Your Sonoma Wine Country Adventure Starts at STS: The Smart Way to Sip and Savor!
- Jason Gariss
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
Here at Sonoma Wine Rides, we know your dream wine country escape should be as smooth as a perfectly aged Pinot Noir. That’s why we’re spilling the grapes on the ultimate secret to a stress-free Sonoma County adventure: flying directly into Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)!
Forget the long drives and big-city traffic. STS is literally nestled in the heart of wine country, just a stone’s throw from world-class wineries, charming towns, and breathtaking scenery. It’s not just an airport; it’s your gateway to immediate relaxation and exquisite sips.
Why STS is Your Top Choice for Wine Country Travel:
Unbeatable Convenience: Imagine deplaning, and you are 15 minutes from Healdsburg and Santa Rosa, right in the heart of wine country. No kidding! STS puts you right where you want to be.
Stress-Free Experience: Smaller crowds, easy navigation, and a relaxed atmosphere mean less airport hassle and more time to enjoy your vacation.
The Wine Country Welcome: From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the laid-back, friendly vibe that Sonoma County is famous for.
Current & Future Flights to STS: Getting You Here With Ease
STS is constantly expanding, and we have some huge news for travelers looking for more options and flexibility.
Current Carriers at STS:
Alaska Airlines: The longtime favorite for wine country travelers, offering direct flights to major hubs like Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), Los Angeles (LAX), Orange County (SNA), San Diego (SAN), Las Vegas (LAS), Palm Springs (PSP), Ontairo (ONT) and Burbank (BUR). Plus, don't forget their "Wine Flies Free" program!
American Airlines: Providing convenient direct service to Phoenix (PHX) and Dallas (DFW), making it easy to connect from almost anywhere in the country.
Big News: Southwest Airlines is Landing at STS! We are beyond thrilled to share that Southwest Airlines has officially announced service to Sonoma County Airport! Starting April 7, 2026, you’ll be able to fly the "LUV" airline directly into the heart of wine country.
Initial nonstop routes are set to include:
Las Vegas (LAS)
San Diego (SAN)
Burbank (BUR)
Denver (DEN)
This is a game-changer for our guests, offering even more competitive fares and the famous Southwest hospitality right here in Santa Rosa.
Considering Other Airports? Here’s the Lowdown:
While we firmly believe STS is your best bet, we understand that sometimes other hubs might be on your radar. Here’s an honest look at the pros and cons of flying into San Francisco, Oakland, or Sacramento:
San Francisco International (SFO)
Pros: Most extensive range of international and domestic flights; great for those coming from overseas.
Cons: A significant drive (1.5 to 2.5 hours); heavy traffic on the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway 101 can turn a quick trip into a long haul.
Oakland International (OAK)
Pros: Often less congested than SFO and a popular hub for domestic budget carriers.
Cons: Still a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Sonoma; requires navigating East Bay traffic and crossing the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.
Sacramento International (SMF)
Pros: Generally a very easy airport to navigate with lower stress levels than the Bay Area hubs.
Cons: The longest drive to Sonoma (2 to 3 hours); the route is mostly freeway and lacks the "vacation start" feel of landing right in the vines.
Your Sonoma Wine Rides Seamless Connection
No matter where you land, Sonoma Wine Rides is here to ensure your journey through wine country is luxurious, safe, and unforgettable. However, by choosing STS, you’re choosing more time sipping, more time exploring, and less time sitting in traffic.
Ready to start planning your perfect Sonoma Wine Country getaway? Let us handle the driving while you focus on the breathtaking views and exquisite wines.
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