We bet you haven’t heard much about Occidental California, a tiny Sonoma County town. Located between Santa Rosa and Bodega Bay, this quaint and welcoming town makes for the perfect day trip. Occidental is less than five square miles and is surrounded by lush forests, wineries, and small farms. It makes for the perfect day trip adventure no matter the time of year.

The town was founded in 1876 as a stop on the North Pacific Coast Railroad.
Craig Howell / Flickr
After the railway was built, Occidental CA quickly became an important town for the timber industry. By 1877 there were six sawmills in the area. Trains also brought vacationers from San Francisco. Today, visitors can see numerous buildings from the 1800s.
Occidental has a population of less than 900 people.
Gordon Gagne/Google Images
The population of the town has been shrinking in recent years– there were 1,112 people in 2010 and 1,272 in 2000. This sleepy town still has plenty to do in a day.
When visiting Occidental, you’ll want to explore the small main street in the downtown area.
Nancy Hayssen/Google Images
If you’re wondering about things to do in Occidental, you’ll find shops, restaurants, cafes, and many picturesque buildings. Stop by the Boho Bungalow for a huge selection of home goods, bath products, decor, jewelry, and more! Check out Hinterland for a curated selection of hip clothing, shoes, and accessories.
There are many places to eat lunch– from sit-down cafes to nice restaurants and the famous Bohemian Market.
Tre Retter/Google Images
The market is a great place to buy snacks for your room if you’re staying overnight or get a made-to-order sandwich if you don’t want to linger at a restaurant for lunch.
The oldest building in Occidental is the Occidental Community Church, a beautiful and historic landmark.
Richard Thomas/Google Images
Built in 1876, the spire and bell tower were added the following year.

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After the 1906 earthquake the tower and spire had to be replaced by a dome.
David Porter/Google Images
After the church was constructed, the town’s founders built a post office, general store, and other buildings which are still standing today.
The old railroad stop is now Howard Station Cafe. Visitors can stop in the cafe for breakfast or lunch.
Trevor/Google Images
Choose from their large menu of fresh and delicious food and drink options. Or just grab a to-go coffee while you meander around the town.
Wondering what to do in Occidental CA? The Occidental Farmers Market!
Thomas Chee/Google Images
Launching each May, the market is usually one day a week from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.-- a fun afternoon and early evening activity. Vendors sell fresh produce, eggs, honey, prepared food, crafts, and more! Check out their opening schedule on their website.
If you decide to stay the night there are several historic and charming inns all within walking distance from Main Street. The Union Hotel, opened in 1879, is now an Italian restaurant.
Anthony Echarte/Google Images
The restaurant is owned by the same people who own the Occidental Guest House, a collection of several charming properties perfect for a romantic overnight visit.
The Inn at Occidental is just a short walk away from Main Street.
Tre Retter/Google Images
This 16-room inn has luxurious amenities such as Frette bath towels. Some of the rooms even have fireplaces. The inn is also next to a Tesla charging station.

Occidental California is one of those places you visit and immediately wonder, “Should I move here?” It is such a charming town! Plus, there is a lot to do. There are three wineries within the downtown area– a perfect number of places to do an afternoon of wine tasting.

If you want to venture out of town, more than a dozen wineries are within a 20-minute drive. To get a little nature into your shopping, wine-tasting trip, drive 10 minutes west to see the old-growth redwoods at LandPaths Grove of Old Trees. And 20 minutes from Occidental is Bodega Bay. This place is really perfectly situated!

Looking for some great snacks for your adventure? We love these road trip snack ideas!

Best Road Trip Snacks: 50 On-The-Go Food Ideas

 

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More to Explore

Occidental California

Megan McDonald | February 09, 2024

How far is Occidental from the ocean?

The distance from Occidental to Bodega Bay is approximately 10 to 15 miles (16 to 24 kilometers) by road, depending on the specific route taken. The drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, making it a relatively short trip to the coast. This proximity allows for easy access to the scenic beauty of the Northern California coastline, including beaches, coastal trails, and the famous Bodega Head, a prominent headland that offers stunning ocean views and opportunities for whale watching.

What is there to do in Occidental California? 

Occidental, California, nestled in Sonoma County amidst towering redwoods, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here's a list of things to do in Occidental:

  • Visit Occidental Arts and Ecology Center (OAEC): This nonprofit organization focuses on ecological and agricultural education. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, attend workshops, or participate in community events focused on sustainability.
  • Dine in Downtown Occidental: Enjoy a meal at one of Occidental's charming restaurants. The town is known for its Italian family-style dining, such as at the Union Hotel Restaurant or Negri's Italian Dinners, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
  • Bike or Hike the West County and Joe Rodota Trails: These trails offer scenic routes through Sonoma County's landscapes, suitable for cyclists and hikers of all levels. The West County Trail runs between Sebastopol and Forestville, and the Joe Rodota Trail connects Sebastopol with Santa Rosa.
  • Attend the Occidental Bohemian Farmers Market: If you're in town during the summer months, don't miss this Friday evening market. It's a great place to enjoy local produce, artisan goods, live music, and a warm community vibe.
  • Visit Bodega Bay: Just a short drive from Occidental, Bodega Bay offers beautiful coastal scenery, beaches, and seafood restaurants. It's also a popular spot for whale watching, fishing, and kayaking.
  • Go Ziplining with Sonoma Canopy Tours: For an adventurous day out, try ziplining through the redwoods. Sonoma Canopy Tours, located near Occidental, offers a thrilling experience with stunning views of the forest from above.

Occidental serves as a peaceful retreat with its natural beauty, small-town charm, and variety of outdoor and cultural activities. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors, enjoy local cuisine, or immerse yourself in the arts and ecology, Occidental has something to offer.

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Occidental, CA, USA