Wine tasting may be the main attraction in Sonoma County, but there is plenty to do beyond the tasting room. From kayaking the Russian River and swimming on a summer afternoon to ziplining through redwoods or getting surprisingly close to giraffes and rhinos, these are some of our favorite ways to explore the area.
Whether you're traveling with kids, looking for an outdoor adventure, or simply want to take a day off from wine tasting, there's something here for everyone.
Safari West - One of Sonoma County's most unexpected experiences, Safari West is a private wildlife preserve where you can see giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, zebras, and hundreds of other animals across 400 acres. Guests explore the preserve on guided open-air safari vehicles, making this a particularly memorable outing for families and animal lovers. Safari West also offers overnight stays in safari tents for those looking for something truly different.
3115 Porter Creek Rd, Santa Rosa — approximately 30 minutes from Hidden Pocket
Tip: Reservations are essential, especially on weekends and during summer.
Sonoma Zipline Adventures - Soar through the redwood canopy on a guided zipline adventure near Occidental. Tours include multiple ziplines and suspension bridges through towering redwoods, making this one of the area's best options for guests looking for a little more adrenaline.
6250 Bohemian Hwy, Occidental — approximately 40–45 minutes from Hidden Pocket
Tip: Dress in layers—the redwood forest can be considerably cooler than Healdsburg.
The Russian River is one of the area's great summer attractions. Depending on the season and water conditions, you can kayak, canoe, tube, swim, or simply relax along the riverbank.
We've partnered with Healdsburg Kayak Co. to offer Hidden Pocket guests an exclusive 20% discount on self-hosted kayak rentals.
Because the experience is self-guided, you can reserve online, grab your gear, and cruise down the river at your own pace.
Exclusive Host Code: HIDDENPOCKET20
Please check seasonal availability and current river conditions before booking.
Russian River Adventures - Rent a canoe, kayak, or tube and float your way down the scenic Russian River at your own pace, or book a guided trip. Great for a lazy summer afternoon on the water.
20 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg
Tip: Summer weekends can be busy, so reservations are recommended.
Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach - A local favorite swimming spot on the Russian River, with a seasonal dam creating calm water, picnic areas, and lifeguards on duty during summer.
13839 Old Redwood Hwy, Healdsburg
Tip: Bring a picnic and arrive early on hot summer weekends.
Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Preserve - Just minutes from downtown, this beautiful preserve offers several miles of trails through oak woodlands and grasslands, with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. A great option for an easy morning hike without committing to a full day trip.
Tip: Particularly beautiful in spring when the wildflowers are out.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve - Walk among towering, ancient coast redwoods in one of Northern California's most spectacular forests. The reserve offers everything from an easy, mostly flat stroll through the grove to longer hiking trails into the surrounding hills.
Approximately 45 minutes from Hidden Pocket
Tip: The redwoods are often much cooler than Healdsburg, especially in the morning—bring a layer.
Lake Sonoma - A 2,700-acre lake surrounded by oak-studded hills, offering boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and picnic areas. Visitors can rent boats and spend the day exploring the lake and surrounding shoreline.
3288 Skaggs Springs Rd, Geyserville — approximately 20 minutes from Hidden Pocket
The quiet country roads surrounding Hidden Pocket are ideal for cycling. Healdsburg Plaza is approximately three miles away by bike, making it easy to ride into town for breakfast, coffee, shopping, or lunch.
More ambitious cyclists can explore the back roads of Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, and Alexander Valley, where vineyard-lined roads and rolling countryside make for some of the best cycling in Northern California.