Visit Monterey Wineries
Getting Here
Just minutes from Carmel, Monterey, and the California coast.
By Car
Driving to the Highlands
The Santa Lucia Highlands is located along the western edge of the Salinas Valley in Monterey County, easily accessible from Highway 101. Most vineyards and tasting rooms are along or near River Road between Soledad and Gonzales.
- From Monterey/Carmel
- 30–45 minutes south on Highway 101
- From San Francisco
- 2.5 hours south via Highway 101
- From Los Angeles
- 5 hours north via Highway 101
- From San Jose
- 1.5 hours south via Highway 101
By Air
Nearest Airports
Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is the closest airport, just 30 minutes from the heart of the appellation. San Jose International (SJC) and San Francisco International (SFO) offer more flight options and are an easy drive south.
- Monterey (MRY):
- 30 minutes — daily flights from SFO, LAX, PHX, DEN, DAL
- San Jose (SJC)
- 1.5 hours — full domestic and international service
- San Francisco (SFO)
- 2.5 hours — major international hub
Visit Monterey Wineries
Plan Your Route
Explore four curated Monterey wine trails along River Road in Salinas Valley below the Santa Lucia Highlands, throughout Carmel Valley, and beyond.
Discover Wine Trails