5 Fun Things to Do in Monte Rio

Nestled on the scenic Bohemian Highway, Monte Rio, California, is popular for its wineries, outdoor recreation, family-friendly beaches, and more.

Visitors to Monte Rio in Sonoma Wine Country are immediately greeted by a 1950s-style sign that marks this riverside village as a “vacation wonderland.” Indeed, visitors began flocking here by train in the 1870s and arrived in droves in the mid-1900s when the era’s big bands played in the town’s outdoor pavilion. 

Here are a few things to explore in friendly Monte Rio.

1. Bike the Scenic Back Roads

Cycling is a wonderful way to take in all the beautiful scenery surrounding Monte Rio. You might bike through woods alongside Austin Creek, while experienced cyclists can opt to continue all the way to the village of Cazadero.

You could also ride along the Bohemian Highway to the town of Occidental, with a stop at Sonoma Zipline Adventures to fly through the redwood trees for a memorable adventure full of amazing views.

Or follow the Russian River until it meets the Pacific Ocean in the coastal town of Jenner, where you can go tidepooling at Goat Rock Beach.

Don’t have bikes with you? Russian River Cycle Service in nearby Forestville will deliver hybrid or road bikes to Monte Rio for a small fee. Each bike comes with a helmet, pump, basket, and easy locks so you can simply secure bikes when you’re done and be on your merry way. Find more options for bike rentals and tours in Sonoma Wine Country.

2. Relax on a Beautiful Beach

On a large bend in the Russian River, Monte Rio Community Beach offers calm waters, a long and lovely beach, a picnic area, volleyball and horseshoe pits, and a feel-good atmosphere. This family- and dog-friendly inlet is ADA accessible and backdropped by soaring redwood-covered hills. During the summer, boat and canoe rentals are available as well as food and drink concessions. 

Dive into our top water safety tips.

3. Hit the Links at Northwood Golf Club

Ranked by Golf World Magazine as one of the top courses in the nation, Northwood Golf Club is an enticing par-36, nine-hole course on the outskirts of Monte Rio. The course was designed in the 1920s by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, noted for his work at Augusta National and Cypress Point. Nestled alongside the famed Russian River and backdropped by redwood giants, these greens offer prime golfing views, a pro shop, and on-site dining at the Northwood Restaurant and Bar.

Discover more golf courses in Sonoma Wine Country.

4. Go Skateboarding at Russian River Skate Park

Located inside Creekside Park, this state-of-the-art skateboarding facility offers ramps, ledges, stairs, half-pipes, a snake run, and more for visitors to enjoy at this fun destination. Scooters are also allowed here, and the free park is open year-round. 

Explore the rest of Creekside Park, which features a community-run farm and garden encircled by a paved 1/3-mile trail. Don’t forget to grab a pick-me-up at the adjacent Lightwave Coffee and Kitchen. 

5. Savor New Flavors

For a fun eating experience in Monte Rio, The Boho Club at the Gatsby-themed Boho Manor serves an array of impressive dishes, like rosemary lamb shanks and savory ribeyes with green peppercorn and crispy leeks. The speakeasy-style restaurant also features a dog-friendly menu and live jazz every Saturday, and plenty of feel-good ambiance right on the river.

If you’re looking for something quick, Lightwave Coffee and Kitchen offers take-out comfort food, baked goods, coffee and more.

Find more nearby restaurants and lodging in Monte Rio. Learn about sustainable travel in Sonoma County.

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Written by Sonoma Insider Suzie Rodriguez