With the coastal Mayacamas mountain range to the west, the rocky Vaca mountain range on the east, and vine-covered rolling hills lining the valley floor, Napa Valley’s geography makes for picture-perfect sunsets. Spring and winter months can also lend some twilight cloud cover, which creates cotton candy-colored skies framed by dramatic purple mountains. We’ve rounded up a few of our very favorite places to take in those stunning Napa Valley sunsets below. Check them out on your next visit, and don’t forget to share your sunset photos on social media (and tag us @visitnapavalley.com).

  1. Sipping wine or cocktails at Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar

    Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at the Archer Hotel has the best views in downtown Napa, and once you're there you'll understand why. Relax by an open pit fire taking in the panoramic views while enjoying a glass of wine or cocktails and snacks. Besides the view, expect lively conversation and a diverse crowd. Reservations are recommended as this ideal spot is popular with visitors and locals alike.

 

  1. Exploring Skyline Wilderness Park overlooking Lake Berryessa

    Catch the sunset at Skyline Wilderness Park after a day hiking scenic trails, enjoying a picnic with friends and family, or just drop in to watch the sun going down, surrounded by nature. Near downtown Napa, the park is nestled in a canyon with wide-sweeping views. Note that there is no admittance to the park 30 minutes before the 7pm daily closing time.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Robert clayton (@trek1974)

 

  1. Riding the Napa Valley Wine Train for dinner

    Board the world-class Napa Valley Wine Train, and watch the sun go down on a leisurely excursion through Napa Valley. Savor the moment sipping premium wines in luxurious antique cars during this one-of-a-kind experience from downtown Napa to St. Helena and back. Be sure to opt for the Vista Dome Car for an extra-amazing view of the valley.

 

  1. Dining on the patio at Auberge du Soleil for cocktails or dinner

    Perched atop a secluded hill overlooking vineyards, Auberge du Soleil – a mid-valley gem in Rutherford – is a prime spot to watch the sun set over the Mayacama Mountains. Enjoy a first class cocktail at the Bistro & Bar at Auberge du Soleil while drinking in the view, or opt for the full experience with a dinner on the patio of their Michelin-starred restaurant.

 

  1. Sitting outside at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch

    Situated in the middle of a vineyard in St. Helena, the rustic-chic setting at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch could make you think you’re somewhere in Italy or the south of France. Enjoy the sunset in a casual, outdoor farm ambience with a glass of Napa Valley’s choicest wines. An added plus is the towering, beautifully renovated nursery barn from the 1870s as a backdrop.

 

  1. Eating dinner on the patio at Brix

    With sprawling acreage and mountain views, a seat on the patio at Brix Restaurant & Gardens in Yountville offers some of the best views in Napa Valley. As the sun goes down, stroll the picturesque grounds with a glass of wine or a cocktail and explore the carefully tended flower and vegetable gardens as well as the citrus orchard – all of which are used as ingredients in the meals.

 

  1. Exploring the Grape Crusher statue at the south end of Napa

    Watch the sun go down against the backdrop of Napa Valley’s iconic winemaking landmark. The historic 16-foot-tall bronze sculpture sits on a hill with stunning 360-degree views of the countryside. To get there, take a picturesque hike through the vineyard coming from Vista Collina Resort at The Meritage, or there's a parking lot and short trail leading to the statue.

 

  1. Lounging by the pool at Carneros Resort and Spa

    The Hilltop pool at Carneros Resort & Spa in south Napa offers an elegant array of comfortable spaces to relax, drink in the breathtaking vistas, and watch the sun set. Take in the sweeping views overlooking picture-perfect rolling hills and vineyards of Carneros while lounging poolside at one of Napa Valley’s most luxurious resorts and spas.

 

  1. Mingling with horses at Tamber Bey Vineyards

    Visit Tamber Bey Vineyards, one of the most unique vineyard settings in Napa Valley, and watch the sunset in a garden courtyard surrounded by elegant horse stables. This family-owned ranch and winery in Calistoga sits near the Napa River, with tranquil views of the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountains. A favorite of visitors and locals alike.