The Ideal Los Angeles to Napa Valley Road Trip
Come set off on a Californian road trip of a lifetime through the epic wine country and relaxing coastal cities. You'll also pass towering redwoods, luxurious resorts, and beautiful country landscapes on your way from Los Angeles to Napa Valley.
You can do the 435-mile road trip from Los Angeles to Napa Valley in 6 hours and 40 minutes. You'll get to visit Malibu, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Monterey, San Francisco, Sonoma, Ventura, Pismo Beach, Santa Cruz, Morro Bay and Bodega Bay.
With over 400 wineries to enjoy plus world-class dining, beaches, and natural wonders, it's little surprise that this comfortable journey is on many people's bucket lists. Continue reading below to learn more about our recommended routes, how far the road trip is, and the best seasons to make this journey.
How far is Napa Valley from Los Angeles?
The most direct route getting you from Los Angeles to Napa Valley takes you through the Central Valley, straight into the Bay Area and into Napa Valley. You'll pass plenty of charming towns and agricultural areas along the way.
Although the direct route is shorter, you'll miss most of what this beautiful state has to offer. The alternative route, on the other hand, is longer and will bring you through stunning Californian landscapes, epic stopovers, beaches, and world-renowned wine regions.
Either route you take, you'll end up in beautiful Napa Valley. This famous Californian wine region is located north of San Francisco, in northern California's hilly wine country. This region is famous for its rolling hills and beautiful vineyards, and events throughout the year featuring everything from music to foodie delights.
How long is the road trip from Los Angeles to Napa Valley, and how many days will it take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Recommended Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Route | 435 miles | 6 hours 40 minutes | 2 Days |
| Pacific Coast Highway Route | 530 miles | 11 hours | 3 Days |
The road trip from Los Angeles to Napa Valley has two epic routes. The first is the Direct Route. This will take you 435 miles and 6 hours and 40 minutes of driving time through the center of the state.
The longer but more exciting and scenic Pacific Coast Highway Route is 530 miles and will take 11 hours of driving time. This route is less direct but will bring you through luxurious vineyards and some of the most famous landscapes and ocean views in America.
For the Direct Route, you should allow for 2 days to complete the journey. This gives you enough time to see the sights along the way and still have a relaxing drive.
For the scenic and activity-packed Pacific Coast Highway Route, you'll want 3 days in order to get the most out of it. This gives you plenty of time to go wine-tasting, golfing, or even take a few dips in the Pacific Ocean along the way.
What is the best road trip route from Los Angeles to Napa Valley?
There is no best route from LA to Napa Valley, just the best route for you. This is how our two routes stack up against each other.
| The Pacific Coast Highway Route | The Scenic Sequoias Route | |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Driving | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Scenery | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Facilities | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Things to do | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Traffic Flow | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Driving from Los Angeles to Napa Valley via the I-5: The Direct Route
You'll be taking I-5 the whole way. If you love easy driving, this is the route for you. Once you escape the LA area, it's a straight shot through California to your destination of Napa Valley.
The downside is that there's not much to see on this route, as you're prioritizing speed and simplicity over scenery. There are a few short detours you can make to small towns en route and the scenery at your destination will more than make up for it!
If you're prioritizing convenience, the Direct Route is perfect. I-5 has plenty of rest stops and facilities, and you'll have plenty of company on the road in case of difficulties!
Once you're on the interstate, traffic should flow pretty freely, aside from peak times and holidays. Be aware that there will be traffic exiting LA and around the major interchanges near San Francisco (I-580/I-68; I-680/CA-24)
The real downside to this route is the lack of stops and scenery on the way. You can, however, make a detour to Bakersfield and/or San Francisco to get your culture fix on your way to Napa.
Driving from Los Angeles to Napa Valley via the Pacific Coast Highway and San Francisco
This is one of America's favorite drives, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal mountains, and rolling vineyards. See the changing coastal landscape as you move from South to North California.
This epic route is longer and more scenic but still very simple, with stretches of undivided highway with one lane in either direction. Some parts of the route are winding. You may also face road closures (e.g. around Big Sur) due to weather impacts on the coast.
There are plenty of facilities along the way, although you'll need to be flexible. The places you'll pass on this route have friendly beach town vibes and you're never far from the next town with restaurants, hotels, etc.
The only real downside of this route is traffic congestion as you pass through towns and popular tourist hotspots. Be prepared for red stop lights and plenty of bumper-to-bumper traffic, especially in the summer.
The Pacific Coast Highway Route takes you directly through San Francisco and over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. There's no shortage of world-class cultural and entertainment options here. Stops along the PCH range from glitzy Malibu to artsy and bohemian Carmel-by-The-Sea.
Driving Route from Los Angeles to Napa Valley
So, have you decided which route to follow and want to learn more? You can use these high-level directions as general guidance, but always check the weather and road conditions before setting off and get your GPS ready before you turn the ignition on.
Taking the Direct Route
On the Direct Route, you'll start in world-famous Los Angeles. Then, you'll follow the interstate to Santa Clarita.
From here, you'll continue on to Grapevine and into Santa Nella. If you want some exercise and hiking on the way, make your way to the San Luis Reservoir & Recreation Area.
Continue on through Walnut Creek and keep driving north. You have the option to take a detour to San Francisco or go straight to your destination of Napa Valley.
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway Route
From Los Angeles, make the beautiful coastal drive to Malibu. From here, continue on to Oxnard.
From Oxnard, drive into Santa Barbara, known as one of the most beautiful and star-studded parts of America.
Continue on route to Pismo Beach. Here, you can enjoy the famous pier and have fun in the sun.
Head back on route along the vineyard studded hillsides of SLO County and into Big Sur. Enjoy one of the world's most famous coastal drives as you make your way to Monterey.
After getting the most of Monterey and its popular attractions and golfing, hit the road north to San Francisco. After getting the most out of the city, continue on into the wine country of Sonoma and your destination of Napa Valley.
Where to stop overnight on a road trip between Los Angeles and Napa Valley
With so much to see and do along the way, we've listed our favorite stops. From sunshine-filled golf courses to relaxing vineyards overlooking the mountains, this road trip has it all.
Enjoy the countryside in Santa Nella
About 4 hours and 15 minutes into the Direct Route is Santa Nella, California. The town is not all that notable on its own, other than being safe and charming.
The town is close to the scenic San Luis Reservoir and State Recreation Area, so it's a nice place to pause for a quick nature walk. There are several nice restaurants in the area as well.
Once you reach Santa Nella, you can't beat a stay at the Hotel Mission De Oro. This beautiful roadside hotel couldn't be more conveniently located, being so close to the I-5.
The hotel features a nice restaurant, great amenities, and tasteful decor. There's a garden pool and fire pit as well, so you can relax in style from your drive.
The area around the hotel has a few highlights, like taking a hike around the Reservoir. Learn about its history and significance at the visitor center. The San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area is a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
Enjoy the iconic coastal highway in Big Sur
Just over halfway on the Pacific Coast Highway Route is the world-famous Big Sur. You'll encounter some of the most incredible views, majestic scenery, and dense redwood forests that will make you feel like you're in a dream.
You'll be able to drive along the coast and experience landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge. There's also famous restaurants and cafes along the way, made famous by authors and musicians throughout the decades.
Once you make it to Big Sur, we recommend staying at the Alila Ventana Big Sur. This luxurious and popular hotel has every amenity you can imagine, plus friendly staff that will be more than happy to help you out.
You'll take in the incredible views and serenity of this wonderful hotel secluded amid the redwoods. It's an adult-only hotel, so it will be quiet and relaxing.
Around the area, you'll get to enjoy hiking along the coast or a little inland at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Make sure to make your way up to Point Sur State Marine Reserve and the Glass House Gallery, an on-site art gallery of California Central Coast artists that's actually on the hotel grounds.
Once you're done exploring, get straight to relaxing. You can make your way to the daily happy hour with local wine and beer and then slip away to enjoy the endless views.
Our favorite place to stay in Napa Valley
Once you reach Napa Valley, we recommend staying at the luxurious Napa Valley Lodge. This beautiful lodge has an on-site spa, balconies overlooking the vines, and cozy fireplaces in the rooms.
At the hotel, you can relax in the outdoor pool and enjoy a continental breakfast every morning. The friendly staff will make sure you have a pleasant and comfortable stay while you're soaking in wine-country.
Nearby the beautiful hotel grounds are some of the best wineries on the planet. Robert Mondavi and Domaine Chandon wineries are just 3.5 miles away and Yountville is only a 15-minute walk away, where there are bars and wonderful restaurants.
Best time to go from Los Angeles to Napa Valley on a road trip
California is a year-long destination with plenty of nice weather year-long. Napa Valley too enjoys plenty of sunshine and a long growing season, so the famous grapes can get nice and plump for their world-renowned wines.
Traveling to Napa Valley from LA in summer
Summer is a beautiful time to travel in Napa Valley. You'll expect the usual daily temperatures to be around 60-80 degrees.
The downside of traveling to Napa during the summer is the sizeable crowds. People fly in from all around the USA and internationally to enjoy wine country.
There are plenty of fun events in summer, like the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway in June. If you're around for late summer or early fall, you may even get to experience harvest season.
Traveling to Napa Valley from LA in winter
Wintertime is still often lovely with mild temperatures and pretty flora. You can expect them to be around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The wintertime may also see a lot of rain. Always check the weather before heading to Napa in the winter so you don't get rained on which can limit what you're able to see.
There're plenty of events in winter for you to enjoy. A highlight is the Napa Valley Restaurant Week in January which features some of the area's most famous restaurants and food stands.
Traveling to Napa Valley from LA in the shoulder seasons
The shoulder seasons are most people's favorites because the temperatures and weather are nice. Spring brings plenty of flowers and in Napa, some trees display their beautiful fall colors.
Fall is the peak season because of the grape harvest, so you can expect dense crowds and higher prices around this time. Spring, on the other hand, may see some rain, so hotel prices can sometimes be lower.
The best things to see and do on a road trip from Los Angeles to Napa Valley
There's lots of relaxing highlights to explore on the way. Below are our favorites to help you easily plan for this ultimate Californian wine-country vacation.
On the Direct Route
Angeles National Forest: If you're an LA local, you probably already know and love this area. If not, the forested landscapes and the Sierra Pelona Ridge are well worth visiting.
Six Flags Magic Mountain: Huge theme park just outside Santa Clarita: a rollercoaster lover's paradise
Castaic Lake: Man-made lake with camping, kayaking, fishing and hiking opportunities and beautiful sandy beaches.
Pyramid Lake: Dubbed “America's most beautiful desert lake”. This is the only habitat in the world for the Cui-ui fish that has been around for over 2 million years
Fort Tejon State Historic Park: Historic fort dating back to the 1850s fort that now serves as a museum and living history museum. The surrounding parkland is also home to 400-year-old oak trees.
San Luis Reservoir: An oasis in the I-5 wilderness, close to Santa Nella. Far-reaching views and solitude, with hikes and informational exhibits about the Reservoir's history, construction and relevance today.
Mt Diablo: Visible from most of the San Francisco area, Mt Diablo stands at 3,849 feet tall, and is of sacred status to many Native American peoples. The mountain is referred to as “Tuyshtak”, by the Chochenyo-speaking Ohlone people, meaning "at the dawn of time"
Briones Regional Park: 6,117-acre regional park to the east of San Francisco with beautiful rolling green hills and shady, secluded canyons. With its expansive network of ranch roads, this feels like a verdant, secret wilderness.
On the Pacific Coast Highway Route
Santa Barbara: This is one of the most iconic beach towns in the world. Famous for its wineries, towering mountains, and luxurious spas, you'll be sure to enjoy this one-of-a-kind destination.
Malibu: This gorgeous coastal city has plenty of iconic mansions and A-List celebrity homes. You'll also see plenty of beaches that look like they're from a postcard.
Point Mugu State Park: Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this state park is full of tranquil coastline and rolling hills.
Ventura: This wonderful city is famous for its restaurants, pier, and surf-town vibes.
Carpinteria: Known as “The World's Safest Beach,” Carpinteria is truly one of the most charming California beach towns.
Pismo Beach: Famous for its long pier and nearby wineries, this California beach town is worth a visit. Make sure to explore its lovely downtown with plenty of restaurants, bars, and seafood.
San Luis Obispo: Known for its Bubble Gum Alley, wineries, shopping, restaurants, and the nearby Madonna Inn, this Californian city is worth a stop.
Morro Bay: Check out the 575-foot Morro Rock that stands over the long stretching beach. Explore the many trails and lagoons full of wildlife.
Cambria: This is a town that's full of art and nature. Explore the coastal pine forests or take a walk downtown to visit the art galleries and cafes.
Hearst Castle: This is the giant property and mansion of wealthy newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. It overlooks San Simeon and has over 100 beautifully decorated rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, private movie theater, and plenty of sculptures and antiques from around the world.
Ragged Point: Known as the Million Dollar View, this scenic overlook is a must if you're driving through Central California.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: This Monterey County park is full of redwood trees, creeks, and natural pathways that lead you through the 1,006 acres of pristine coastal rainforest.
Monterey: This is a famous city known as the location for John Steinbeck's novel, Cannery Row. Explore its world-famous aquarium and fine dining or make your way to Carmel-by-the-Sea and enjoy amazing golf courses with unbeatable ocean views.
Santa Cruz: This hip coastal city is one of the centers for surfing in the USA. Stroll along the coast and take in the endless beach vibes and even get the chance to spot wildlife like dolphins and whales.
San Francisco: This is one of the most iconic cities in America. Marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge and take a stroll downtown and by the piers to experience the charming shops, restaurants, and museums.
Bodega Bay: This iconic location was where Alfred Hitchcock filmed the movie, “The Birds.” You'll get to explore an eclectic mix of beachside shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.
