Nearest Airports

• Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) - Approximately 12 miles, 20 minutes drive
  Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and (starting one month before our wedding!) Southwest Airlines have flights to and from STS. This is a relatively small regional airport, but it's the closest airport by far!
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - Approximately 70 miles, 1.5 hours drive
  This is the largest airport nearby, so probably has a flight for everyone. It's a great hub if you want to spend more time in San Francisco or elsewhere in the Bay Area, particularly in the North Bay. We recommend renting a car if you fly through SFO. You'll get to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge!
• Oakland International Airport (OAK) - Approximately 70 miles, 1.5 hours drive
  This is a similar distance to SFO, but is a smaller airport and may have fewer flight options. We also recommend renting a car if you fly through OAK. You'll probably take the Bay Bridge instead of the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Sacramento International Airport (SMF) - Approximately 100 miles, 2 hours drive
  SMF is a bit further than the other airports, but it's a great option if you value a smaller and chiller airport vibe. Plus, you'll get to drive through the Bride's hometown of Davis.

Transportation

• Rental Cars: Northern California and Wine Country are quite spaced out, so we recommend renting a car to get around, especially if you're flying into any airport other than STS. Our wedding and welcome party venues are about 30 minutes apart by car. Many wineries across Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley are up to an hour away by car, or even further.
• Ride Shares: Uber and Lyft are readily available in the area. Expect to pay $12 to $20 for a 10-minute standard Uber/Lyft, depending on time of day and demand. While Sonoma and Napa are a bit far away, there are many wineries throughout the Russian River Valley, closer to Sebastopol and Santa Rosa. Therefore, if you are able to fly through STS, we think using Uber/Lyft only and not renting a car is feasible!
• Shuttles: Groome Transportation offers shuttles from SFO and OAK to Santa Rosa, for about $50 per person per direction.

• Weather

  Early June is one of the best times to visit! Expect warm, sunny days inland (70s-80s°F) with cool, foggy mornings on the coast. The marine layer typically burns off by afternoon. Evenings can be cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater, especially for coastal areas and wine country dinners.

• Local Eats

  Don't miss the farm-to-table cuisine that makes this region famous. Sebastopol and the surrounding towns have incredible restaurants showcasing local, seasonal ingredients.

• Reservations

  Popular restaurants and some wineries require reservations, especially on weekends. June is peak season, so book ahead!

• Driving

  Wine country roads are winding and scenic—allow extra time and consider designating a driver or booking a wine tour.

• Downtown Sebastopol

  Sebastopol is a quirky, artistic community filled with local charm. Stroll down Main Street to discover vintage shops, galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Don't miss the colorful murals throughout town, including the famous "Patrick Amiot Junk Art" sculptures on Florence Avenue—whimsical metal creations made from recycled materials that perfectly capture Sebastopol's creative spirit.

• The Barlow

  This modern marketplace in Sebastopol is housed in converted apple processing warehouses and features local wineries, craft breweries, artisan food producers, and makers. Perfect for wine tasting, grabbing lunch, or picking up locally-made gifts. Try Crooked Goat Brewing or sample wines at Kosta Browne.

• Santa Rosa

  Santa Rosa offers Railroad Square (a historic shopping district), the Charles M. Schulz Museum (dedicated to the Peanuts creator who lived here), and a vibrant downtown with excellent restaurants and breweries.

• Bodega Bay

  20 minutes west

  This classic fishing village offers stunning ocean views, fresh seafood, and dramatic coastal scenery. It was the filming location for Hitchcock's "The Birds." Visit the harbor, enjoy clam chowder at Spud Point Crab Company, or watch the sunset from Bodega Head with views of the rugged Sonoma Coast.

• Jenner & the Russian River Mouth

  35 minutest west

  Where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean, this tiny town offers breathtaking views and harbor seal watching. Stop at the scenic overlook or grab a bite at River's End with its cliff-side dining.

• Point Reyes National Seashore

  50 minutest west

  A dramatic peninsula featuring windswept beaches, hiking trails, and the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse. In early June, you might still catch the tail end of gray whale migration, and wildflowers are often in bloom. The charming towns of Point Reyes Station and Inverness offer oyster farms and cozy cafes.

• Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

  15 minutes north

  Walk among ancient coast redwoods, some over 300 feet tall and more than 1,000 years old. The easy, flat Pioneer Nature Trail takes you through a cathedral grove that will leave you awestruck. This is California's iconic old-growth forest at its finest.

• Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary

  Occidental, 20 minutes

  For something unique, try a traditional Japanese enzyme bath followed by a massage in a tranquil redwood setting.

• Russian River Valley

  You're already here! This region is famous for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Many tasting rooms are casual and welcoming. Try Iron Horse Vineyards (known for sparkling wine), Gary Farrell, or Dutton-Goldfield.

• Sonoma Valley & Sonoma Plaza

  30 minutes

  The historic Sonoma Plaza is California's largest town square, surrounded by tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops. The laid-back Sonoma wine scene is less crowded than Napa. Visit gloria ferrer for sparkling wine with views, or explore the Carneros wine region.

• Healdsburg

  30 minutes north

  This charming town centered around a plaza offers upscale wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, and boutique shopping. The surrounding Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley are renowned wine regions.

• Napa Valley

  45-60 minutes

  The most famous wine region in America offers everything from grand estates to intimate family wineries. The Silverado Trail is less crowded than Highway 29. Consider the Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique experience, or visit historic towns like Yountville and St. Helena.

• Highway 1 (the Pacific Coast Highway) North to Mendocino

  2 hours

  One of the world's most beautiful coastal drives, winding along dramatic cliffs and through seaside villages. Mendocino is a Victorian-era town perched on headlands with stunning ocean views, art galleries, and cozy inns.

• Bohemian Highway

  A short, winding backroad from Sebastopol through Freestone and Occidental to the redwoods—quintessential Sonoma County scenery with forested hills and small towns.

• West Dry Creek Road

  A scenic wine country drive through vineyards and rolling hills, perfect for leisurely winery hopping.

• San Francisco

  While you're on the West Coast, consider spending a day in the City by the Bay:

  • Golden Gate Bridge - Walk or bike across this iconic landmark
  • Alcatraz Island - Tour the famous island prison (book tickets well in advance!)
  • Fisherman's Wharf - Sea lions, seafood, and bay views
  • Ferry Building Marketplace - Artisan food market on the waterfront
  • Chinatown - The oldest Chinatown in North America
  • Golden Gate Park - A massive urban park with gardens, museums, and a conservatory
  • Cable Cars - A San Francisco classic experience
  • Mission District - Colorful murals and excellent Mexican food