Romantic Things To Do in Southern California: Date Ideas

Check out this amazing list of the most romantic things to do in Southern California. From date ideas to weekend getaways, you can enjoy wine tasting on the central coast, cozy mountain retreats, and secluded beach towns. Whether you’re looking for date ideas for a romantic escape or planning a couples getaway, we’ve got you covered.

Cambria By The Sea Weekend Getaway

Cambria is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. The village of Cambria is nestled among beautiful pine trees and the Pacific Ocean. Nearby beaches include San Simeon State Park, William Hearst State Park, and Moonstone Beach. Many of Cambria’s hotels are situated along Moonstone Beach, with views of the Pacific Ocean.

Ojai Valley of The Moon Getaway

The Ojai Valley has delightful shops, art galleries, and places to rediscover your creative and spiritual side. Numerous restaurants dot the village, and many take advantage of local harvests with an eye toward healthy cuisine using fresh food. Ojai is located about 12 miles inland from Ventura and the coast. https://www.ojaivisitors.com/

Palm Springs For a Romantic Getaway

The clean, dry air and the sunshine, just 120 miles east of Los Angeles, have made Palm Springs irresistible to the California attraction. While visiting Palm Springs for a romantic getaway or day trip, you will never run out of things to do and see.

Visit Santa Barbara: Wine Tasting & Sightseeing

Rich or poor, the wonderful coastal town of Santa Barbara has something for everyone and is an excellent place for a day trip or weekend getaway. A great way to get acquainted with Santa Barbara is by renting a beach cruiser and riding along the beach trail. https://santabarbaraca.com/

Romantic Places to Dine On or Near the Beach

Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner while listening to the soothing sound of the waves—our list of great options, from Malibu Beach to Del Mar by the sea. Our list includes oceanfront restaurants just a few steps away from the sand. These restaurants are perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual brunch. Nothing beats the experience of dining at one of Southern California’s famous beaches.

Temecula Valley Wine Tasting

Temecula is the most popular area of Southern California for wine tasting. There are nearly 40 wineries in the Temecula Valley. A day trip to the Temecula Valley is perfect for a romantic day in Southern California. Several local vendors offer guided wine country tours. For first-time visitors, a time may be your best option.

Laguna Beach: A Relaxing Getaway

This Orange County beach town has a little of everything for those who want a relaxing getaway and some fun in the California sun. Laguna Beach is the perfect place for a romantic retreat. With countless outdoor activities and a flourishing arts scene, it’s no wonder that Laguna Beach is a popular destination for couples.

Catalina Island Day Trip

Just about anyone can find something to do on Catalina Island. If you can stay for a few days, starting with a scenic city tour is an excellent idea to get a feel for what’s to offer. Stroll along the palm-lined streets and shop for unique island gifts. The most popular way to visit the island is via The Catalina Express Shuttle, which leaves several ports. https://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Date Night

Enjoy dinner and a show for one low price. The show contains sword fights, stunts, and pirates swinging from ropes. Dinner is a three-course meal served while the show is going on. Be prepared to select audience members who might be invited aboard the stage. Pirate’s Dinner Show makes a fantastic date night destination.

Lake Arrowhead, the Alps of Southern California

Lake Arrowhead is a small resort town that is a perfect escape when Europe is not within budget or time is an issue. Known as “the Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead provides plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. Suppose you plan on staying for more than one day. A good choice is Lake Arrowhead Resort. It is the biggest and best hotel in the area, with lake-view guest rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a spa. https://lakearrowhead.com/

Paso Robles Wine Country

A popular time to visit Paso Robles is early or late summer when the weather is good and the grape harvests are in the fall. It’s also a good time if visitors want to catch a concert at Vina Robles Amphitheater, one of the most intimate places to see a show in the state.

Santa Ynez Valley World-Class Wineries

The Santa Ynez Valley is widely recognized for its world-class wineries and tasting rooms dot the rolling hillsides. Visitors can also browse the valley’s distinctive art galleries, boutiques, and antique stores. Attractions in the valley include Solvang, Los Olivos, and Neverland Ranch.

Julian California Apple Pies & Sightseeing

Julian is best known for its tasty apples, which attract visitors from all over, especially in the fall. Although the apple staples are the biggest draw to Julian, there is plenty to do regarding other fun: Blue Door Winery, camping, hiking, horseback riding, and several genuine gold mine tours. https://visitjulian.com/

Santa Monica Mountains Wine Tasting

Hidden in the canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains are numerous vineyards. Most are small; however, a few are commercial enterprises. The best-known wineries are Malibu Family Wines and Rosenthal Malibu Estate. Drive along the world-famous Mulholland Hwy and discover hidden destinations along the way.

Old Towne Orange Antiques and Art Galleries

Old Towne District is the perfect destination for a date. Covering just one square mile and encircling a charismatic central plaza, there are over 100 antique dealers, eateries, art galleries, and boutiques.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Couples Spa Getaway

Glen Ivy Hot Springs is the ideal place to plan a getaway. The approach to wellness taken at Glen Ivy is multifaceted. Their holistic focus encompasses care for the body, mind, and spirit. Over the years, Glen Ivy has become one of the best-recognized names in the California spa market. Guests from around the world are drawn to this unique property. https://www.glenivy.com/

Desert Hot Springs Spas and Resorts

Desert Hot Springs, California, is a relaxed spa town with abundant streams of hot mineral water. Piped to the surface, the mineral water fills the pools and tubs of hotels and spa resorts. Most of them have thermal wells. Many of the town’s spas and hotels offer a day pass for a quick retreat. https://www.cityofdhs.org/visitors/

Bernardo Winery Cute Shops and Historic Winery

Bernardo Winery is 25 miles north of downtown San Diego and has produced wine for over 100 years. On the grounds, along with the winery, are little wooden cottages that serve as shops and include such artisans as goldsmiths and glassblowers. You could easily spend several hours here exploring the grounds and shops. It’s worth checking out for a date idea. https://www.bernardowinery.com/

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Free Things To Do In Southern California

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Southern California Wine Tasting

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