Getting to Napa
Your best bet for airports will be Oakland (OAK), San Francisco (SFO), or Sacramento (SMF). SFO takes you right through San Francisco and over the Golden Gate, which is a pretty lovely drive, though just be aware of traffic. Each airport is about an hour drive to Napa. We also hear that the Sonoma County Airport (STS) now serves Alaska Airlines and allows for one free case of wine (more on that later).
Where to Stay
We got some super awesome hotel blocks at these two places in town. Just mention our name (or really our reservation number) like you're a VIP and they'll give you the details.
Hilton Garden Inn
3585 Solano Ave
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 227-3223
Hampton Inn and Suites
945 Hartle Ct
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 255-4000
Andaz
1450 1st St
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 687-1234
Marriott
3425 Solano Ave
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 253-8600
Sights and Sounds Along the Way
Like we said, the drive from SFO to Napa is pretty gorgeous. If you're feeling brave, you can stop in the city, but our favorite spot is just a little north on the other side of the bridge. Sausalito. This small town certainly attracts its share of tourists, but you can't beat the views of the city.
We think this park corner has the best view:
After you've recovered from the view, try out this local fish spot, aptly named "Fish". It's all great here, but we love the fish tacos, the tuna melt, and the oysters. Some pretty fun beers here and a cool setting right on the docks.
Fish
350 Harbor Dr,
Sausalito, CA 94965
Shipping Your Wine
Okay so you got a little crazy at the wineries. It happens, we've been there. Most wineries will ship home to you at a cost but this can add up fast. And since you probably bought bottles larger than 3 oz, getting wine home with you takes some planning. There are a couple options but first a pro traveler tip: Southwest Airlines! Southwest allows two free checked bags/boxes, and we've had a lot of success using this to get our wine home. Also, as mentioned above, it sounds like Alaska Airlines flights originating from Sonoma County Airpot (STS) allow for one free wine case. Now packing your wine...
We love this spot, and they're great for just packing (checked "bags"), but also have great rates on shipping:
Cartons and Crates
3250 California Blvd.
Napa, CA 94558