Our favorite spot on the coast of Bodega Bay to watch the sunset - we have come here countless times for the short and manageable walk to and from the coast (about 1.5mi roundtrip) Walks here at low tide allow you to see orange and purple starfish, clusters of mussels, and other marine wildlife. The views are outstanding! (Parking lot at entrance to trail and surrounding neighborhood) If you have the energy - don't miss this spot!
Make a half day or full day adventure out of this - one of our favorite places to hike and David's favorite backpacking spot! At certain times of year, you can also see elephant seals, whales, and lots of other wildlife. Check AllTrails.com for trail options, or just take a fun drive to Point Reyes Station, Drake's beach, or Chimney Rock.
You can't come to Sonoma without a trip to a Vineyard, and September is one of the most amazing times of the year to visit! We love Roche (and belong to their Wine Club!) for their approachable atmosphere, vineyard-side tasting area, and very drinkable wines. Nestled in the heart of the Carneros Valley, just over 15minutes outside of Petaluma - this is a great spot for an authentic wine tasting experience close to town. (Tastings are free for your group when you buy a bottle! Reserve ahead online at their website.)
Did you know that Lagunitas started here?! We hold the flagship location of some of the most popular beer in all of the land. If you're a beer lover, don't miss a chance to try some flights of things you'll never see hit the market. They serve food as well, so you can plan to hang for a bit! (Tours starting again soon, hopefully!)
Italian Food in Petaluma is a foodie's dream! The food is fresh, authentic, and plentiful. Risibisi is a place we have frequented for its flavorful and delicious fare, set amongst a cozy and romantic indoor setting. Fun fact: Risibisi is the only restaurant in Sonoma County to be awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand twelve years straight as well as Zagat's Best Restaurant in Petaluma.
There is seriously no shortage of good Italian food in Petaluma, with multiple great restaurants to choose from, but our other "go-to" has always been this place, a Trattoria with authentic, rustic Italian fare and a great wine selection that will make you feel like you're eating in Italy.
Yeehaw! We were at this place weekly for the first 2 months it was in business - and still attend regularly! The colorful, fresh cocktails and southern inspired food they serve will leave you wanting more and more - with an upscale casual yet still very laid back setting.
Brewsters is a great place for a group to hang and have fun. A big, outdoor beer garden setting with long tables is a fun spot to gather with friends. It's a great mix of cocktails and classic American fare. They also have live music on weekends!
Sonoma County is rich with farm country - and Wild Goat does an amazing job at harnessing that in the food they make. You will find a great mix of farm-to-table food here, with a slightly upscale yet approachable menu that everyone will find something they like on. The location is right next to the Petaluma river, and close to tons of other things to do Downtown!
Voted one of the best bakeries in America by Food & Wine Magazine - this place serves up some of the best bread and pastries you've ever tasted! Pro-tip: Try the Meyer Lemon Sourdough and the Croissants - but get there early for the best selection of pastries - they sell out quick!
Ready for one of the best breakfast sandwiches you have ever had? Petaluma is an egg and dairy town by historical standards, and this place uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to make insanely delicious breakfast sandwiches (and other breakfast items) that will leave you satisfied and ready to tackle the day!
Tacos Tacos Tacos! Need a quick bite or just something easy? El Roys has a brick & mortar + two taco trucks - we find ourselves ordering from here usually once a week! Everything is delicious!