Things To Do
Beaches and the 101
The Pacific Coast Highway (California State Route 1) is a scenic route hugging the California coast for over 650+ miles. People come from all over the world to experience the special chunk of it that starts just 10 minutes from where we live. Recommendations below:
Doran Beach
Eric's favorite beach. Two miles of sheltered sandy coastline. This is where you'll find the least wind and waves. It's perfect for a (cold) swim or for just relaxing on the beach. Doran is also home to a wonderful hike called the Doran Marsh Hike which connects to the fantastic Birdwalk Coastal Access trail.
Bodega Head Trail
A windswept coastal bluff with easy cliffside trails, easy parking, and one of the best coastal views in Sonoma County.
Duncan's Landing Overlook
Dramatic clifftop viewpoint offering sweeping ocean vistas, rugged sea stacks, and unforgettable Sonoma Coast sunsets. An early date spot for Eric and Hannah.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Walk among towering ancient redwood trees on peaceful forest trails.
Estero Americano State Marine Recreational Management Area
A protected coastal habitat where guided hikes reveal rare wildlife, sweeping pastoral views, and one of the county’s most pristine estuaries. It also offers panoramic views to Point Reyes National Seashore. There's a great loop here that is a moderate 2 miles.
Salmon Creek State Beach
A wide, windswept stretch of sand where rolling surf, coastal dunes, and open space make it a favorite for beach walks and sunset views. Lots of driftwood.
Nearby Towns
Some of the cute little towns that are just a short drive away.
Sebastopol
Great for groceries and anything else you might need. It’s the closest bigger town to us.
Occidental
Cute little town with smaller markets and shops.
Places to Eat and Drink
Cafe Aquatica
A cozy waterfront café perched above the Russian River, known for locally roasted coffee and unbeatable views where the river meets the ocean. Perfect place to drive to, to experience the Sonoma coast. Have a crab roll and a coffee and then head back down the coast stopping at any of our recommended spots.
Casino Bar & Grill
Ok, so it's not a casino, but is is our favorite dive bar and it's only about 10 minutes from the house. Cheap drinks, pool tables and sometimes great food pop-ups.
Ramen Gaijin
Our favorite Ramen spot serving soup and seasonal Japanese small plates in the heart of Sebastopol.
Howard Station Cafe
Our favorite spot for breakfast. Hannah loves the Greens, Beans and Dreams.
Wineries
There are too many wineries to chose from. They're everywhere. Many in Napa Valley are just an hour or more away, and have tastings. Wineries in Sonoma County are also world class and will be even closer.