Is it just me, or does it feel like we fast-forwarded from July 4th to end of July in a day? Summertime is breezing by.

This weeks lineup:

WINE, WALKS, WANDERING

Seeking: direct <1 hour flight from SNA, gorgeous sunny weather, delicious food, lively but not overly crowded atmosphere, plentiful outdoor activities, wineries galore.

That was our criteria for our recent summer getaway. And with a little research, we found just the place and it was too delightful not to share.

Healdsburg, in the heart of Northern California wine country, is a lesser-known destination than that of its neighbors, such as frequently visited Napa and trendy Yountville, but it’s just as good (if not better).

Where: Healdsburg is in Sonoma County, and is a little over an hour north of San Francisco. It’s at the intersection of several world-renowned wine regions, and has an adorable, walkable downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms. With its quaint small-town feel, sweeping mountains and rolling vineyard hills, its no wonder Condé Nast recently named Healdsburg “Sonoma’s Most Charming Town.”

How to get there: John Wayne Airport has direct flights to Santa Rosa, which takes less than an hour. Santa Rosa is a tiny airport, so traveling in and out is a breeze. From there, rent a car or take a short Uber/Lyft up to Healdsburg, which will take about 20 minutes.

Where to stay: Depending on your vibe, Healdsburg probably has the hotel for you. Downtown has several hotels that make exploring on foot easy, such as Harmon Guest House or Hotel Healdsburg. But if you’re looking for something truly unique, check out The Madrona. Built in the late 19th century as a residence, and The Madrona has recently gone through a renovation that accentuates the enchanting Victorian-era elements while introducing modern amenities. Inside, you’ll find a gracious decor with fireplaces and cozy nooks, outside a tranquil escape with lush landscaping and a breathtaking swimming pool. While the hotel is quite tucked away, the Madrona offers conveniences such as daily breakfast, e-bike rentals, bar serving craft cocktails and is even pup friendly.

Wineries: Part of the appeal of Healdsburg is its proximity to several wine regions; not just one. With it being in the center of Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley, you’ll be able to find a variety of whites and reds that thrive in the various terroir this region is known for. Based on our wine preferences, our hotel made us a reservation at MacRostie to start, which had crisp Chardonnays and earthy Pinots. We also stopped at J. Vineyards for some refreshing Brut Rosé, and Ridge Vineyards to sample their Zinfandel and Petit Syrah.

Food: Thankfully when you’re in Healdsburg, the deliciousness doesn’t stop at the vino. Whether you’re craving an artisanal sandwich after all of that wine tasting (Journeyman), or a sun-soaked tapas lunch with a Spanish cheeses platter, Patatas Bravas and sea scallops (Bravas), downtown Healdsburg has you covered. For dinner, don’t miss Dry Creek Kitchen, which has outstanding Californian fare in a beautiful atmosphere (inside and out). But we would be remiss not to mention our favorite bites of the trip from none other than Quail & Condor Bakery. Recently featured in the NY Times as one of the best bakeries in the country, it’s truly in a league of its own. Anything you get will be outstanding. I’d recommend the fruit & marzipan scone, chocolate croissant, Kouign Amann, the parm onion biscuit, and salmon toast (to name a few).

Activities: Take a minute (or a couple of hours) to enjoy Healdsburg’s access to nature. There’s great local hiking trails (Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Reserve) for walks and trail runs, and if you’re feeling up for a longer adventure, make the drive out to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in nearby Guerneville to take in the astounding redwood forests. Before catching your flight home, make a stop at the Charles M. Schulz Museum, a whimsical space celebrating the creator of Charlie Brown and Peanuts, who lived in Santa Rosa for many years.

THE LINEUP

July 23rd

July 24th

July 25th

July 26th

July 27th

WATER CONDITIONS

Surf forecast - Lower Trestles

Tides - San Clemente

NEW MENU ITEMS

SJC favorite JD Flannel Donuts has a July menu out, and it has us penciling in a trip ASAP.

Next up - a new tropical flavor from Orange County Creamery @ the Row on the PCH in Dana Point.

Their Piña Colada—inspired Pineapple & Coconut flavor is pretty much summer in a cone.

It sounds “scream-worthy” (get it?)

Thanks for reading & catch ya out there

— Hannah B