
Lovely flowers, migrating whales and seal colonies plus tall Redwood trees, this loop from Santa Rosa to the coast and back showcases the appeal and beauty of Northern California. After stops to see famous horticulturist Luther Burbank's hybridized flowers in Santa Rosa and Sebastapol, you'll pass through idyllic rolling hills with grazing cows to meet the Pacific Ocean. Driving north on Coastal Highway 1, you might spot migrating whales or seals as you drive along cliffs overlooking a rocky shore. Turning inland again, you can drive - or walk- through a grove of tall coastal redwoods. After driving past Sonoma County vineyards and wineries, end your day back in Santa Rosa with a stop at the Charles M. Schulz Museum to see Peanuts and friends and then get a bite to eat at the Historic Railroad Square.
Here are some of the highlights to look out for along the way:
Santa Rosa (Starting Point)

Sebastopol

Highway 12

As you follow Highway 12 towards the coast through rolling hills and pastureland, keep your eyes open. You may spot a Belted Galloway - or "Oreo" cow - grazing on the hillside!
Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay, a scenic small town, with beautiful bay and beaches, is located along Coastal Highway 1 about 70 miles north of San Francisco. On Bodega Head, watch for migrating whales in season. Spot a variety of birds in the salt marshes on the bay side. Camping, surfing and nature walks in the area. Notable: The San Andreas fault runs through Bodega Head and the town was the setting for Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds." Doran Park, just to the south, offers camping, boating, fishing and picnicking.
Coastal Route 1

As you head north on Coastal Route 1, you'll pass many recreational opportunities - from camping to hiking to photo ops, overlooks, pullouts and picnic areas - part of Sonoma Coast State Park. The park stretches from Bodega Bay to Jenner with campgrounds, picnic areas, pullouts and affords stunning views along the highway.
Goat Rock

Be sure to stop at Goat Rock, where a colony of harbor seals makes their home on a point where the Russian River meets the ocean. This part of the Sonoma Coast State Park has an easily accessible beach, picnicking and restroom facilities.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Vineyards and wineries

As you drive from Guerneville back to Santa Rosa, you'll catch more glimpses of the Russian River and pass fields of grapes and several wineries.
Charles M. Schulz Museum

Historic Railroad Square
If you're hungry, the historic district of Santa Rosa - Railroad Square -offers many choices and a nice place to end your day. Located downtown around 4th and Wilson.