Duke

Now we know Sam's problem. The dude was a teener in the 80s and drove a beater that would not go over the hill on 17. Plus, he has his internet sent to his parents home at xxx.com. This means the dude is a real tree hugger in Marin and cannot be trusted once he moves across the GGate Bridge. Sorry, dude...I thought you were a traveler.

Sheri

Thanks so much for all your replies!! We have a crazy trip planned and are driving down to Carmel and Monterrey for only a portion of our trip. After Carmel we are going to Napa Valley and then ending our trip in San Francisco before flying out of Oakland.

I almost hate to ask, but when we leave Carmel to get to Napa are we looking at about a 4 hour drive? I haven't consulted a map yet, but suggestions for the best route would also be appreciated! Thanks!

kam

Just my two cents, but we drive both these routes often. From Oakland airport on Saturday afternoon, I would take 880 to the San Mateo Bridge (92) and 92 to 280. South on 280 to 85 to 101 to 156 west and into Monterey/Carmel. Yes, not as scenic as 17 but the traffic there can be bad anyday and Santa Cruz is no bargain when you get down the hill. Yes, there is construction near Morgan Hill, but on Saturday afternoon I doubt the most traffic will be going south. Then, Monterey to Napa--156 east to 101 to 85 to 280 (which will merge you back to 101 just south of SF) so 101 across the bridge to 121 to 29 and yes, about four hours will do it unless you are going during commute time. It's worth staying in Monterey for a while in the morning. Plan to leave about 8 am so you can still take advantage of the HOV lanes on 85 through the Silicon Valley--a great time saver--I'm assuming there are at least two of you. Whatever you do, I would not make the whole trip down on 880 and 101 and I wouldn't take 101 all the way from Monterey to Napa. Good luck, and just relax. It only sounds confusing because we have this big bay in the middle of our space!

xx

Seems like a lot of driving. Is there any way to re route your trip? Going from Oakland to Napa/Sonoma then to SF then to Monterey/Carmel and back to Oakland? This would cut down on the driving quite a bit.

Susan

Agree with xxx. Can you change your trip? Travelling from OAK to Napa is easy, then SF then down to Monterey and then back to Oakland airport would make more sense.

If you cannot change, I completely concur with Kam's driving suggestions. Be sure to get yourselves a good map!

Sheri

Thanks once again for the info! Our schedule is set and so we can not change our itinerary but thanks anyway!