Napa Valley has long been a refined and famous area of the country and as time progresses so does Napa’s fame and word of it’s exquisite wine. Plus its reputation for weekend getaways and romantic honeymoons is unparalleled. Looking to stay stateside but treat yourself to relaxation, entertainment with a rolling hills backdrop. A honeymoon to Napa Valley is the perfect opportunity to visit Northern California and cultivate your inner wino.
When to visit
When it comes to the best time of the year to visit Napa Valley for a honeymoon, the great news is that there really isn’t a bad time. Each season has something different to offer. The winter (January- February), travelers can see beautiful wildflower blooms and still do vineyard and outdoor activities.
However, summer (May- September) is peak season. Great weather, great scenery and great weekend crowds during this season means that you’ll get to see a lot, do a lot, and probably party a lot.
Getting to Napa Valley
Is there a direct flight into Napa Valley? Unfortunately not. But the good news is that San Francisco International airport and Oakland International airport are both only about an hour away. This means that you’ll probably want to rent a car to get to and around Napa.
Getting around Napa Valley
When it comes to getting around Napa during your honeymoon, many people rent cars at the airport. The advantage is that your time and schedule are completely your own and you get to do what you want, when you want. The downside is that most people have to plan around drinking and driving. Uber is an option but can get a little pricey.
If you’re looking for other options once you get to Napa Valley, join in tours are very popular. The name is pretty self-explanatory. Most places have shuttles that come pick you up at your hotel and you get to join in on tastings and wine tours. They usually run about $120/person and the vineyard costs aren’t included. But you don’t have to worry about drinking and driving. Plus, tours tend to turn into parties, so you’re guaranteed to meet friends and have some fun.
If neither of those appeal, hiring a driver is always an option. It’s typically more expensive and runs about $80/hour. But you can also have your driver help plan your day and schedule wine tours for you. Looking for romantic seclusion and a little pampering? This is the way to go.
What to do during a honeymoon in Napa
If you’re not looking to spend time at the vineyards, there are plenty of other things to keep travelers entertained while helping them explore scenic Napa Valley. Activities like bike tours, balloon rides, golfing, horseback riding and any amount of spa or pool time included in resort hotels are always an option.
Wineries
- Promontory Winery: This winery has some of the most expensive and exclusive tastings in the Valley and is coupled with some beautiful property. The winery sits on a small part of owner Bill Harlan’s more than 900 (yes, 900) acre property. They got started in 2008 and have earned a critically acclaimed name in the short eleven years since. If you’re looking for a special tasting, this is it.
- Caymus Vineyards: This is a family winery with a great story. The Wagner’s started producing wine in 1972 and have been doing it since. Looking for a beautiful laid back property to do some tasting on? This is the one.
- Opus One Winery: This vineyard produces some of the most globally recognized luxury wine. It’s about $45-60/glass for tasting, but it’s your honeymoon! Their terrace has some of the best views in Napa Valley that you won’t regret soaking in.
- Beringer Vineyards: If you’re a baby wino like me, this is a great place to start off. This vineyard will teach you how to taste wine, explain the difference with each sip and explain how to pair it. Educational and fun.
Napa Valley Honeymoon Accommodations
Poetry Inn
This small luxury hotel is nestled beside a Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard and major in privacy, hospitality and breathtaking views. The property only has five rooms and the romantic atmosphere makes it the perfect place to honeymoon in Napa Valley.
They scatter rose petals, include a free bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, give a 90- minute couple’s massage and those are only a few of the offered amenities. The Poetry Inn lives up to its name and makes sure that honeymooners are in paradise.
The Estate Yountville
Located on the estate are several accommodations. The Vintage House brings out beautiful and calming aesthetics which is a reflection of the local and his carefree spirit. The bungalow style abodes are scattered across the estate and are walking distance from some of the most famous and delicious restaurants, bars and vineyards. They have a private pool, jacuzzi, fire and water features and a game room.
Silverado Ranch and Spa
This resort comes with a tennis court, a golf course and is conveniently located on the Silverado trail, which is where many of the wineries reside. Settled on 1200 acres of oak groves and hills, you’ll see California wine country like you never have before.
Why Napa? Rain or shine, hot or cold, the Valley is always going to be beautiful. You’ll get to see breathtaking views, drink wonderful tasting wine and eat some of the best food California, and the United States has to offer. As you sip, see and enjoy, grab your honey and let the stress of the wedding fade away.
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.