Welcome to Sebastopol
The unsuspecting, rising hotspot of Sonoma County
The quiet town of Sebastopol was once vast farmland, known for its plum and apple orchards, but now almost exclusively growing wine grapes. In modern times, Sebastopol residents enjoy access to top-rated schools, an abundance of outdoor beauty, a uniform appreciation for fitness and the outdoors, and an affordable cost of living.
What to Love
- One of Sonoma County‘s rising hotspots
- Shopping, dining, and wine galore
- Surrounded by vast, protected green spaces and scenic outlooks
Local Lifestyle
Quite simply put, Sebastopol is a pleasant surprise for those lucky enough to stumble upon one of California’s hidden gems. A busy calendar of fun events, locally owned businesses, an agreeable climate, and expansive parks are enjoyed year-round, in addition to its close proximity to dozens and dozens of wineries. In the center of town, several craft breweries can also be found, offering an alternative option for those looking to wet their whistle. The convenient location just seven miles from Santa Rosa and 15 from Bodega Bay’s Pacific shores also means locals rarely need to wander too far if a spontaneous day trip out of town is desired.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
One of California’s rising culinary destinations is also one of the most deceptive. Beyond this quiet community’s sleepy streets lie some of the most critically acclaimed dining destinations in the nation and world.
Ramen Gaijin, a Michelin Guide honoree, takes ramen noodles and Japanese cuisine to a new level in their rustic, comfortable dining room, where guests enjoy handmade noodles adorned with explosive flavors. Bowls of spicy tan tan ramen, noodles topped with braised pork belly and scallions, and chicken thigh skewers are accompanied by fresh produce from regional farmers, ensuring a quality that is more than superb.
Fragrant Thai cuisine is the specialty of Khom Loi, another Michelin Guide honoree. Also owned by the same masterminds behind Ramen Gaijin, pad Thai, curry, drunken noodles, tom yum soup, and other Far East favorites have been perfected and packed with more flavor than any other spot in town.
Downtown Sebastopol is packed with unique antique shops, earning the area the nickname “Antique Row.” Thousands of treasures can be found on showroom floors to decorate homes, give as gifts, and perfect special spaces in your life. Antique Society is one of the town’s more impressive shops, much larger than most other shops of its kind.
Things To Do
While NoCal is synonymous with wine country, most may not know Sebastopol is actually the birthplace of the Gravenstein apple. In the autumn, many farms in the area, like Apple-A-Day at Ratzlaff Ranch, are open for apple picking, allowing patrons to create memories to last a lifetime. Located closer to the center of town, The Barlow is one of Sebastopol’s best-known shopping and dining experiences. The Barlow stretches across 12 acres of trendy shops, tasting rooms, restaurants, breweries, and more. Four-legged friends can be brought to Ragle Ranch Park. The park includes an off-leash dog area, in addition to trails, birdwatching lookouts, and picnic facilities.
Schools
Sebastopol has developed a reputation for its excellent schools and how well-prepared students are for the next level of their education. One particularly great local option is:
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West County High School, grades 9-12; consistently appearing on Newsweek’s list of America’s best schools, WCHS students tend to perform better than students in neighboring schools on college entrance exams
