Why Now Is the Best Time to Visit the World’s Most Renowned Wine Region in Perfect Harvest Season

When is the best time to visit the renowned wine region of the west and home to hundreds of hillside vineyards? 

Having lived in California for years and vanlifed through Napa on a 6 week West Coast trip, I spent some delightful days in Napa Valley during the peak of summer. Maybe it’s only slightly way too warm in the van, but at least one can pass out easily after many drinks in the vineyards and watching the winemaking process first-hand.

The climate in Napa Valley can range from mild winters to warm summers, with clear, sunny days and occasional rainfall. So, let’s break down the visitor seasons in Napa Valley:

• Best Season: March to June or August to October
• Peak Season: September and October
• Off-Peak Season: January to February

Now, let’s go into the specifics of these seasons, any must-experience events, and monthly weather trends. Whether you’re planning a day trip to Napa Valley or an extended stay, wine tasting at world-class wineries, or taking a hot air balloon ride, these are the best times to go to Napa Valley.

Best Time to Visit Napa Valley

Best Time of Year to Visit

Circle your calendar for March to June or early fall for the best time of year to visit this California wine country. Why? You’ll dodge the peak crowd madness and lap up some seriously gorgeous spring or fall weather. In the spring, you’ll still catch the vineyards in their lush, green state before the summer heat cranks up. And in the fall, you’ll make it in time to experience the grape harvest festivities. 

Best Time for Good Weather

For the best weather in Napa Valley, aim for late spring to early summer, specifically May through June. Comfortable temperatures average in the 70s to low 80s, perfect for wine tours without breaking a sweat. Swirl your glass of wine under clear skies, mild weather, and just the right amount of sunshine.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds

To dodge the crowds, January through March is the least busy time to go. Fewer visitors means you’ll have a much better chance of getting those last-minute tasting spots, which you usually need to reserve way in advance during peak season. In general, it means more intimate wine tours, quieter restaurants, and potentially rubbing shoulders with just a handful of other wine lovers.

Cheapest Time to Visit

To snag the best deals in Napa Valley, aim for the winter months, specifically January and February. Napa is not known to be cheap, but this timeframe sees prices for accommodations and tours at their lowest, thanks to the off-peak visitation levels.

Worst Time to Visit Napa Valley

Honestly, if you’re looking for the least ideal time to visit Napa Valley, it’s got to be late November through December. Although it never gets too cold, it’ll be the rainy season, which could really put a damper on those vineyard tours and outdoor tastings. Plus, the chilliness, especially in the evenings, can be a bit of a buzzkill when all you want to do is explore the beautiful outdoors.

Seasons of Napa Valley

Spring (February – May)

Spring in Napa Valley is not too hot and not too cold, and the entire valley is waking up from winter. From February through May, the vibrant mustard fields and baby grapes start to peek out.

March kicks things off with a bit of a chill in the air, but by April, you’re slipping into those comfortable mid-60s F. By May, it’s perfect picnic weather in the low 70s. The skies are clear, the air is fresh, and the vineyards are absolutely Instagrammable with all those flowers blooming. 

Wineries in spring are bustling with energy, prepping for the busy months ahead. This means if you’re curious about the winemaking process, it’s a fantastic time to grab a tour. The folks here love to share their passion, and with fewer crowds, you might just get that extra bit of attention and maybe learn a secret or two.

And here’s a pro tip from someone who’s been around California for a while: pack layers. Spring mornings and nights can be cool, but it can warm up quite a bit by the afternoon. Plus, many tastings and events are held outside, so you’ll be glad you brought that extra sweater or light jacket.

Key Events: 

• Napa Valley Mustard Celebration (January – March): Celebrate the blooming mustard fields in Napa Valley with this festival, featuring food, wine, and live music.
• Napa Spring Half Marathon and 5K (April): Run through the scenic Napa Valley during this half marathon event, followed by a wine tasting and live music.
• Merryvale Spring Feast at the Profile Estate (May): Enjoy a gourmet five-course meal with wine pairings at the Merryvale Profile Estate. 
• Annual Napa Valley Expo (May): This fair is a celebration of spring and Napa’s agricultural heritage, featuring carnival rides, live music, and lots of food. 

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Napa Valley? Hot. Temperatures can soar into the 90s F, which makes those air-conditioned wine cellars feel like heaven. 

One word of advice? Hydrate. And I don’t just mean with Cabernet. The heat’s no joke, but it makes those chilled whites and sparkling wines taste like liquid gold. Early morning is your friend for vineyard tours or hikes. By midday, you’ll want to be sipping something cool, preferably with a view.

Crowds peak in summer, but don’t let that deter you. This is the peak season for a reason. The valleys are lush, the vineyards are in full swing, and night-time brings cooler temperatures perfect for outdoor concerts and moonlit dinners.

Summer also sees the release of many new vintages, meaning you’re getting the first taste of what’s to come. But with the crowds, you will want to book those tours and tastings well in advance.

Key Events: 

• BottleRock Napa Valley (May – June): This three-day music, food, and wine festival takes place in Napa Valley every year, featuring big names like Imagine Dragons and Neil Young.
• Napa Porchfest (July): Enjoy free live music from local musicians on the porches and lawns of Napa’s historic neighborhoods.
• Festival Napa Valley (July): This music and food festival features performances from world-renowned musicians paired with exquisite wine and cuisine.

Fall (September – November)

Fall in Napa is when the real connoisseurs come to drink. The temperature dips to that perfect sweater-weather zone, and the scenery is lit up with every shade of amber, ochre, and crimson.

But here’s why you should come in autumn – harvest season. This is when the grapes reach their peak and get harvested. Under the watchful eyes of artisans who’ve dedicated their lives to the craft, the grapes are picked, sorted, crushed, and pressed. And you can be there to see it all. 

Many wineries offer special harvest tours and tastings, where you can taste the fresh juice straight from the barrel. Restaurants also offer special fall-themed menus featuring locally sourced produce and wines.

Key Events: 

• Napa Valley Film Festival (October): This five-day event celebrates the film industry, featuring screenings, culinary demonstrations, wine tastings and more.
• Harvest Parties at Wineries: (Full List Here)

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Napa is when the crowds thin out. You’ll get the vineyard all to yourself and access to the best tables without reservations weeks in advance.

The weather, while cooler, particularly in the evenings, seldom freezes, staying in the mild 50s to 60s. Occasional rain showers freshen up the landscape, turning it vividly green.

Accommodation rates drop, making it the perfect time for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy luxury without the hefty price tag. Wineries tend to be less crowded for a more personal connection with the winemakers.

Holiday lights, festive decorations, and events like the Yountville Festival of Lights make the entire town twinkle under the night sky.

Key Events: 

• Napa Lighted Art Festival (December-January): This free, open-air festival features stunning lighted art installations throughout the town of Napa.
• Napa Valley Truffle Festival (January): Celebrate the prized black truffle with this annual festival, featuring truffle cultivation demos, wine tastings, and a decadent Truffles & Wine Dinner.
• Restaurant Week (January): Enjoy special lunch and dinner menus at discounted prices from some of the best restaurants in Napa Valley during this week-long event. 

Napa Valley Weather By Month

This is a detailed month-by-month overview of the average high and low temperatures and rainfall in Napa Valley:

Month	Average High	Average Low	Precipitation
Jan	56°F	40°F	8.5d
Feb	61°F	42°F	8.6d
Mar	64°F	44°F	7.7d
Apr	70°F	46°F	3.9d
May	75°F	50°F	2.2d
Jun	80°F	54°F	0.7d
Jul	82°F	56°F	0.1d
Aug	82°F	56°F	0.1d
Sep	82°F	54°F	0.9d
Oct	75°F	49°F	2.7d
Nov	64°F	44°F	6.2d
Dec	56°F	40°F	8.5d

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

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• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons
• Perfect Day Trip to Sonoma Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect Day Trip to Napa Valley Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary from a Local

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.