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    California Dreamin

    4.8 (470 reviews)
    Open Open 24 hours

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    Original price paid via THEIR WEBSITE

    FALSE ADVERTISING: BEWARE At 10:21 am on Jan 17, 2026, the company had an advertised price of $188 per person for a hot air balloon ride on Feb 16, 2026. I accepted the offer for four people and input my credit card. The price plus 15% gratuity and a 6% service charge came to a total of $916.69. At 12:52 pm on Jan 17, 2026, I received an email from the company saying, " We have a third-party vendor Error that is giving the wrong price on the 15 and 16 of February. It ties direct and they have had some problems. The 16th is $248 but you can book on-line the 17th at $178." Rather than honor the advertised price, they told me that I have to pay $60 more per person, which amounts to an additional $240 total markup over the advertised selling price that I responded to on their website. With the increased price, this would also result in an additional $36 for gratuity and $14.40 for a service charge...bringing the final total to $290.40 above the value I originally reserved on their website. I also spoke to them on the phone, with the results being them again blaming "3rd parties" and they refused to honor the original price.

    Hot air balloon

    Very pleasing this was to experience. The owner was very nice and welcoming and his staff offered to take pictures of us! Views were nice, the scenery was described to us.

    Isn't this a PC's wallpaper worthy?!
    Hendra W.

    Wow! What a great experience this was! I managed to book the morning slot because we wanted to watch the sunrise ! We had to be ready to be picked up at 04:00. Oh yes, we were sleepy, very sleepy! I was so grumpy, I constantly told my girlfriend, "this better be worth sacrificing our sleep for !" When a minibus arrived, it was the owner of the company that picked us up! He was honestly fun to talk to and his employees were all very professional and friendly! We were on the hot air balloon for about more than an hour but the time flew by so quickly ! Was it worth it? 100% ! The view we got to see from up there, combined with the sunrise, was surreal! It exceeded my expectations ! I couldn't recommend California Dreamin' as it was also priced fairly ! If you are looking to experience being on a hot air balloon in Los Angeles then I would recommend trying one in Temecula.

    Hot air going into the balloon
    Michelle T.

    Hot Air Ballooning is something that people should experience at least once in their lifetime. My husband has never been in a hot air balloon before and this was going to be his first time doing so. He kept saying that we should continue to go on epic adventures, so I said, "Let's go up a couple thousand feet into the air and enjoy the views at sunrise." When looking for a company to take us on our journey, I took their safety record into consideration. This was the most important factor that led to me choosing to book with California Dreamin'! They've been in business for quite some time and their pilot had a lot of experience. This set my mind at ease as we got ready to head out to Temecula! First of all, I booked our trip online and waited for my confirmation email to come in. I read the instructions carefully as I wanted everything to go smoothly. You have to call by 2pm the day before to confirm that you are going to be there. This secures your spot for the ride and also allows them to communicate with you regarding forecasted flying conditions. If you don't call the day before by 2:00, then there might be some issues (based on some of the reviews that I've read). We had to be there by 4:45 AM to check in. We drove down some of the darkest roads and parked in the lot. It was DARK out there!!! I could see a few benches and tables under a covered area further up. Once people arrived, they turned on the lights and then I got out of our vehicle. We signed the waivers and waited for the vans to show up. We hopped in with the balloons and baskets in tow! We drove a couple of miles out to an open area. We watched them lay the balloon out and slowly but surely, it began to rise. We could see other balloons in the distance and it was such a beautiful sight to see. Once the balloon was ready, we all climbed in. One thing that I liked was how personable our pilot, Dave, was. He was full of stories and they were quite fascinating. As we floated across the vineyards in Temecula, he gave us a bit of history about hot air ballooning as well as the area that we were traveling above. It was nice to be just high enough up in the air and see the cloud cover off to the right. You're literally above the clouds! Also, let me point something out to the reader. I did take on a hot air balloon ride with friends about 13 years ago. That balloon experience was different. It was through a different company that we found through Groupon. The burner was right above our heads back then and we felt intense heat on our necks. However, with California Dreamin' there was a metal plate below the burner which actually prevented us from feeling intense heat on our necks. I felt like this add on made for a more comfortable ride. Overall, I can say that this experience was absolutely amazing. The weather was perfect and the people that we met were all super nice. I do wish that there was a bit of an easier entrance into the basket. It was difficult for me, but I finally got in! I highly recommend a sunrise hot air balloon ride with California Dreamin! You must be an early bird if you want to ride with them. You also need to be on time! Finally, don't forget to check in the day before your ride before 2 PM! This is a great experience for the entire family and it'll truly be unforgettable!

    Marissa S.

    For my 1000th review, I'd like to share an experience worth remembering for a lifetime. Who knew that flying a hot air balloon was so intricate in many levels? Not only is it necessary to start in the wee hours of the morning when the winds are the calmest in a day and temperatures mild, it also requires a whole crew to set up and find the right spot to take off. What determines that perfect location is figuring out the direction of the wind and that in itself takes serious skill and years of experience. We were a bit nervous that morning due to strong winds in the forecast but we were assured our flight was a go. After checking in at Vindemia Winery before sunrise, we all boarded our coaster van while lugging behind us all the equipment for this adventure we were about to embark on. A few stops were made until the captain decided on the ideal location to set up for our flight. And as all of that unraveled before our eyes, we were all in awe of the whole operation especially when we started seeing other balloons take flight before us. Alas, our turn has come and off we went up, up, and away. It felt like a dream as I saw everything shrink below our basket. The view up there was breathtaking. It was a good hour until we landed. It wasn't the easiest landing due to the wind but somehow our captain made it happen, maybe less smooth than usual with our basket almost tipping over but the adrenaline rush and mimosa in the end made up for it. Wow, what a ride!

    My sister and I Pre flight getting the balloon ready to fly!
    Elvera M.

    I decided to kick off my 70th birthday celebrations with a sunrise hot air balloon ride. I started by carefully researching and comparing all 6 hot air balloon companies and decided on California Dreamin, and was very pleased that I did! The whole process from booking, confirming, meet up, taking flight, landing, after landing toasting etc. was all very organized and beyond. I had been thinking about going on this adventure for quite some time and I cannot express how happy I am to have finally done it! My husband and my sister were with me, along with 4 other passengers and we all had a blast. Dylan, our pilot has a long history of experience in the U. S. and abroad and has flown in many competitions. We were completely at ease with him at the helm. Dylan was so friendly and so very informative. He has a wealth of information about Temecula, the wine country, surrounding areas, landmarks etc. We were as intrigued with his knowledge as we were excited with the beautiful views from high above. What a rush! This was all in all a quite wonderful experience that my husband, my sister and I will never forget. Thank you California Dreamin' Hot Air Balloon Rides!!

    Deborah P.

    David Bradley was our Balloon Pilot. We had an absolutely wonderful experience! And a blessed time! We can't wait to go back and do it again! David was hilarious and very knowledgeable. It is amazing how quite it is when you go up into the sky with the hot air balloon. Everything sinks below you and it is as if time itself stops. It was awesome!

    This is THE place to go for a hot air balloon ride! Such a great experience. Each member of the crew was friendly and knowledgeable. Our pilot was amazing and the landing was extremely smooth! I couldn't ask for a better experience and this will be the place I recommend to all my friends. I drove almost 3 hours to come here and I would do it again!

    Bree D.

    Our first hot air balloon ride! My husband surprised me with this early morning experience for Christmas, and it was so worth it. We arrived to the winery around 5:30am and waited for further instructions. Waking up and being in the cold while everything was ready was the biggest downside, but we would do it again. The staff was friendly and excited to get us in the air. We drove around for a bit trying to find the perfect liftoff point. Our pilot was professional but also funny, cracking a few jokes to make us feel more comfortable with the journey ahead. The ride itself was terrifying at first having never done this before, but once we got above the clouds it was so beautiful that we instantly relaxed and just enjoyed the view. It was cold, but the flame and body heat kept us warm. 1000% would recommend this experience with California Dreamin!

    Charisse A.

    If you haven't been on a hot air balloon, I highly suggest that you do, or put it on your bucket list because it was fun, peaceful and just a beautiful ride. We went on a Sunrise hot air balloon experience for a special family member's birthday. Dylan our pilot was nice, professional and very knowledgeable. I felt very secure and safe with his flying abilities and he made it an all around great experience. After an hour of flying, we landed safely and had mimosa as part of the air balloon culture. I have a motion sickness problem so I was worried I might get sick during the ride but I was fine. I had Dramamine with me just incase but I never had the need to take it. If you're planning to do an air balloon experience, contact them. You won't regret it!

    Jocelyn H.

    Oftentimes, when I participate in an adventure such as ziplining, paragliding, etc., once is enough for me. But I would definitely participate in the hot air balloon ride again! The ride is smooth and, Josh, our pilot, was full of local history. We met at 5:30am in October so it was pretty chilly, but by the time we were ending, we warmed up, partly from the flames. We took off from an open field where we watched while they and others blew balloons up. The colorful balloons are so pretty and seeing them from the air was exciting. The view of the vineyards and mountains from so high up is post card perfect. In the mornings, it's pretty dark so we drove past the meet up spot, but turned around to park at the only parking lot there on the winery site, which was the meet up before they loaded us in a van to take us to the field. The landing spot was not the same place as the starting spot. On the FAQ on the website, it states that breakfast is included after the landing and it also states that a toast would be at the winery. The website shows photos of guests toasting at the winery with champagne glasses. So it was a little disappointing that there was no breakfast and the toast was not at the winery in champagne glasses - whether it was at the landing spot with plastic disposable cups. The FAQs need to be updated. Otherwise, it was a great experience.

    This was our first experience and it was the best!! Dillion our pilot was very experienced and knowledgable about the area! We loved the history of hot air balloons and carrying on the post ride mimosa tradition. Thanks again California Dreamin!!

    Liza B.

    What an amazing adventure. I have to be honest it was completely nerve racking for me at first. My nerves were calmed once we were in the balloon gliding through the beautiful sky. Everything from arriving to being offered mimosas at the end was great. Very professional and efficient team of people. I recommend trying this at least once in your lifetime.

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    What a magical experience! Our pilot Dylan is a master of his craft and ensured that we had a safe and smooth flight. Highly recommended!

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    Wow!! What an amazing ride!! Enjoyed every moment!! Thank you to the amazing staff who make it all wirk

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    Had a wonderful trip floating over beautiful Temecula Valley. Safe. Fun. Enjoyable. A perfect morning!!!

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    Page 1 of 12

    Ask the Community - California Dreamin

    Hi! Looking for a place to stay August 29 & 30? Have reserved a flight for the 30th any help would be much appreciated, thank you!

    Is the breakfast still suspended?

    I just called and yes it is suspended at this time.

    What do you recommend is the best time to fly?

    They only do one trip per day, and it's in the early morning, due to weather conditions. Winds are calmer and the balloon more manageable first thing in the morning.

    Hi, can 4 year old fly with us? !:)

    Hi there, Unfortunately our age limit is seven for safety reasons.

    Can a 2 yr child ride a hot air balloon?

    I asked about my 5 yr old and the pilot said it was fine but they won't be able to see over of course. He didn't mention an age limit! I would call for more info!

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - California Dreamin

    After hearing about the balloon flights from Vindemia Winery, my husband and I were pretty psyched to go.

    Mentioned in 18 reviews

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    Flight Ventures Aviation Academy - OUR SENECA 2 TWIN

    Flight Ventures Aviation Academy

    5.0(1 review)
    4.2 mi

    I did my homework looking around form a flight school that was a good fit for me…read more Chris, the owner, rolled out the red carpet and showed me around. I got to meet many of his instructors. All were great guys, great to talk to, all very experienced, competent and patient. I continued to look at other schools, as I wanted to make the best choice for me. So, I booked a lesson, Mark is my assigned instructor. The guy was awesome! I've flown quite a bit previously, this was an aircraft I was not familiar with. Mark gave me a great run down of the plane, and had me do the pre-flight myself, but supervising to make sure I didn't miss anything, which was perfect, I learn best by doing things myself, Mark zeroed in on that, and let me do my thing, and alerted me to anything that I missed and explained it. That was perfect. Mark had me taxi, I was unfamiliar with this aircraft, and a little nervous about it, but Mark zeroed in on that and encouraged me to taxi, and get familiar with the rudder controls, and get the feeling for it. Mark was super patent the entire time and kept giving me information, and also had me using the radio, holding me to performing as PIC, he didn't let me allow my nervousness to hold me back, he comfortably encouraged me to push forward. Which again is how I learn the best. Chris was there, overseeing operations and checking in with me as to how it was going. Again, what a great guy. Both of these men had a great sense of humor, were encouraging. I'm used to flying a very old C172, and these aircraft are very new with very modern avionics that I am not familiar with, but eased me into finding everything. What this did was give me just enough to want to jump back into lessons feet first. What a great day. I'm anxious to have my next lesson with my instructor, and fly as many planes as they offer so I can have experience flying several aircraft They make becoming a pilot lots of fun. Yeah, I got very nervous being in an unfamiliar aircraft, and the modern avionics intimidated me, but Mark kept me busy and hands on, and didn't let me talk myself out of adapting to the modern avionics. A little on the aircraft, it was a very new airplane, very sensitive and responsive to the controls, I'm using to a very old 172 that is like pushing draft horse around, these aircraft respond to a light touch, this is teaching me to fly a modern plane that flies like it is supposed to that didn't make me have to wrestle with the controls like I am accustomed to, which made that plane a pleasure to operate. My only complaint is that it is not my day to fly today! And I want to fly more. I have to pay as I go, so, I'm flying on a budget, yet Chris and Mark are good with that, and have a plan to keep me flying often, and keep on learning. This is exactly the kind of learning environment that I need. I am impressed. I can't speak highly enough about the school or the quality of instruction. This is exactly what I need, as in my not so distant future, I am acquiring my own airplane, and am going to tour 48 states by air. I'll be traveling alone, and these guys are giving me thorough instruction to help me grow into a competent and confident pilot so I can accomplish my dreams. So, if you're looking for a great flight school, with great instructors that are other yet will push you to learn hands on, and flying NEWER aircraft, you'd be hard pressed to find a better school. The school is a very veteran friendly place, treating this old Jar Head like a VIP. SEMPER FI.

    From the owner: Flight Ventures Aviation Academy is a full-service flight school providing both Rotor and…read morefixed-wing training for private pilot, commercial, and instrument up to CFII, MEI, and ATP/CTP, including sports pilot licenses and twin engine ratings. Come and train at our state-of-the-art facility in our all-glass cockpit, New TAA aircraft, & Advanced Simulators. Call to schedule a Discovery Flight Today. We also offer Helicopter Wine Tours, Helicopter Beach Tours, Proposals, Special Occasions, and gender reveals. Treat yourself to a private helicopter tour in Temecula Valley Wine Country. Enjoy spectacular views of California while flying over the coast, where beaches stretch for miles, and the Pacific Ocean teems with marine life. Then, head inland to Temecula Valley and land at an award-winning winery for a gourmet lunch and wine tasting. Custom Tours and Lengths are Available. Start your Aviation Career Today! Job Placement Available, Call Now!

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    Flight Ventures Aviation Academy
    Flight Ventures Aviation Academy
    Flight Ventures Aviation Academy

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    AirOshi  - AirOshinuga

    AirOshi - AirOshinuga

    5.0(60 reviews)
    4.0 mi

    Man, I'm at loss of words to how COOL this experience was! My boyfriend surprised me with this…read morecrazy date idea and honestly, big time score. The ride was incredibly smooth (didn't even notice us taking off or landing), so for those who are a little scared, you'll find no better pilot than him. His knowledge on the vineyards and Temecula area is just as impressive as his flying skills. It's a you have to experience for yourself to understand kind of feeling. Loved every second and everyone, this is THE PERFECT gift to get anyone, adrenaline junkie or not.

    JP helped my Boyfriend, Now fiancé with my proposal. This…read morewas the best experience of my life !! He was really nice and made sure we were comfortable.... Let me start again , On Saturday 12/13/14 my boyfriend was supposed to pick me up for a fun day in Rancho Cucamonga, well supposibly the plans were changed and we ended up going to Carlsbad which the whole ride there I did not ask questions because I thought we were going to pick up some car parts for his new toy. He had dropped some hints about it the night before. When we arrived at the airport he started getting very suspicious making wierd phone calls. Well I was to busy fixing my makeup in the mirror to notice that what I thought was a parking storage was actually an airport. We get off and start walking in, I was so confused. The pilot was very friendly and introduced himself and made sure to stay quiet about my surprise ahead. My boyfriend said, well I decided to be adventurous and do something we have never done before and take a plane ride. The take off was surprisingly very smooth. We flew over Carlsbad beach at sunset for about half an hour, JP knew I was extremely nervous to fly over the water because I can't swim. He made sure to stay close to shore, basically long story short I looked down onto the beach and there was a pink sign saying marry me? I didn't think it was for me so instead I decided to read the sign that was right next to it out loud which said Merry Christmas. I turned around and my boyfriend was telling me how much he loved me, I started recording his sweet words, all to find out he was actually proposing!!!! It was the best day of my entire life !!!! The landing was great, well I had so many butterfly's that I truly didn't feel it. He helped take pictures of us and was a very sweet person. Thank you JP for helping for this to all happen. It was magical !!!

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    AirOshi  - AirOshinuga - Mike and El

    Mike and El

    AirOshi  - AirOshinuga - Coolest ride ever

    Coolest ride ever

    AirOshi  - AirOshinuga - My high flying wife!

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    My high flying wife!

    The New Inn - Very spacious bathroom with a separate tub and shower with a glimpse of the outdoors.

    The New Inn

    4.9(302 reviews)
    0.6 mi

    I can't speak highly enough about the New Inn! We spent 3 nights here early April 2026. Both the…read moreaccommodations and grounds are immaculate. The inn has a warm and inviting atmosphere and Alicia and her staff are second to none. They were always present and available I went above and beyond for any requests. Breakfast was delivered to our room every morning fresh and hot (not to mention delicious). There was great variety and fruit was fresh. There are great snacks available including charcuterie boards and smores kits. There is also a great selection of wine in the rooms from local wineries. We enjoyed our snacks and beverages on our beautiful private outdoor patio each morning and evening overlooking the vineyards. The fire table and lights were nice touches. We spent some time at the pool too. The bed was very comfortable and room and bathroom were very clean and spacious. No detail was overlooked in designing / decorating the spaces. We will definitely be back! Thank you for everything Alicia!

    The New Inn Hotel in Temecula was nothing short of magical. The hotel itself is intimate and…read moreincredibly beautiful, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Our room was spacious, spotless, and truly dreamy. One of the highlights was the porch with a fireplace, which offered stunning views for both sunrise and sunset--an unforgettable way to start and end the day. The staff was amazing and extremely attentive, going above and beyond to make our stay special. The breakfast-in-bed style service was a wonderful touch and very accommodating, adding to the overall charm and comfort of the experience. With all that said, they truly deserve an additional five stars for the incredible role they played in helping me create a magical wedding proposal. Their attention to detail, care, and genuine effort turned an already beautiful stay into a once-in-a-lifetime moment. My then girlfriend--now my fiancé--was completely blown away. I cannot recommend The New Inn Hotel enough for anyone looking for romance, elegance, and exceptional service

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    The New Inn - The new breakfast room delivery is awesome

    The new breakfast room delivery is awesome

    The New Inn - Vaulted ceilings done right, contemporary, and clean, not overdone.

    Vaulted ceilings done right, contemporary, and clean, not overdone.

    The New Inn - A beautiful welcome at the grand foyer at The New Inn.

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    A beautiful welcome at the grand foyer at The New Inn.

    California Dreamin - hot_air_balloons - Updated May 2026

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