California may be the third-largest state in the country by area, but it’s unrivaled in regards to romance. Stretching from the Mexico border in the south to Oregon in the north, the Golden State is famed for its dramatic coastline, SoCal surf vibes, ancient redwood forests, mountains, rolling farmlands, and desert landscapes. Big cities like sunny Los Angeles and foggy San Francisco garner ample affection, while smaller communities just outside the urban sprawl, including Malibu, Ojai, and Sausalito, are irresistible, too.
California is a land of endless sunshine, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable adventures for couples. Boasting cozy luxury hotels, romantic restaurants, and scrapbook-worthy sights at every turn, the state has endless opportunities for romance. It’s truly a dream destination for lovebirds seeking to escape their routine and reconnect with each other.
Travelers who prefer country charm will enjoy the historic towns of Sonoma and Mendocino counties just a few hours from San Francisco. For outdoorsy types, Lake Tahoe provides the perfect combination of dazzling alpine scenery and a wide range of recreational activities, such as snow-season skiing, summertime water sports, and year-round hiking.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the most romantic destinations in California, with suggestions for fun things to do as a couple. So grab a glass of wine and your significant other, and choose where to go on your next romantic getaway in California!
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea
A charming destination that resembles a movie set, Carmel-by-the-Sea enchants all who visit. This storybook Central Coast community on the Monterey Peninsula is the perfect place for duos to soak in some seaside relaxation while still enjoying plenty of things to do. The tiny downtown area feels like a fairytale village with atmospheric restaurants, art galleries, and cute shops. Of course, you’ll also want to take some time for romantic activities like wine tasting and savoring a picnic lunch on Carmel Beach.
2. Napa Valley
Napa Valley is a true paradise on Earth. Its sprawling and sun-kissed vineyards, considered to be the finest in the United States, set the backdrop for an unforgettable romantic experience. In addition to wineries, the region boasts charming boutique hotels, award-winning restaurants, fabulous golf courses, and luxurious spas, all perfect for a couple’s getaway.
Trefethen Family Vineyard is a must-visit, where couples can enjoy outdoor wine tasting and sample limited-production wines, such as their award-winning Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, paired with cured meats and local artisan cheeses.
Those seeking an intimate and secluded experience can opt for boutique wineries like Stags Leap Wine Cellars or Silver Oak Cellars. After a hot air balloon rides over the sun-drenched vineyards of Napa, couples can head over to Spa Solage to invigorate their mind, bodies, and souls in healing geothermal pools. And when hunger strikes, head to the triple Michelin-starred Restaurant at Meadowood.
3. Dramatic Coastline of Big Sur
Breathtakingly beautiful, Big Sur is an escape from the rest of the world that rejuvenates the soul. The wild landscape and magnificent ocean views are truly awe-inspiring.
Accessible by a dramatic mountainous portion of Highway One, this mountainous 90-mile stretch of Northern California coastline feels cut off from civilization. There’s little development and no cell service. Despite the remote location, Big Sur boasts many things to do, including luxurious hotels and resorts, gourmet restaurants, and fancy spa resorts, in addition to rustic-chic inns and campsites.
Whether couples choose to rough it or be pampered, the main draw of Big Sur is the sublime natural scenery. Blanketed in lush redwood forests, the Big Sur coastline stands 1,200 feet above the Pacific’s deep blue waters. Sheer cliffs plunge into crashing waves, leaving visitors to marvel over the astounding vistas.
4. Malibu
When it comes to romantic getaways in Southern California, look no further than Malibu for a weekend excursion. The surfer haven is a true stargazing destination (in the figurative sense, it’s a favorite place of celebs; in the literal one, the clear skies are perfect for constellations) with the holy vacation trinity of sand, sea, and sunsets readily available. (We like to see them at El Matador State Beach, though it’s far from the only shoreline in town.)
Though Malibu can get congested, there are opportunities for more secluded experiences. Trade flip flops for hiking shoes and walk hand-in-hand along trails like Solstice Canyon Trail, or get your heart pumping with the Rising Sun Trail with views that give way to the water.
5. Ojai
California has a lot of great coastal towns, but bohemian Ojai is one of the most enrapturing inland gems that romance seekers shouldn’t overlook. Downtown buzzes with boutiques, farm-to-fork restaurants such as The Nest, and breweries. If wine tasting is more your thing, that’s doable, too, as are strolls along the 9.5-mile Ojai Valley Trail. Just a fair warning that all of these appealing pursuits require leaving the fireplace coziness and panoramic views of your room at the Ojai Valley Inn, a proposition that might not be so easy for many pairs.
6. Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a gem tucked in Southern California. Perfectly located along the Pacific Coast Highway, just an hour from Los Angeles, this atmospheric town spoils couples with majestic views of secluded coves, idyllic beaches, dramatic coastal bluffs, and richly diverse coastal parks. Bucket-list experiences here include exploring the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, home to the only natural lakes in Orange County, visiting the Crystal Cove State Park, known for its glittering tide pools, and scuba diving in the famous Diver’s Cove.
Make sure to also have a romantic picnic in Heisler Park, enjoying heartwarming views of the Pacific Ocean. Aside from exploring Laguna Beach’s world-renowned beaches and coastal parks, visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant art scene, which comprises 100 galleries and the renowned Laguna Art Museum. Laguna Beach also has a unique mix of romantic hotels — from swanky oceanfront resorts to 5-star boutique hotels.
7. Santa Catalina Island
Santa Catalina Island has everything a romantic retreat requires: secluded beaches, picturesque seaside villages, and dreamy island scenery. The island’s largest town, Avalon offers the widest choice of accommodations, from handsome historic hotels to modern resorts. Sunbathers will appreciate Avalon’s sheltered beaches. For snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking, Descanso Beach is the place to go. Tucked into a small cove, this beach has excellent facilities, including a private beach club. Guests may rent lounge chairs and cabanas or enjoy a healthy meal at the Descanso Beach Club’s waterfront restaurant.
On the western end of the island, Two Harbors has the feeling of an island paradise. Sandwiched between two ports and overlooking peaceful coves, this quiet little village has two restaurants, a general store, pristine beaches, fishing spots, and small boutique hotels.
Hiking and camping opportunities abound just outside the village of Two Harbors and in Santa Catalina’s backcountry. Most of the trails traverse the island’s hilly terrain and offer incredible vistas of the ocean and the coastline. Santa Catalina Island is about a one-hour ferry ride from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point. There is also a catamaran ferry service to Santa Catalina Island from Newport Beach that takes a little over one hour.
8. Sonoma Valley
Napa tends to get the lion’s share of the attention, but less than 25 minutes away lies another region worth your time. Sonoma is like Napa’s laidback cousin, noted for its pinot noir and buttery chardonnays. Smaller than the Valley, it’s perfect for a short romantic getaway in California. Sonoma also provides plenty of opportunities for other adventures that don’t include wine at all, from culinary experiences to biking, hiking, and ziplining. (In fact, please do not drink wine before trying that one.)
9. Healdsburg
Healdsburg is a vibrant wine country destination for sipping, savoring, and spa time. Marine Layer Wines and Lioco are some of the best spots to swirl in downtown. A short drive outside of town, you’ll find many excellent wineries in the Dry Creek Valley. Whether you prefer farm-to-table fare with a side of Provence courtyard charm (like Barndiva) or something hip and veg-forward (like Little Saint), a splendid restaurant is never more than a few blocks away. Topping the list of most romantic places to spend the night? Harmon Guest House and the Montage Healdsburg.
10. Lake Tahoe
With its towering mountains, granite cliffs, crystal clear waters, verdant forests, and wooded trails, Lake Tahoe is a picture-perfect destination for couples who love the great outdoors. The lake straddles the border of California and Nevada and offers adventure seekers a plethora of activities all year round. During the warmer months, couples can enjoy hiking, biking, or paddleboarding around the lake.
For a unique experience, take a cruise on Ms. Dixie II, which offers breathtaking views of the area’s stunning landscape. In the winter, the snowy wonderland provides opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities.
If adventure isn’t your thing, cozy up with a hot drink by the fireplace, take a dip in the Grover Hot Springs, or check out the local breweries for a fun and laid-back afternoon. And, for the ultimate romantic experience, book a stay in one of the many luxury resorts that surround Lake Tahoe.
