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The North Bay is known for wine tasting and its rising craft beer industry, but often overlooked is the scenic drive past the vineyards and through the redwoods, which leads right to the Russian River. If you’re looking for a cinematic summertime experience, look no further — floating on the river, hiking among the redwoods, and driving up the Sonoma coast will give you that experience. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and bring your coolers, it’s about time you take a trip up to Northern California.
GETTING THERE AND BACK
Save the address for your navigation system and Google Maps:
Address: 16215 First St, Guerneville, CA 95446 (Johnson’s Beach, Russian River)
- Johnson’s Beach at the Russian River is only a 90-minute drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge, perfect for a Summer weekend getaway. From campgrounds to cabins, you can stay right on the banks of the Russian River among giant redwoods, so make sure to book a room or campground before you arrive so you can get right to the fun without any stress.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, swim gear, and plenty of water.
- You’ll also need cash on-hand since parking by the river is $5 per car.
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TO DO’S WHILE YOU’RE VISITING
- The River: The Russian River runs through most of Sonoma County with spots to wade and raft along the way, but with lodging right on the beach, Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville, CA has it all. You can purchase tubes in town at Country Tire — $22.50 for large tubes and $15 for small ones. You can rent Canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats from the boathouse on the beach if tubing isn’t your thing. All rentals from the boathouse come with life jackets and are available for $40 per day or $15 an hour.
- The Woods: Just a few miles from the beach is Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve, perfect for a mid-morning hike before hitting the beach. If you get there early enough, there may be fog that blankets the grove with cool temperatures throughout your time among the trees. There are plenty of hiking trails ranging from easy to advanced with some trails leading into the rolling hills and grasslands of Austin Creek State Recreation Area.
- The Coast: From the small, charming town of Guerneville, you can take Highway 101 along the coast and stop by any of the Sonoma Coast State Beaches. If you’re used to Southern California beaches, the ones up North are quite the opposite, with a cliffed coastline, natural arches, and secluded coves — but most importantly, not for swimming. The water temperatures are extremely cold with strong, unpredictable rip currents. However, the high cliffs are perfect for observing migrating gray whales. If you’re hungry, Boedega Bay has the best seafood in the North Bay.
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WHERE TO STAY
- boon hotel+spa: If camping on the river banks or by the beach isn’t your thing, there’s a local boutique hotel in town for a simple, yet luxurious stay. Hit the spa to wind down after a long day of activities, and you can cap off the night with a bar crawl just outside the hotel. To book a stay, click here: http://boonhotels.com/
- Camping: There are plenty of campgrounds in or around Guerneville. If the lodges or campgrounds on Johnson’s Beach are booked, perhaps Schoolhouse Canyon Park has a spot for you. Each site comes with a campfire pit and a hand-made redwood picnic table. For rates and check-in times, visit their website: http://www.schoolhousecanyon.com/Rates.html
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