Visit Guerneville for wine and other fun activities
Guerneville is a sleepy little town on the banks of the Russian River in Sonoma County. The town is 150 years old and, for most of those years, has been a resort and vacation destination for San Francisco and Bay Area residents. In the 1970s, Guerneville became a friendly travel destination for the San Francisco Bay Area LGBTQ community. Guerneville is artsy, hippy, and eclectic. Growing up in San Francisco, we visited Guerneville almost every summer. Today, Guerneville looks just about the same as it did when we visited with our parents. Guerneville is a town to be explored. Here are some fun things to do in Guerneville.
Visit Guerneville for wine
Guerneville is in the heart of the Russian River Valley wine appellation or AVA. This is where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive. These grapes love the morning fog and the cooling afternoon breezes from the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Coast is only 13 miles away. Here are three wine stops to choose from while spending time in Guerneville.
- Korbel Champagne Cellars – one of our favorite wineries with a historic past – do not miss it
- Porter-Bass Winery – Biodynamic winery, family run, and a throwback to the old days of wine tasting
- Equality Wines – in town and supporting equal rights for all through wine sales
Visit Guerneville for family activities
Armstrong Redwood State Natural Reserve
Armstrong Redwoods is one of the amazing places to visit in all of Sonoma Country. Take a short hike of one mile and you will see some of the most spectacular trees in the world. Come in the early morning and beat the crowds. When it is quiet, you can almost hear the Redwoods whispering to one another. Another idea is to pack a lunch and enjoy the Redwood picnic area. The nature walk is very informative, great for both adults and children of all ages. The Redwood Trees will leave you with inspiration.
Life on the beach
During the summer season, many love to enjoy activities at the lovely Russian River beaches. Head down to Johnson’s Beach for swimming, wading, sunbathing, and canoeing. Here is a link to find everything about Johnson’s Beach. Stay safe; the Russian River has many deep holes. Stay in the designated swimming areas.
Fishing
In Guerneville, be sure to go to King’s Sporting Goods. The place has been there for over 60 years. The Russian River has fishing all year round. In the winter months, it is all about Steelhead Fish. I have never caught a Steelhead, but I have seen people battle this fish. It is a fight for 30 minute or more. In the summer months, it is fishing for small-mouth bass. King’s can you get started on the secrets of fishing on the Russian River.
Walk the town
Take an hour or more to explore Guerneville. Walk Main Street and the side streets to get a feel for life in this small resort river town. You will be sure to find some different and unique shops. At the Bank of Guerneville Building, now Guerneville Bank Club, you can view historic photos of the Russian River and buy gourmet ice cream and goodies from the Chile Pies Baking Company. Another attraction is the old Guerneville 5 &10 Store. It dates back to 1949. Take a walk across the historic Guerneville Bridge (1922) now closed to auto traffic. Here you can get a bird’s eye view of the Russian River and Johnson’s Beach.
Lodging and Restaurants
Dining and lodging in summer months can be a challenge. Book early.
Another option for visiting Guerneville is to take a day trip from Healdsburg. Take Westside Road from Healdsburg town center for 12 miles. Turn right onto River Road and proceed to Guerneville. This route will take you through some of the most scenic backroads in wine country. Healdsburg has many more options for dining and lodging. Whatever you decide, a trip to Guerneville is lots of fun.
If you like the Guerneville trip, you might also like these Russian River Valley outings
- Occidental – More Redwoods and Wine
- Geyserville – Don’t miss Pedroncelli
- Westside Road – Wine country in the Russian River
- Hidden wineries in the Russian River Valley