Are you in dire need of a romantic getaway? Is your relationship in need of a romantic change of scenery? It’s high time to get away and reconnect with your partner. These special spots in the Golden State are designed to stoke the fire of that desire and get you planning one of these romantic getaways in California.
Romantic Getaways in Northern California
Here are 12 romantic getaway destinations in California complete with suggestions for places to stay, where to eat, and fun things to do just the two of you!
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Lake Tahoe
A summer paradise, winter wonderland, and year-round magnet for mountain memories, the north side of Lake Tahoe is quieter than the southern side. This makes it the perfect area to get cozy whether it be by the lakeshore at sunset, in front of the fireplace, or over a bottle of wine.
Where to Stay
- Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe: This splurge-worthy resort has a luxurious spa complete with treatments themed around water and woods. The guestrooms and suites include in-room fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto woodsy scenery.
- PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn: Tucked into a grove of Aspen trees just steps from the Squaw Valley Aerial Tram, the lodge-like PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn is cozy, welcoming, and elegant. Its bucolic grounds are a nice setting for a romantic walk or a toast to your relationship from the Adirondack chairs.
- Cedar Glen Lodge: Located in Tahoe Vista is a constellation of charming little free-standing cabins around an alpine-like two-story lodge. The grounds are spacious and loaded with amenities including a pool, hot tub, and sauna. There are also spots to enjoy sunsets, stargazing, or even sunrises if that’s what you’re into!
Where to Eat
- The Soule Domain: Set inside a cozy log cabin near the state line is one of the most romantic dinner spots in North Lake Tahoe. The mood lighting, the flicker of the fire, and the opportunity to linger over a scrumptious meal with your beloved, does it get any better?
- Gar Woods: You will want a window seat when dining here. This is because the sunset over Lake Tahoe is spectacular. Enjoy it over a pair of Woodies, a menu of cocktails the establishment is known for.
- Christy Hill: Located in Tahoe City, this elegant lakeside bistro sits 100 feet above the Lake Tahoe shoreline. You’ll feel like you’re like sitting on the edge of the world.
Must-do Activities
- Tahoe Star Tours: You don’t need to be fully versed in astronomy for this activity, this tour will make the constellations more accessible with a little poetry, knowledge, and a powerful telescope or two!
- Explore Emerald Bay State Park: The views all around this bay are stunning! Hike down to Vikingsholm Castle and enjoy a picnic near the beautiful blue waters. It’s a short and scenic hike that will have you feeling like you’ve turned up in Scandinavia.
- Hit the Truckee River Trail. Whether you choose to do so via bicycle or walking together, this 7.5-mile is not only moderate, but also a scenic spot for reconnecting with your significant other.
Mendocino
Unspoiled, rugged, and stunning, are all spot-on adjectives for describing the natural beauty of Mendocino. A charming coastal town located 155 miles north of San Francisco, Mendocino is known for its glass beach and Redwoods. It is also home to the only oceanfront botanical garden in the country.
Where to Stay
- Mendocino Grove: Picture this, a fully-furnished safari tent that includes a warm bed with clean sheets and a fluffy comforter. Outside the tent is a lovely campfire, lots of stars, your sweetie and you. Need I say more?
- The Little River Inn: Family-owned and operated since 1853, this charming inn has all the makings of a romantic getaway – day spa services as well as rooms with ocean views, fireplaces, jacuzzis and private hot tubs.
Where to Eat
- Good Life Café and Bakery: Pick up authentic New York-style bagels made from scratch, nab some fresh baked pastries, and enjoy them with a locally roasted fair-trade coffee or espresso drink on the restaurants sunny deck.
- Flow Restaurant and Lounge: Whether you dine indoors or out on the restaurant patio, you’ll enjoy exquisite coastal ocean views as you feast on delicious seafood, hand tossed pizzas, and other creations made with organic ingredients.
Must-do Activities
- Kayak Mendocino takes visitors on an exhilarating sea cave adventure from beautiful Van Damme State Park.
- Mendocino Headlands State Park is stunning at all times of day, but particularly so at dusk when the hues of gold and orange wrap the area in a magnificent glow. Stop and breathe in the crisp sea air. It’s a great setting for a romantic picnic!
Napa Valley
From its world-class wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants to scenic beauty and luxurious accommodations, Napa offers plenty of ingredients for romance.
Where to Stay
- Embassy Suites Napa Valley: This little oasis may be adjacent to Highway 29 but, you’d never guess that while strolling its beautiful and serene grounds! Whether you’re headed up valley, downtown or over to Carneros, this spot is very convenient for getting on your way quickly!
- Auberge du Soleil: Inspired by the South of France but infused with a California soul, is how this resort describes itself. It’s easy to see why once you lay eyes on this luxurious adults-only resort nestled amid 33-acres of heritage olive and oak trees.
- The Archer Hotel: Located in downtown Napa, this chic and sophisticated hotel is a short walk from romantic dining experiences, unique boutiques, and wine tasting rooms. Enjoy a sweeping view of the city of Napa from the hotel’s Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar.
Where to Eat
- Angèle: Located in the historic Hatt Building along the Napa River, this chic little bistro serves French country cuisine complemented by wine and spirits that celebrate the best of French and American wine country.
- The French Laundry: If you scored a reservation at the French Laundry, you’ve pulled off quite a coup! They are highly sought after and hard to get at this Michelin three-star restaurant.
- The Oxbow Public Market: Whether you dine on the deck overlooking the Napa River or pick up picnic provisions and head up valley, the Oxbow offers a wide variety of food vendors and artisan cafes to satisfy both of you.
Must-do Activities
- Hot Air Ballooning: You will have to rise at the crack of dawn for this activity, but the scenic flight will be worth it! After touchdown, the pilot and passengers toast the adventure with a glass of sparkling wine.
- Take a Mud Bath: Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort recharges couples using a blend of a secret family recipe and Calistoga’s famous warm mineral water.
- Schramsberg Vineyards: The second oldest winery in Napa Valley, this vineyard offers tastings of its sparkling wines and tours by candlelight in its historic caves. Does it get anymore romantic than that?
Yosemite
From the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome to the grand meadows of Tuolumne, there is no end to the breathtaking natural beauty of Yosemite National Park. It is the perfect place for couples looking to combine their love of nature with their love for each other.
Where to Stay
- The Ahwahnee: This stunning and splurge-worthy hotel has been the destination of queens and presidents making it the perfect place to romance the royal in your life!
- Tenaya Lodge: Located at the park’s south entrance, stay in a cozy cottage room or suite with a fireplace and an outdoor sitting area. If you prefer a cabin, all have private balconies. The onsite Ascent Spa will have you relaxed in no time.
- Curry Village: Sleep beneath the grandeur of Glacier Point in Curry Village, a classic Yosemite destination since 1899. The village offers an array of accommodations ranging from canvas tent cabins to wooden cabins.
Where to Eat
- The Ahwahnee Dining Room: From the 34-foot-high beamed ceiling and massive windows framing spectacular views to the chandeliers, linen tablecloths, and lovely china, enjoy a romantic meal in a setting of opulence.
- The Curry Village Pizza Deck: Enjoy hand-tossed pizzas, fresh salads, and cold drinks surrounded by sweeping views of Glacier Point and Royal Arches, does it get any better than this?
- The Mountain Room Lounge: Located in the Yosemite Valley Lodge, the Mountain Lounge is a great place to roast marshmallows and enjoy delicious appetizers while sipping a cocktail in front of the fireplace.
Must-do Activities
- Wawona Stable: One of the best ways to explore the trails of Yosemite National Park is via a mule or horseback riding adventure. Wawona offers both.
- Wawona Golf Course has been challenging golfers since 1918. This nine-hole, par-35 course includes two par-five holes and three par-three holes. Is your relationship up for a challenge?
Romantic Getaways in Central California
Big Sur
Where to Stay
- Treebones Resort offers luxury glamping yurts with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. There’s an array of accommodation styles including a one-of-a-kind cocoon-shaped tent with a private deck and outdoor fire pit.
- Ragged Point Inn & Resort: Affectionately referred to as “the Gateway to Big Sur,” most of the 39 rooms feature magnificent ocean views, fireplaces, decks, or balconies.
- Ventana Big Sur: This luxurious hillside adults-only resort wants to make your stay as carefree as possible with a Leisure Concierge to plan every aspect of your stay. This way all you have to do is focus on each other.
Where to Eat
- Big Sur Bakery and Restaurant: You will immediately feel at home in this little ranch house tucked under the area’s giant trees. Enjoy the wood-fired pizza, the espresso, or a colorful salad.
- COAST cafe is the perfect pairing of art and nature. It offers a picnic-inspired menu sourced from California’s Central Coast, stunning ocean views from a rooftop terrace, and fine art from local and award-winning artists.
- Nepenthe Restaurant: Picture this, sipping wine with your sweetie while enjoying a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean in a laid-back ambiance. This place even has a live webcam to help you time your visit weatherwise!
Must-do Activities
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: Hike the ½ mile round-trip Waterfall Overlook Trail. The almost-flat stroll ends at an oceanfront overlook with views of McWay Falls.
- San Simeon Cove: Go sea kayaking in a natural harbor 15 minutes south of Big Sur. Getting into a kayak gets you an unforgettable up-close experience to spot seals, otters, and sea lions.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-By-the-Sea is known for its dog-friendliness, gorgeous beaches, cute fairytale cottages, adorable village, and sweeping views. You will swear you awoke in a storybook!
Where to Stay
- Carmel Valley Ranch: Book a studio suite for your stay here! The Vineyard Oak studio is a treetop studio with an outdoor soaking tub for two, an indoor/outdoor fireplace and custom love seat swing. Oo la la!
- Cypress Inn: Co-owned by legendary actress Doris Day, this charming boutique hotel has the distinction of being the most dog-friendly hotel in California. It’s a particularly good choice if your romantic getaway includes canine companion.
Where to Eat
- Forge in the Forest gets its name from the fact that it’s housed in the former workshop of the village blacksmith. This earned it a spot on the Carmel Historical Society’s walking tour of significant sites. The setting is cozy and the menu offerings center on California Fusion.
- Torro offers a creative take on sushi and Japanese BBQ in a charming and classic Carmel-by-the-Sea courtyard setting.
Must-do Activities
- Shop on and around Ocean Avenue: Carmel’s main drag includes one-of-a-kind shops as well as hidden courtyards and passageways leading to discoveries like a terrace with a treetop restaurant.
- Pebble Beach Links: Play a round at a legendary golf course with greens that hug oceanside cliffs. It also has the most famous 18th hole in the world. The green fee is hefty, but the experience is once-in-a- lifetime.
- Take a walk on Carmel Beach: Stroll the sugary white sand, marvel at wind-carved Cypress trees and watch the sun drop behind the horizon while spraying colors all over the waves. This 1-mile-long canine-friendly beach is stunning at all times of day.
Paso Robles
Located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso Robles is the ultimate Golden State getaway destination. A short drive from the Pacific Ocean yet tucked among the Santa Lucia Mountains, this wine oasis has cute places to stay and unique couples’ experiences.
Where to Stay
- Paso Robles Inn: Many guestrooms include private spa tubs on their balconies and look out onto lush gardens. This inn is a short walk from Paso Roble’s charming downtown square which is ringed by boutiques and stylish restaurants.
- The Madonna Inn: Known for its pink and gold décor and its uniquely themed guestrooms and suites, this inn is the perfect accommodation for couples looking for a fun and playful wine country getaway.
Where to Eat
- Firestone Walker Brewing: If your partner appreciates a nice tall cold one, visit this gastropub to share a pizza or some wings on the patio.
- Il Cortile Ristorante: Located in downtown Paso Robles, this fine dining Italian restaurant provides a vast array of exceptional homemade pastas, fresh seafood, top quality meats and antipasti.
- Cello Ristorante & Bar is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offering creative Northern Italian dishes made from regional ingredients.
Must-do Activities
- The River Oaks Hot Springs Spa: Indulge in a unique wine tasting experience from a private vineyard-view mineral tub with a sip and soak.
- Enjoy a sunset a DAOU Vineyard: Enjoy an amazing panoramic view of the vineyards that will leave you wondering whether you left California for France or Italy without realizing it.
- Take a Horseback Riding Winery Tour: One of the most unique Paso Robles activities, Central Coast Trails offers a variety of tours. Enjoy lush rolling hills and beautiful scenery during the ride and a wine tasting afterwards.
Santa Ynez Valley
If you share a fondness for the winetasting adventure movie, “Sideways” then the Santa Ynez Valley will be a fun getaway for both of you! Just 40 minutes from Santa Barbara, the area has several charming towns to explore, beautiful wine country to tour, and great food and wine.
Where to Stay
- Sideways Inn: Casual and pet-friendly, with renovated guest rooms, pool, spa, and access to bocce courts, and amenities the Sideways Inn is comfortable and convenient.
- Vinland Hotel & Lounge: Completely refurbished after a two-year renovation project, the Vinland is stylish and sophisticated. The V Lounge offers innovative cocktails, local brews, and wines, along with tasty dishes.
- Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort: is a 10,000-acre ranch offering golf, tennis, spa, horseback riding, pool, and Western-themed studios and suites with wood-burning fireplaces.
Where to Eat
- Los Olivos Cafe & Wine Merchant: Fans of Sideways will recognize this café as the place where Miles, Jack, Maya, and Stephanie enjoy dinner and several exquisite bottles of wine.
- Solvang Restaurant: This spot in Solvang is the place to indulge in some Aebleskivers, the popular light and airy Danish pancake balls are dusted with powdered sugar and served with raspberry jam.
- The Hitching Post II specializes in traditional wood-fired Santa Maria Barbecue served with their award-winning wines. The restaurant is another area location made famous in the movie Sideways.
Must-do Activities
- Stroll Around Solvang: Explore a quaint village of Danish architecture complete with its own Little Mermaid Fountain and statues of Hans Christian Andersen. There are also five European style windmills that will have you suspecting that you’ve been transported out of the country.
- Rent a bike to visit Los Alamos, Santa Ynez, and Los Olivos. All have charming main streets, with fun shops, art galleries, and tasting rooms.
Romantic Getaways in Southern California
Malibu
This beach community may conjure up images of celebrities living in beachfront luxury but, Malibu is much more than that. It’s miles of scenic canyon trails and sandy beaches along an epic stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway making it a great place to get away even if you aren’t rich or famous.
Where to Stay
- Nobu Ryokan Malibu: This intimate adult retreat honors the traditional Japanese Ryokan. It features teak soaking tubs, indoor/outdoor fireplaces, serene outdoor patios that provide pure tranquility.
- Malibu Country Inn is a small inn tucked into the beachside bluffs of Malibu. The rooms overlook gardens and come complete with jacuzzi tubs, and indoor fireplaces.
Where to Eat
- Neptune’s Net: If this place looks familiar to you, it’s because been featured in movies, including The Fast and the Furious. Locals recommend ordering the seafood sampler or fish and chips.
- Nobu: There are ocean views from every seat in this place! Signature dishes here include Tiradito, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, and Black Cod with Miso.
- Malibu Farm Restaurant: Located on the Malibu Pier, this rustic-chic bistro with an oceanfront deck serves farm-to-table New American fare & local wine. The tacos menu is particularly creative!
Must-do Activities
- Enjoy some beach time. Take in the vistas at Point Dume. El Matador Beach has some stunning photo spots. Zume Beach has a wide stretch of sand and gorgeous surf.
- Hike Solstice Canyon Trail: Pack a picnic and head out an easy creekside walk into a wide canyon. The 2.6-mile round trip hike yields a small waterfall next to some interesting ruins.
- Visit the Getty Villa: This world-class museum features Greek and Roman antiquities in a recreated Roman country home modeled after the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, Italy. It’s stunning!
Laguna Beach
Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, the artist colony of Laguna Beach has seven miles of coves and beaches where visitors can explore sea caves, tide pools, ocean side bluffs, natural tide pools and sandy beaches, making it an ideal spot for a romantic beach getaway.
Where to Stay
- Montage: Situated on 30-acres in the heart of Laguna Beach this resort offers comfortably elegant beachfront accommodations, an oceanfront spa, three sparkling swimming pools, and sweeping panoramas of the Pacific.
- The Ranch at Laguna Beach offers a peaceful blend of canyon and sea. This chic coastal ranch resort is set in the Aliso & Wood Canyon just a short walk from Aliso Beach. Amenities include a premiere spa and a 9-hole golf course.
Where to Eat
- Driftwood Kitchen: This waterfront restaurant features fine seafood, steaks, and hand-shucked oysters, along with handcrafted cocktails and breathtaking ocean views.
- Splashes: With the sea just 25 feet below, you and your beloved can dine while watching the waves roll in – whether you choose to sit inside by an open window or on one of the restaurant’s palm-shaded patios.
Must-do Activities
- Go on a Romantic Sunset Picnic: What is more romantic than a sunset beach picnic? Stop by the Sapphire Pantry for takeout and provisions to set the mood.
- Go Whale Watching: Newport Landing runs whale watching excursions daily through the year. Book a luxury catamaran experience for a more intimate adventure with fewer people on board.
Palm Springs
Known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses and spas, Palm Springs was once the notable desert getaway for Hollywood stars. Located 107 miles from Los Angeles, it features vintage boutiques, and interior design shops. The surrounding Coachella Valley offers hiking, biking and horseback riding trails.
Where to Stay
- The Parker is loved by seclusion-seeking celebs who love the privacy of its high white walls, dense hedges, and off-the-grid entrances. Doesn’t it sound like a great hideout for couples in need of some seclusion?
- Doubletree Golf Resort by Hilton (Cathedral City): Six miles from downtown Palm Springs, this is a great accommodation for those who want to be near the action but not in the center of it 24/7.
- The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows: Book a bungalow at this historic adult oriented resort and experience complete privacy.
Where to Eat
- Lulu California Bistro: Billed as Palm Springs’ hippest restaurant, this establishment serves California cuisine in a cool and vibrant setting. It also offers extensive gluten free and vegetarian/vegan menus.
- Pinocchio in the Desert: This kitschy little spot serves breakfast and lunch all day. It also offers bottomless champagne so the two of you can toast your relationship again and again at a very reasonable price!
Must-do Activities
- Visit Joshua Tree National Park: Located 40-miles from Palm Springs, this park is an easy day trip and not to be missed for its extraordinary and unique landscape.
- Take a Jeep Tour: Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours offers jeep rides with an expert guide who will introduce you to the wonders of the desert.
- Play golf: Palm Spring is well known for its courses. Indian Wells Golf Resort offer two unusual options – the Players and the Celebrity course – tee times are usually available and both courses play great
Coronado
Coronado Island offers an array of gorgeous beaches for fun in the sun. There are five white sand havens on the island including Coronado Central Beach, Coronado Dog Beach, Glorietta Bay Beach, Silver Strand State Beach, and the Ferry Landing Marketplace.
Where to Stay
- Hotel del Coronado: Situated on Coronado Beach, this legendary beach resort has been the destination for romantic seaside escapes for more than 100 years.
- Glorietta Bay Inn: Centrally located, this historic landmark of a hotel is across the street from Coronado Beach as well as a short walk from shopping and restaurants.
Where to Eat
- Nado Republic: Your living room away from home! Nado serves wine and beer combined along with traditional Italian Tapas. Pizza in pala and Pizza fritta are specialties.
- Little Frenchie: A Parisian-style café offering a nod to Provençal classics, an ambitious fromage program and a highly drinkable wine list brimming with French and California varietals.
Must-do Activities
- Take a Gondola Ride: Bring a touch of Italy to your romantic getaway with a gondola ride along the canals of the Coronado Cays.
- Coronado Tasting Room & VOM Fass: Sample a fine array of flavorful products sourced from family growers and artisan distillers including oils, vinegars, spirits, and liqueurs.
- Take a Kayak Tour: Paddle beneath the graceful curve of the Coronado Bridge and explore the sights along the San Diego Bay with the area’s only urban kayak tour.
Looking for more romantic getaway ideas?
- Most romantic resorts in the USA
- Other West Coast romantic getaway ideas
- Oceanside, California
- Paso Robles itinerary
- Santa Rosa, California
Kristine lives in Mountain View, CA. She recently launched a mechanical engineering major from the nest. When she isn’t angling to visit her college student, she’s planning her next travel adventure and writing about it. She currently contributes to Trekaroo and the Hilton Suggests Travel Blog. Follow her on Instagram @kdworkin.
