24 hrs in Guerneville: Where to Eat, Drink, and Stay

Guerneville, CA

Northern California, Russian River Valley

If you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway for both leisure and play then Guerneville, California is the destination for you! Just a little outside Napa in the Russian River Valley, this quaint town holds plenty of charm and places to explore. There’s just something so relaxing about the laid-back vibe of the Russian River. Kev and I took advantage of a few free weekdays to drive up (rafts in tow) to do all things R&R. To get the most out of your 24-hours in Guerneville keep reading to find our must-stay, shop, and eat locations!

WHERE TO STAY in Guerneville

Boon Hotel & Spa

This retro-cool spot has everything you could ever ask for in the glamping location! Not one for staying outdoors? You can also check-in to one of their indoor rooms, equipped with all the amenities you need to snuggle up and sleep-in (yes, that includes a vintage Malm Fireplace!) Stay here and you’ll be close enough to pick up one of their many cruisers and bike to plenty of good eats downtown. This place is the type of camping I could certainly get used to! Think, outdoor showers stocked with Malin + Goetz bath products and Coyuchi organic linens and plush robes.

Oh, and did I mention they also deliver freshly baked biscuits and breakfast to your door, yes, it’s that good! We lucked out by snagging a night during the middle of the week, but the availability isn’t always this open. Most holiday or weekends are bound to be booked well in advance, so make sure to make your reservation well ahead of your stay!

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK in Guerneville

Like most small towns Guerneville has its share of old-timey restaurants that have been there for decades, but what caught our attention most was the resurgence of color and life within several new eateries. (Don’t get me wrong, we did opt to grab a bite at a local pizza joint, that fit the bill and was absolutely delicious!) Around 5 PM, we hopped on the complimentary bikes from Boon Hotel and rode to happy hour. Our first stop, Margaritas at El Barrio! If not for its charming bartenders and vibrant decor then definitely come by for a tequila or Mezcal cocktail. We staged a few window seats and sipped the early evening away!

Another few spots that peeked our interest we’re Seaside Metal for $1 happy hour oysters and Boon Eat & Drink for the seasonal Californian cuisine; plus local microbrews & wines (we’ve been told the Brussel sprouts are to die for!) Of course, you can’t leave town without stopping into the Guerneville Bank Club for a slice of pie or a scoop of ice cream. This charming renovated building used to play host to yes, you guessed it the Guerneville Bank. The coolest thing is that the once vault is now a photo booth!

WHAT TO DO in Guerneville

Perhaps, the best things about Guerneville is its central location. If you’re looking to round out your trip definitely plan on making plenty of pit-stops along the way. First up, which can’t be missed is tasting at Korbel, a Russian River Winery. It’s right off the road and offers stunning vineyard views, sparkling wine tastings and a great little cafe to grab a bite. For the beer drinkers, Russian River Brewery is a hot spot to pick up a pint of Pliny the Elder and enjoy a bar bite.

There’s nothing like picking a spot at the riverfront, renting an umbrella and floating in the Russian River! We opted to head to Johnson Beach since it had received so many positive reviews. We definitely were not disappointed and had a great time sunning and relaxing. I’d recommend packing a picnic to enjoy throughout the afternoon, but they also have hot dogs and bites in their snack shack.

Have you ever visited Guerneville? I’d love to hear your favorite spots to eat, drink and stay!