Sonoma County Activities

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City slickers may love San Francisco, but for those who prefer the beauty and diversity of the great outdoors, Sonoma County is the ideal vacation destination. Sonoma activities are many and diverse and there's surely something that will interest each and every member of your family, both young and old.

The number one reason that visitors come to Sonoma County is for the wine tours and wine tasting. Along with neighbors Napa and Mendocino, Sonoma is one of the premiere grape-growing regions in the United States and guests flock here to taste the best in chardonnay, pinot noir, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and sauvignon blanc - the most prevalent varietals in Sonoma County.

There are several ways to explore wine country. Some choose to do it on their own, selecting particular wineries that are of interest to them. Others book appellation tours led by wine experts - either private or with a group. Still others choose a bike tour that takes them through the lush Northern California wine country. Whichever way you go, you'll understand why this is a favored Sonoma County activity. Check out our section on wineries and breweries for more detailed information on wine routes and other wine-tasting subjects.

If you prefer to be out and about in the fresh air, you'll find plenty of outdoor things to do in Sonoma. Head for the waters of the Pacific Ocean to enjoy a vast variety of water-based activities. If you're an avid angler, charter a fishing boat to catch salmon, halibut, or cod. Crabbing is popular too and the Dungeness variety is spectacular! Lake Sonoma and the Russian River provide further fishing opportunities.

Kayaking and canoeing are also popular on the lakes of Sonoma County. Take a ride with friends or join a tour led by experienced guides who can educate you as to the flora and fauna of the region.

Some of the best vantage points from which to watch the southern migration of the California gray whale can be found along the north coast. Whales can be spotted from Bodega Head outside the town of Bodega Bay, from Fort Ross State Park, and from Timber Cove Lodge. Beginning around the end of March, adults and calves will begin heading north back up the Sonoma County coast.

If you prefer Sonoma activities that take place on land, there are plenty of choices. Many of the state and regional parks offer excellent hiking trails, both long and short - some for novices and others for experienced hikers. Many trails are also appropriate for horseback riding and some parks boast stables where you can rent a horse for your ride.

Cycling is also popular. Besides taking part in a bike tour of the wine country, cyclists can also ride along paths in the regional parks or explore the quaint towns of Sonoma County aboard their bicycle. If you don't bring yours along, you'll find plenty of outfitters who will lease you a bike and all the equipment you need.

Sonoma activities also include playing golf at one of nearly two dozen courses that dot the county. All are a bit different and provide diverse challenges for the golfer. The comfortable weather in Sonoma County makes this an ideal location to enjoy a round or two.