San Francisco and Sonoma County: Urban vibes and rugged coastlines

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Caution, skepticism and, yes, intrigue were the reactions to seeing a squid ink cocktail on the menu. This cannot possibly end well, or so thought.

The helpful server assured me the drink would not disappoint.f

This opaque concoction was the best cocktail of my trip — and there were many good libations during my week in San Francisco and close-by Sonoma County.

This walkable and dense city exudes a dream-like utopia of a laid-back urban experience. The steep streets offer distant city and water views, going for a stroll feels like urban hang gliding.

Yeah, it’s touristy, but for a very good reason. Enjoy the novelty of open-air seating, or better yet, grab onto a handle and hang over the edge. Not sure if this is officially sanctioned, but no one seemed to frown on it.

The iconic San Francisco cable car makes its way up Hyde St., with Alcatraz Island off in the distance in The Bay.
The iconic San Francisco cable car makes its way up Hyde St., with Alcatraz Island off in the distance in The Bay.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Toronto Sun

A leisurely drink with a view of the city behind me was a reasonable expectation of a sunset cruise to the Golden Gate Bridge. This was not that cruise – it was an adventure!

Captain Jon Buser goes past the Golden Gate Bridge on the USA 76 former racing sailboat with AC Sailing on the waters in San Francisco Bay.
Captain Jon Buser goes past the Golden Gate Bridge on the USA 76 former racing sailboat with AC Sailing on the waters in San Francisco Bay.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Post

While cruising upwind, the yacht felt as if it was completely on its side as the passengers sat/stood on the “high side.” At the time, it felt like it was vertical, though it turns out the boat was angled at a visually misleading 27 degrees.

The view of the city from Alamo Square park in San Francisco. The sprawling grass area has a view of a row of seven Painted Ladies seen in the opening credits from Full House.
The view of the city from Alamo Square park in San Francisco. The sprawling grass area has a view of a row of seven Painted Ladies seen in the opening credits from Full House.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Post

From there, gravity is on your side as you make your way slowly downhill, meandering through the picturesque neighbourhoods.

The New Yorker Pizza at Tony's Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco.
The New Yorker Pizza at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Post

Wine is poured on the massive shaded patio with a view during a tasting at Paradise Ridge Winery in Sonoma County.
Wine is poured on the massive shaded patio with a view during a tasting at Paradise Ridge Winery in Sonoma County.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Post

Looking up at the giant trees at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve Walk in Sonoma County.
Looking up at the giant trees at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve Walk in Sonoma County.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Post

The view of the Pacific Ocean coast from the Bodega Bay trail head in Sonoma County.
The view of the Pacific Ocean coast from the Bodega Bay trail head in Sonoma County.Photo by Ernest Doroszuk /Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Post

San Francisco and Sonoma County have a fun mix of urban and outdoor experiences. You will want more time here than you think. However, for the visitor short on time, it’s easy to pack in a lot of memories.

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