The trip up Hwy. 128 through Anderson Valley and eventually to the coast is a new experience every time I visit; twice a year at least. This region is becoming more and more popular with new wineries and restaurants opening up all the time it seems like a different drive each season. Though I spent 10 years of my life growing up in Fort Bragg and Mendocino, hardly any of the things I recommend this time around is something I’ve done before. But of course, I know my way around and can offer the best tips of what do to and see like a local. My boyfriend and I strapped on our helmets, zipped up the leather, and took the bike for the journey through vineyards, redwoods, and sweeping ocean views.

The drive to Santa Cruz is quick— just 2 hours from Sonoma through the East Bay and then the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains. The road trip is definitely part of the experience to this coastal college town. The destination as a whole is made of a grouping of small towns known for it’s own unique culture, including Capitola, Soquel, Aptos, and Santa Cruz itself. Visit Soquel and Aptos to experience the vineyard-laden countryside and Capitola and Santa Cruz for surfing, food, music, and shopping.

Nestled in the tiny village of Glen Ellen, the historic Jack London Village Marketplace is a must-stop on your tour through Sonoma Wine Country. This quaint and gorgeous complex of local, small businesses is home to Wine Country Chocolates, Schermiester Winery, Yeti Nepalase Cuisine, Creekside Healing Center, and more. Glen Ellen is becoming a more popular destination, but it remains a hidden gem tucked away off the main highway on Arnold Dr.

When visiting Wine Country, the options for wine tasting feel seemingly endless and planning your stops can be overwhelming. As Sonoma locals who have tasted wine all over town, we’ve gathered a handful of our go-to wine tasting spots you’ll want to be sure to include on your list.

Visiting Wine Country is always a good idea, but all of the options of things to see and do can be overwhelming. We’re sharing two of our most favorite resources for planning your next trip to Sonoma so you can sit back, relax and enjoy every minute of your visit.

With so much to see and drink when visiting Wine Country, arranging transportation that is safe, knowledgable and reliable is super important. As Sonoma locals, we’ve rounded up our top 3 transportation options to make your Wine Country visit one to remember.