, and so much more.

When should I go to Sonoma?

Summer and fall are the best seasons to visit Sonoma, when you’ll find sunny, blue skies and temps in the mid-80°Fs. The absolute best time (crowds aside) is September, as the autumn harvest revs up, and winery tours, grape harvesting are in full swing. While summer can be a tad warm for outdoor activities (unless you get up early), autumn is ideal for hiking, “wiking” (wine-tasting and hiking) tours, and biking lanes lit up with autumn color. 

To avoid the crowds (and higher prices), winter is better — though the weather is cooler and can be rainy. Dungeness crab season kicks off in November, and mustard season runs January to April, when the vineyards come alive with bright yellow carpets of mustard. Personally, I always find May to be really nice. The crowds haven’t yet descended, prices are lower and the weather is sunny and warm every day.

Remember that Sonoma can be considerably more affordable in the off-season — November to early March, and especially in January and February. During this time, you’ll have more intimate experiences at the wineries, with chances to chat with the employees and owners. And you won’t need to reserve restaurants far in advance at some of the better known restaurants.

How much time should I spend in Sonoma?

Here’s the deal. There are many different Sonomas to visit. You could fill a weekend — or an entire week — visiting its various vineyards on a supreme wine-tasting quest. If you’re into history, you could spend a day exploring Spanish mission history and learning about the Bear Flag Revolt (a quickly quashed insurrection in 1846 in which a dozen grizzled men tried to establish the Republic of California) in the town of Sonoma; plus delving into the life and times of one of America’s favorite writers at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen. You could add on hiking through redwoods, kayaking the Russian River, exploring art galleries... the list goes on.

So how much time should you spend in Sonoma? If you have just a weekend, center yourself in one of the towns — Healdsburg or Sonoma are the best choices for first-timers. Visit nearby vineyards, savor long, farm-fresh meals, and soak in the surrounding beauty. This is, after all, what Sonoma is most beloved for. 

If you have more time, go beyond the wine-and-food theme by venturing to the coastline, where tiny fishing villages nestle into scenic coves and local fish joints serve up some of the freshest seafood around. Or stroll through towering, fog-shrouded redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve ; or explore rolling hills and incredible Russian River views at Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Preserve. You could even throw down your beach towel at the Russian River and kayak or splash in the cool waters. It's possible to spend a week or more here and still have new things to see and do.

So which town should I stay in? 

These towns are the best choices for first-timers, each with their own vibe. They make good weekend getaway bases, and if you want to stay longer, try them both out!

This sophisticated small town, located in Sonoma’s northern realm, centers on Healdsburg Plaza, dating from 1872. Here, tasting rooms rub shoulders with locally owned boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and more. You’ll find several bucket-list restaurants here, including SingleThread Farm Restaurant , offering refined tasting menus in an intimate setting; and Valette , where local farmers and winemakers showcase their craft to perfection; while it’s also known for luxe accommodations including Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza and Hotel Healdsburg . (There are plenty of other options in other price ranges as well.) Healdsburg is centrally located to more than 100 world-class wineries and tasting rooms, making it an ideal wine-tasting hub. Among the best are Dry Creek Vineyard , Williamson Wines , and Blanchard Family Wines , though honestly, you won’t go wrong anywhere you go.

If it’s history you’re after to complement your wine, Sonoma is it. For starters, this bustling town — a little bit larger than Healdsburg­ — is where you’ll find Mission San Francisco Solano (also called Sonoma Mission), the northernmost California mission, founded in 1823. Just like Healdsburg, Sonoma centers on a leafy square, lively with more than 100 tasting rooms, shops and restaurants. And, of course, there are wineries in the vicinity, too, including Buena Vista Winery , California’s oldest commercial winery (founded by Hungarian count Agoston Haraszthy e Moksa in 1857), whose caves have been declared historical landmarks. Among the many hotel options, luxurious Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa has mineral pools, farm-to-table dining, and balcony-adorned rooms, set on 13 acres of beautiful grounds. And if you’d like to sneak in a hike in between sips, Sonoma Overlook Trail is sublime, offering fabulous vistas over wild Sonoma.

What is the best way to get to and around Sonoma?

Charles M. Schultz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa offers nonstop flights from many major US cities — and it avoids traffic jams you may encounter driving from the San Francisco Bay Area. Otherwise, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) are 60 to 90 minutes away; rent a car and drive up US 101. Once you’re here, you will need a car to get around. That said, if you’re wine-tasting, you may want to consider a tour company such as Pure Luxury or California Wine Tours to take you around; many leave from San Francisco and most Northern California cities.

Which are your favorite wineries?

I would start off with Littorai Wines , in Anderson Valley. It’s small and family-run and has mastered sustainability — evident in its thriving acres of gorgeous farmland, meadows and woodlands. It’s not a fancy place, but it’s friendly, and its high-end, cool-climate chardonnays and pinot noirs are always good. Another favorite is Russian River Vineyards , in the heart of the gorgeous Russian River Valley. It’s rustic, casual and welcoming, with lots of food and wine offered by the glass and bottle; there’s often live music, and lots of dogs — a true “one stop shop estate.” Oh, and its wines are exquisite, including a silky Syrah that I adore. And I can’t forget Talisman Wine , famed for its pinot noirs. You can do a flight of different pinot noirs and see how different they can be, depending on the terroir, age, elevation, etc. Fascinating!

What is your favorite thing to do in Sonoma?

Drink wine! What I love most about Sonoma is that its wineries remain friendly and down-to-earth, like Napa was decades ago. And you’ll find clusters of them hidden away in breathtakingly bucolic areas. One of my favorite places to explore (and wine taste) is Dry Creek Valley near Healdsburg. If you follow West Dry Creek Rd, a quiet, rolling backroad winding past mountainscapes dotted with family-owned wineries, you’ll taste some of the region’s best. This is zinfandel country, with highlights including Quivira Vineyards , Preston Farms & Winery  and Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves . Pack a picnic lunch beforehand at one of the region’s delis and find an idyllic spot to enjoy along the way (you can’t go wrong with Lambert Bridge Winery’s gardens). The Dry Creek General Store is a good place to stock up.

I’m also an outdoor fanatic, and I love what Sonoma offers in that realm. The Russian River is sublime for water sports (I remember canoeing there as a child), the quiet, vineyard-edged roads are ideal for biking, and there’s plenty of hiking, too. I’ve already mentioned the Sonoma Overlook Trail, but other favorite hikes include the Pioneer Trail at Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve, beneath the redwoods; and the Kortum Trail in Sonoma Coast State Park, taking in cliff and ocean views. 

I also love popping into art galleries, and Sonoma’s towns are full of them. I still remember a stunning painting of a leopard in an Occidental gallery that I debated buying. All these years later, I wish I had.

How much money do I need in Sonona?

Sonoma is generally considered less expensive than neighboring Napa Valley , but that doesn’t mean you’ll lack comfort. You can still pull out all the stops, staying at such luxe venues as Farmhouse Inn and Montage Healdsburg , where prices can be more than $1000 a night. But you can also be more frugal at country inns and Airbnbs, or consider staying in a farther-flung location, such as Petaluma or Santa Rosa.

Meals also run the gamut, from vineyard-chic to picnic prudent — you’ll eat well, no matter what.

Remember that during the off-peak season, prices are generally lower—hotels, for example, can be up to 50% off their peak prices. Many places require a two-night stay during the high season.

A guide to daily costs

• Basic room for two: The average price in high season is $500 and more, though you can find rooms for less than $200 for more basic venues, especially in Petaluma and Santa Rosa. 
• Airbnb: Accommodations range from $100 to $300 a night.
• Camping: Sonoma County Regional Parks features more than 200 year-round campsites on the Sonoma Coast and in the heart of wine country — you can choose sites among steep mountains, lakes, marshes, sandy beaches, flower-filled meadows and redwood groves. Reservations are required and can be made up to a year in advance. Prices range from $50 to $100 a night.
• Coffee: $4 to $5
• Brunch: $30
• Sandwich at a deli: $10
• Dinner for two: On average, you’ll spend upward of $125 to $200 for a nice wine country dinner with a bottle of local wine. 
• Wine tasting: Wineries generally charge $25 to $65 per tasting.

What should I pack?

People always assume that California is warm, and even though the days can be hot in summer, the temps are always changing — and it always cools down at night. The key is to dress in layers, no matter the season. In winter you’ll need a warm coat.

Do I need to make reservations at wineries for wine-tasting?

Some wineries require appointments, and some don't. I recommend calling ahead anyway, especially in summer, for fear of losing out.

Is there a savings pass for wine-tasting?

The Priority Wine Pass is accepted by more than 350 wineries for two-for-one wine-tasting discounts throughout the state, including Sonoma (see the list here ). It also offers savings on cave tours, VIP tours, unique food pairings, hotels, transportation and free tastings that aren’t published anywhere. The pass costs $49 for three days ($69 for a year).

Did you say Sonoma is famous for Dungeness crab?

Yes! The small fishing village of Bodega Bay has them in abundance in season, which runs November through late June. There are lots of places to try them, but the Boat House is a local favorite. It’s a small shack along the side of the road serving up crabcakes, sandwiches and more. If there’s no room at one of the tables overlooking the water, place your order to-go at the counter and then head to the beach.

Are there any unique experiences I shouldn’t miss?

Sonoma offers all kinds of ways to experience wine country. Here are some of my favorites:

• Food and wine tours are extremely popular, with the Healdsburg Wine & Food Walking Tours being one of the best. You’ll learn about local history and architecture as well as current food and wine trends.
• Larger-than-life sculptures by Keith Haring, Doug Aitkin, and more dot the 200-acre Donum Estate ; the Carneros Experience will get you a walking tour of the estate as well as wine-tasting.
• Buena Vista’s latest owner, Jean Charles-Boisset, is almost as eccentric as the original Hungarian owner-count; the winery hosts various living history extravaganzas throughout the year that shouldn’t be missed.
• More than 10,000 tulips bloom every spring at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery in Healdsburg. It’s spectacular!
• Glamping at AutoCamp Russian River offers the chance to sleep in an Airstream beneath the redwoods. Very cool!

Are there off-the-beaten-path places to base myself?

Yes! Sonoma offers an eclectic range of towns beyond Sonoma and Healdsburg, all of which offer superior wine-tasting experiences. You might find lower prices as well. They include:

If you want to stay by the sea, tranquil, wind-swept Bodega Bay has an abundance of seafood (try Spud Point Crab Company ), wineries (the chardonnays and pinots at Sonoma Coast Vineyards shine) and supreme sunsets. This is where Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963-movie  The Birds was filmed; you can still see the creepy church.

Tucked into thick redwoods, bohemian Occidental is close to both the Pacific Ocean and the Russian River. You’ll find healthy restaurants, homegrown shops and art galleries here.

Perched on the Petaluma River, this small city is laid-back and artsy; it’s made a mark in the foodie realm, most notably with cheese — stop by the Petaluma Creamery , a local institution for more than a century.

This is a larger, sprawling town where you’ll find less-expensive chain hotels. It’s a good base for wineries, as well as the Russian River. Here, too, is the Charles M. Schultz Museum (the Peanuts cartoonist lived here for more than 20 years before his death in 2000), plus a world-class beer scene, including the Russian River Brewing Company . Expect to stand in line for up to six hours when its legendary Pliny the Younger triple IPA is released in spring.

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