Hotel in Occidental

Occidental

Established in 1876 as the final stop on the North Pacific Coast Railroad, Occidental (pop. 1,126) is a town whose modern-day charms are rooted in its past.

As you explore, you’ll find many local nods to that Western railway heritage, including businesses housed in a former train station, railroad saloon, and boarding house.

Occidental's time as a transportation hot spot made it a popular vacation destination, a reputation it still holds. Now, however, its more known for its laid-back vibes, eclectic boutique shopping, outdoor delights, and being a stop along the scenic Bohemian Highway.

Things to Do in Occidental

This small town is brimming with ways to disconnect with life’s hustle and reconnect with yourself and travel companions. Shop for artisan-made souvenirs and crystals in the locally owned spots that line the two-block downtown or settle into a wine tasting.

Or become the maker yourself thanks to Occidental Center for the Arts, where classes and workshops run the gamut from writing and watercolor to figure drawing and bluegrass fiddling. The center also hosts concerts featuring local musicians and singers, and the Redwood Arts Council sweetens the musical pot with its annual chamber music series.

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Where to Eat

An emphasis on seasonal produce and sustainability is the name of the game in Occidental, where you can recharge with a cornucopia of locally sourced meats, cheeses, fruits, and veggies. Howard Station Café is a local favorite, serving American classics and Californian cuisine from the town’s old train station. At The Altamont General Store, savor free-range chicken katsu sandwiches with yuzu aioli, veggie tacos with kimchi special sauce, and vegan soft serve.

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Hotels and Lodging

Whether you want to wake up in a guesthouse with views of wooded hillsides and meadows, open your eyes to the gentle sounds of farm animals, or glamp in a treehouse nestled in the branches of redwoods, there’s a place for you to kick back here.

Explore lodgings and hotels in Occidental.

Find More Things to Do in Occidental

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Occidental Arts & Ecology Center Photo
15290 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental, CA 95465

The Occidental Arts & Ecology Center (OAEC) is an 80-acre research, demonstration, advocacy and organizing center in Sonoma County, California that develops strategies for regional-scale community…

Shanti Occidental Photo
16715 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental, CA 95465

Stay among the redwoods and farm animals. Enjoy peace & quiet in nature, farm fresh eggs, organic veggies, herb garden and gorgeous views

Grove of Old Trees Photo
17599 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental, CA 95465

LandPaths' beautiful Grove of Old Trees is open for walking and picnicking any day of the year. In fact, the Grove is the only privately-owned preserve in Sonoma County that is publicly accessible and…

LAURENCE GLASS WORKS ART GALLERY Photo
72 Main St., Occidental, CA 95465

Laurence Glass Works features fine art: almost all of it local, and quite a bit of it made by the store owner herself, Laurence.

El Mariachi Photo
3595 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, CA 95465

This charming Mexican Cafe serves lunch & dinner to locals & tourists alike without direct competition. Located in the historic town of Occidental in Sonoma County's wine country.

Our Charming Sonoma Wine Country Cottage Photo
3657 Church St., Occidental, CA 95465

Both spacious and cozy, this two-bedroom vacation rental at Inn at Occidental is the best of both worlds. Sonoma Cottage is private, yet still convenient to the inn, just 38 feet away. Offering guests…