The U.S. is home to romantic destinations of all sorts, with a wide variety of environments and regions. With a coastline that stretches more than 840 miles along the Pacific Ocean and an endless variety of landscapes stretching across the state, California is one of the most diverse destinations in the country. Couples who are in search of romantic California destinations will find no shortage of options, ranging from quaint coastal towns to cool, crisp lakefront villages. Below, we detail seven options for romantic getaways in California, to help inspire your next vacation.
1. Lake Tahoe, California
- Where to stay: Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, 13031 Ritz Carlton Highlands Ct, Truckee, CA 96161
- What to do in Lake Tahoe: Sunset cruises along the lake, sailing and kayaking in the summer, skiing in the winter.
- What's romantic about Lake Tahoe? Couples seeking adventure will find spectacular views and year-round outdoor fun. The pristine surroundings are perfectly complemented by fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels, offering couples an indulgent escape.
One of the largest lakes in the country has become one of the most luxurious vacation destinations, making Lake Tahoe an excellent choice for couples seeking the best getaway locations California. In Lake Tahoe, opulence and grandeur reign supreme and couples who book trips here often want to indulge in the finer things in life.
The activities that you enjoy during your romantic escape will vary based on the season. Summer is the peak tourist season in Lake Tahoe, as people cannot resist the bright sunny days and the crisp mountain air. Conditions are perfect for hiking and exploring the trails. During the winter, however, Lake Tahoe transforms into a ski resort town, welcoming people from around the world to some of the most magnificent slopes.
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- Where to stay: Coachman's Inn, San Carlos Street and 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
- What to do in Carmel-by-the Sea: Spend the day on Carmel Beach, stroll Ocean Avenue, play a round of golf at the prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Course.
- What's romantic about Carmel-by-the Sea? Boasting an idyllic small-town vibe, Carmel-by-the-Sea appeals to couples who enjoy shopping, dining and seeing the sights together.
Blending art and history with Pacific views, Carmel-by-the-Sea is famously known as one of the best small towns in California. What was once a vibrant artist's colony has transformed into an eclectic community that welcomes visitors from around the world. In recent years, it has become particularly popular among couples seeking peace, privacy and plenty of romance.
When you aren't strolling along the streets in the historic downtown area or browsing the art galleries and boutique shops, you will find that Carmel-by-the-Sea is the perfect place to wine and dine. Aubergine at L'Auberge is a AAA Four Diamond-designated restaurant that is a favorite among couples who are seeking an elegant fine dining experience. The eight-course tasting menu is updated on a daily basis in order to reflect the fresh, seasonal ingredients that are readily available and with more than 2,500 bottles of wine in the cellar, there is always a perfect pairing for each course.
3. Napa Valley and Sonoma County
- Where to stay: Napa Valley Lodge, 2230 Madison St, Yountville, CA, 94599
- What to do in Napa Valley and Sonoma County: Enjoy wine tasting tours, ride the Napa Valley Wine Train, take a hot air balloon ride over California's infamous wine country.
- What makes Napa Valley and Sonoma County romantic? Wine lovers will find that the vineyards in this region of California are unbeatable, making this a favorite destination for couples seeking leisure, pleasure and romance.
Few experiences are more romantic than sipping crisp, refreshing wine while taking in views of rolling vineyards in the heart of California. California Wine Country is widely considered one of the most romantic destinations in the state, with couples enjoying countless vineyard options across both Napa Valley and Sonoma County.
For a truly unique experience in the heart of California Wine Country, consider a tour on the Napa Valley Wine Train. Preserved to showcase the golden era of the locomotive, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a variety of experiences, including many that feature wine tastings as you pass by the gorgeous vineyards that define the landscape in this part of the state. From daytime tours to evening rides, you are sure to find that these train rides are a relaxing and romantic experience that will lead to lifelong memories.
4. La Jolla, California
- Where to stay: Inn By the Sea, 7830 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
- What to do in La Jolla: Visit the Birch Aquarium, experience the magic of the Children's Pool, watch the sea lions bask in the sand.
- What makes La Jolla romantic? Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and spectacular coastline views, La Jolla is an excellent choice for couples who enjoy fine dining, boutique shopping and pristine natural beauty.
La Jolla may be a small village located within the confines of San Diego, but it offers big potential when it comes to romantic getaways. This community is often described as the jewel of California, offering luxurious boutiques and fine dining restaurants against the backdrop of some of the most impressive, crushing waves on the Pacific Coast.
Couples will find that the best place to relax together and watch the waves is the La Jolla Cove, where the sounds of local sea lions can be heard barking over the rushing waters. For an added dose of adventure, consider booking a La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour.
5. Santa Monica, California
- Where to stay: Shore Hotel, 1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- What to do in Santa Monica: Ride the Ferris wheel on the Santa Monica Pier, stroll the Third Street Promenade, enjoy the coastal beauty of Palisades Park.
- What makes Santa Monica romantic? Perfect for fun-loving couples who are either young or young at heart, Santa Monica is a playful yet romantic California getaway.
In Santa Monica, you will discover a city that is both sophisticated and youthful, making it the perfect place to escape when you are looking for romance. Largely considered to be one of the best culinary destinations in California, you will find no shortage of options for places to eat while you are in town. Some romantic restaurants include Chinois on Main and Citrin, both of which have menus crafted by world-renowned chefs.
Of course, the Santa Monica Beach and Pier is the place to see and be seen in this community. You and your special someone simply have to ride the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel. This romantic spot sets an incredible scene as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.
6. San Francisco, California
- Where to stay: Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square, 335 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
- What to do in San Francisco: Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy a ride on an iconic cable car, spend an afternoon at Fisherman's Wharf.
- What makes San Francisco romantic? Couples who find romance amid towering skyscrapers, Victorian charm and seaside docks will love spending a weekend in San Francisco.
From walking the streets of Chinatown to checking out the sea lions on Pier 39 and getting ice cream in Ghirardelli Square, there is something for every type of couple in San Francisco. As one of the top locations for couples in California, San Francisco is a year-round destination that is perfect for a weeklong stay or a weekend getaway.
You will likely spend your days sightseeing around town, but you should reserve your evenings for romantic dining experiences that can be discovered in every neighborhood of the city. For example, Foreign Cinema is a AAA Three Diamond-designated restaurant that is famous for its lively yet intimate atmosphere. The indoor dining room features a wood-burning fireplace, creating a cozy scene for couples in love. The outdoor dining space uses its brick-exposed wall to play foreign films after dark, allowing you to enjoy a true dining experience with your partner.
7. Mendocino, California
- Where to stay: McCallum House, 45020 Albion St, Mendocino, CA 95460
- What to do in Mendocino: Hike the Mendocino Headlands Trail, shop in charming downtown Mendocino, explore the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
- What makes Mendocino romantic? Famous for its New England style and California coastline, Mendocino is a favorite among couples who are searching for an authentic coastal experience.
You may be on the other side of the country, but Mendocino feels like a New England town on the Atlantic Coast. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this town is a hidden gem when it comes to romantic California destinations. For the ultimate Mendocino experience, book a room at the McCallum House and enjoy a fabulous meal at its iconic restaurant. Housed in a building that was constructed in 1882, the historic inn and award-winning restaurant are considered to be one of the most romantic spots on the California Coast.
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