Lake Berryessa: Napa's Aquatic Playground
Escape the vineyards and discover Lake Berryessa, Napa's hidden gem, offering year-round recreation from watersports and fishing to hiking and wildlife viewing amidst stunning scenery.
Lake Berryessa, nestled in Napa County, is a sprawling reservoir offering a refreshing escape from the region's famed vineyards. Created by the Monticello Dam in the 1950s, this lake stretches for 23 miles, boasting 165 miles of shoreline and a capacity of 1.6 million acre-feet of water, making it one of California's largest freshwater bodies. Popular for boating, waterskiing, fishing, and swimming, the lake's clear waters reach a balmy 75°F in summer. Beyond the water, hiking trails wind through oak-studded hills, providing stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports or a tranquil nature retreat, Lake Berryessa provides a diverse range of outdoor activities, making it a worthwhile detour from the wine-tasting circuit. Remember to check for any seasonal closures or restrictions before you go, and be prepared for limited services in some areas.
A brief summary to Lake Berryessa
- 5520 Knoxville Rd, Napa, California, 94558, US
- +1707-966-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather, ideal for hiking and enjoying the lake's tranquility.
- Check the Bureau of Reclamation's website for current lake levels, boat launch availability, and any fire restrictions before your visit.
- Bring your own shade and water, especially during the summer months, as facilities can be limited in some areas.
- Consider exploring the Lake Berryessa Wildlife Area on the east shore for birdwatching and a more secluded nature experience.
- Be aware that swimming is at your own risk, as there are no lifeguarded areas. Exercise caution and supervise children closely.
Getting There
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Driving
From Napa, take CA-121 North, a scenic, winding road, for approximately 45 minutes to Lake Berryessa. Input your specific destination (e.g., Oak Shores Day Use Area, Pleasure Cove Marina) into your GPS, as cell service can be unreliable along the way. Parking is available at various day-use areas and marinas around the lake. Day use fee at Oak Shores is $5 per vehicle. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially on summer weekends, so arrive early. There are no toll roads on this route.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Napa, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to Lake Berryessa will take approximately 50 minutes and cost between $95-$120. Confirm the fare and availability with the driver beforehand, as service can be limited in this area. Be sure to arrange for a return trip in advance, as finding a ride back from the lake can be challenging.
Discover more about Lake Berryessa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Site of George Yount's Blockhouse
18.9 km
Explore the Site of George Yount's Blockhouse, a key historical landmark in Yountville, California, and experience the rich heritage of the Napa Valley.
Atkinson House
19.2 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Atkinson House, a charming historical landmark nestled in Napa Valley's scenic vineyards.
Chimney Rock Winery
19.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and exquisite wines at Chimney Rock Winery, a must-visit gem in Napa Valley's renowned wine country.
Sequoia Grove Winery
19.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Napa Valley at Sequoia Grove Winery, where world-class wines meet breathtaking vineyard views.
Charles Rovegno House
20.1 km
Explore the historic beauty of the Charles Rovegno House, a gem of Yountville showcasing Victorian architecture and rich Napa Valley heritage.
Napa Valley Vine Trail Trailhead at Veterans Home
20.5 km
Discover the beauty of Napa Valley at the Vine Trail Trailhead—your gateway to scenic hiking and biking adventures amidst stunning vineyards.
California Historical Landmark 828: Veterans Home of California
20.5 km
Explore the Veterans Home of California, a landmark honoring the bravery of veterans, set in the picturesque Yountville, California.
O'Brien Estate Winery
24.7 km
Discover the charm of O'Brien Estate Winery in Napa Valley, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking vineyard views and unforgettable experiences.
Perry's Tours
27.8 km
Experience Napa Valley like never before with Perry's Tours, your gateway to unforgettable vineyard adventures and local charm.
Napa Valley Wine Train
28.1 km
Discover the enchanting Napa Valley Wine Train, where breathtaking views and gourmet dining merge on a scenic railway adventure through wine country.
Fieldwork Brewing Company | Napa
28.1 km
Experience innovative craft beers at Fieldwork Brewing Company, a must-visit brewery in Napa, California, offering a delightful atmosphere for all beer lovers.
Oxbow Public Market
28.1 km
Experience the flavors of Napa Valley at Oxbow Public Market, a vibrant hub of local food and artisanal products in California's wine country.
Napa Valley Distillery - Oxbow Marketplace
28.1 km
Discover the art of craft distillation and indulge in unique spirits at Napa Valley Distillery, a gem in Oxbow Marketplace.
The Wine Thief
28.2 km
Discover the charm of Napa Valley at The Wine Thief, a boutique winery offering exquisite wines and an intimate tasting experience.
Vintner's Collective
28.3 km
Experience the best of Napa Valley at Vintner's Collective, where artisanal wines and a charming atmosphere await every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oak Shores Day Use Area
1.0 km
Discover lakeside bliss at Oak Shores Day Use Area in Lake Berryessa, Napa County, offering year-round recreation, from swimming and boating to hiking and picnicking, amidst stunning natural beauty.
Glory Hole
11.8 km
Witness the awe-inspiring Glory Hole spillway at Lake Berryessa, a stunning display of nature and engineering amidst year-round recreation and scenic beauty in Napa County.
Continuum Estate
12.5 km
Experience the legacy of the Mondavi family at Continuum Estate, where exceptional wines, breathtaking views, and sustainable practices converge on Pritchard Hill in Napa Valley.
Napa County Regional Park District - Lake Hennessey City Recreation Area
12.9 km
Escape to Lake Hennessey in Napa Valley for serene boating, fishing, and hiking amid stunning scenery, a tranquil retreat in the heart of wine country.
Continuum Winery tasting
13.2 km
Discover the elegance of Continuum Winery in Napa Valley, where exquisite wines and breathtaking views create an unforgettable tasting experience.
Miner Family Winery
15.7 km
Discover Miner Family Winery in Napa Valley: exceptional wines, stunning views, and unforgettable tasting experiences in the heart of Oakville.
Mumm Napa
16.3 km
Experience Napa Valley's sparkling elegance at Mumm Napa, where French tradition meets California innovation in every exquisite bottle.
Rutherford Hill Winery
16.3 km
Discover Rutherford Hill Winery: Napa Valley's Merlot pioneer with stunning views and captivating cave tours.
Dakota Shy Winery
16.3 km
Experience the art of winemaking at Dakota Shy Winery in Napa Valley, where passion, history, and exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon converge to create an unforgettable tasting journey.
Robert Sinskey Vineyards
16.8 km
Explore the beauty and flavors of Robert Sinskey Vineyards, a premier organic winery in Napa Valley known for its exquisite wines and stunning landscapes.
Frog's Leap Winery
17.0 km
Discover Frog's Leap Winery in Napa Valley: a family-owned, certified organic winery crafting balanced, terroir-driven wines with a deep commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Caymus Vineyards
17.0 km
Experience the legacy of Napa Valley winemaking at Caymus Vineyards, home to world-renowned Cabernet Sauvignon crafted by the Wagner family for generations. A taste of Rutherford awaits.
Stags' Leap Winery
17.2 km
Discover the legacy of Stags' Leap Winery, a Napa Valley icon renowned for its elegant Cabernet Sauvignons, historic estate, and commitment to sustainable winemaking in the Stags Leap District.
The Caves At Soda Canyon
17.7 km
Discover boutique Napa Valley wines in a unique cave setting with panoramic views. An unforgettable tasting experience awaits!
William Harrison Vineyards & Winery
17.8 km
Experience classic, handcrafted wines in a friendly, unpretentious Napa Valley setting at this family-owned Rutherford estate.
Essential places to dine
The Restaurant
16.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at The Restaurant in Napa Valley with stunning vineyard views and seasonal gourmet cuisine.
Mustards Grill
20.1 km
Discover Mustards Grill: A premier American restaurant in Napa Valley known for its fresh ingredients and exquisite flavors.
Bottega Napa Valley
20.2 km
Experience fine Italian dining at Bottega Napa Valley, where authentic flavors meet local ingredients in a stunning setting.
Brix
20.2 km
Discover Brix in Napa Valley: A New American restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and stunning vineyard views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cordeiro's Steakhouse
23.8 km
Experience the finest steak and seafood at Cordeiro's Steakhouse, where exquisite flavors meet the charm of Napa Valley.
Bistro Don Giovanni
24.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Napa Valley at Bistro Don Giovanni – a culinary gem with exquisite flavors and warm hospitality.
Il Posto Trattoria
25.2 km
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Il Posto Trattoria in Napa Valley - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Fume
25.5 km
Discover Fume Bistro: A Culinary Gem in Napa Offering Exquisite American Cuisine with Local Flair.
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse
25.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Brazil at Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse in Napa – where endless grilled meats meet warm hospitality.
Yak and Yeti Restaurant and Bar
26.5 km
Savor authentic Indian & Nepalese flavors at Yak and Yeti Restaurant & Bar in Napa - a culinary gem for every food lover.
The Lincoln Napa
27.3 km
Discover exceptional American cuisine at The Lincoln Napa, where local flavors meet unique specialty drinks in California's beautiful wine country.
Slanted Door Napa
27.8 km
Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Slanted Door Napa—a culinary haven in the heart of California's wine country.
ALBA Restaurant
27.8 km
Experience culinary excellence at ALBA Restaurant in Napa Valley—where fresh local ingredients meet exquisite flavors.
La Toque
27.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Toque in Napa Valley - where culinary artistry meets exceptional service.
The Grove at Copia
28.0 km
Discover exquisite American and Mediterranean cuisine at The Grove at Copia in Napa Valley's culinary heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Napa
26.1 km
Explore unique thrift store treasures at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Napa, where every purchase supports cancer research and patient care.
francesca's
26.3 km
Discover unique women's clothing, accessories, and gifts at Francesca's in Napa - a boutique that embodies style and charm.
Bel Aire Plaza
26.3 km
Explore Bel Aire Plaza: Napa's vibrant shopping mall featuring over 100 stores, delightful dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The grape yard shopping center
26.5 km
Explore The Grape Yard Shopping Center in Napa for a unique blend of shopping and dining experiences, all in a vibrant atmosphere.
GLenna's Rescued Treasures, LLC
27.3 km
Uncover unique treasures and charming home goods at Glenna's Rescued Treasures in Napa, a delightful consignment shop with a personal touch.
Dovetail Boutique Consignment
28.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique finds at Dovetail Boutique Consignment in Napa - your destination for vintage and contemporary home decor.
Villa Iris Imports Inc
28.4 km
Explore unique gifts and exquisite jewelry at Villa Iris Imports Inc, a treasure in Napa Valley's vibrant shopping scene.
Field Day
28.5 km
Discover unique thrift finds at Field Day in Napa, a second-hand store for vintage treasures and sustainable fashion.
Boho Lifestyle
28.5 km
Discover unique fashion and home decor at Boho Lifestyle Boutique in Napa, California, where bohemian charm meets local artistry.
Miyamo
28.5 km
Explore Miyamo Boutique in Napa for a unique shopping experience with exquisite fashion and local designer pieces.
Vonsaal ADJUNKT
28.5 km
Explore unique treasures at Vonsaal ADJUNKT, a charming store in Napa, California, showcasing local crafts and artisan goods.
LEGENDS AND LORE GIFT SHOP
28.5 km
Explore a delightful array of unique gifts and local crafts at Legends and Lore Gift Shop in Napa, California, perfect for every tourist.
Anthropologie
28.5 km
Discover a unique blend of women's fashion, beauty supplies, and stylish home goods at Anthropologie in Napa, California.
Inti
28.5 km
Explore Inti in Napa, California – a charming gift shop offering unique clothing, jewelry, and treasures that embody local culture.
Johnny Was
28.6 km
Explore Johnny Was in Napa for an exquisite collection of bohemian women's clothing that captures the vibrant spirit of California's wine country.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mansion Bar at Silverado Resort
22.7 km
Discover refined relaxation at The Mansion Bar, a sophisticated retreat in Napa Valley with handcrafted cocktails and exquisite wines.
Green Door
27.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Green Door, a must-visit bar in Napa, CA, offering unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Lucia Napa Valley
28.2 km
Discover the art of wine at Bar Lucia in Napa Valley, where every glass tells a story and every visit is a unique experience.
Barnhouse Napa Pub
28.3 km
Experience the warmth of Barnhouse Napa Pub, a charming venue for coffee lovers and whiskey enthusiasts in the heart of Napa Valley.
Napa Palisades Saloon
28.4 km
Discover Napa Palisades Saloon, where delicious gastropub cuisine meets local brews in the heart of Napa Valley’s vibrant culinary scene.
Wilfred's Lounge
28.4 km
Experience the vibrant tiki atmosphere and exquisite cuisine at Wilfred's Lounge in Napa, California, a culinary gem for every traveler.
The Mule Napa
28.5 km
Discover The Mule Napa, a stylish bar in Napa Valley offering innovative cocktails, a chic atmosphere, and a delightful local experience.
ArBARetum
28.6 km
Experience the unique mixology at ArBARetum, a vibrant cocktail bar in Napa, California, where creativity meets flavor in every sip.
Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar
28.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exquisite drinks at Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, the premier destination for a chic experience in Napa Valley.
The Bitter Bar
28.6 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Bitter Bar in Napa, where handcrafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Wine Girl Napa Valley
28.7 km
Discover the essence of Napa Valley at Wine Girl, where exceptional wines and delightful small plates create a memorable experience.
Ox and the Fox
28.7 km
Discover Ox and the Fox, where creative cocktails and whimsical decor create an unforgettable bar experience in the heart of Napa.
Cadet Wine & Beer Bar
28.7 km
Discover the best of Napa's local wines and craft beers at Cadet Wine & Beer Bar, where a vibrant atmosphere meets exceptional service.
Mercantile Social
28.7 km
Experience innovative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere at Mercantile Social in Napa, a must-visit cocktail bar for every traveler.
Chispa | Food + Drink
28.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and signature cocktails at Chispa, Napa's must-visit cocktail bar and brunch spot.
