Healdsburg, California, is a gem of a place. It’s not far from where I grew up and where I live now, yet with every trip I love it more and discover new, wonderful places to eat, drink, shop, and enjoy.
I recently spent a couple nights there with a friend to do some wine-tasting, shopping, and indulging in delicious meals at places all around the charming town. That’s why I wanted to create a special Healdsburg travel guide to point you in the right direction of all the best things to experience there if you’re planning a visit!
I personally love a trip that offers a mix of relaxation and unique activities. That means I often plan an itinerary that features quite a few tasty meals, stops for coffee and treats, shopping time, wine tasting (a must when you’re in Sonoma County!), as well as laid-back things to do like a spa day or moments by the hotel pool. If you’re on the same page as me, I think you’re going to love these options. From all the places we ate to the things we did to the gorgeous place we stayed, scroll on for my guide to visiting Healdsburg!
Where to Stay
For our getaway, we stayed at Hotel Healdsburg, and it was such a gorgeous place to stay. It was surrounded by Italian Cyprus trees and lush greenery that trailed up the side of the building. The interior design was modern but still cozy with warm wood details, lots of natural lighting, and a lovely swimming pool.
They had a turn-down service in the evening, which is one of my favorite things! (Something I even do in my own home.) It helps set the perfect vibe when you’re trying to unwind and get ready for bed. They also had filtered and sparkling water on tap in the hallways for refills—another touch I loved! Oh, and they have a spa, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
Where to Eat and Drink
First order of business in Healdsburg? Getting some caffeine! Whether you’ve taken a road trip or a flight to get there, a yummy coffee is in order. We tried Flying Goat Coffee, which was incredible! Not only did they have excellent coffee, but they had so many tasty pastries to choose from, too. They also have tea, hot chocolate, and matcha, as well as a few other house-made drinks that are totally worth trying.
Costeaux French Bakery is also a delightful place for breakfast and coffee. It’s been around for over 100 years, and the bread and pastries are so fresh.
For a tasty breakfast, brunch, or lunch, I recommend going to Acorn Cafe. The owner is SO friendly, and the service is top-notch. There is something for everyone, whether you’re a super sweet breakfast person (tiramisu French toast, anyone?) or someone who loves savory dishes (the hash browns are to die for.) They also have a Build Your Own Pancakes option on their kids’ menu, which I just know Charlotte would love!
On the day we arrived, we had the yummiest lunch at Little Saint. It’s a vegan restaurant with such delicious food. We enjoyed their chickpea sandwich, dip trio, and a glass of wine, of course! A few other amazing places to try for lunch and dinner include Troubadour Bread & Bistro and Lo & Behold.
When it comes to excellent dinner and drinks, look no further than The Matheson. This is the space where I recently hosted my I Wanna Brunch With Somebody. The menu is delicious, and the Modern Margarita with el tequileño + tapatio blanco and clarified lime is an absolute must-try! From crunchy wedge salads to fries with green peppercorn aioli to their namesake burger, there is a lot to enjoy here.
Another great choice for dinner is Bravas Bar De Tapas. They made me one of the best dirty martinis I’ve ever had! They’re a small plates restaurant, which is always fun for trying a variety of different dishes and flavors. I highly recommend sitting on the back patio for pretty views! Also, their tangerine oil and sea salt soft serve was unbelievable. It tasted identical to a Creamsicle. Don’t miss it!
If you’re a fan of local, farm-to-table restaurants, definitely make a reservation at Valette. The restaurant is owned by two brothers and has the nicest rustic, cozy interior. You can sample local cheeses on the charcuterie board, enjoy local wines, and indulge in their house tasting menu.
For another cute drink spot, I’d also recommend stopping by The Rooftop at Harmon Guest House. It has stunning views, plenty of delicious sips, and oftentimes live music or DJ sets. It’s so vibey!
Where to Shop and What to Do
Shopping until you drop is the foundation of an extra-fun trip, especially with your friends! And in Healdsburg, there is no shortage of places to shop for cute clothes, home goods, jewelry, and more.
If you’re after pretty jewelry pieces, you can’t miss Falling for Dainty. It’s an adorable space to browse, and you can make custom charm bracelets and necklaces at their Charm Bar. You can also have permanent jewelry applied here!
Bon Ton Studio is a very serene, beautiful clothing store. The minimalist aesthetic is so calming when you walk in! They have plenty of cute clothes to try on, and they also have Bon Ton Baby if you’re shopping for little ones or to find a gift for a friend who is expecting.
Anyone on the hunt for home decor will appreciate a stop at Anthem. It has tons of special finds, from beautiful throw pillows to decorative bowls. Maison Fiori, which is nestled between Acorn Cafe and Bon Ton Studio, is another worthy stop. It’s full of gorgeous flowers and interior decor.
If you’re in Sonoma Valley, I assume you’re here to do some wine tasting too! We went to Dry Creek Vineyard. We nibbled on the most beautiful snack board with our wine at a beautiful table outdoors, and later toured the stunning wood-paneled interior where all their wine barrels sit. Their chardonnay was a fast favorite of mine!
After a hard-working day (wink-wink) of trying delicious wines, I recommend stopping by the Dry Creek General Store for their delicious deli sandwiches. They also have the most unique bar!
Healdsburg also does a farmers’ market on Tuesdays and Saturdays if you’re interested in shopping for fresh fruits, veggies, olive oil, honey, and handmade goods! For a few other shops, there are Gathered and Forager, which offer cute clothes and home decor finds.
As far as things to do outside of the aforementioned wine-tasting, consider a taster at The Olive Press. I love that it’s a way to support local farmers and businesses, and their oil is a fabulous choice for cooking or eating on its own, drizzled over focaccia or salad!
Lastly, do not miss out on a treatment at The Spa at Hotel Healdsburg! It is the true definition of self-care, and there is no better way to relax and refresh before you head home. I had the Yuzu Dry Brush treatment and massage—it was heaven!
What to Pack
One of the hardest parts of traveling is figuring out what to pack! But don’t worry, my Healdsburg travel guide has you covered on this front, too. Of course, it depends on the time of year you go. Healdsburg can be very warm in spring and summer, but a little chilly in fall and winter. While I was there in March, the weather was sunny and pretty mild—just always check the forecast and bring cute layers. Here’s what I’d recommend packing:
- A few cute tops: I packed a few strapless tops, some tanks, and basics like T-shirts.
- Jeans: For evenings and cooler days, have your favorite pair of jeans on hand.
- Wide-leg pants: I brought cropped, white, wide-leg pants with me as they went with everything!
- A dress or two: This is perfect to have for dinners. It’s also an easy thing to wear for shopping.
- Handbags: These can make or break a look, and I think having a few options is best. Bring something more casual (such as a woven shoulder bag) and something for evenings, like a top-handle bag.
- Accessories: I brought a silk scarf, sunglasses, several pairs of earrings.
- Swimwear: For sunbathing and enjoying the hotel pool!
- Shoes: Bring a mix! I’d recommend comfortable sandals or cute sneakers for walking days, then a few pairs of strappy sandals or heels for dinner and drinks.
My Full Healdsburg Recommendation List
Here is a quick list of all the places we stayed, ate, shopped, visited, and drank that you can reference when you’re traveling to Healdsburg!
Stay/Do
- Hotel Healdsburg
- The Spa at Hotel Healdsburg
- The Olive Press
- Dry Creek Vineyard
Eat/Drink
- Flying Goat Coffee
- Acorn Cafe
- Costeaux French Bakery
- Little Saint
- The Matheson
- Bravas Bar De Tapas
- Dry Creek Vineyard
- Dry Creek General Store
- Valette
- Lo & Behold
- Troubadour Bread & Bistro
Shop
- Falling for Dainty
- Bon Ton Studio
- Maison Fiori
- Anthem
