Wellness isn't just an offering in Sonoma County, California, it's part of the region's very identity. Here, the rhythm of life has always been tied to the land, the forests and the waters. Today, Sonoma County welcomes wellness lovers with experiences that blend deep-rooted traditions with innovative practices and make it one of the most diverse and enriching wellness destinations in the U.S. Here are ten reasons wellness lovers need to visit:

1. Therapeutic Forest Bathing with Horses

In Belos Cavalos visitors take forest bathing a step further - forest bathing with horses is a guided, sensory-based experience that combines the practice with equine-assisted mindfulness. Held on a scenic ranch in Kenwood, visitors are invited to slow down, reconnect with nature and engage with horses in a calm, grounded way - without riding. The session typically includes gentle walking, sensory immersion among the trees and mindful, heart-centered interaction with the horses, followed by reflection and sharing. Designed for relaxation, self-awareness and emotional healing, the experience is open to adults and older teens, with no prior experience required.

2. Forest 'Breathing' Among Giants

In Sonoma visitors can also practice Forest Breathing in the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Established in 1870, the reserve protects 805 acres of old-growth forest, where redwoods soar more than 300 feet into the sky. Unique among forests, redwoods produce natural compounds that deter insects, meaning there are no biting bugs or predators to disturb the calm. The result is a serene, cathedral-like environment where the only soundtrack is the movement of the branches in the breeze – a hypnotic rhythm that visitors can time their breathing to. Science supports what visitors intuitively feel - studies show that time spent among trees can lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol and boost immunity. Moreover, humans can see more shades of green than any other colour, which has led to widespread positive psychological associations with the colour green. Just 20 minutes in a forest environment has been shown to significantly reduce stress.

3. Micro Retreats

Timber Cove Resort on the Sonoma Coast has introduced 'micro-retreats', offering restorative experiences in under an hour. The resort's Reset & Restore Suite features 60-minute sessions with a Shiftwave zero-gravity recliner that uses pulsed pressure waves to soothe the nervous system, Normatec compression boost to improve circulation and a classic rock sauna paired with a 37°F cold plunge - all complemented by herbal tea, aromatherapy and sweeping coastal views. Expectant parents can also find serenity through Timber Cove's Babymoon Getaway Package, which includes a pregnancy pillow for restful sleep, a handcrafted mocktail crafted for relaxation and a new parent book to take home.

4. The Power of Kelp

On Sonoma's rugged coastline, the Pacific offers both beauty and bounty. Heidi Herrmann of Strong Arm Farm in Santa Rosa is one of the region's main suppliers of locally harvested kelp, and she leads public seaweed forays (April–August) that allow visitors to experience this superfood firsthand. As a regenerative superfood, kelp is high in antioxidants, features a range of nutrients and is rich in vitamins and minerals, however, beyond this nutritional value kelp is also becoming a star in the spa world appearing in treatments or simply added to a bath, where it transforms the water into a silky, restorative soak.

5. Find Solace in Silence

Ratna Ling is a peaceful sanctuary nestled amid the natural beauty of Northern California, where tranquility inspires transformation. Dedicated to nurturing balance in body, mind and spirit, Ratna Ling offers immersive wellness retreats that blend deep relaxation with mindful rejuvenation. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, programmes invite guests to slow down and reconnect through yoga, meditation, nature hikes and mindfulness workshops. Each winter, Ratna Ling hosts a Silent Retreat, an opportunity to step away from daily distractions, embrace stillness and journey inward through guided meditation, mindful reflection and quiet connection with nature.

6. Cedar Enzyme Baths at Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary

In the small town of Freestone, Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary offers a treatment found nowhere else in the U.S. - the Cedar Enzyme Bath. This rejuvenating Japanese fermentation-based bathing ritual immerses guests in warm wooden tubs filled with finely ground cedar, rice bran and plant enzymes. The process includes enjoying a blended tea made from 25 different plants to prepare the body and stimulate metabolic processes followed by up to 20-minutes immersed in the 'bath'. Combining heat therapy, aromatherapy and biologically active enzymes, it improves circulation, relieves joint and muscle pain, and deeply and thoroughly cleans the skin leaving a radiant glow. 

7. Wellness on Two Wheels

Sonoma County has earned the nickname 'Ride Country', thanks to its varied terrain, and professional cyclists from around the world train here, drawn by its challenging routes and breathtaking scenery looping through wineries and along the coastline. But cycling in Sonoma isn't just for the pros. Visitors can easily experience the region on two wheels, with many hotels and resorts offering bike rentals directly through their concierge services. Staff are on hand to advise on the best route and bike for each guest, whether that's a road bike for long-distance rides, an e-bike for a more relaxed vineyard tour, or a hybrid for exploring scenic trails. For those looking for a curated experience, the Cycling Sommelier at The Astro Hotel pairs world-class riding with guided wine tastings and culinary stops, offering a unique Sonoma County way to blend wellness, adventure and indulgence.

8. Geothermal Healing Waters

Wellness seekers have long tapped into Sonoma's geothermal energy at Boyes Hot Springs, historically revered by Native American tribes for its therapeutic properties. The Fairmont Spa at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is a 40,000 square foot adults-only oasis designed to harness the healing power of balneotherapy in five geothermal mineral pools that range from 85 – 102 degrees and are packed with 27 different minerals.  Guests and day pass visitors can relax in the Roman-style Bathhouse, the spa pool and the Watsu Pool restoring balance and connecting to centuries of wellness tradition as part of the Nature Bathing Ritual, or a Spa Under the Stars package securing after-hours access.

9. Playful Wellness: Goat Yoga

Not all wellness has to be serious. In Sonoma, visitors can embrace joy as a form of self-care with goat yoga at non-profit Charlie's Acres Farms, where rescue goats join yoga sessions. The experience sparks laughter and light-heartedness while easing stress, building connection and supporting animal welfare. The priority is always the animals who have a choice whether to participate or not, however, the experience has been shown to be as beneficial for the animals, who having experienced abuse or neglect are able to enjoy safe, calm, positive and healing interactions with humans. Sheep meditation is also available.

10. The Roots of Herbal Wisdom

Sonoma is also home to one of the nation's pioneering herbal wellness institutions, the California School of Herbal Studies. As one of the oldest schools of its kind, it has nurtured generations of herbalists and continues to host workshops that celebrate the healing power of plants. Visitors can attend workshops and programs at the school, delving into topics from plant identification to creating tinctures, teas, and salves. This pioneering institution solidifies Sonoma's reputation as a hub for herbal innovation, where ancient traditions and modern practices come together.

A Destination for Whole-Body Renewal

Sonoma County offers a holistic journey of renewal unlike anywhere else. Wellness here isn't a trend, it's a way of life, rooted in the land and shared generously with all who visit. For more information visit www.sonomacounty.com

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About Sonoma County Tourism

Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) is the official organization responsible for destination stewardship in California's Sonoma County. Committed to cultivating a vibrant economy through inclusivity, sustainability, and community connections, SCT promotes the area as a welcoming place for all. Discover more about the organization's innovative efforts to support the local economy responsibly at sonomacounty.com/partners/about-sonoma-county-tourism/.