Location: Sonoma
Top Things to do in Sonoma
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The 9 Best Nature & Parks in Sonoma, California (CA)
In Sonoma, you can go wine-tasting… or cheese-tasting… or olive oil-tasting… or just let the chefs of the area’s renowned restaurants put everything together for you. Then burn off some of that good food and wine by hiking or biking through redwood forests.
Restaurants in Sonoma
1. Sonoma Valley
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 761 reviews
One of the prime wine producing regions in California. A visit to Sonoma Valley yields an outstanding array of food, lodging and scenery.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We went to Sonoma Valley. This is a wonderful area to explore. There are lots of cute communities such as Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Windsor, Sonoma, Healdsburg. There are lots of great parks including Armstrong Redwoods State Park, We went again in July and enjoyed a Fourth of July lunch, wine tasting, exploring the country side, and then later visited with friends.
2. Sonoma Overlook Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By mgoss444
This hike is a must do for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. 3.1 mile hike, just a few blocks from the town square. The trail is well maintained and is gradually traverses up the hill. Plenty of shade and open areas along the trail. Views of the Sonoma Valley from the top are gorgeous. You will pass people going up and down but it is not crowded. No dogs or bikes allowed. Keep an eye out for the occassional hawk at the top of the trail.
3. Sonoma Valley Trail Rides
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Enjoy the beauty of wine country on horseback! Experience beautiful vineyards and amazing mountain views of Sonoma and Napa. Our guides are knowledgeable and friendly and will provide you an unforgettable and safe experience!
Reviewed By danigincalifornia - San Francisco, United States
If you're looking for an experience in wine country that extends beyond yet another tasting room then make your way to Sonoma Valley Trail Rides. Owner Michelle and her team of friendly wranglers will match you with one of their gentle and healthy horses then take you out among the vines. Follow beautiful paths over hills, around ponds, and to the top of stunning vistas. The hour-long ride is the perfect way to take in the beauty of Sonoma wine country, leaving plenty of time for a picnic lunch or a stroll through downtown Sonoma. This is not your typical stable ride. You'll be given the freedom to trot up hills and wander along the trails on horseback side by side with your fellow riders. You'll also learn about the vineyards, grape growing and more from your super knowledgable and friendly guides along the way. So get ready for a truly spectacular experience in Wine Country! Don't worry about packing your cowboy boots, Michelle has plenty on hand for you to use. Helmets are provided, as well as sunblock, water and all the advice you need to be comfortable on your horse. I was paired with a beauty named Coal. The website (sonomavalleytrailrides.com/our-horses) says Coal will melt anyone's heart. No truer words have been written. I highly recommend you check out the site for more info on the ride you want (Michelle offer's two different experiences), get a closer look at the beautiful horses, and find info on everything you need to know to make this the most memorable time you spend in wine country!
4. Bartholomew Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 26 reviews
Reviewed By 14hannon - Sonoma, United States
Unfortunately, the lovely hiking trails in the surrounding Mayacamas Mountains are closed due to the wild fires last fall. Still the vineyards and park provide a stunning spot to appreciate nature. The Bartholomew Park Winery is located on the park grounds, but is a separate and distinct entity. Scenic picnic spots adjoint the replica Haraszthy Villa, adjacent to the winery (housed in the former Sonoma Valley Hospital building), and around the Pavilion, located at the site of the burned down Johson Victorian mansion ("The Castle"). This part of the park is quiet and intimate, and a bit hard to find. If you are walking up, follow the old road to the right behind the locked gate (you will have to walk around it; it is chained off). Or park at the Villa or winery. From the winery walk down toward the Villa; the path to the Pavilion area of the park heads off to the left just as you arrive at the Villa and just above the gated road (the path leads to this same road). From the Villa walk up towards the winery, the path is on the left just after the aforementioned gated road. Walk down the road and over the bridge. The park area opens to your right and down hill after the bridge. This part of the park is magical. Native Americans resided here from 2000 BC, with a Wappo Indian tribe habituating this spot from 250 AD to the 1700s. Amazing! Park opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM. The Villa is open to tour 12 to 3 Saturday and Sunday.
5. Sonoma Coast State Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 186 reviews
A state park and beach recommended for fishing, walking and picnicking.
Reviewed By pfefmeister - San Francisco, United States
The stretch from Bodega Bay to Jenner is spectacular, as the road hugs the coastline, highlighted by sea stacks, coves, and endless vistas. Plenty of pull outs for beach stops, with many outfitted with picnic tables to relax and watch the ocean. Take your pick of the beaches, and spend the day in one of the most beautiful places on earth. And, if you are lucky, you could catch a whale or two in season. Just a great place.
6. Sonoma Plaza
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 910 reviews
Bordered by several gourmet shops, this pretty town square is a perfect place for a picnic.
Reviewed By G5471VNsueh - Gilbert, United States
This was the birth of California, full of history and social activities. Whether you want to have a picnic in the park, tour the historic mission, do some wine tasting, have a delicious lunch or dinner at one of the unique restaurants or do some interesting shopping, it's all in The Square.
7. Red Hill Trail
8. Sonoma Garden Park
9. San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
