A Day Trip from Santa Rosa to the Sonoma Coast
One of the best things about visiting (or living in) Santa Rosa, California, is how close you are to the stunning Sonoma Coast. In less than an hour, you can trade vineyard views and city energy for dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and the fresh ocean air of Bodega Bay and beyond. A day trip from Santa Rosa to the Sonoma Coast is the perfect blend of wine country charm and rugged ocean beauty. Start early with a sunrise departure, wind your way through Guerneville’s redwoods and rivers, then return at day’s end via Sebastopol for farm-fresh flavors and local character. With Santa Rosa as your home base, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—a cozy city stay paired with unforgettable coastal adventures.
River Road & Guerneville
Start your day bright and early by driving west along River Road, a scenic route that hugs the Russian River and winds through redwood country. A few must-do stops along the way include:
- Korbel Champagne Cellars – Enjoy a morning tasting of sparkling wines or a guided tour of this historic Sonoma County winery.
- Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve – Take a peaceful stroll among towering coast redwoods, some over 1,000 years old.
- Downtown Guerneville – Known for its eclectic shops, cafés, and laid-back vibe, it’s a fun place to grab a coffee before continuing your coastal journey.
From Guerneville, follow the road west to Jenner, where the Russian River flows into the Pacific Ocean—a dramatic vista and the gateway to the Sonoma Coast.
A Day on the Sonoma Coast & in Bodega Bay
Once you reach the coast, it’s time to slow down and savor the scenery. Highlights include:
- Bodega Head – Hike the bluff-top trails for sweeping Pacific Ocean views and seasonal whale watching.
- Doran Regional Park or Salmon Creek Beach – Great spots for a picnic, beach walk, or kite flying.
- Seafood Feasts in Bodega Bay – Treat yourself to fresh clam chowder, fish and chips, or Dungeness crab (in season) at favorites like Spud Point Crab Company or The Tides Wharf Restaurant.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Rent gear in Bodega Harbor for a water-level view of the wildlife and coastline.
Sebastopol via Highway 12
After a day of coastal adventures, take the scenic route back to Santa Rosa via Highway 1 and Highway 12, passing through the rolling farmland and creative energy of Sebastopol. It’s the perfect way to wind down your day:
- Sebastopol’s Farm Stands – Depending on the season, stop for fresh apples, berries, or local produce from Sonoma County farms.
- The Barlow – This open-air marketplace is an ideal dinner stop, featuring artisan eateries, cideries, breweries, and boutiques.
From here, it’s just a short drive back to Santa Rosa, where you can relax and recharge for the night at your Santa Rosa hotel.
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