Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach
Originally built in 1857, situated just across River Road from well visited Sunset Beach, and surrounded by an established apple orchard, is Petunia's Place. Owned by the same family for over 160 years, purchased in 2021 by a neighbor who saw the opportunity to restore the farmhouse from the foundation up, this is a true piece of Russian River history. Like a life size doll house straight out of Cosmo, chicly furnished by way of up cycled treasures and sparkling new amenities, being part of this home's story is a gift. Keeping to the original footprint, the main level is smartly planned to include a bedroom, good size living space with direct access to the back yard, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower and laundry area with stackable washer & dryer. Up the flight of wide plank local walnut wood stairs is the second bedroom, known as the Gingham room ( queen size bed ) and third bedroom, known as the Polkadot room ( 2 twin size beds ). Conveniently located across the hall from the bedrooms is a full bath with an amazing black and white tiled shower with rounded glass door. At the end of the hall is the Primary suite which offers ample space, tons and tons of natural light, and its own ensuite bath with a pristine shower. The Primary suite also has access to the New Orleans style covered porch which looks towards the vineyards and redwood forested hillside. The very private back yard, accessed off the dining room, has a hot tub, wooden deck, gas BBQ ( with spare tank ), and short staircase off the deck leading to the separate Foosball Funroom bedroom. The Foosball Funroom bedroom has a new fold out bed ( double ), homage to King Kong, a vintage game table for four and of course, a Foosball table.
Additional house specifications: Be a Good Neighbor, know your Sonoma County Vacation Rental Ordinance rules: Max Occupancy: 10, no day guests, children under 3 not included in maximum occupancy count. Max Automobiles: 5 at any and all times, parked on driveway; RV's & trailers & tents are prohibited. Quiet Hours are from 9pm - 10:00 am. Keep your voices to a minimum during these times, neighbors should not be able to hear you during Quite Hours. No outdoor amplified sound/music (including outdoor speakers) or loud noises at any time. No weddings, parties, events, or loud gatherings of any kind. No unsecured dogs or nuisance barking. Dogs left alone must be crated indoors. Burning of solid fuels and or possession of fireworks is prohibited. Evacuation During Emergencies is mandatory if the property is considered inside a Voluntary Evacuation Zone. Petunia’s Place is listed in Zone # SON-161. Your property manager will use every form of communication provided to reach out to you if the property becomes declared inside a Voluntary Evacuation Zone. Failure to comply with any and or all ordinance rules may result in an Incident Report leading to a fine assessed by Sonoma County. Neither the property management company nor the property owner will absorb any fine passed by Sonoma County for failure to comply. We appreciate you understanding the delicacy of neighbors respecting other neighbors. We look forward to hosting you soon!
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Pets should not left unattended at any time.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Please gather any used towels and place them in the bathroom near the washer and dryer. Unused towels may be left in the bedroom they were found in.
Any used food such as leftovers should be taken to the trash and recycle cans. Unopened food and drinks may be left for housekeeping and will be appreciated.
Please be sure to lock the hot tub and leave the hot tub key on the dining room credenza in the crystal dish.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Per So Co VR Ordinance: No amplified music at any time. Quiet hours are 9:00 pm - 10:00 am, please keep your voices to a minimum during these hours.
Per So Co VR Ordinance: Outdoor burning of solid fuels and possession of fireworks is prohibited. Evacuation during an emergency is mandatory.
Per Sonoma County Vacation Rental Ordinance: Guest occupancy is a maximum of 10 at any and all times. Children under 3 years old do not apply.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number LIC #LIC23-0197 TOT#861N
Property # 3803123vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Forestville
Located in Forestville, this holiday home is on a river. Korbel Winery and Porter Creek Vineyards are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit The Barlow and Railroad Square Historic District. Travelling with kids? Consider Pee Wee Golf and Arcade, or check out an event or a game at Redwood Empire Ice Arena. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and mountain biking.
Armstrong Redwoods State Park - 14 min drive - 11.0 km
Northwood Golf Club - 17 min drive - 17.3 km
Getting around
Santa Rosa Station - 21 min drive
Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County) - 21 min drive
Restaurants
Rio Nido Roadhouse - 5 min drive
Rainbow Cattle Company - 8 min drive
Koalas Fine Food - 8 min drive
Baked On The River - 8 min drive
Tiki Bar at the r3 - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach?
As of 5 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach on 10 August 2026 start from NZ$3,725, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Petunia's Place: Landmark 1857 Farmhouse with Hot Tub, across from Sunset Beach located?
This family-friendly Forestville holiday home is located by the sea, within 3 mi (5 km) of Russian River and Korbel Winery. Pee Wee Golf and Arcade and Johnson's Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This property is lovely, conveniently across from sunset beach if you're ever floating the river
Satchel F.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 August 2026
All Smiles this way as we learn that you and your group enjoyed your stay and took advantage of our close location to Sunset Beach; floating the river is fantastic in our area and a gift for those fortunate enough give it a try. Hope to host you again!
This place was fantastic! Cannot recommend it enough. Perfect location for accessing the river and doing a float.
Will T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 July 2026
Thank you again for choosing to spend your long holiday weekend with us at Petunia's Place. Very happy to see that you appreciated both the home itself, and our location directly across the road from Sunset Beach. We look forward to your next visit.
We enjoyed another stay at Petunia’s Place. Cute spot and live the proximity to the beach. Had a little trouble figuring out the AC remotes, but eventually got it!
Chelsea D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 July 2026
We are so very pleased that you chose to stay with us again at Petunia's Place. With a multitude of choices out there, hosting a guest more than once is quite the compliment. We do hope that we are on your list for next year.
Very comfortable, well-appointed and updated, spacious home on an interesting property! So glad we chose it for our family reunion / Thanksgiving holiday.
Jen and Vince B.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 February 2026
So pleased that your Thanksgiving gathering went so well! Petunia's place is definitely an interesting delight, quite unusual for a Russian River vacation home. When the time is right, we hope to host your family again.
We absolutely loved our stay at Petunia’s! The house was absolutely stunning inside and out. The location is perfect and close to many beaches and the town. The property manager was great and very communicative. 10/10 recommend staying here!
Sarah N.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 July 2025
Sarah, thank you so much for your glowing review of your recent stay at Petunia’s Place! Hosting you and your group was a pleasure. We would also like to pass our gratitude for leaving the home in such well cared for condition on your departure. We look forward to your next visit. Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia’s Place
Hi Sara ~ Love your short but sweet 5 star review of your New Years stay at Petunia's Place. The home is definitely well loved by all of us lucky enough to care for her. We hope to have the opportunity to host you again. Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia's Place
The place was gorgeous! It was clean, spacious and very cozy. Its also Right across from the russian river which was perfect. Would definitely stay again next time I'm in town.
Jennifer S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 November 2024
Jennifer, thank you so much for taking the time to post a review of your recent stay at Petunia's Place. The property owner is fastidious about combining cleanliness with fun filled amenities and furnishings, making my job all the easier! Please consider a return trip, we would be happy to rent to you again. Take Care, Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia's Place
We loved our stay at Petunia's Place. The house comfortably held our 3 generations. We loved the porches and decks and how seemlessly one could go from indoors to outdoors. We cooked all our meals and the kitchen was well-equipped. The kids loved the hot tub, and we loved the proximity to Sunset beach. It was a wonderful place for our very special gathering.
Molly L.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 September 2025
Molly, We are more than pleased that Petunia's suited your family of 3 generations!! comfortably. It is a lovely home with rich local history, restored and celebrated by the property owners and me. We hope you will stay with us again, any time of the year. Thank you!
Great location, spacious home, easy access to the Russian River! The home was beautiful and everything was new and shiny! It had everything we needed for our stay!
Kendrix L.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 September 2024
Kendrix, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us in regard to your recent stay at Petunia's Place. I can say that without a doubt, it is most definitely a very special place. We hope you and your group will consider a return visit. take Good Care, Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia's Place
We loved our stay at Petunia’s Place! Exceptionally clean, tastefully decorated, comfortable beds and furnishings. Our kids loved the game room and hot tub. There is some significant road noise in the front facing bedrooms because River Road is busy and fast. Otherwise everything about this spot is amazing!
Jenna C.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2025
Dear Jenna, thank you so much for your fond review of your recent stay with us at Petunia’s Place ❤️ We are so very fortunate to have a pair of world class housekeepers caring for the home who, along with the property owners’ keen eye for all things unique and fun, create an unforgettable gathering spot for those of all ages. We are situated along River Road, which has its busy travel times, however, being just across the street from Sunset Beach and 1/2 way between the towns of Forestville & Guerneville makes for a location which offers many options within close to a 5 minute drive. Special thanks are in order for leaving the home near immaculate upon your departure. Please consider us for your next trip to the Russian River! Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia’s Place
Great people and a little off the beaten path for wine country but that was what we wanted. There were 10 of us and we all had room and privacy. House was super clean, safe, and friendly. Would gladly stay there again. Sunset beach across street was a beautiful surprise
Cody t.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 October 2024
Cody, both the property owner myself are so happy to hear that you and your group enjoyed your stay at Petunias Place. Just a short drive from wineries and the towns of Guerneville, Forestville, and Healdsburg the home is definitely a great choice to stay when visiting west Sonoma County. Please consider a return trip, we would be happy to host you again. Naomi Smith on behalf of Petunia’s Place
The house has everything you need for a large group to have a comfortable stay. The grill had a little trouble, but worked after some tinkering. There’s also a full fifth bed not just the couch.The end of the Russian river float is right across the street which makes it very easy to not worry about parking your getaway car there!
Riley C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2025
Riley, We are flattered that you choose Petunia's Place to stay at while celebrating your birthday! Good to hear that after replacing the BBQ tank all worked well for your meal. We hope that your stay proved so favorable that you will stay with us for your birthday next year. Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia's Place
Nice place with ample space. Very good communication.
Good supply of kitchen ware. Clean and comfortable.
Nice to have adjacent art area to walk around.
Only drawback it is right on the highway........
Jim R.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 December 2024
Jim, it was a pleasure to meet you and your family during your recent stay at Petunia’s Place over the Thanksgiving holiday. I am so pleased to see that you all found the home to be accommodating, especially noting some of you had driven so far to get there! The adjacent art garden is an ongoing exhibit with all pieces being imagined and created by one of the homeowners. True that the home is situated close to the highway and is susceptible to road noise in heavy traffic times, however, our hopes are that between the beauty of the home inside and out, and the double pane windows and black out curtains over each window, that our guest experiences are full of favorable memories. We hope to have your family back again, perhaps in the summertime when visiting Sunset Beach can be added to your to-do list. Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia’s Place
This vacation rental was amazing! It was extremely, clean, relaxing and user friendly. Everything in the house was labeled and tons of platters for serving. The place was extremely clean and had tons of blankets and towels. The hot tub was extremely clean! The place was super safe and beautiful! The one thing that was difficult was we had to check into the place at night and it was not working with Apple Maps and it was very difficult to find the yellow gate due to the lack of lights out there. We did find it but worth a mention just in case! Overall an amazing place and will be recommending this to many people!
Elise S.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 February 2025
Elise, Thank you so much for your 5 * compliments on your recent stay with us at Petunia's Place! We are fortunate to work with meticulous staff who help care for the home with pride. And a second thank you for leaving the come in such great shape on your departure! We appreciate your feedback in regard to arriving at night, while we do tend to leave interior lights on, solar lights near the gate are a smart suggestion. We do hope you and your group will find another reason to stay with us, perhaps in the warmer season when you can make use of the Russian River located across River Road from Petunia's Place. Till next time, Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia's Place
Love this gem on Russian River! It is secluded and private, but easy to get to the Sunset beach on the river, Korbel winery, and Guerneville for festivities. The listing photos don’t do justice for this place: the main house is fully renovated with upgraded appliances. Huge kitchen to accommodate 9 of us, and all three bathrooms are spacious. Front porch (both floors) are perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee while watching the fog in the forest clears out. Ample parking space even if we all drove separately. The foosball room is upgraded and spacious and has its own AC. The hot tub and the cute art/sculpture park on property are also a big bonus. So…please don’t make this place too popular because we want to come back and stay here again and again >.<
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay for a quick weekend paddle boarding trip. Check in was easy, but my mapping app located this house incorrectly; the owner’s driving instructions are much better! We had no trouble with hot water in the showers, but the kitchen hot water was a little tricky. The kitchen had a nice layout, with all the pots, pans, baking dishes, utensils and serving dishes we needed. The grill was in good shape and we used it both nights. The beds were comfortable; everyone slept well and the road noise was not a bother, especially with AC. The futon in the foosball room was made into a bed for us, but one guest in our group didn’t come, so no one slept there. The foosball table was loads of fun.Bonus: the house is seriously cute!
Chelsea D.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 August 2025
Love your description of your recent stay at Petunia's Place! Definitely far from your typical house on the river for sure. Please consider a return visit, we would be happy to host you and your group again.
Our stay included our grown children and their families. This house was absolutely perfect!! It’s not only gorgeous inside but so functional for large groups. Kitchen is well appointed aka it has everything you could possibly need and there is a large picnic table outside as well as a large table inside so everyone can eat together. The check in process was seamless. While the house is right above the River Road it was not a distraction while in the house. The beach is very close and great for even small children as the water is shallow and calm. There are so many beautiful outings near by that we could have stayed a week and not seen everything. Be sure to check out the Pee Wee golf in Geurneville. What a hoot. Suffice it to say we loved the Petunia house and hope to return again and again.
Mary K F.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2025
Dear Mary, So very pleased to read that your long weekend stay with us at Petunia's awarded us with a glowing 5* review! Petunia's Place is not your typical vacation rental by any means, as you clearly appreciated. As you, we hope that your will consider vacationing with us on a regular basis. Naomi Smith ~ on behalf of Petunia's Place
Verified review
6/10 Okay
Elizabeth D.
3 June 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in
Disliked: Communication, location
Not likely to book again.
I'm going to start with the positives. The home was gorgeous and beautifully decorated, the beds were comfortable and the location was perfect for our needs. The many AC units made the house extremely comfortable on a very hot weekend.If you're planning on cooking you will need to bring everything you could possibly need as the house is not stocked with any kitchen pantry essentials, outside of salt and pepper. There were no trash bags( I had to call to get bags) or labeling of the outside cans to know which was garbage and which was recycling. The road is extremely busy, preventing you from having any windows open to enjoy cool nights as its simply too noisy and it never ends. The home sleeps 10 but only has living room space for 5, our party of 8 had to sit on the floor or at the dining room table. The water pressure was not great and several members of our party took cold showers because the hot water heater could not sustain even 6 showers. Showers were taken over a couple hours in hopes of preventing this and we were unsuccessful. If its pet friendly, its small pet friendly and the pet would have to be leashed at all times as the yard is not fenced.I did appreciate the late check out on our last day given to us as a courtesy for some of the inconveniences.
An amazing home in an amazing location along the Russian River! Great kitchen, bathrooms, front porch and back deck. Would book again!
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
About the host
Hosted by Naomi Smith
After years of working in the short-term rental market, I took a leap of faith and began working for myself in 2021. I truly enjoy hosting visitors in the Russian River area, a place I have called home all my life. My goal is for every guest to leave with a smile and consider returning for a future stay.
Why they chose this property
I have driven past this property all my life and always wanted to know its history, let alone, be part of it's transformation. I immediately said yes to managing this farmhouse and am confident any who stay here will thoroughly enjoy themselves.
What makes this property unique
This property is a historic piece of Forestville. Built in1857, owned by the same family for over 160 years, sold to a caring neighbor and rebuilt in 2022, there is nothing like this on the river. Sharing space with Gravenstein apple trees, brilliant works of reborn metal, and situated just off River Road, facing the well loved Sunset Beach and surrounding vineyards, I truly believe this home is magical.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests