Where to Go Stargazing in Sonoma County

Stargazing is a popular activity in Sonoma County Wine Country, the scenic destination for dark, clear, dazzling skies. With coastal hills to naturally protect the velvety canvas of sky from light pollution — nighttime in Sonoma County reveals stars and rare sightings in all their glory.

Here are a few stargazing places and experiences waiting for you in Sonoma County.

Bodega Head, Bodega Bay

Unlike state beaches, which won’t let visitors in past 6 p.m., Bodega Head within Sonoma Coast State Park has open access 24 hours a day. Bring a flashlight to navigate the wide, flat path along the cliffs and a blanket to lay on the grass — then lie back to enjoy the beauty of the night sky amidst the sound of waves crashing against the rocks far below.

Lake Sonoma Recreation Area, Geyserville

Nestled in beautiful coastal foothills, Lake Sonoma provides irrigation for surrounding vineyards and plenty of recreation. Surrounded by nature, there’s barely any light at nightfall to interfere with stargazing. Head up to Rockpile Road, where there are excellent spots to stop and check out the sky. You can also drive down to the reservoir and take in the view from the shore. 

Meyers Grade Road, Jenner

Discover beautiful sky views at the top of Meyers Grade Road, about seven miles north of the coastal village of Jenner on scenic Highway 1. Surrounded by natural landscape, the views from Meyers Grade Road are vast and wide, facing both south and west.

This stargazing spot can also be found by traveling about six miles southeast of Fort Ross State Historic Park — the Imperial Russian settlement that once thrived here on the pristine Pacific coast. 

Portuguese Beach, Bodega Bay

Another open-access beach within Sonoma Coast State Park is Portuguese Beach, a lovely, secluded place to spy the open sky. Set on a cliff overlooking the powerful waves, the parking lot for Portugese Beach is an ideal spot to stargaze at a safe distance from the ocean.

Night Sky Adventure, Healdsburg

For a closer at the night sky, expert astronomers and brothers Dan and Bill Gordon, offer high-powered telescope tours at their dark-sky observing site, about a half-hour from the town of Healdsburg. Space is limited to optimize your magical Night Sky Tour of star clusters and galaxies far, far away! 

You can also book a Private Star Party for a unique experience, celebration, or wedding that is tailored to your location and to showcase spectacular sights (like a birthday star!). For your Night Sky Adventure, book online or call (707) 708-1570.

Robert Ferguson Observatory, Kenwood

Set within Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and surrounded by a protective ring of hills that block light, this observatory hosts dates to see and learn about the breathtaking night sky.

The Robert Ferguson Observatory holds Public Star Parties with knowledgeable docents and out-of-this-world presentations with plenty of time at the telescopes. Check the website for details and to reserve your tickets.

Get Ready to Stargaze

You’ll have the best views of the stars when you gaze from high, remote, undeveloped places where artificial light is scarce. What is the best time to stargaze? In Sonoma County, seeing stars is best about three to six hours before sunrise and when temperatures are 50 degrees and below. Night sky viewing is also just right when there’s a new moon or sliver of a crescent moon.

Before heading into the darkness, pack water, a compass, and a flashlight, and let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. Wear sturdy shoes and dress in warm, layered clothing.

When visiting open spaces, parks, beaches, and trails of Sonoma County, remember to follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles. Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty and natural resources of Sonoma County for generations to come. 

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Written by Melanie Wynne