5 Things to Do in Northern California for a Relaxing Getaway

Northern California is one of those rare places that offers a little bit of everything, it has peaceful forests, coastal drives, charming small towns, and, of course, incredible wine. It is ideal for travelers who enjoy slow, meaningful experiences over rushed itineraries. Whether you are driving through the region or planning a weekend away, here are five things to do that will leave you refreshed and inspired.

1. Stroll Through Small Towns Like Healdsburg and Mendocino

There is a certain charm you will only find in Northern California is smaller towns. Healdsburg, nestled in Sonoma County, is known for its relaxed vibe and walkable downtown. The town square is lined with tasting rooms, farm-to-table restaurants, bookstores, and shops selling local crafts and vintage finds. Stop for brunch, browse the galleries, and enjoy an unhurried afternoon under the shade of old trees.

On the coast, Mendocino offers something completely different. It is perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The sea air is crisp, the sunsets are dramatic, and everything moves at a slower pace. You will find wooden cottages, picket fences, and gardens overflowing with wildflowers. This is the place to unplug, take long walks, and soak in the kind of quiet that is hard to find these days.

2. Discover California Wine Country

Wine tasting in Northern California is not just for connoisseurs. The region is home to hundreds of wineries, many of which are small, family-owned, and happy to share their story with visitors. You will find rolling vineyards surrounded by oak trees, picnic areas with mountain views, and tasting rooms that feel more like cozy living rooms than high-end bars.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a girls weekend, or just want to try something new, a wine country stop fits beautifully into any itinerary. To help you plan, this guide to must-visit wineries in California wine country features standout spots in Healdsburg and Anderson Valley some of the best regions to enjoy wine and scenery at the same time.

Even if wine is not your thing, many wineries offer experiences beyond tastings garden walks, food pairings, art installations, or even live music events on weekends. It's about the atmosphere just as much as the wine.

3. Walk Among the Redwoods

Few things are as grounding as standing under the towering redwood trees of Northern California. These forests are quiet, cool, and filled with filtered sunlight. The air smells of pine and earth, and the only sound is the soft crunch of leaves under your feet. It is the perfect reset if you have been glued to screens or city life for too long.

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve near Guerneville is an easy option with level walking trails that wind through majestic trees. For something more secluded, head further north to Humboldt Redwoods State Park or Prairie Creek Redwoods, where you can walk for hours without seeing more than a handful of people.

Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist, and wellness guide Sara Bassindale in the redwood forests of Mendocino, California

Pro tip: Try to arrive early in the morning. The mist clings to the branches, and the forest feels untouched. It is a magical way to begin the day.

For a closer look at the emotional power of nature in this region, check out this story on calming, cathartic travel in Mendocino.

4. Take a Scenic Drive Along Highway 1

If you enjoy the journey as much as the destination, Highway 1 is a drive you would not forget. The road hugs the California coastline, offering sweeping views of cliffs, coves, and crashing waves. It is the kind of route that invites spontaneous stops a lookout here, a hidden beach there, maybe a roadside stand selling homemade jam or fresh berries.

Some favorite stops include:

• Point Arena Lighthouse Walk to the edge of the continent and climb the lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
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• Glass Beach in Fort Bragg Once a dumping ground, this beach is now covered in colorful sea glass, polished smooth by the waves.
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• Navarro River Redwoods Drive through this fairy-tale stretch of road just before reaching the coast if you're coming from inland.
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Make sure to keep your camera ready. Every bend in the road reveals another postcard-worthy view.

5. Visit Farmers Markets and Local Food Spots

One of the best ways to get to know Northern California is through its food. The region has a deep love for local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients, and that shows in everything from roadside fruit stands to five-star restaurants.

If you are in town on a weekend, look for local farmers markets. The Sebastopol market is a favorite among locals for its fresh produce, handmade bread, wildflower bouquets, and live music. Santa Rosa, Petaluma, and Ukiah also host vibrant markets where you can shop like a local.

In addition to the markets, food trucks and pop-up kitchens are everywhere. Think wood-fired pizza on an organic farm, fresh oysters by the bay, or tacos made with vegetables harvested just hours earlier. These are not just meals they are experiences.

You will find that most restaurants and vendors are happy to share where their ingredients come from and why that matters. It adds depth to the meal and connects you to the place in a more meaningful way.

Final Thought

Northern California invites you to slow down, look around, and appreciate the little things. Whether you are sipping wine under the sun, walking in a redwood grove, or chatting with a local farmer at the market, this region creates moments that stay with you long after you have gone home.

Plan a trip that is as much about how you feel as where you go and Northern California will deliver exactly what you need.