Lake Sonoma

One of the newest California lakes, Lake Sonoma Recreation Area was built in the early 1980s with the completion of the Warm Springs Dam. It is a coastal gem in Sonoma County. Consider spending an afternoon at the lake fishing, swimming, or hunting after touring the best wineries in Sonoma.

The lake is among California's best for riding, hiking, and lounging by the water. In addition to having a boat launch, the lake is close to places where you can go horseback riding and businesses that offer hot air balloon rides over the lake.

Although a hot air balloon ride over Sonoma County is an option, driving is the most convenient way to reach Lake Sonoma. The majority of visitors from outside the area fly into one of the airports in San Francisco or San Jose, but the distances from both are about 100 miles.

Although Santa Rosa has a smaller regional airport that is a little closer to Sonoma County, you might still have to make a layover in San Francisco to reach Santa Rosa. Consider spending an afternoon at Lake Sonoma to unwind if you're traveling through Sonoma County on a leisurely winery tour of the region.

Location: Sonoma County, California