Sonoma County is known for world-class wine, but you can also hike in the Redwoods, float down the Russian River, get a relaxing spa treatment, or visit a California mission.


Guest: Birgitt Vaughan, Director of Public Relations, Sonoma County Tourism     

Must-Dos:
1.    Explore the Redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. 


2.    Visit the Historic Sonoma Plaza— the largest town square in California and home to the last Spanish-Mexican mission.


3.    Experience the Sonoma Coast from Bodega Bay to Jenner. Drive. Hike at Bodega Head and get fresh seafood at Spud Point Crab Company or Fishetarian Fish Market.


4.    Tour World-Class Wineries. Sonoma County boasts over 425 wineries, including Buena Vista Winery, Iron Horse Vineyards, and Francis Ford Coppola Winery 


5.    Go on Safari and behind the scenes at Safari West—a slice of Africa in Wine Country at this 400-acre wildlife preserve, home to giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and more. 

6.    Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum—dedicated to the creator of the Peanuts comic strip.

7,   Stroll through Downtown Healdsburg and dine at 3 MICHELIN Star SingleThread restaurant focusing on hyperlocal ingredients, farm biodiversity, energy efficiency, and staff well-being.

8.   Explore the “Santa Rosa Art Walk,” a new temporary public art exhibition designed to transform Downtown Santa Rosa and Historic Railroad Square into an open-air gallery.

 What’s New in Sonoma County:
1.    You don't have to drink to enjoy Sonoma County. Explore Sonoma County beyond the bottle. From hot air ballooning to bike riding, from petting animals to tasting olive oil, from walking among the tallest trees to enjoying the most beloved cartoonist characters.

2.    Sonoma County Signature Experiences, is a collection of curated, bookable experiences, such as a behind-the-scenes tour at Safari West, Taste of coastal foraging tour, “The remarkable Redwoods,” and “Secrets of Sonoma: A Culinary Wine Pairing Journey.” 

3.    Become a certified U.C. California Naturalist and a steward of the Sonoma Coast and Redwoods!  

4.    Sonoma County offers the perfect backdrop for memory-rich getaways that blend old-fashioned charm with modern comforts. Take a road trip along scenic Highway 1, stay at vintage-inspired lodgings, share multigenerational traditions, and create new memories.

5.     Sonoma County may be world-famous for its wines, but it’s also a popular destination for wellness activities.

6.     Events include the Great Sonoma Crab & Wine Fest, the California Artisan Cheese Festival, the Butter and Egg Days Parade and Festival, the Sonoma International Film Festival, Country Summer Music Festival, and Healdsburg Jazz Festival. 

7.     In 2026, Taste of Sonoma will evolve into an expanded Pour & Explore tasting series produced by Sonoma County Vintners. 

8.     Sonoma County’s natural diversity — from redwood groves to coastal bluff trails to estuaries — means you can return again and again and still explore new landscapes.

9.     Add festivals and events, new gastronomy, retreat experiences, and retail opportunities, and you will always be surprised and amazed by the community that makes a visit to Sonoma County so special. 

To learn more, visit https://www.sonomacounty.com


Thanks for tuning in to Sharael Travels. If you enjoyed the journey, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your favorite travel buddies. Want to pitch a destination or connect with Sharael? Head to sharael.com.

Follow her on social media @SharaelTravels:

• TikTok
• Instagram
• Facebook
• X