
Lake Berryessa This scenic lake resort pleases sport enthusiasts and fisherman alike. If you don’t feel like tubing, wake boarding, fishing, camping, hiking, or barbecuing, just relax in the quiet outdoors. 28 miles north of Napa city; www.lakeberryessa.com
Russian River Hiking, horseback riding, camping, canoeing, and other outdoor activities fill this woodsy, gay-friendly resort area. Visitors can also expect a large number of spas and wineries. 60 miles northwest of Napa Valley; www.russianriver.com
San Francisco Though some people fly into San Francisco and head straight to the Napa Valley, it would be a mistake to not enjoy some of the food, art, culture, and nightlife that makes the Bay Area one of America’s most exciting cities. 45 miles south of Napa Valley; www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com
Sausalito At the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge, this waterfront community mixes rustic charm with Mediterranean flair. Once referred to as “a little fishing village” by Jack Kerouac, Sausalito is now one of the San Francisco Bay Area’s biggest art meccas. 48 miles south of Napa Valley; www.sausalito.org
Sonoma Valley Often lumped in with Napa because of its well-known wine country, smaller, less-crowded Sonoma Valley offers slightly cooler/wetter weather and numerous small towns with their own unique attractions. 14 miles west of Napa Valley; www.sonoma-county.org