Sebastopol, California

Sebastopol is not for everyone, but it is SO Western Sonoma County. An artists’ and gardeners’ community, this is the gathering place for the area’s greatest bands, photographers, and botanists alike. Unlike nearby Sonoma’s very well laid-out downtown quad, Sebastopol’s downtown looks very thrown together, like business owners decided independently to put up storefronts that collectively became the area. And that is part of the charm that is Sebastopol.

Close to the ocean and even closer to the redwoods, nearby outdoor activities are aplenty. Kayakers can enjoy the calm waters of the Russian River, and of course, the abundance of nearby wineries don’t hurt, either (so long as you don’t drink too much!) Summers here actually feel the way that summers are supposed to feel, but the cool ocean breezes are never too far off.

The biggest drawback to the area is also its biggest asset: its location. Sebastopol is close to lots of cool things, like wineries and farms and redwood trees and rivers, but there really aren’t any major nearby towns for miles. Even the nearest interstate, the 101, is about seven miles away.

Sebastopol is 30 minutes from the Pacific Ocean. Lots of apples orchards and grapes. Anything grows in this soil so gardening is a favorite passtime. Luther Burbank created many new plants in this area. Lots of artists - sculpture abounds in front yards. Cute cottages to palatial country homes. Warm days cooled by morning and late evening fog. Close to the Russian River: kayaking, swimming, lazy days. Great wine tasting nearby. Great restaurants and Screamin' Mimi's Ice Cream.