Just an hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma County offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, world-class wines, culinary excellence, and artistic innovation. Spanning over one million acres, our region features majestic coastal redwood forests, winding rivers, gentle valleys, and stunning Pacific coastlines. With more than 425 wineries and 60,000 acres of vineyards, Sonoma County is celebrated not only for exceptional wines and culinary excellence, but also for the warm hospitality and genuine, welcoming spirit of our people. The vibrant artisan and maker communities further enhance our charm, making for a destination rich in heritage, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability. Discover the wealth of unique stories waiting to be shared in Sonoma County with these curated thought starters, crafted for our friends in the media.
Sonoma County’s Nighttime Glow: Suki Waters’ Bioluminescent Kayak Tours
Suki Waters, founder of Watertreks Ecotours, is aptly named for her career. Based in Jenner-by-the-Sea, she leads guided kayaking trips exploring the Russian River’s meeting point with the Pacific Ocean. Waters’ deep-rooted connection to the region spans generations—her great-great-grandmother was a member of the Kashia Pomo; the Native American tribe whose land encompasses the river’s mouth. Bioluminescence along the Sonoma County coastline is as mesmerizing as the Aurora Borealis in the Arctic. This seasonal phenomenon, especially prominent in the Russian River Estuary, occurs from June to October, with the most vibrant displays on moonless nights. The glow comes from dinoflagellates, tiny organisms that light up when disturbed by predators or wave action. From June to November, Watertreks offers bioluminescent night paddles in the Pacific. With Suki’s expert guidance, each stroke reveals a glowing trail, illuminating marine life while providing insight into Sonoma County’s unique ecosystems.
Inclusive Travel in Sonoma County: Wineries, Parks, and More
Sonoma County offers an inclusive environment for travelers with disabilities, making it a top destination for accessible adventures. Many wineries, including Simi Winery, feature ADA-compliant tasting rooms, with accessible restrooms and outdoor areas. The region’s parks, such as Doran Regional Park and Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, offer wheelchair-friendly trails, while Up & Away Ballooning provides accessible hot air balloon rides. Visitors can also explore the wildlife at Safari West aboard an accessible safari vehicle. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa offers accessible accommodations, and Sonoma Plaza features wide, paved sidewalks for easy navigation. With ADA-compliant facilities throughout, Sonoma County ensures that all visitors can enjoy its scenic beauty and unique experiences.
Ancient Healing Meets Modern Luxury
Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary in Sonoma Wine Country offers a unique Cedar Enzyme Bath, the only one of its kind in North America. Rooted in ancient Japanese traditions, the treatment immerses the body in a warm blend of ground cedar, rice bran, and living enzymes that enhance metabolism. Popularized during the 1972 Sapporo Olympics for recovery, this practice was introduced to the U.S. by Osmosis founder Michael Stusser, who discovered it in Japan during the 1980s. The bath provides numerous benefits, including improved circulation, pain relief, detoxification, and radiant skin, while promoting relaxation and holistic wellness.
Solar Punk Farms: Where Regenerative Agriculture Meets Queer Activism
Solar Punk Farms in Guerneville exemplifies sustainability, community, and ecological stewardship. Led by husbands Nick Schwanz and Spencer Scott, along with a collective of LGBTQ+ farmers, the farm integrates permaculture, agroforestry, and biodiversity to create a regenerative ecosystem. A hub for queer activism and sustainable agriculture, it offers workshops, events, and hands-on experiences to promote environmental awareness and social equity. By blending renewable energy and resilience with community engagement, Solar Punk Farms demonstrates how sustainable living can thrive in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
How Women Pioneers Helped Shape Sonoma County's Craft Beer Legacy
In 1976, the New Albion Brewing Company was founded in Sonoma County by Jack McAuliffe, Suzy Stern, and Jane Zimmerman, becoming America’s first modern microbrewery. While McAuliffe is often credited as the sole founder, Stern and Zimmerman played vital roles in the brewery's creation and operations. Stern was particularly key in funding and contributing to the brewing and sales processes. Their collective efforts laid the foundation for the craft beer movement, inspiring countless microbreweries. Today, Sonoma County is recognized as a craft beer epicenter, with innovative breweries like Russian River Brewing Company contributing to our reputation.
Sonoma County’s Wellness Retreats Blend Cannabis with Nature and Relaxation
Sonoma County is home to award-winning cannabis farms and transformative wellness retreats. Experiences range from yoga and meditation sessions infused with cannabis to nature walks and spa treatments enhanced by CBD and cannabis therapeutics. Visitors are invited to explore local cannabis farms, engage with knowledgeable cultivators and industry experts to learn about sustainable growing practices, innovative extraction methods, and the latest developments in cannabis research.
Stewardship and Sustainability: A Core Mission at SCT
Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) became the nation’s first Destination Stewardship Organization (DSO) in 2018, marking a key commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism. Stewardship and sustainability are in our roots, forming a core part of our organizational DNA. As a DSO, SCT works to balance tourism's economic benefits with the protection of the region’s environment, culture, and heritage. SCT encourages responsible travel, supports initiatives to reduce environmental impacts, and promotes local traditions. Through partnerships, SCT ensures tourism benefits Sonoma County’s economy while preserving its natural beauty for future generations.
Wine Country for All of Us
You don’t need to be a sommelier to vibe in Sonoma County. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sipper, the only requirement is a thirst for adventure and a love for the unexpected. Whether you’re down to get lost in the redwoods, explore the coastline with family, or hit a local dive bar after a day of tasting, this place is what you make it. A place where the local artisans, farmers and outdoor enthusiasts cultivate not just the land, but a culture that’s redefining what people expect of Wine Country. We embrace all tastes and flavors, from perfect pairings and sprawling estates, to laid-back tastings and offbeat art galleries. So, come as you are. Swirl your wine like a pro, or swig beer straight from the bottle — we won’t judge. Because this corner of Wine Country isn’t just for the connoisseurs; it's for all of us. We celebrate originality, toast people’s eccentricities and unapologetically own the reputation we’ve earned as being a forward-thinking hub of creative idealists. So, feel free to open up here.
