Your guide to an Unforgettable Valentines in Santa Monica.
Ditch the dinner-and-a-movie routine! Ignite your love story with these unique Valentine’s Day experiences in Santa Monica, from sunset strolls and Ferris wheel kisses to candlelit dinners and live jazz. Discover hidden gems, romantic restaurants, and enchanting events for a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day.
Unleash the Magic of Valentines in Santa Monica:
As Cupid’s arrow arcs across the calendar, Santa Monica beckons you and your beloved to a Valentine’s Day unlike any other. This coastal haven, where golden sands whisper secrets to the Pacific and vibrant sunsets paint the sky with romance, offers an irresistible blend of charm, adventure, and culinary delights. So, ditch the predictable dinner-and-movie routine and dive into a day (or weekend!) bursting with possibilities.
Romantic Walks and Ocean Views:
- Sunrise Stroll: Start your day with hand-in-hand bliss on the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Watch the sun blush the horizon, casting a magical glow on the Ferris wheel and sparkling waves. Fuel your stroll with a pastry and coffee from Blue Bottle Coffee (2725 Colorado Ave), savoring the ocean breeze and city awakening.
- Pacific Palisades Park: Escape the crowds and find tranquility at Pacific Palisades Park. Hike along scenic trails amidst fragrant eucalyptus trees, marvel at breathtaking ocean vistas, and spot playful dolphins frolicking in the waves. Pack a picnic basket for a romantic lunch with a view, and let the ocean serenade your love.
- A Splash of Art: Take your love affair to new heights at the Santa Monica Museum of Art (2020 Santa Monica Blvd). Immerse yourselves in captivating exhibitions, sparking playful conversations and shared discoveries. Bonus points for recreating your favorite pose in front of a masterpiece!
- Paddle for Two: Rent a tandem kayak from Bayfront Rentals (2725 Colorado Ave) and glide across the turquoise expanse of the bay. Paddle side-by-side, sharing laughter and breathtaking ocean views – a guaranteed recipe for aquatic romance.
Candlelit Dinners and Culinary Delights:
No Valentine’s celebration is complete without a culinary adventure. Here are five exquisite restaurants, each setting the stage for an unforgettable evening:
- Ocean View Romance at Shutters on the Beach (1 Pico Blvd): Savor panoramic ocean vistas and impeccable seafood at this iconic hotel restaurant. Indulge in the “Taste of Love” prix fixe menu ($185 per person), featuring Maine lobster bisque, Chilean sea bass, and a decadent raspberry souffle for two.
Website: https://www.shuttersonthebeach.com/booking.
Walking distance to: Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade.
Recommended dish: Maine lobster bisque. - French Fairytale at La Table (2625 Main St): Transport yourselves to a Parisian bistro, bathed in warm candlelight and the murmur of French melodies. The Valentine’s Day menu ($125 per person) promises a symphony of flavors, from truffle-infused escargot to a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate lava cake.
Website: https://m.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Sur+La+Table&find_loc=Santa+Monica%2C+CA.
Walking distance to: Montana Avenue, Palisades Park.
Recommended dish: Le Poulet Rôti aux Herbes de Provence (herb-roasted chicken). - Italian Interlude at Lunetta (1700 Ocean Ave): Share plates of fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas amidst the vibrant energy of this modern Italian restaurant. The special Valentine’s menu ($75 per person) offers delights like ricotta gnocchi with black truffle and a decadent tiramisu for two.
Website: https://www.lunettasm.com/.
Walking distance: Palisades Park, Ocean Park Beach.
Recommended dish: Gnocchi con Funghie Tartufo Nero (gnocchi with mushrooms and black truffle). - Coastal Comfort at Water Grill (1401 Ocean Ave): Cozy up in this charming beachside shack, where the sound of waves mingles with laughter and delicious aromas. Their special Valentine’s Day “Catch of the Day” for two, paired with a bottle of California rosé, promises a laid-back, ocean-air infused romance.
Website: https://www.watergrill.com/
Walking distance to: Palisades Park, Sunset Park
Recommended dish: “Catch of the Day” with roasted vegetables.
** Price and events may change please check with the location before making plans. **
Sunset Serenades and Starlight Delights:
As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues, it’s time to elevate your evening. Try these unforgettable experiences for enchanted evening:
- Valentine’s Day Lighting at Pacific Park: Let the Pacific Wheel paint the night sky with love this Valentine’s Day. Witness a special light program featuring hearts, emojis, and romantic messages as you ride the iconic Ferris wheel. Capture magical moments, share laughter, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Website: https://pacpark.com/visit/
Dates: February 10-14, 2023
Cost: Varies
Location: Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier, 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 - Jazz and Romance at La Puglia: Immerse yourselves in the magic of live jazz and Italian cuisine at La Puglia. This charming trattoria offers a special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu featuring chef’s specials alongside a captivating performance by The Sultan of Swing. Let the music whisk you away to another time and place as you savor authentic Italian flavors and celebrate your love.
Website: https://lapuglia.us/,
Dates: February 14, 2023
Cost: $99 per person
Location: 2200 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403 - Love Letters to Santa Monica: Get creative and write a love letter to your sweetheart, expressing your love for them and for the magic of Santa Monica. Share your letter on social media with the hashtag #LoveLettersSM for a chance to win a romantic stay at a beachfront hotel.
Dates: Throughout February
Location: Online
Cost: Free - Starlit Stroll: Embrace the cool ocean breeze and the twinkling tapestry of stars on a romantic walk along the beach. Share secrets whispered on the shore, punctuated by the rhythmic murmur of the waves. Make a wish on a shooting star, your fingers intertwined, and seal it with a kiss.
- Candlelit Cruise: Embark on a romantic journey aboard a sunset cruise. Sip on champagne as you sail along the coastline, admiring the twinkling city lights and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Live music and stargazing opportunities add to the enchanting atmosphere.
Cost: $$$
Location: Santa Monica Pier
Recommended experience: Sunset cruise with live music
20 Romantic Events in Santa Monica for Your Valentine’s Day:
- Valentine’s Day Sunset Cruise: Sail into the sunset with your loved one on a romantic cruise aboard the Spirit of L.A. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and breathtaking views of the Santa Monica coastline. Website: https://www.cityexperiences.com/san-francisco/city-cruises/valentines-premier-dinner-cruise/
- Love Letters & Laughter Live!: This unique comedy show at the Santa Monica Playhouse features hilarious couples sharing their funniest (and maybe slightly embarrassing) love letters. Website: https://www.santamonicaplayhouse.com/
- Valentine’s Day Movie Night at the Annenberg Beach House: Cozy up for a classic romantic movie screening on the stunning bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Website: https://www.annenbergbeachhouse.com/
- Valentine’s Day Wine & Chocolate Pairing at Wine Walk Santa Monica: Embark on a tasting journey for two, experiencing exquisite wines paired with decadent chocolates. Website: https://shopmontrose.com/spring-wine-walk/
- Live Music & Love at Ocean View Hotel: Enjoy a romantic evening with live music by talented local artists on the rooftop terrace of this charming hotel. Website: https://www.oceanviewsantamonica.com/
- Couples Yoga & Brunch at Sunlife Organics: Start your day with a relaxing yoga session designed for two, followed by a delicious brunch overlooking the beautiful ocean. Website: https://sunlifeorganics.com/
- Love is in the Air Balloon Ride: Experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the Santa Monica landscape, offering panoramic views and unforgettable memories. Website: https://adventureballoonrides.com/
- Create Your Own Love Potion Workshop: Get creative and playful at this fun workshop, where you’ll learn about the history of love potions and concoct your own personalized romantic blend. Website: https://www.crystalninja.com/
- Live Jazz & Seductive Sips at The Bungalow: Immerse yourselves in the sultry sounds of live jazz while enjoying handcrafted cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere. Website: https://thebungalow.com/santa-monica/
- Candlelit Painting & Sip at Paint Nite: Channel your inner artists and create a masterpiece together during this creative and fun couples’ painting class. Website: https://www.paintnite.com/venue-owners/el-torito—santa-monica/
- Romance on the Run 5K Run/Walk: Celebrate your love for each other and the community by participating in this scenic 5K run/walk along the Santa Monica beach. Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ca–santa-monica/westside/
- Couple’s Massage Retreat at Fivelements Wellness: Indulge in a luxurious spa experience with a synchronized couples’ massage, followed by relaxation in tranquil treatment rooms. Website: https://www.fiveelementcare.com/
- Shakespeare’s Lovers & Lunatics at Palisades Park: Enjoy a hilarious outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s classic comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” under the stars. Website: https://www.smc.edu/academics/academic-departments/theatre-arts/performances.php
- Live Opera at the Broad Stage: Treat yourselves to a night of passion and drama with a breathtaking live opera performance at this opulent theater. Website: https://broadstage.org/
- Sunset Couples Beach Volleyball Tournament: Spike some romance into your Valentine’s Day with a playful beach volleyball tournament for two. Website: https://www.beachcitiesvbc.com/
- Culinary Romance Cooking Class at Sur La Table: Learn how to impress your significant other with a hands-on cooking class, mastering gourmet dishes in a charming bistro setting. Website: https://m.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Sur+La+Table&find_loc=Santa+Monica%2C+CA
- Stargazing at Griffith Observatory: Escape the city lights and immerse yourselves in the magical wonder of the night sky during a guided stargazing session at Griffith Observatory. Website: https://griffithobservatory.org/
- Private Gondola Ride on the Canals: Recreate the Venetian fairytale with a romantic gondola ride through the charming canals of Venice Beach. Website: https://gondola.com/
- Love Birds Bingo Brunch at The Lobster: Enjoy a boozy brunch with your partner, competing for fun prizes during a hilarious bingo game themed around love stories.
- Private Picnic on the Beach: Escape the crowds and create your own romantic haven with a personalized picnic basket filled with gourmet treats and a stunning beachfront view. You can either arrange this through a catering service or put together your own spread.
Let Santa Monica be the backdrop for your unforgettable Valentine’s Day adventure. Whether you crave breathtaking ocean views, cozy candlelit dinners, or stargazing under the Milky Way, this charming seaside town has something for every love story. So, pack your bags, grab your sweetheart, and prepare to fall head over heels in love with Santa Monica.
