Nestled amidst natural beauty and brimming with rustic charm, Guerneville is a hidden gem that absolutely deserves a spot on your Wine Country must-visit list. For years, it’s been a beloved retreat for San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community and those who appreciate natural beauty and small-town charm. Though word has now spread, Guerneville holds tight to its laid-back, woodsy vibes that keep people coming back again and again.

Ready to discover what makes this town so special? Dive into our activities guide for the best things to do in Guerneville!

Enjoy Local Wine Tasting

There are dozens and dozens of wineries within a 25-minute drive of Guerneville, with flavors and prices to suit every preference and budget. Here are just a few suggestions when you’re ready to sip well.

First on your list of places to hit should be Iron Horse Vineyards, to start your day with bubbly and vineyard views. Grown only in the Green Valley, a small slice of the Russian River Valley AVA, visitors can indulge in sparkling or still Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines from the al fresco setting of the family-owned estate, which overlooks rolling hills of estate vineyards.

Next, head a bit north to Moshin to sample their acclaimed Rosé and to see their gravity flow winemaking process before making your way to another one of our favorites, MacRostie Winery. Priding themselves on their small-batch Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from throughout Sonoma, you can sample the winery’s efforts at the stunning, contemporary Estate House. It offers the perfect setting for tasting exceptionally-made wines.

Before you head back to Guerneville, consider one last stop at the historic Korbel, known for crafting bubbles in the traditional méthode champenoise.

Hike Among Giants

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is just a short drive from Guerneville but feels a world away. Hiking trails wind through majestic Sequoia trees (also known as Coast Redwoods) that are over 500 years old and over 200 feet tall.

The Reserve offers parking, picnic facilities, a visitor center, an amphitheater, and several self-guided nature trails. Ogle the largest tree in the park—which is higher than a football stadium is long, at 310 feet—and the oldest tree—1,400 years old—on easy walks close to the park entrance.

Adventure on the Russian River

The wide, lazy Russian River winds its way through the heart of Guerneville, and there’s no better place to spend a sunny day. There are endless ways to get out on the water, whether you decide to rent an inner tube, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from one of the many river outfitters located in or near town. You can venture out on your own, hire a guide, or join a tour group for the day.

Getaway Adventures offers excellent guided and self-guided kayak tours along the Russian River, along with full-day bike and kayak combo tours, which makes it easy to find a tour that meets your interests and availability. Another option is Burke’s Canoe Trips, which will have you exploring the river via their 10-mile self-guided canoe and kayak trip. Russian River Adventures offers its unique Road 2 River Adventure, which combines e-biking through vineyards and kayaking the river. No matter what you choose, keep your eye out for wildlife like river otters, osprey, and turtles.

Water, Sun, and Fun

Johnson’s Beach has been a Guerneville warm weather tradition for over 100 years. Rent a chair and an umbrella, stake out your spot, and let the fun begin. You can choose to swim in the roped off “kiddie pool” or in the deeper river dam, float in rented inner tubes, or get a bit more active with kayaks and canoes. When it’s lunchtime, head to the snack bar for hot dogs, ice cream, and local wine or beer. Located near downtown Guerneville with free admission, there isn’t an easier or more fun way to spend a summer afternoon.

Even better, you can also book on-site accommodation in their Classic Beach Lodge, Tiny Cabins, or Historic Bungalows. Just keep in mind that the beach is only open seasonally—on weekends from May 18th to June 2nd and August 24th to September 29th; daily from June 8th to August 18th. Lodging at Johnson’s Beach is open from April 18th to October 31st.

For year-round glamping or cabin dwelling near the river, book Dawn Ranch for a stay in one of the renovated cottages, cabins, bungalows, or glamping tents.

Stroll Main Street

Guerneville’s “downtown” is centered on a few blocks of Main Street, a retro mix of coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries, and bars, alongside rural small-town staples like hardware stores and diners. The staff are locals who have lived here for decades and know the best spots to dine, hike, and wine taste. Don’t be shy!

Pop into Russian River Books & Letters to support a small business in your reading endeavors, or peruse the antiques and vintage finds at the Sonoma Nesting Company. You can also feel like a kid again at Pee Wee Golf & Arcade, one of the best examples of old-school mini golf kitsch left in the U.S. Fantastical dragons and brightly colored dinosaurs watch over players on two miniature golf courses, and vintage arcade games offer hours of entertainment. Well-maintained and fun for ages 2 to 102, this is a must!

Eat Your Way Through Guerneville

boon eat + drink serves up Sonoma-local ingredients for California-fresh dishes, and is a must-taste for your Guerneville visit. The restaurant was featured in Food & Wine for its flavorful food and warm atmosphere. Everything from their flash-fried brussel sprouts to chili braised pork shoulder is delicious, so come hungry.

Another favorite hangout also happens to be another brainchild of Chef Crista Luedtke (the owner of boon eat + drink). True to its travel-themed moniker, Road Trip dishes up a global menu with mouthwatering bites like kimchi quesadillas, banh mi panzanella, and baja fish tacos, served with Sonoma wines, low-ABV cocktails, and local beer.

If you’re feeling a little burnt out on vino, look no further than Stumptown Brewery, located about a mile north of downtown along the Russian River. Their beers are expertly crafted in small batches and feature everything from wheats to porters and cream ales, while the food menu features pub favorites like nachos, burgers, and chicken strips.

End your foray into the Guerneville food scene the best way—with something sweet! Nimble & Finn’s dishes up handmade ice cream and inventive ice cream cocktails at their Main Street location.

Check Out the Bar Scene

Guerneville is the crown jewel in the collection of Russian River Valley towns that embrace a thriving LGBTQIA+ culture, recognized in its lively bar scene. Some fun places to check out include Rainbow Cattle Company, known as “Sonoma County’s Gay Playground,” the Bars at the R3 Hotel, and the tequila bar at El Barrio. Regardless of how you identify yourself, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

See A Play

Ever heard of a nomadic theater company? Step outside your normal vacation routine and catch a performance by The Pegasus Theater. Local and traveling actors perform in these low-key productions of classic and avant-garde plays, written by Bay Area playwrights and the like. Each new play is performed in a different venue, whether it be an outdoor amphitheater or a community center. Check their website to see where their next display of thespian delights will take place and to purchase tickets!

Be Entrenched in the Arts

What would a charming small town be without its equally quirky art scene? Guerneville epitomizes this with its several art galleries sprinkled around town. Oli Gallery, named for owners Donovan and Pip’s 22-year-old pup Olive, showcases contemporary fine art, from paintings to sculptures created by dozens of artists.

The Russian River Art Gallery is equally as devoted to its creators, all of whom live or work in Sonoma County. You’ll find work in a wide variety of mediums, from jewelry to photography and watercolor paintings.