Girlfriends Guide to Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a wine lover's paradise and a dream destination for anyone seeking a taste of luxury. Located in Northern California, this enchanting region beckons with its world-renowned wineries, charming boutiques, and gourmet dining experiences. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a serene escape, Napa Valley offers a sensory journey that promises to delight and create memories to cherish. So, gather your girlfriends and embark on an unforgettable adventure in this captivating corner of wine country.

Table of Contents

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Getting There

The closest major airport to Napa Valley is San Francisco International Airport (SFO). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Napa Valley, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

Another option is Oakland International Airport (OAK), which is also relatively close to Napa Valley.

The Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa is a smaller airport that serves the wine country region, including Napa Valley. It's a convenient option if you can find a flight that fits your travel plans.

Where to Stay

We’ve curated a short-list of boutique hotels perfect for your wine country girls’ weekend. If you want to find a complete list of hotels in the area, visit our partner site to book your stay. Note: many of the boutique hotels we recommend have a nightly amenities fee for some awesome extras included in your stay. Be sure to read the fine print and take advantage of everything included.

Maison Fleurie
(Yountville CA)

Maison Fleurie, a delightful inn in Napa Valley, pampers guests with an array of amenities. Start your day with a gourmet breakfast, then relax in the lush garden courtyard or by the cozy fireplace. The inviting pool and oversized hot tub provide a perfect way to unwind. Thoughtful extras like freshly baked cookies, bikes to borrow, and complimentary afternoon wine hour ensure a memorable stay. Plus, the inn's central location allows easy exploration of nearby wineries and restaurants. Maison Fleurie is your charming oasis, offering all you need for a memorable Napa Valley getaway.

Napa Valley Lodge
(Yountville CA)

Napa Valley Lodge epitomizes luxury in the heart of California's wine country. This exquisite retreat boasts a wealth of amenities, including a beautiful outdoor pool with an adjacent bocce ball court, a serene courtyard with fire pits, and a poolside fitness room. Indulge in wine tastings, spa services, and cycling tours arranged by the concierge. The spacious rooms feature private balconies or patios, fireplaces, and elegant decor, providing a perfect blend of comfort and opulence. With its lush surroundings and top-notch amenities, Napa Valley Lodge offers an unforgettable wine-country experience.

R Inn Napa
(Napa CA)

R Inn Napa is contemporary and modern, inspired by small European art hotels, featuring original artwork and modern decor. Accommodations include 5 stunning Loft Suites, 10 stylish rooms off an open-air courtyard, and a freestanding Bungalow. Enjoy the inn's cozy fireplace lounge, common Kitchen and Pantry, and a welcoming garden with seating area and bocce ball. Complimentary Continental breakfast items are available on Saturdays and Sundays and each guest room receives a complimentary bottle of wine.

Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa
(Calistoga CA)

Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa invites you to unwind in style. Relax in the rejuvenating geothermal mineral pools or indulge in spa treatments at the Moonacre Spa. This retro-modern gem offers a unique twist on lodging with its cozy communal spaces, including fire pits and picnic areas. Enjoy complimentary bikes for exploring, a coffee bar for your caffeine fix, Italian/Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and outdoor games available for all guests. With its distinctive amenities, Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa ensures a memorable, laid-back retreat in the heart of California's wine country.

Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs
(Calistoga CA)

Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs is a wellness oasis in Calistoga, California. Guests can immerse themselves in therapeutic mineral baths drawn from natural geothermal springs, providing rejuvenation for body and soul. The resort also offers spa treatments, mud baths, and a tranquil garden for relaxation. The onsite restaurant, House of Better, integrates health food with comfort food for a fresh take on wellness and happiness. Accommodations are stylish and comfortable, with modern amenities. It's an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the stunning Napa Valley landscape.

North Block
(Yountville CA)

North Block in Yountville is a luxurious wine country retreat offering an array of exquisite amenities. Guests can savor farm-to-table cuisine at The Restaurant at North Block, relax by the pool surrounded by vineyard views, or unwind with a spa treatment at the North Block Spa. The hotel's intimate, boutique ambiance ensures a personalized experience, while its central location provides easy access to Yountville's world-class wineries, shops, and galleries. North Block seamlessly blends Napa Valley's charm with upscale amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Southbridge Napa Valley
(St. Helena CA)

Southbridge Napa Valley is a gem of a hotel in the heart of California's wine country. Country manor-style rooms feature vaulted ceilings and fireplaces and the hotel's location in downtown St. Helena means it's just a short walk to restaurants, shops, and wineries. Health Spa Napa Valley is adjacent to Southbridge, and guests enjoy complimentary access to the resort-style heated lap pool with poolside relaxation and dining, a high-performance Fitness Center, Eucalyptus Steam Room, and multiple fitness classes. The Spa also offers an array of soothing spa treatments and a tranquil relaxation lounge.

Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa
(Calistoga CA)

Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa is a serene oasis in Calistoga, California. This rejuvenating haven boasts natural mineral pools, each with its own therapeutic properties, perfect for unwinding. Guests can also luxuriate in mud baths known for their detoxifying effects. The spa offers a range of soothing massages and beauty treatments. Cozy accommodations feature private hot tubs. With a tranquil garden setting and proximity to local wineries, Golden Haven is the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Harvest Inn
(St. Helena CA)

Harvest Inn offers an array of luxurious amenities for a perfect wine country escape. Guests can unwind by the heated outdoor pool, savor gourmet cuisine at the renowned Harvest Table restaurant, and enjoy complimentary wine tastings on Friday afternoons. The lushly landscaped gardens provide a tranquil backdrop, while spa services and in-room fireplaces ensure relaxation. You can also expect a bottle of wine upon arrival to your room and complimentary car service to wineries within a 3-mile radius.

Napa Winery Inn
(Napa CA)

Napa Winery Inn is one of the top value hotels in the Napa Valley. Relax by the outdoor pool and rejuvenate in the hot tub after a day spent visiting surrounding wineries. The inn also provides complimentary Wi-Fi and a delicious continental breakfast. With comfortable rooms and a prime location, it's the perfect choice for wine lovers and travelers seeking a taste of Napa's finest.

Napa Valley Marriott Hotel and Spa
(Napa CA)

Napa Valley Marriott Hotel and Spa offers a luxurious retreat with an array of amenities. Pamper yourself at the full-service spa, relax by the outdoor pool, or work out in the fitness center. Savor gourmet dining at Little Summer restaurant, and unwind with local wines at the wine bar. Elegant rooms feature plush bedding and vineyard views. With proximity to Napa's wineries, this hotel is an ideal wine country escape, offering a blend of comfort, relaxation, and indulgence.

Le Petit Pali
(St. Helena CA)

Le Petit Pali in St. Helena offers an exceptional wine-country experience with an array of amenities. Guests can relax by the pool surrounded by vineyard views, or take leisurely strolls through the lush gardens. The inn also features spacious rooms and suites, some with private patios or balconies, perfect for unwinding after a day of wine exploration. With complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming staff, Le Petit Pali ensures a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of Napa Valley's wine country.

Wineries to Visit

Did you know that 59% of US wine consumers are female but only 18% of US winemakers are women? Here at Girlfriend Weekend, we want to support the women breaking down barriers in this industry. When planning your wine country weekend, we suggest a visit to any of the wineries on our list. At the time of publication, all of these producers have a female winemaker at the helm!

Be sure to visit the winery website to check on tasting room hours and if reservations are needed. Some tasting rooms welcome walk-ins, but others require you to call ahead or reserve online. Tasting room experiences can range from a simple tasting to full wine and food pairings and tours of the winery. Check out all the options and plan your visit according to your budget and schedule. 

Our last tip is an important one. It’s easy to get swept away by the excitement of it all, but carefully consider how many wineries to visit each day. We recommend 2-3 with a stop for a hearty lunch along the way. Consider hiring a driver for the day, or if you are on a budget, limit the number of places you visit or pick someone as the designated driver!

There are 18 wineries with women winemakers in this region.
Chandon

Yountville CA

Corison

St. Helena CA

What to See

We know, wine tasting is the main attraction when you are planning a getaway to wine country. We get it, but we just couldn’t resist calling out a few notable sights to see while you are in the area!

Calistoga CA

If you want a wine‑tasting experience that feels straight out of a fairytale, Castello di Amorosa is the girls’ trip dream. This authentically styled 14th‑century Tuscan castle rises right out of Napa Valley (turrets, dungeons, grand halls, and all) and it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.

Just make sure to book reservations in advance — everyone in your group will need one to enter. You can keep it simple with an adult standing‑room tasting, or elevate the whole experience by choosing a tasting that includes a castle tour.

For the ultimate treat, upgrade to the Diamond Estate Tour & Wine Tasting, the crown jewel of Castello experiences. It’s intimate, adults‑only, and gives you and your girls a behind‑the‑scenes look at the castle’s most iconic spaces. Your guide will take you through the upper levels including the Chapel, Knights Hall, Great Hall, and production areas and underground to the Dungeon, Armory, and even the Torture Chamber. Along the way, you’ll hear the fascinating stories behind the winemaking and the castle itself.
After the tour, sit back and enjoy a personalized tasting of five of their exquisite wines, the perfect way to toast an unforgettable Napa day.

Where to Shop

Of course, you are going to be buying wine and maybe even joining a wine club or two. But don’t forget about fun boutique clothing, art, gifts, and regional items. Here is a checklist of areas where you’ll find some great shopping.

Calistoga CA

Downtown Calistoga is an inviting, walkable spot that’s perfect for a relaxed wine‑country shopping day. At the northern end of Napa Valley, this charming and rustic town is known for its Old‑West‑style architecture and easygoing vibe. As you wander the historic streets together, you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, diverse dining options, and plenty of welcoming wine‑tasting rooms to stop in along the way. With its laid‑back atmosphere and scenic character, Downtown Calistoga offers a chill girls’ day out.

Yountville CA

Downtown Yountville is the perfect place for a relaxed, upscale day of shopping in the heart of Napa Valley. This charming, walkable town center along Washington Street is known for its intimate feel, scenic beauty, and culinary prestige, including the world‑famous Michelin‑starred restaurants that put it on the map. As you wander together through manicured, vineyard‑lined streets, you’ll discover boutique shops, tasting rooms, art galleries, cozy cafés, and beautifully curated spaces that make browsing a delight. With its blend of elegance, flavor, and small‑town charm, Yountville offers an unforgettable setting for a girls’ shopping getaway.

Napa CA

First Street Napa is the perfect destination for a day of shopping, sipping, and enjoying Napa’s relaxed, modern vibe. This premier three‑block, walkable district in downtown features more than 40 unique shops, restaurants, and wine‑tasting rooms centered around the stylish Archer Hotel. Browse beautifully curated boutiques like Napastäk, enjoy tastings together, and settle in for memorable meals at spots such as Eiko’s. It’s just the right blend of local charm, great flavors, and chic atmosphere.

St. Helena CA

Visit Main Street in St. Helena when you need a charming, walkable day of wine‑country shopping. This intimate downtown stretch serves as a central hub, offering easy access to nearby vineyards, tasting rooms, and unforgettable culinary spots. As you wander together along its picturesque streets, you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, tasting rooms, and gourmet dining experiences that make browsing and lingering feel equally delightful. With its scenic beauty and relaxed wine‑country vibe, you will love spending the day here.

Napa CA

Oxbow Public Market is the perfect spot if you want to blend shopping, grazing, and local flavor into one fun outing. Set along the Napa River in downtown Napa, this vibrant food hall brings together more than 20 artisan vendors offering everything from specialty foods and organic produce to bites from top local restaurants. Stroll through the market together sampling treats, discovering gourmet finds, and enjoying the lively community atmosphere. With its mix of local flavors, sustainable products, and shared tasting experiences, Oxbow makes an unforgettable stop on a girls’ Napa getaway.

Events

Bottlerock
May 28, 2027
- May 30, 2027
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