Her Name Is Monte Rio

Chilling at Monte Rio Beach on the Russian River

06.08.2017

You’ve heard of Throwback Thursday; how about Old-School Saturday (or Sunday!). For a scene that’s a pure summer classic, head to the Russian River’s Monte Rio Beach. Enjoy lounging and picnicking at an expansive, exposed beach made for sunbathing, barbecuing, and enjoying concession-stand munchies (Popsicles, cheeseburgers, nachos…).

Monte Rio has been attracting beachgoers for decades, but if you’re looking to escape the crowds for a bit, rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or tube from the concession stand and explore the redwood tree–lined river, flowing very nicely these days. Nose up to a sandbar for a picnic or snack break and stake your own private paradise.

From Hwy. 101 north, go 5 miles past downtown Santa Rosa and take the River Rd. exit toward Guerneville. Stay on River Rd. for 18 miles until you reach Monte Rio. The beach is on the sunny side of the river by Monte Rio Bridge. Rental fees: Canoe or two-person kayak: $20/hour or $40/day. Single kayak: $15/hour or $35/day. Kids kayak: $10/hour or $25/day. Lifejackets provided. Water shoes recommended. Concession/Rental stand open 10:00 a.m. weekends, 11:00 a.m. weekdays (closed Tuesdays). The dog-friendly part of the beach is downstream from the bridge.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Hike to New Lights

    For an enlightening late-day hike, catch the San Francisco skyline at sunset from high atop Ring Mountain in Tiburon. This 2-mile (round-trip) hike to Turtle Rock is a perfect late afternoon wander.

    View

  2. Three Cheers

    Good things come in threes when you visit Sonoma. Head out on a short hike right from town, sip and stroll the historic plaza, then take in the magical holiday lights.

    View

  3. Island Tree Topper

    The light display atop Angel Island State Park’s Mount Livermore has long been a cheerful twinkle visible from many cities throughout the Bay Area on holiday season nights. Get into the festive spirit by hiking the 2-mile (one-way) trail from Ayala Cove up to the "Angel Lights."

    View

  4. Dune It Right

    Want a beach that will really get you away from it all? Monterey's Fort Ord Dunes State Park is just the ticket. And it often glows golden toward sunset.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  2. A woman walks the path next to the beach at sunset at Palisades Park in Los Angeles County

    Santa Monica’s Most Beautiful Walk

    With its sweeping views of Santa Monica Bay and the Santa Monica Pier, the 26-acre Palisades Park, perched along the beach bluffs, may be a tourist’s delight for its quintessential California vibes–but it’s just as beloved by locals. Follow this 2.5-mile loop to experience it like one.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

    View
  4. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View