Occidental is a quaint village in California’s Sonoma County. Its tranquil setting in Northern California makes it the ideal getaway for travelers wishing to unwind and take in the area’s natural beauties.
This charming town, bursting with natural beauty, history, and unique activities, is nestled among the picturesque redwood forests and rolling hills. It offers something special to suit every interest, from outdoor adventures in lush forests to learning about local history to indulging in delectable local cuisine.
14 Best And Fun Things To Do in Occidental, CA,(2024)
1. Doran Regional Park
Occidental, California is only a 21-minute drive away from Doran Regional Park, which provides a variety of family-friendly activities.
The park, which is two miles long, has more than 120 campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs, as well as water sports like kayaking, fishing, boating, and birdwatching. It also has a sandy beach that is great for playing, strolling, and sunbathing.
The park is also a popular location for rock fishing and sea life exploration. It is also home to a variety of bird species and marine life. Pet owners are also permitted to bring their animals with them as the park is pet-friendly.
Address: 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, United States.
2. Howard Station Cafe
Savor delectable breakfast and lunch at Howard Station Cafe, a well-liked hangout for both locals and visitors. It’s a great place to stop before embarking on a day of exciting activities in Occidental, California.
Along with a varied cuisine that includes fresh salads, hearty lunch options, and classic breakfast favorites, the café features a distinctive railroad-inspired decor. In addition, it offers a range of freshly baked goodies and healthy juices to go along with its main menu.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner prepared with fresh ingredients in a cozy setting while taking a break from touring.
Address: 3611 Bohemian Hwy, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
3. Inn At Occidental
Amidst the towering redwoods, The Inn at Occidental is a beautiful bed and breakfast that provides couples with a range of romantic activities in Occidental, California.
The inn is surrounded by lovely grounds and offers a calm and serene setting with its traditional, rustic design, cozy rooms, and friendly attitude.
Savor a delicious breakfast made by the innkeepers, relax in the peaceful surroundings of the inn, and enjoy comfortable, thoughtfully appointed rooms.
Address: 3657 Church Street, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
4. Occidental Community Library
Discover educational activities in Occidental, California, for people of all ages at the Sonoma County Library system’s Occidental Community Library, which provides a variety of library services and materials.
The library offers a wide selection of books, e-books, CDs, and other resources in addition to events, activities, and meeting rooms.
Visitors can take advantage of the ample area for studying or holding meetings, peruse a sizable collection, and watch and participate in engaging programs.
Address: 73 Main Street, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
5. The Altamont General Store
Visit the quaint and multipurpose Altamont General Store, which combines a restaurant, wine shop, retail market, and coffee shop into one warm area, and go shopping.
The shop provides a carefully curated selection of natural wines, unique gifts, artisanal products, and other treasures, as well as a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients with a focus on gluten-free and vegan options. It’s also the ideal place to unwind and mingle.
Include finding one-of-a-kind products and gifts for a loved one, enjoying a fulfilling meal produced with fresh, local ingredients, and sipping coffee or a glass of wine in a cozy environment as part of your bucket list of unusual things to do in Occidental, California, today.
Address: 3703 Main Street, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
6. Cobb Wines
Cobb Wines was founded in 2001 and is well-known for emphasizing cool-climate wines that showcase the distinctive terroir of its Sonoma Coast vineyards. They also provide adults with interesting and enjoyable things to do in Occidental, California.
Cobb Wines is well known for its superb Pinot Noir selections, which highlight the variety of the Sonoma Coast terroir.
Discover more about the Sonoma Coast region and how it effects the wines, stroll around the stunning estate vines, and learn about the winemaking process.
Address: 18100 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
7. Rebounderz Rohnert park
There are lots of fascinating indoor activities for families to enjoy in the vicinity of Occidental, California, at Rebounderz Rohnert Park, a lively and dynamic venue created for enjoyment, exercise, and social contact.
This park, which is only a short drive from Occidental, California, has a range of trampoline layouts, a dodgeball court, climbing walls, arcade games, ninja warrior course, bespoke packages for memorable celebrations, and a cafe for post-play refreshment.
Discover a variety of family-friendly activities and entertainment alternatives, meet new people and form friendships, relax, and let off steam by getting some exercise.
Address: 555 Rohnert Park Expy c, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, United States.
8. LandPaths Grove of Old Trees
Discover the LandPaths Grove of Old Trees, an open space reserve in Occidental, California, that offers a variety of entertaining and unusual activities for visitors of all ages. This place is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
This 48-acre reserve was created in 2000 and is home to magnificent second-growth coast redwood trees that create a majestic and awe-inspiring ambiance. It also has easy hiking routes and a designated picnic spot where guests can unwind and take in the surrounding scenery.
Experience the quiet and beauty of a redwood forest at LandPaths Grove of Old Trees. Take a picnic in the shade of the tall trees, or just relax there.
Address: 17599 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
9. Neon Raspberry Art House
If you’re an art enthusiast searching for things to do in Occidental, California, you should plan to visit the unique art gallery Neon Raspberry Art.
The art gallery offers a carefully chosen assortment of art-related stuff, presents, and handmade things. It also showcases modern art that frequently addresses social and political themes and promotes a sense of community through workshops, events, and partnerships with regional artists.
See unique objects, find art that expands your perspective and inspires introspection, and assist independent artists.
Address: 3605 Main Street, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
10. Occidental Center For the Arts
Among other exciting things to do in Occidental, California tonight for art lovers, the Occidental Center for the Arts was founded in 1998 and provides a thriving community focused on creativity and shared experiences.
Numerous activities are held at the center, such as plays, concerts, art exhibits featuring local and regional artists, workshops, and community get-togethers for volunteer work, educational initiatives, and cooperative projects.
Attendees take in a wide range of creative performances and expressions, as well as activities and exhibitions. They are inspired to discover new artistic talents, broaden their horizons, and take in the beauty of the arts.
Address: 3850 Doris Murphy Ct, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
11. Poppy Bank Epicenter
Visiting Poppy Bank Epicenter, a sizable indoor entertainment complex with a variety of activities for people of all ages, is one of the many indoor and family-friendly things to do close to Occidental, California.
This entertainment center, which is 27 minutes away by car from Occidental, has a number of attractions, such as a bowling alley, arcade, laser tag, virtual reality games, trampoline park, and sports bar.
Additionally, the complex offers plenty of room for a variety of events, including birthday parties, business gatherings, and private occasions, in addition to fitness facilities for people who want to stay active. Participate in enjoyable activities while spending valuable time with loved ones.
Address: 3215 Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, United States.
12. Occidental Community Farmers’ Market
There are interesting things to do in Occidental, California, for everyone this weekend. One such thing is to visit the Occidental Community Farmers’ Market, a bustling marketplace with local farmers, artists, craftspeople, and food vendors.
Many sellers offer a broad range of seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs from local farms, and handcrafted artwork at the market. It has a great sense of community, live music, kid-friendly activities, and a family-friendly vibe.
Along with mouthwatering prepared dishes, baked goods, cheeses, and other gourmet treats, the market also features distinctive, fine handcrafted objects like jewelry, pottery, and artwork.
Address: 3611 Bohemian Hwy, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
13. Occidental Arts & Ecology Center
The non-profit Occidental Arts & Ecology Center offers educational activities for people of all ages in Occidental, California, with a focus on community resilience and ecological awareness.
Located in Sonoma County, next to the Russian River on an 80-acre natural reserve, this institute is a center for advocacy, education, research, and demonstration of sustainable living and community development.
Additionally, they provide a range of conferences, workshops, and educational programs with an emphasis on ecology, sustainability, and fostering community. You acquire a deeper comprehension of social and environmental issues as well as possible solutions while you are a guest.
Address: 15290 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
14. Western Hills Garden
Experience a variety of one-of-a-kind activities in Occidental, California, at Western Hills Garden, a charming garden known for its remarkable collection of rare and exotic plants that have been painstakingly grown over decades.
A botanist’s dream come true, this three-acre botanical treasure trove is tucked away in the Occidental redwood forests. It features an amazing collection of rare conifers, camellias, ferns, and other exotic plants.
The garden’s aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by its winding walkways, serene ponds, rich vegetation, and intriguing features like a folly inspired by Penelope Hobhouse and many bridges.
Come and enjoy the peace and beauty of a well-kept garden. When looking for exciting things to do in Occidental, California, today, nature lovers can find a tranquil haven at Western Hills Garden.
Address: 16250 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.
15. Sonoma Zipline Adventures
Start your trip in Occidental at Sonoma Zipline Adventures, one of the greatest things to do in Occidental, California right now. It’s an eco-tour through the county’s spectacular redwood woods.
This adventure offers a bird’s-eye view of the redwood forest, numerous zipline routes to suit varying experience levels, and skilled and experienced guides to assure safety and offer insightful commentary.
Experience the excitement of flying through the air on ziplines, take in the beauty of the redwood forest, discover the workings of the environment, and have an exciting and active outdoor day.
Address: 6250 Bohemian Hwy, Occidental, CA 95465, United States.