Living Happy and Healthy in Sonoma County

Is Sonoma County a good place to live? YES! Residents enjoy a beautiful setting, a laid-back lifestyle, the ideal climate and fabulous outdoor recreation. With San Francisco and other premier Bay Area cities within an easy drive, residents enjoy the rustic charm of Sonoma County without sacrificing access to world-class cultural amenities.

SANTA ROSA RANKS AMONG THE TOP TEN HAPPIEST CITIES IN AMERICA!

In March 2020, Santa Rosa was placed in the Top Ten for Happiest Cities to Live in America by WalletHub. Cities were ranked on various criteria in three categories: Emotional and Physical Well-Being, Income and Employment and Community and Environment.

Not surprisingly, Santa Rosa ranked especially high in Emotional and Physical Well-being. Santa Rosa residents are far more likely to engage in healthy recreational activities and sports than most Americans and enjoy a healthier work-life balance.

Sonoma County offers an abundance of recreational opportunities. From expansive, picturesque beaches brimming with tide pools to exquisite hiking trails and rolling vineyards, options for recreation are nearly endless. Let’s explore some of the outdoor activities available in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County.

LOOKING FOR A SONOMA COUNTY TRAIL OR A SPOT TO DROP YOUR BOAT OR KAYAK?

•Spring Lake/Annadel Park/Sugarloaf State Park

Spring Lake, located in Santa Rosa’s city limits, hits the mark for a great trail or kayaking expedition. Bordering Spring Lake is Annadel State Park with hiking, picnic and camping spots without a lengthy drive. Don’t miss Kenwood’s Sugarloaf State Park and be sure to check out the night sky at the Robert Ferguson Conservatory.

•Lake Sonoma

Lake Sonoma is a reservoir created by Warm Springs Dam near the city of Cloverdale. It offers a private marina, boat rentals, campgrounds, fishing and more. With 50 miles of shoreline and a beach area, it’s a perfect spot for an adventure.

SONOMA COUNTY IS IDEAL FOR CYCLING ENTHUSIASTS!

The Tour de California regularly traverses Sonoma County hills. But you don’t have to be a professional cyclist to enjoy Sonoma County on two wheels.

Choose from challenging routes high in scenic mountains or meander along gorgeous ocean beaches, wetlands and meadows filled with wildflowers. Or opt for a more relaxed ride through back-country roads and world-famous wineries. Sonoma County bike routes offer fabulous rides for beginners, families and advanced cyclists.

Interested in learning more about Sonoma County cycling routes? Learn more here: Cycling Sonoma County

SONOMA COUNTY’S PICTURESQUE BEACHES

Check out Bodega Bay (and see the site where Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds” was filmed along the way) or visit Goat Rock Beach for a wonderful day trip. Only in Sonoma County can you visit the majestic redwoods at Armstrong Woods and follow the Russian River to the rugged Jenner coastline in a matter of minutes!

AND OF COURSE, SONOMA COUNTY IS FAMOUS FOR ITS WINERIES!

Sonoma County has a long history as one of the premier agricultural regions of the United States. With more than 250 wineries dotting the countryside, it’s no surprise that this corner of California has become known for its wine.

Learn more about Sonoma County’s wine-tasting options here: Visit a Winery Today!