A Guide to 24 Hours on the Sonoma Coast

Make the most of the beautiful Sonoma Coast in one day. 

We recently announced our newest FP Escapes x Yogascapes destinations and, as a native to Sonoma, I couldn’t be more excited. Introducing FP Escapes: Sonoma, California! Stay on a working farm in the rolling hills of Northern California, explore a farm-to-table lifestyle. Plant the seeds, reap its bounty and connect with the earth and friends around you. Explore the life cycle of food from seed to yield with a seed-planting workshop amidst some of Northern California’s richest soils, followed by a harvest, and the transformation of crops into a beautiful, healthy meal. Other highlights of the Sonoma package includes daily yoga with Katie Silcox, a medicinal herb workshop, local wine tasting and organic vegetarian meals throughout your stay.

If you need a little more convincing, let this be your (24-hour) guide of Sonoma. Sonoma Valley is in the county of Sonoma, about a 40-minute drive to Bodega Bay, a sleepy coastal town on the Pacific Ocean. I recently spent time there, in both areas, to escape the busyness of LA life. Immediately I was transported back to a time of slow living and overwhelming beauty. The landscapes — breathtaking. The food — fresh. The locals — kind. It’s a place like no other. Below, we’ve got you covered — where to shop, dine, wine taste, stay and refuel, from the coastal cliffs of Bodega Bay to the picturesque Sonoma Valley.

Where to Stay: The Lotus Feed. The farm and retreat is located at Taylor Maid Farm, just outside the city of Occidental, near Bodega. The center, sitting on 108 acres, features an outdoor yoga deck overlooking the coastline, an indoor Bindu yoga yurt, an 80-foot communal dining table, a pond, and gardens. For accommodations, The Lotus Feed offers yurts, yomes, bell tents and a teepee. “The center is designed to be intimate with nature but also provides spaces for rest and retirement in comfort. One of the most special experiences at the Lotus Feed Center is the outdoor showers. They are built around a gorgeous California Bay tree and showers take place under the canopy.” We’ll be staying at The Lotus Feed on our eco-retreat!

bodega

bodega

Where to Eat: The Birds Cafe. This cafe off of Highway 1 in Bodega Bay is my go-to spot for fish-n-chips, BBQ and fresh oysters, and tasty fish tacos. Sisters and long time Bodega locals Mindy and Melissa Freeman have been serving up the freshest seafood since 2013. You really can’t go wrong in ordering — everything is made from scratch. Wash it down with a cold beer or glass of wine and graze the Pacific from the sun deck. The space is quaint but big in charm, reminiscent of your favorite snack bar as a kid. The Birds Cafe is named after the Alfred Hitchcock film, The Birds, which was filmed in Bodega Bay over 50 years ago, and in which the sister’s parents were extras.

bodega

bodega

Where to Shop: Global Heart Fair Trade. I have been a shopper of this Sonoma plaza store ever since I was an angst-y teenager roaming the charming streets of downtown Sonoma. Not only does Global Heart carry some of the most authentically beautiful and intricate pieces, they are also 100% fair trade. This means they help create opportunities for economically and socially marginalized producers from all over the world. Be sure to give yourself enough time though — you’re going to want to really explore the gorgeous fabrics, jewelry, books, home decor, oils, coffees and more.

bodega

bodega

Where to Joy Ride: Highway 1, between Bodega Bay and Fort Ross. Enjoy miles (and miles) of breathtaking coastal beauty as you drive the cliffs of Highway 1. Starting in Bodega Bay, drive north for about 20-25 miles, through the uber-cute town of Jenner By The Sea, and past Fort Ross. The two lane road twists with the cliffs and climbs in elevation, through and up above the fog. Stop at any turnout to pause (bask) in the view and take photos. Watch the waves and feel the wind. You’re never going to want to leave.

bodega

bodega

Where to Wine Taste: Joseph Phelps Freestone Winery. Situated at the intersection of Bodega Highway and Bohemian Highway, Freestone Winery and tasting room is the perfect tucked away getaway. Taste wine from a variety of menus as you kick back outside or cozy up inside at the communal table. Hint hint, we may be getting a sampling of their natural sips on our retreat.

bodega

bodega

+What would you love to see added to this guide? Please share in the comments.

Follow Joanna on Instagram.

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8 years ago

I was there last summer and it’s still one of my favorite memories. I can’t wait to go back one day!
xx
Ella
http://www.thirteenoctobers.com

8 years ago

Can’t wait to visit soon, looks so peaceful!

x
StephC

http://sstephcc.blogspot.com/

8 years ago

Love everything on the PCH.

katelyn
8 years ago

cafe aquatica in Jenner by the sea is lovely! Also theres some pretty sweet drift wood structures on the beach there certain times of the year if your lucky enough to be there before the rangers burn them down, hehe!

7 years ago

Ah, and so much more! A few additional recommendations would be:

1. Check out the town of Occidental. Barley & Hops has a fantastic selection of hoppy local beers!
2. When you visit Joseph Phelps, you’re actually in a tiny tiny town called Freestone. Take some time to go to Wild Flour Bread (delicious) and take a walk through their beautiful garden! Then stop by Freestone Artisan Cheese down the street for a few samples. You can also walk through these great zen gardens in the spa called Osmosis.

Such a gem of a place. Enjoy!

7 years ago

This is making me so homesick for Northern California!

Kate | http://www.NomadInNihon.com