Ten Special Spots in West Sonoma County
Redfin, the well known real estate platform, asked for my favorite place in Santa Rosa. My response, Session Climbing, was included in their recent blog post. Because I love lists, I’ve extended my choices for West Sonoma County…or West County, as we call it. If you’re a local or a visitor, you won’t be disappointed with these suggestions. I’ve added my images from several wedding and portrait shoots in Sonoma County. I love being a photographer here, with it’s picture perfect locations and unique California light.
The Haven, in Tomales
#1- The Antique Society in Sebastopol is my second home. I’ve been coming here for years, even driving from San Francisco before I moved to West County. It’s a collective, so the selection is enormous, with new items added constantly. My teenage son even loves it. I also do interior decorating and always find unique stuff for clients. There’s a bakery inside too! The perfect day.
#2 -Sebastopol’s Handline has high quality seafood, tacos, burgers, fries, salads. And soft serve Straus Dairy ice cream…the machines left over from a Foster’s Freeze that originally occupied the address. An architectural accomplishment, the space is gorgeously soothing and the food is everything you want to eat.
#3 - Timber Cove Resort overlooks the Pacific, with glorious ocean views. You’re greeted by an iconic obelisk sculpture, created by artist Beniamino Bufano, as you enter the property. Originally built in 1963, the recent renovation preserved the hippie vibe, thankfully. The rooms are done right and the resort’s restaurant is excellent.
#4 - Pinnacle Gulch Trail in Bodega Bay is an easy hike down to a small, uncrowded beach. Dogs are ok and don’t tell anyone, but I let mine off leash. Last time I was there, I watched the Coast Guard’s helicopter excercises a few miles out above the surf. Very action movie-esque.
#5 - Hardcore Coffee in Sebastopol is the real West County deal. Best coffee ever and the cast of characters lounging in the funky outdoor area is worth the visit alone.
#6 - The Joe Rodota Trail runs from Santa Rosa to Forestville. I’d choose to start in Graton and head north, for a long walk or bike ride. It’s a car-free trial through vineyards and sweet neighborhoods.
#7 - Fernbar, in Sebastopol’s The Barlow, has a bohemian glamour, which gives us a reason to dress up a little and leave the house. I order the Unami Bomb and fried chicken. The mocktails are incredible.
#8 - Armstrong Woods in Guerneville is a national treasure, no exaggeration. It’s hard to write about the granduer of giant redwoods, as words don’t seem adequate. There’s multiple trails to choose from in this state park. If you’re having a tough week, head here and look up.
#9 - Ratna Ling Retreat Center in beautiful Cazadero is a restorative experience…the cabins, the food, the yoga, the views, the walks, the lack of wifi (kidding about the last one, I think they have it now).
#10 - Criminal Baking in Santa Rosa has my favorite selection of carbohydrates. Nothing too fancy or complicated, just killer desserts. I’ll buy their bargain priced entire loaf of banana bread and attempt to ration it through the week, usually failing.
Olive Oaks, Sebastopol
Sova Gardens, Sebastopol
An Olive Oaks Wedding
Olive Oaks in Sebastopol is a very special wedding venue. Home to one of the neighborhood’s original farmhouses, the property boasts an incredible garden, pool, guest cottage and is surrounded by acres of vineyards. Weddings here have a magical feeling and there is no lack of scenic backdrops.
Olive Oaks in Sonoma County is an uncommon wedding venue. As a wedding photographer, it’s rare to find a location where this level of beautiful detail exists. The property is a gorgeous vintage celebration, from the original farmhouse to the amzing collection of pieces throughout the garden and interior spaces.
The mid morning light casts a graceful glow.
A vintage wood porch, the perfect backdrop.
What’s not to love about Wisteria?
The real deal - stunning patina and interior siding.
A very sweet corner.
More perfect patina.
A pre ceremony snuggle.
The bridal processional, surrounded by lavender.
A vineyard ceremony.
A poolside recessional.
A black and white wedding portrait - one of my favorites to shoot.
Sarah, founder of Fork Catering, prepares the first course.
Naturally beautiful.
The classic candid shot.
Mini olive trees at the wedding table.
Garden pathways and a newlywed couple.
Moving into the barn for dancing and dessert.
A barn hora adds some excitement.
Another glorious wedding comes to a close, at Olive Oaks, Sebastopol.