The official start of the summer season began on June 22nd. From music festivals to outdoor movie nights, there’s plenty of fun for all ages. Here’s just a few of the many activities to enjoy in Sonoma County all summer long:
- Summer Staycation – from art classes in the vineyards to one-of-a-kind sculpture exhibitions, these hotels are offering creative new experiences this summer.
- Cool off at the Coast – take a drive along scenic Highway 1 where there are plenty of spectacular spots for taking a stroll, having some great food or simply taking in the views. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, check out these secret spots.
- Camping and Glamping – fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean at these coastal campgrounds. If sleeping in a tent on the ground is not your thing, check out these luxurious glamping sites.
- Summer Music Concerts/Festivals – get your groove on at these outdoor concerts, festivals, and performances.
- Outdoor Movie Nights – pack a blanket and some snacks and enjoy a movie under the stars.
- Float on the Russian River – kick the day off at Forestville’s Steelhead Beach and end at Sunset Beach. Be sure to take advantage of the Regional Parks River Shuttle, which costs $5 for an all-day shuttle pass and travels from Santa Rosa to Forestville to avoid full parking lots or the need to leave a car at each beach. Don’t forget the sunscreen and plenty of liquids to stay hydrated.
- Spend the Day Poolside – from hotels and wineries with poolside tastings to geothermal swimming areas and seasonal swimming lakes, enjoy these Sonoma County swimming spots.
- Gourmet Picnics in the Vineyards – Enjoy a gourmet picnic in the vineyard with a great glass of wine, beautiful views and perhaps a stroll around the vineyard.
- Ice Skating – Snoopy’s Home Ice offers daily skating sessions, evening skating sessions, and lessons for brushing up on your skills. After your skate, head on over to the Charles M. Schulz Museum.
- Pick Your Own Berries – fresh fruit flourishes in the summer and can be savored right from the garden at roadside stands or from u-pick farms.
- Farmers Markets – Sonoma County farmers’ markets are a great place to hang out with friends, enjoy live music and great food, and get locally grown produce. Some markets are year-round while others are seasonal.
- Bike Rides and Trails – enjoy the beauty of nature in Sonoma County at these hiking spots.
- Sunday Funday Windsor Bike Ride – join the squadron of bikes winding their way through neighborhoods between Keiser Park and the Town Green, held on the 2nd & 4th Sundays of every month. Each ride lasts about 2-1/2 hours and includes an hour-long stop at the Windsor Certified Farmers Market.
- Spend a Day at the Park – Sonoma County’s regional park system consists of more than 50 parks encompassing nearly 60,000 acres. Whether you’re looking for hiking, mountain biking, bird watching or picnicking, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in the county’s regional parks. If you’re looking for guided tours, check out this calendar of events and outings.
- Cool off With Some Sweet Treats – nothing says summer like ice cream. From gelato to sorbet to gourmet flavors, here are the best places to get a cool, sweet scoop.
I hope you’re able to spend time outdoors and enjoy all the many activities Sonoma County has to offer during this spectacular summer season!