Temecula: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight & Mimosas

Summary

Sunrise over Temecula wine country from a hot air balloon

You’ll float above Temecula at sunrise in a shared hot air balloon, guided by a local pilot who shares stories and recommendations as you drift over vineyards. Enjoy mimosas mid-flight and take in views you can’t get any other way—the kind that linger long after you land.

What’s the experience like?

By the time we’d climbed into the basket, I could already smell the faint sweetness of grapevines mixing with that cool pre-dawn air. Our pilot, Mike—he’s lived in Temecula forever—cracked some joke about “early birds” and pointed out how the light starts to creep across the hills before you even notice it. I was still half-asleep but then suddenly we were floating, just like that, above rows and rows of vineyards. The silence up there is weirdly soft, except for the occasional whoosh when they blast the burner. It’s not scary—just kind of peaceful and unreal.

I tried to take a photo but honestly nothing really captures what it feels like to look down on all those tiny wineries and see the fog curling around them. Mike kept calling out landmarks—“That’s Wilson Creek down there,” or “See that patch? That’s where they do concerts in summer.” He handed out bottled water (I almost dropped mine) and later poured us mimosas once we’d leveled off. The orange juice tasted extra sharp after all that cold air, or maybe I was just giddy from floating over wine country. Someone asked about lunch spots for after and he rattled off his favorites—turns out he knows every taco truck in town.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm up there. There’s this moment when everyone goes quiet at once, just watching the sun burn through the mist over Temecula Valley. It’s funny—I thought I’d be nervous but instead I felt sort of lucky to see it from above with strangers who felt like friends for an hour or so. The landing was gentle (Mike made sure we all knew what to do), and then suddenly we were back on solid ground, blinking in the morning light. I still think about that view whenever I smell oranges now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hot air balloon flight over Temecula

• Soar above Temecula at sunrise
• Enjoy guided tour from pilot
• View vineyards and wineries
• Receive sightseeing and food tips
• Enjoy drinks after flight

Top questions

How long does the Temecula hot air balloon flight last?

The flight typically lasts about an hour, depending on weather conditions.

Is transportation included for the Temecula balloon ride?

Yes, private transportation is included with your booking.

Are drinks provided during the hot air balloon tour?

Bottled water and mimosas are included during your flight.

Can service animals join the Temecula balloon flight?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this experience.

Is this hot air balloon ride suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What will we see during the Temecula hot air balloon ride?

You’ll see vineyards, wineries, and sweeping views of Temecula Valley from above.

Will our guide share local tips or recommendations?

Your pilot will share sightseeing ideas and food recommendations during your flight.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation to and from your shared hot air balloon flight over Temecula wine country, bottled water throughout the experience, plus mimosas served while you drift above the vineyards with your local pilot guiding you along the way.