Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and create unforgettable memories with that special someone. What better way to do that than with a unique celebration on the scenic Southern California coast? It just so happens that the Los Angeles area is one of the best places in the world to celebrate this romantic holiday. With its warm, sunny weather, stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and charming towns, SoCal offers endless ways to make the holiday of love unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, thrilling adventures, or low-key beach strolls, there’s something for every couple. Here’s a guide to some of the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Southern California, including a romantic dining cruise with City Cruises.

The History of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on February 14th, has roots that trace back to ancient Rome. No wonder it’s so “Rome-antic!” It is thought to have originated from the Roman festival of Lupercalia, a celebration held in mid-February to welcome spring and encourage fertility. The day later became associated with Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who, according to legend, defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for young men in order to keep them focused on military service, thus leading to his demise.

The romantic traditions of Valentine’s Day as we know it began to take shape in the 14th and 15th centuries, especially in England and France, where love poetry and exchanging tokens became popular. Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world as a day to express love and affection, evolving from its historical and religious origins into a secular celebration of romance and friendship.

Fun Things to Do in Southern California for Valentine’s Day

Now, back to the fun. The Los Angeles area is littered with perfect places and adventurous activities to spend your Valentine’s Day with that special someone doing something, well, special! Here are some fun things you can plan to set the mood for a day of fun and romance.

Romantic Beach Picnic in Malibu

Southern California’s coastlines provide plenty of places for a romantic beach day, and Malibu’s secluded coves and beautiful views make it an ideal spot for a Valentine’s Day picnic. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods, grab a bottle of wine or champagne, bring a cozy blanket, and head to one of Malibu’s quieter beaches. Try El Matador Beach, known for its picturesque rock formations and natural beauty, or Point Dume, which offers a more expansive view of the Pacific and a chance for whale watching.

Fly with Cupid on a Hot Air Balloon

For an experience that’s truly out of the ordinary, take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride over the Temecula Valley.  A short trip from Los Angeles, Temecula’s rolling vineyards and scenic hills create a breathtaking view from above, making it a popular Valentine’s Day activity.

Couples’ Spa Day in LA

If your idea of a perfect Valentine’s Day is relaxing and unwinding with your partner, consider a spa day. Los Angeles is home to numerous luxury spas and wellness centers, many of which offer couples’ massage packages and Valentine’s Day specials.

Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour

For wine-loving couples, celebrate Valentine’s Day at one of Southern California’s renowned vineyards. In addition to Temecula Valley, wine regions like Santa Barbara, Malibu, and Paso Robles offer intimate settings for a day of tasting and exploring. Many wineries offer special Valentine’s Day tastings that include gourmet chocolate pairings, rose-themed flights, or even live music. In Temecula, Baily Vineyard and Winery is known for its beautiful estate and award-winning wines. Meanwhile, Rosenthal Winery offers a coastal vineyard experience in Malibu, just steps from the beach.

Fall in Love with Horseback Riding

Take a romantic horseback ride through some of Southern California’s scenic trails, with views of mountains, canyons, and even the ocean. Griffith Park and the Santa Monica Mountains are two popular destinations for guided horseback rides. At Griffith Park, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the Los Angeles skyline and the iconic Hollywood sign. In the Santa Monica Mountains, you’ll enjoy more rural landscapes, with ocean views and quiet nature trails.

Valentine’s Day Dining Cruise Date

One of the most unique and memorable ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Southern California is with a romantic dining cruise with City Cruises. With popular departures from locations like Marina del Rey, Newport Beach, and Long Beach, we offer unique Valentine’s Day cruises perfect for couples seeking a cozy, intimate experience on the water.

Why Choose City Cruises for Your Valentine’s Day Plans?

City Cruises offers an experience like no other, combining scenic views, fine dining, and romantic ambiance into one seamless experience on the water. Imagine sipping champagne while watching the sun dip below the Pacific horizon, with the sound of gentle waves and live music filling the air. Or a beautiful brunch soaking up the Southern California sunshine before settling into your evening plans. No matter what you choose, it’s a top choice for Valentine’s Day. We provide a level of luxury that few other experiences can match. With high-end interiors, plush seating, and an attentive crew, you and your partner can enjoy a premium adventure without lifting a finger.

Scenic and Romantic Southern California Cruise Routes

Part of the allure of a City Cruises experience is the scenic route along Southern California’s coast. Whether departing from Long Beach, Newport Beach, or Marina del Rey, each location provides a unique view and coastal experience.

• Long Beach: From Long Beach, you’ll sail along Rainbow Harbor and see the beautiful Queen Mary and some of Southern California’s world-famous beaches. You might even catch glimpses of dolphins and sea lions as you cruise through the water.
• Newport Beach: Newport Beach offers a picturesque route through the pristine harbor and coastline. With its luxurious waterfront, celebrity homes, and towering yachts, this upscale area adds a sense of glamour to the cruise.
• Marina del Re: Departing from Marina del Rey, you’ll enjoy views of the marina, beautiful yachts, and the Santa Monica Mountains in the distance. This route provides a stunning mix of city and coastal scenery.

Each route offers something unique, and no matter which departure point you choose, the beautiful backdrop will make the evening unforgettable.

Types of Southern California Valentine’s Day Cruises

Beautiful Brunch Cruise

If you would like to kick off the day with something special, a Valentine’s Day brunch cruise provides an unforgettable start. On the Newport Beach Valentine’s Premier Brunch Cruise, you’ll revel in an elegant afternoon of romance on Newport Beach Harbor. With options like bottomless mimosas, a delicious chef-prepared brunch buffet, and stunning coastal views, it’s an ideal choice for couples who want to celebrate all day. Our live entertainment sets the mood while you and your loved one soak in the awe-inspiring sights from a climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Set sail for a Valentine’s Day to remember!

Delicious Dinner Cruise

A Valentine’s Day dinner cruise is one of the most popular choices. Toast to the most romantic day of the year on the Marina del Rey Valentine’s Day Premier Dinner Cruise. Treat your Valentine to a special evening on the water with live music for dancing, delicious cocktails, chef-designed menus, and Marina del Rey’s most stunning views. This is also popular as it pairs perfectly with a romantic sunset over the Pacific Ocean. City Cruises takes care of every detail to create a romantic evening perfect for couples who want to celebrate in style.

Make This Valentine’s Day One to Remember with City Cruises

With its sunny skies, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences, Southern California is the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whether dining under the stars, toasting to your relationship with a glass of champagne, or soaking up the sun, City Cruises offers the perfect setting for love. From romantic coastal cruises and relaxing spa days to thrilling balloon rides and beach picnics, the region offers countless ways for couples to create lasting memories. Whatever type of celebration you choose, make this Valentine’s Day one to remember by taking advantage of all that Southern California has to offer.