While we’re lucky to enjoy numerous beach destinations on the California coast, this retro resort in Guerneville stands out for its location on the banks of the Russian River. For over a century, visitors have flocked to the pebbly shores of Johnson’s Beach to enjoy a unique summertime escape beneath towering redwoods and sycamore trees.
This underrated Bay Area vacation spot has so much to offer, from the area’s charming vintage styling to its historic bungalows available for rental. Keep reading to learn how to make the most of Johnson’s Beach now that it’s opened for the 2025 summer season.
Johnson’s Beach
Known for its unpretentious and family-friendly atmosphere, Johnson’s Beach presents a quintessential NorCal riverside experience in the redwoods. This part of the river is generally calm with little current, so visitors can lounge in inner tubes or go for a relaxing swim. There’s also a roped-off, shallow kiddie pool area for families to enjoy.
The beach is outfitted with simple pleasures, including a snack bar with beer and wine, and gear rental for canoes, kayaks, inner tubes, beach chairs, and umbrellas.
Lodging and activities around Johnson’s Beach
As if this laid-back riverside beach weren’t charming enough, the area also provides ample lodging throughout the summer season that taps into that vintage nostalgia. Consider booking one of the historic bungalows built in the 1920s, each of which has a private deck and local art decorating the walls. Other options include adorable tiny cabins with fire pits, modest canvas cabanas, a rustic beach lodge, and cozy campsites.
The small town of Guerneville also offers numerous activities to round out your weekend, from hiking and ziplining at the 805-acre Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, to wine tasting at Korbel Champagne Cellars and Porter-Bass Winery.
🗓️ Opening dates and hours: Johnson’s Beach is open on weekends from May 17-June 1, daily from June 7-Aug. 17, and then weekends again from Aug. 23-Sept. 28. Beach rentals are available from 10am-5pm.
📍 Location: The address for Johnson’s Beach is 16215 First St, Guerneville, CA 95446
- 🚗 By car from San Francisco: 1 hour and 30 minutes via US-101
- 🚌 By public transportation from San Francisco: 3+ hours via 101 bus line to Santa Rosa Transit Mall, then 20 bus line to River Rd & Armstrong Woods Rd in Guerneville
🔎 Learn more: Johnson’s Beach website