We will be traveling up to Sonoma Valley for a day trip from San Francisco. The main reason is to sightsee, not necessarily visit the wineries, as we will be traveling with our teenage sons who both love photography. Which would be less crowded -- going on a Sunday or a Monday?

Thanks for any advice.
Susan

Monday will be much less crowded as the weekend wine country visitors will be gone. Most of the major wineries are open during the week. Some of the smaller ones may be closed. If you have a place in particular that you want to go I'd check their website or call to make sure that they are open.

If you are not focused on the wineries why go to Sonoma Valley ? Head up 101 North to Cotati and take Hwy 116 east through Sebastopol and over into Monte Rio and out to the coast along the Russian River. There are spectacular redwoods along here as well. Then, at Jenner turn left and follow Hwy 1 south
down the coast. Gorgeous beaches at Goat Rock and Salmon Creek. Make time to spend out at Pt. Reyes national Seashore if you want truly spectacular scenery.

R5

I agree with razzle. The scenery in Sonoma isn't fantastic....it is very california: vineyards, brown hills, some mission style buildings. But the coastal areas are wonderful - and the air is cooler.

Oh bellairegir, I sure agree with Razzle. If you follow her advice you will have a breathtaking beautiful day. Best wishes and enjoy whatever you do.

Thanks everyone for the advice! I think we'll take you up on that. Any ideas of a nice casual fairly inexpensive place to stop along the way for lunch?

Hmmm...depends on when you leave SF.
Hwy 101 North to 116 East through Guerneville- Monte Rio and in to Jenner would take about 2 hours without stopping. Along this route, after about a little more than an hour is the town of Sebastopol-East West Cafe on Main Street is my pick. Another 15 minutes down the road in to Graton is the marvelous WillowWood Market.

If this is too early, why not pick up sandwiches and have a picnic on the beach in Jenner-or near Bodega Bay
at Salmon Creek. In Bodega Bay, the deli at Lucas Wharf has very good fish and chips.

If you press on into Pt. Reyes Station-
there's the Station House Cafe, there's also a good market/deli should you choose to picnic at Pt.Reyes. Just a skip down the road in Olema is
The Farmhouse Cafe. Terrific burgers,
salads-great crabcakes, too.

From Jenner to Pt.Reyes (Olema/Pt. Reyes Station) is another hour.

Hope this helps ! What time of year will you be here ?

R5

Hi, razzledazzle. We're actually coming this Saturday! Hopefully we won't be bringing our Texas weather with us!

Your info is very helpful. I'm printing this all out to bring with me. Thanks!