New Accolades and Achievements in Sonoma County

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

Sonoma County, California, continues to shine in 2024-2025 as a premier destination for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and travelers seeking luxury, sustainability, and unique experiences. With numerous prestigious accolades, this winter season promises to be one of the most exciting yet for the region. From world-class accommodations to award-winning wineries and restaurants, Sonoma County is making a name for itself as a global leader in travel and tourism.

The Lodge at Bodega Bay: #1 Hotel in the World

Sonoma County is home to some of the most remarkable accommodations, and the Lodge at Bodega Bay has earned top honors in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards. Named the #1 Hotel in the World, the Lodge received a staggering 575,048 votes in the prestigious survey, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking exceptional service, breathtaking views, and an unforgettable experience along California's iconic coastline. With its blend of luxury, relaxation, and nature, The Lodge at Bodega Bay is a shining example of the area's appeal.

Healdsburg’s SingleThread: #1 Restaurant in America

Sonoma County’s culinary scene continues to impress on the global stage. SingleThread in Healdsburg has been ranked #1 Restaurant in America by La Liste for 2025, the highly respected global restaurant ranking system. This recognition places SingleThread at the forefront of America's gastronomic scene, showcasing the artistry of chefs who elevate local, seasonal ingredients to new heights. As the ultimate dining experience in Sonoma, SingleThread continues to lead the way in innovative cuisine and sustainable practices.

Esquire Magazine: Sea Ranch Lodge and Dawn Ranch Recognized

Sonoma County’s offerings in accommodations have been highlighted by Esquire Magazine, which included Sea Ranch Lodge and Dawn Ranch in its 41 Best New Hotels in North America and Europe 2024 list. These distinguished properties offer visitors the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, with breathtaking views of the coastline and forests. In addition, Dawn Ranch was featured on Sunset Magazine’s 2024 Top Wine Country Hotels shortlist, further cementing its place as one of Sonoma’s most sought-after retreats.

Sustainability Efforts Recognized: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is making waves in the hospitality world with its sustainability initiatives. The hotel earned a 4-Key designation from Green Key Global, a prestigious environmental certification. This recognition celebrates the inn’s robust sustainability programs, including eco-friendly practices that engage employees, guests, and the local community, underscoring the region’s commitment to responsible tourism.

Healdsburg: Best City in the U.S. and Coziest Town in Winter

Healdsburg

Healdsburg is gaining significant attention in 2024, with Condé Nast Traveler readers naming it one of the Best Cities in the U.S. for the year. The town’s vibrant cultural scene, world-class dining, and boutique accommodations make it a standout destination for winter travelers. Additionally, The Travel digital publication named Healdsburg the Coziest California Town in the Winter, further highlighting its appeal as the perfect destination for those looking for a charming winter getaway.

Celebrating Sonoma County’s Wineries: La Crema and Rodney Strong Vineyards

Sonoma County’s wine industry continues to garner accolades. La Crema Winery was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, in recognition of its innovation, sustainability efforts, and exceptional wines. Rodney Strong Vineyards also earned praise with Tom Klein, the vineyard’s proprietor, being awarded the prestigious Wine Enthusiast 2024 American Wine Legend honor. Klein’s dedication to sustainability, quality, and innovation has helped solidify Sonoma County’s place as a global leader in the wine industry.

Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Windsor Shine in WalletHub Rankings

The Sonoma County cities of Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Windsor were included in WalletHub’s Best Small Cities in America (2024) list. These cities, with populations between 25,000 and 100,000, ranked highly in categories such as affordability, economic health, quality of life, education, and safety, showcasing Sonoma County’s diverse appeal to both residents and visitors.

A Nod to Local Artistry: Bitter Girl Bitters and Sebastopol’s Zen Appeal

Bitter Girl Bitters, a local company founded by Erin Elizabeth Hines, earned the #3 spot on USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2024 Best Craft Mixer Brand list. Hines’ artisanal bitters, crafted with ingredients from her own Sonoma County garden, are a testament to the region’s commitment to quality and sustainability. Meanwhile, Sebastopol was named one of America’s top ‘Zen’ cities by Mission Connection, thanks to its focus on holistic health, sustainable living, and vibrant artistic community.

Award-Winning Dining: The Farmer’s Wife

The Farmer’s Wife in Sebastopol has been recognized by Mixbook as one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in the U.S. Known for its seasonal dishes crafted with organic, locally grown ingredients, The Farmer’s Wife exemplifies the region’s commitment to sustainable, farm-fresh dining. Its inclusion on this list further highlights Sonoma County’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise.

Conclusion

Sonoma County’s accolades for Winter 2024-2025 are a testament to the region’s continued growth and success as a premier travel destination. From world-class accommodations and dining to sustainable initiatives and vibrant communities, Sonoma County remains a leader in offering visitors authentic, high-quality experiences. Whether you're visiting for the award-winning wine, the beautiful landscapes, or the charming towns, Sonoma County promises to deliver an unforgettable winter getaway filled with new discoveries and timeless charm.