14 Fantastic Date Ideas To Do in California
California is known for the weather, the beaches, and the beautiful people. But what entertaining and unique things are there to DO here? We’ve put together a list of the 14 BEST date ideas that are totally California.
Book a stay at the iconic Hotel del Coronado – Coronado is one of California’s most beautiful pieces of coastline, not to mention the historic playground for the rich and famous. It was the backdrop for the film “Some Like it Hot” starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon and is still considered to be one of the poshest hotels in Southern California. You can take a spin class on the beach, sip a cocktail by the pool or have brunch in the beloved Crown Room.
Plan a San Diego brewery tour – So many beers, so little time. San Diego is considered the craft beer capital of the world and as of this year, there are 155 craft breweries in the area. The best way to experience the beer is to buy a ticket for a brewery tour. You’ll have a safe ride and have the chance to taste some of the best beer you will ever meet.
Get VIP wristbands for Coachella – Coachella is a music festival that takes place in April in the Coachella Valley near Palm Desert. With a VIP ticket you will have access to private viewing areas, beer gardens, restaurants and more. Rub elbows with the star-studded VIP attendees and avoid all the hassle and crowds that come along with General Admission. Enjoy amazing music under the beautiful desert sky in this one of a kind California setting.
Make a reservation for dinner at Nobu in Malibu – Nobu in Malibu is argued to host the most spectacular views in all Southern California. Watch a stunning sunset while dining on amazing food. Don’t forget to take lots of photos. This spot is on the list of most Instagrammed restaurants in the world.
Attend a taping of a late-night talk show – Jimmy Kimmel Live and the Late Late Show with James Corden are both filmed in LA. Tickets to the tapings can be arranged ahead of time online and this is a great way to see behind the scenes Hollywood, while being entertained by two of the most beloved comedians of this generation.
Reserve a cabana at the Hollywood Roosevelt – Channel old Hollywood at this chic, retro hotel. The pool vibe is laid back and the weather is bound to cooperate. Once evening falls, grab a bite at the famous Mel’s or hit up Lucky Strike for a little late-night bowling. Then grab a hand-crafted nightcap at the Roosevelt’s Library Bar.
Indulge in a Luxurious Spa Day at the Spa Ojai – Located in the Ojai Valley Inn, the Spa Ojai is known for being one of the most decadent spas in the country. Indulge in the Platinum Spa Package which includes 3 separate 50 minute treatments and lunch or book the Couples Retreat and experience your treatments with your date in a private couple’s suite.
See a concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl – Built into the hillside in 1936, the Santa Barbara Bowl is a historic part of the city. The romantic outdoor venue is typically open during their concert season, April through October. Upcoming shows include Blondie, Lionel Richie, Slightly Stoopid and Fitz & the Tantrums.
Book a cabin in Mammoth Lakes – Winter or Summer, Mammoth is beautiful all year round. During the Winter you can ski, snowboard, shop or sip coffee from the cozy confines of your cabin while watching the snowfall outside. During the Spring and Summer, you can hike the trails, fish the lake and breathe in the clean mountain air.
Drive the 101 from Malibu to Morrow Bay – You’ve seen the scene in commercials and movies, now see it for yourself. The miles of open road and stunning coastline views makes it a bucket list item for sure. The romantic drive can be broken up into a longer trip if you have the time, with picturesque stops in Santa Barbara, San Simeon or any of the other sleepy beach towns along the way.
Tour Hearst Castle – The guided tour of the historic Hearst Castle is such a fun way to learn about the Hearst legacy. From the drive up the winding road to the hilltop estate (and the zebras you may see along the way) to the unparalleled views of the turquoise San Simeon waters from the castle itself, it is a rare glimpse into California’s past and one of the most powerful families in California’s history.
Glamp in Big Sur – If you don’t know what “glamping” is, it’s camping for those who don’t like dirt and tents. Big Sur has taken the concept to a whole new level, allowing couples who would normally forego the rustic accommodations of one of the most beloved spots in the state to experience the majesty of Big Sur. The sites come equipped with comfy beds, bathrooms, lit porches and more. Walk the cliff lined beaches at sunset and cuddle up around your own private fireplace at night, and never have to worry about breaking a sweat.
Wine Taste in Napa – You can make it a day trip from San Francisco or a romantic weekend getaway. If you are already in San Francisco, there are many options for tours, starting with a boat ride to a chartered bus that takes you to 3-5 of Napa’s world-famous vineyards for tastings. Want to make a getaway out of it? Go for it! It may be the most relaxing, romantic trip you’ve ever been on.
Stay at the acclaimed St. Regis San Francisco – Indulge in a luxurious suite. Utilize the St. Regis 24-hour butlers to ensure your every need is met. Dine around the city at a Michelin rated restaurant like Benu, which is also located in the SoMa district near the St. Regis. Book spa treatments at Remede, the top-rated spa inside the hotel. Peruse the MoMa and then enjoy a cocktail at the St. Regis’ posh lobby bar. San Francisco checks all the boxes for a romantic date/getaway.
California has so many beautiful sites, things to do and places to stay. Whether you’re a California native looking for a change of scenery or a New Yorker who wants to experience love on the West Coast, California has an amazing date idea waiting for you.
