Napa and Sonoma

If someone is asked to name American wine regions, Napa and Sonoma are probably the two that immediately spring to mind. Napa probably receives more tourists than any other region in North America. But the average wine tourist only goes to two or three wineries, so visitors will be looking for other things to do.

It is possible you are visiting for other reasons, but Napa and Sonoma Counties are, first and foremost, wine country. There are more wineries that we can possibly list and all are creating memorable wines. There are many that you may know and many more that you can only try find in the region. Explore and enjoy, but know there are other things to see.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore preserves a section of California coastline north of the bay area. The area is rich in shore birds. It is common to see both elephant seals and tule elk (which have a reserve on the peninsula and are only found in California). Aside from wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, kayaking and biking are popular activities. Camping is available, but campsites can only be reached by foot, bicycle or boat. 

Lake Berryessa

On the northeastern edge of this region, in the Vaca Mountains, Putah Creek was dammed to create Lake Berryessa as a fresh-water reservoir. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the lake offers opportunities for number of recreational activities. Among these are fishing, waterskiing, jet skiing, pleasure boating, kayaking and canoeing, hiking, road bicycling, motorcycle pleasure biking, birding, wildlife observation, picnicking, and swimming.

Other Activities

Among the other things to do are a visit to the city of Santa Rosa to experience its many cultural, historical and entertainment options. The Jack London State Historic Park is just north of Sonoma. Drive up the Conestoga Grade into the rugged, forested hills above wine country and admire the views atop Mount Saint Helena.

Or, you can just chill and enjoy the wine.