DINING
All Ages Welcome at Tanaka Farms on Valentine’s Day
Tanaka Farms in Irvine will be offering a romantic farm-to-table experience for couples on Feb. 11 from 6-9 p.m. The curated dinner will finish with home-grown chocolate covered strawberries and dessert followed by a romantic wagon ride through the farm as well as live music and dancing. For a kid friendly affair, Tanaka Farms is offering a family cookout the same day from 2-3 p.m. that includes DIY chocolate covered strawberries, tractor rides and visits with some of the barnyard animals.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant
Dreaming of orchestrating the ultimate Valentine’s Day retreat? Look no further than the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County where you'll find Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant. Embodying folklore charm, this boutique inn offers exquisite dining, luxurious accommodations and an exceptional spa. The Farmhouse Restaurant chef, Craig Wilmer, has crafted a special Valentine's Day tasting menu featuring dishes that boast passion and precision into every bite, as well as seasonal, locally-sourced produce and ingredients. For an additional cost, Sommelier Justin Hooper will offer expertly curated wine pairings, weaving flavors that resonate with the essence of romance. The experience is $300 per person and $150 per wine pairing.
Romantic Dinner Cruise in Redding
Gift your special someone an intimate dinner cruise along Redding’s scenic Sacramento River. Family-owned for over 20 years, River Romance offers unforgettable romantic experiences floating underneath the Sundial Bridge and around the river’s peaceful bends. The professional guide will tailor a delicious meal while guests relax and enjoy wildlife sightings that are impossible from land. Perfect for popping the question or couples celebrating their love, River Romance adapts each cruise to make unique memories.
NATURE’S BEAUTY
Flower Art Experience at Leonore’s Roses at Sunnylands
Join horticultural designers from the Palm Springs Flower School as they help participants create beautiful botanical masterpieces using hand-selected blooms from Leonore Annenberg’s rose garden on the historic Sunnylands estate. Participants will also learn about Leonore’s rose garden and the symbolism of roses. At the end of the workshop, take home a beautiful rose bouquet along with an artistic vase. The workshop is $70 per registered guest. Open to any skill level. All plants, supplies and materials are provided. Space is limited.
Romantic Stroll Through Shinzen Friendship Garden
Experience the epitome of romance at Shinzen Friendship Garden in Fresno. As the sun sets over the manicured landscapes, embark on a sensory journey through the Japanese-inspired haven. Lovers find solace beneath the blooming cherry blossoms in the Ume Grove. Picture-perfect moments unfold along pathways adorned with vibrant flora and a tranquil koi pond. Visitors discover hidden alcoves and the picturesque double moon bridge that provides an intimate setting.
Let Love Grow at San Diego Botanic Garden
A naturally charming atmosphere with four miles of meandering pathways to stroll along, and vibrant sights and smells of more than 5,000 plants from around the world, the San Diego Botanic Garden is a perfect place to celebrate the month of love. Pack a picnic and enjoy at serene spots including the Bamboo Garden overlooking the pond or the lawn at the Walled Garden. Head to the Overlook Tower and take in beautiful ocean views.
Whale You be My Valentine in Dana Point?
Love is in the air and on the water in Dana Point. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching will be offering its annual Valentine's Day Cruises on Feb. 14 with a sunset Whale Watching Cruise from 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne or non-alcoholic beverage and chocolate treats while checking out the sunset and local marine life.
HOTEL STAYS
Romance at the Ranch Package at Alisal Ranch
Alisal Ranch, a luxury dude ranch nestled in the hills of the Santa Ynez Valley, is offering its “Romance at the Ranch” package from Feb. 13-15, a special two-night package that includes romantic in-room amenities such as flowers and sparkling wine, wine tasting and cheese pairing classes, a dance class, a Valentine’s Equus Workshop titled Strengthening Your Relationship, and more.
Escape to Romance at San Jose’s Iconic Hotel Valencia
Hotel Valencia Santana Row enjoys a privileged position in San Jose’s shopping mecca, with romantic options to enhance a getaway. To celebrate the holiday, the hotel is offering a “Romance” package, which includes elegant luxury accommodations for two, a bottle of wine, chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival, and breakfast in bed for two with mimosas. Couples can enjoy Valentine’s dinner with a modern twist at Oveja Negra, the hotel’s upscale restaurant with a semi-private, open-air terrace.
Love Awaits at Ocean Park Inn
Experience love at the Ocean Park Inn in San Diego, a family-owned gem in Pacific Beach since 1967. The cozy suites and private patios or balconies offer a perfect blend of comfort and stunning pool or ocean views. During the week of Valentine’s Day (Feb. 12-19, 2024), guests who book a three-night getaway will get to take advantage of the coastal-chic hotel’s Valentine’s Day special, which includes a free silver package; this package comes with complimentary chocolates from San Diego’s premier chocolate factory, Seabreeze Craft Chocolates, and sparkling wine.
National Hotel's "Romantic Escape" Package
The National Hotel in Jamestown offers a “Romantic Escape” package, including two nights in the beautiful 1859 hotel with a choice of room, a chilled bottle of sparkling wine or cider in your room upon check-in and keepsake National Hotel glasses. Have a romantic dinner both nights in the restaurant with two $40 meal vouchers.
Galentine's Weekend Escape at Tenaya at Yosemite
Show some love to your besties and escape to the mountains for a cabin weekend that's all about celebrating friendship. With its picturesque surroundings and abundance of amenities, Tenaya at Yosemite promises an unforgettable Galentine's experience in the heart of nature. The package includes a two-night stay in an Explorer Cabin, complimentary ice-skatingfor four, bottle of prosecco, cheese board for four, and an Ascent Spa gift bag. Available Feb. 2-4, 9-11, 23-25, rates start at $929 using code GALPAL.
Romance at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
Located mid-mountain and just 15 minutes away from pristine Lake Tahoe, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe provides couples an inviting oasis for relaxation after their adventure-filled days on the slopes or at the lake. The resort’s 17,000-sqare-foot slope-side spa with treatments themed around water and woods offers the popular “Tranquility for Two”, allowing couples to choose a massage to enjoy and relax together. Couples can also enjoy extraordinary North Lake Tahoe dining in Manzanita, featuring artfully crafted cuisine, combining classical techniques and a modern culinary philosophy, as well as après offerings, for both ski and hike, with a sweeping view of the surrounding Sierras at Highlands Bar.
Get Swept Off Your Feet at the Darling Hotel
The Darling Hotel in Visalia is a gorgeous Art Deco style boutique hotel steps from the pedestrian-friendly Main Street dining, entertainment and shopping district. “Romance” packages include sparkling wine, sweet treats and late check out that will sweep guests off their feet. Pair this unique hotel stay with dinner at rooftop restaurant Elderwood or the classic Vintage Press restaurant. Add tickets to a show at the iconic Fox Theater, just a few blocks from the hotel and enjoy the Sequoia Symphony or Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jóse Hernàndez.
Dreamy Stay at Fairmont Century Plaza
Spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a stay at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. The “Dreamy Stay for Your Valentine” all-inclusive package offers the finest in romance and luxury with your choice of an intimate dinner, couples spa experience or breakfast in bed with a special surprise welcome amenity curated by the culinary team. The package includes a two-night minimum stay in a guest room or suite, two amenity passes to Fairmont Spa Century Plaza, $100 hotel credit to indulge on food, beverage, or spa experiences, a la carte breakfast for two each day at Lumière or from in-room dining, overnight valet parking for one vehicle with in-and-out privileges, priority status for an early arrival request, and priority status for a late departure request.
The Ultimate Oceanfront Lovers Escape at The Cliffs Hotel & Spa
Revel in an intimate escape at The Cliffs Hotel & Spa with an adults-only room dressed up with romantic surprises, unwind with specials at The Spa at the Cliffs, and indulge in an exciting new menu from the new executive chef at Marisol Restaurant. Turn up the romance with the “Lovers Retreat” including a grand rose petals entrance, red wine and chocolates delivered to your room.
“Month of Love” at Cottage Inn & Spa in Sonoma
Sonoma, a beautiful, relaxing wine country destination with great food, scenery, and experiences, is an ideal romantic weekend getaway. Couples can stay at Cottage Inn & Spa, a boutique hotel only a block away from the historic Sonoma Plaza. For the month of February, the inn offers a "Month of Love" package where guests will receive a complimentary gift of Sojourn Cellars wine, chocolate-covered strawberries and rose petals in their room.
Romance is in The Breeze at Balboa Bay Resort
Newport Beach’s only luxury waterfront resort sets the stage for a sun kissed romantic escape off the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. This Valentine’s Day, The Breeze at Balboa Bay Resort is hosting a five-course Moët Hennessy Wine Dinner in its bayfront Lighthouse Room on Feb. 14 from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are available on the website. Resort guests can sail away into romance via Cupid’s Harbor Cruise, Balboa Bay Resort’s fleet of Valentine’s-themed Duffy boats available to rent along the Newport Harbor clad with cozy throw blankets, champagne and a tapas platter. Resort guests can also add the “Romance” Package to any reservation, which includes chocolate-covered strawberries, sparkling wine and a dozen long stem roses delivered straight to guests’ room.
Love at the Lakehouse Resort
Escape to a romantic haven and experience love on the lake at Lakehouse Resort in San Marcos. Offering secluded and spacious accommodations, from exclusive cottages to lakefront suites with private balconies, Lakehouse ensures an intimate and calming atmosphere for every couple. Choose from a variety of packages, including the “Love on the Lake” package, with room accommodations up to 20% off, a complimentary bottle of champagne, and a box of decadent chocolates from D’Liteful Chocolate. As the sun sets, head over to the resort’s main dining outpost, The Grill, where they will offer a prix fixe three-course Valentine’s Day menu.
Wine Country Romance at The Meritage Resort & Spa
It's hard to imagine a destination that pairs better with romance than California's Wine Country and the Meritage Resort & Spa. With the "Whispers of Romance" package, couples will enjoy a four-course dining experience for two at the resort's Olive & Hay restaurant, breakfast in bed, and welcome Kir Royale cocktails along with an adorable heart-shaped, decadent chocolate cake. With the "Grand Reserve Romance" package, guests will enjoy all the indulgences of the "Whispers" package in a Grand Reserve room. Valentine’s can also enhance their stay with special holiday add-ons offered by the resort, which include an elevated turndown service with a bath and body relaxation set, a wine-tasting flight, a half dozen chocolate-covered strawberries, a $400 spa credit, and more.
MUSEUMS
Celebrate Valentine's Day Under the Wings of Air Force One
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Museum will host its 16th Annual Sweetheart's Dinner and Dance on Feb. 14. Guests will dine at intimate tables for two and enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne. There will be reserved and preferred table seating available for groups of four or more. The night will include a four-course meal by professional wait staff while listening to live music. Guests may also tour the Ronald Reagan Presidential Museum and Air Force One Pavilion from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. as part of their ticket price.
Interactive Date Night at WNDR Museum
Elevate date night with an immersive art and technology experience at San Diego’s WNDR Museum that will take lovers on a multi-dimensional journey through interactive and thought-provoking art installations. Explore more than 20 unique exhibits, including the Lightfloor, which reacts to the visitors’ every move and touch; Inside Out, a translucent garden house which guests can step into and weather the digitized storm; and Quantum Mirror, a 360-degree immersive experience that has over 180 mirrors that touch on the world’s interaction with technology and much more.
Thursday After Hours at Oakland Museum of California
The Oakland Museum of California invites visitors on Feb. 15 to explore the galleries which come alive at night with a mix of pop-up performances, chats, live drawings and more. This, coupled with the inspired cuisine at Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen, served with drinks against a backdrop of music, spells the perfect mood to set for you and your Valentine. Programming in the galleries runs 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and is included in the cost of general admission for museum guests and free for museum members.
OUT-OF-THE-BOX EXPERIENCES
Valentine's Day Delights in SLO CAL
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in SLO CAL with a rejuvenating stay at Paso Robles Inn, where wellness classes await. Singles aged 32-49 can mingle at Tooth & Nail Winery's Sip & Spark in Paso Robles, a singles mixer and speed dating event, hosted by dating expert and ‘Date Smarter’ published author, Andrea LaRosa. Join this event on Feb. 10 from 5-7 p.m., featuring wine and apps. In Pismo Beach, enjoy Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa's Film N' Feast on Feb. 13, an immersive indoor movie and paired dining experience at Lido Restaurant and Lounge. Experience the film, Ratatouille as you indulge in a six-course menu crafted to compliment scenes from the film. Additionally, savor a hosted Valentine's Dinner at Lido Restaurant for an exquisite culinary celebration.
An Unforgettable Driving Experience with San Jose’s Club Sportiva
San Jose’s unique Club Sportiva functions as a country club for car enthusiasts and offers a multimillion-dollar collection of luxury sports car rentals. Guests, both members and non-members, can choose from an expertly curated menu of vehicles featuring Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and more. For a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day experience, rent one of the cars and drive to the summit of San Jose’s Mount Hamilton for picture-perfect sunsets and unmissable romantic views over Silicon Valley all the way to the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Tie the Knot in Long Beach, California for $14
Visit the Cute Little Wedding Chapel in Long Beach’s Bixby Knolls neighborhood this Valentine’s Day and get married for $14. The promotion includes a wedding ceremony for the couple and up to four guests taking place on Feb. 14 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. only. Couples can choose between the indoor chapel venue and the outdoor tropical terrace at the facility. Marriage licenses can be issued on the spot for an additional fee.
Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary Couples Treatments
Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary in Sonoma County offers a romantic experience with the “Warmth of Love for Two” Togetherness Package. This enchanting package includes a Cedar Enzyme Bath for two, followed by 70-minute Swedish-Esalen massages in a dedicated couple’s room, concluding with a tea service in Osmosis’ expansive Zen Meditation Garden. Couples will submerge in a redwood tub filled with rice bran, warm cedar, and fir shavings, experiencing a unique Cedar Enzyme "bath" that induces fermentation for health benefits. With a 30-year history, Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary creates a healing environment, seamlessly blending spa services with the natural surroundings.
Heart's Race from Love and Adventure at Highline Adventures
Bring your loved one for a date in the sky, with Highline Adventures’ zipline tours and guided hiking through beautiful protea fields. Get your heart racing while ziplining through the air next to each other on three zip line segments. Bond and create lasting connections while working through various challenges on a multi-level treetop adventure ropes course. Stick around for a picnic in the grass, with views of the Santa Ynez valley and with a BYOB (Bring Your Own picnic Basket) Valentine's Day promotion. Book two tickets for any activity and enjoy lunch in the grass, for up to two hours.
The Monday Club: That's Amore
The Monday Club is a historic building in SLO designed by architect Julia Morgan, who designed the famous Hearst Castle. The Monday Club and OperaSLO are teaming up for a fundraiser called That’s Amore featuring a dessert auction alongside a Broadway show of greatest hits. Taking place on Feb. 11 from 1-4 p.m., tickets include wine and light appetizers.
WINE TASTING
Soak Up the Sun and Vino at Riviera Beach House
Celebrate Valentine’s Day by soaking up the Santa Barbara sun and vino courtesy of Riviera Beach House’s Wine Tasting Package. Receive three two-for-one tastings at neighborhood tasting rooms as well as enjoy a bottle of red wine by Margerum Winery and decadent, velvety chocolate truffles.
Napa Valley Wine Train
February is the most cheerful time of the year with wild yellow mustard flowers exploding all around the Valley, creating a stunning spring backdrop. See this natural event by taking a ride through the vineyards on the historic railroad, Napa Valley Wine Train, while sipping world-class wines and enjoying delicious seasonal dishes curated by Executive Chef Rodrigo Cuadra. For a full-day journey, couples can ride the Legacy experience, where they go on an adventure while enjoying four courses of Valley-inspired fare and exceptional tastings at Charles Krug and V. Sattui.