Los Angeles exudes a cinematic romance at every turn. Imagine strolling a beach at dusk as the Pacific breeze tousles your hair, or clinking glasses on a rooftop as a lavender twilight fades into starry night. The mood here is relaxed yet electric, glamorous yet genuine. In this warm Southern California glow, even everyday moments feel a little more magical.
This article spotlights everything from classic things to do in LA for couples to inspired adventures off the beaten path to help you create your own love story in the City of Angels.
TL;DR
- Iconic romance: Griffith Observatory at sunset; Mulholland overlooks by night; Santa Monica Pier strolls.
- Coastal escapes: Malibu wine tastings/picnics; Parker Mesa sunrise/sunset hike; Catalina Island day trip.
- Intimate vibes: Long Beach gondola ride; Getty Villa golden-hour gardens; couples spa in Beverly Hills.
- Culture dates: The Broad or LACMA (free/low-cost windows); rooftop movie night downtown.
- Timing tips: Go weekdays or early/late for space; carry layers near the coast; reserve popular spots.
- Budget-friendly: Free viewpoints, museum hours, picnics; elevate with a personal touch (playlist, note, dessert).
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Overview
Why is Los Angeles a perfect city for couples? It might be the coastal beauty or perhaps the creative energy that permeates its art, music, and food scenes. In LA, you can spend the morning hand-in-hand on a quiet garden walk, the afternoon sampling wines in the mountains, and the evening watching city lights from a rooftop lounge. Few places offer such a variety of romantic spots in Los Angeles, from serene parks and beaches to world-class museums and restaurants.
Couples here can tailor dates to their style. If you crave adventure, you’ll find scenic hikes with breathtaking views and drives up winding roads to lookout points (on a clear day you might see from the ocean to snow-capped mountains). If you prefer something intimate and relaxed, Los Angeles has secret gardens, cozy cafés, and spa retreats tucked away from the hustle.
For those who love culture, the city’s vibrant arts scene means you can share an afternoon at a museum or an evening at a historic theater. And let’s not forget the food: dinner could be beachside tacos at sunset or a candlelit meal in the hills overlooking the skyline.
In practical terms, LA’s weather means almost year-round opportunities for outdoor romance — winter brings crisp, clear skies ideal for stargazing, spring carpets the hills in wildflowers, and summer invites outdoor movies and concerts under the stars. The key is to choose experiences that speak to you as a couple. In the end, the best things to do in LA for couples are the ones that feel authentic to your story.
Griffith Observatory Sunset Views
High atop Griffith Park, the iconic Griffith Observatory offers a front-row seat to one of Los Angeles’s most spectacular sunsets. As late afternoon light spills over the city, couples gather on the observatory’s terraces to watch downtown’s skyscrapers gleam and the Pacific Ocean reflect streaks of orange and pink.
It’s a scene so cinematic it famously inspired La La Land, and indeed you might feel like film stars yourselves as you take in the panorama. When the sun finally dips behind the Hollywood Hills and a soft twilight falls, the romance truly begins. The city lights sparkle to life below, and above you the first stars pierce the indigo sky.
At that magical hour, you can peek through the observatory’s telescopes together — on clear evenings, free public telescope viewings let you gaze at the moon and planets side by side. Inside, the Art Deco domes and space exhibits add a cosmic perspective to your date.
Wander through displays of galaxies and nebulae, or catch a show in the planetarium to be transported among the stars. Few experiences compare to standing under the Observatory’s dome with your partner, looking first through a historic Zeiss telescope and then out at the twinkling expanse of LA below. It’s the perfect blend of earthbound and ethereal.
Malibu Wine Safari or Vineyard Picnics
Trade the city bustle for rolling vineyards and mountain vistas in Malibu, where wine tasting becomes an adventure. At the famous Malibu Wine Safari, you’ll hop into an open-top safari jeep and roam a 1,000-acre ranch dotted with grapevines and curious animals.
As you bump along rustic trails, you and your loved one can sip local varietals — perhaps a crisp sauvignon blanc or a rich cabernet — while meeting friendly zebras, alpacas, or even Stanley the giraffe poking his head in for a hello. It’s a date that’s equal parts playful and romantic: imagine feeding carrots to a gentle giraffe together, laughter and wine toasts amid the vineyards.
This unique tasting tour includes stops at scenic spots around the ranch to sample a flight of wines, often paired with crackers or cheeses to nibble. By the end, you’ll have plenty of new inside jokes and maybe a favorite bottle to take home.
If a quieter vineyard escape is more your style, Malibu has cozy winery patios and picnic spots that set the stage for intimate moments. Pack a basket of your favorite foods and find a spot overlooking rows of grapes with the Santa Monica Mountains in the background. Many local wineries welcome outside food and have live acoustic music on weekends.
Between sips of wine, you can bask in the sunshine and each other’s company, far from any distractions. It’s hard not to feel the romance when you’re tucked under an oak tree, wine glass in hand, gazing out at a sun-drenched valley that feels like a little slice of Tuscany in SoCal.
Gondola Ride in Long Beach’s Naples Canals
Who says you have to fly to Venice for a dreamy gondola ride? In the charming Naples neighborhood of Long Beach, canals wind between waterfront homes, and actual Venetian-style gondolas glide through the calm waters.
As you step aboard your private gondola and settle onto the cushioned seat, you’ll feel the world slow down. Your gondolier, perhaps wearing the classic striped shirt, might even hum an Italian tune as he gently rows you and your sweetheart along canal lanes lined with twinkling lights.
Under arched bridges and past fragrant gardens, the gondola drifts as if in its own little universe. It’s a novel, almost whimsical kind of romance — LA’s own version of Venice — and one of those romantic spots in Los Angeles that often surprises even locals.
Many couples bring a picnic basket or a favorite bottle of wine to enjoy on the ride (yes, it’s BYOB friendly on most gondolas!). You clink glasses as reflections dance on the water, the sound of the oar dipping in the canal the only thing breaking the silence.
Around you, elegant houses and swaying palm trees slip by, and you might catch a glimpse of moonlight on the bay as you exit a canal into the open Alamitos Bay. In fact, Long Beach’s Gondola Getaway has been operating since 1982, with the largest fleet of gondolas in America offering these romantic cruises.
By the time you return to the dock, you’ll have floated a mile in each other’s arms, feeling as if you’ve traveled far beyond Southern California for an hour.
Romantic Dinner at Yamashiro Hollywood
For classic Hollywood glamour and an unparalleled view, Yamashiro in Hollywood is the ultimate dinner date spot. Perched high in the Hollywood Hills, this century-old Japanese-inspired mansion (its name means “Mountain Palace”) transports you and your partner to another world.
As you walk through its ornate gates, you’ll find tranquil gardens, stone lanterns, and a koi pond softly illuminated by hanging lights. It’s easy to forget the bustling city below as you wander the grounds, perhaps pausing at a pagoda that’s over 600 years old, listening to the gentle trickle of a waterfall.
Come sunset, the restaurant’s panoramic windows frame a jaw-dropping tableau: the city of Los Angeles awash in golden light, then twinkling in the dusk. Request a table in the Sunset Dining Room or out on the terrace — on a clear evening, you can see all the way from the downtown skyscrapers to the ocean as you dine.
Yamashiro’s ambiance is warm and elegant. You might start with cocktails in the garden courtyard (maybe a sake-based concoction or a Japanese whiskey old-fashioned), then move to your table as the sky turns purple. The menu is Asian-fusion, featuring dishes like miso-marinated black cod or sushi rolls topped with premium ingredients, but honestly, the real star might be the shared chocolate fondue dessert as you watch city lights shimmer below.
Consistently named among LA’s most romantic restaurants , Yamashiro has history in its walls – it once hosted secret high-society clubs for Hollywood’s elite in the 1920s – and that bygone romance lingers in the atmosphere. Dine here, and you’ll feel a bit like Hollywood royalty yourselves, savoring great food and an even better view in each other’s company.
Hike to Parker Mesa Overlook (Sunrise or Sunset)
If you and your love are the kind of couple that bonds over nature and a little exercise, an early hike to Parker Mesa Overlook will feel absolutely rewarding. Tucked in the wilderness of the Santa Monica Mountains (accessible via the Los Liones Trail in Pacific Palisades), Parker Mesa offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in LA.
The trail itself winds through lush canyon greenery and chaparral; in spring, wildflowers often line the path, and you might catch sight of a hawk soaring above. It’s a moderate trek – about 6 to 7 miles round-trip, depending on your start point – but as you climb, hand in hand, the anticipation builds.
You’ll emerge at Parker Mesa to an open bluff 1,500 feet above sea level, with a jaw-dropping panorama of the Pacific coastline stretching out below. On a clear day, you can see the entire Santa Monica Bay curving along the coast and even distant mountain ranges inland.
For a truly romantic twist, time your hike for either sunrise or sunset. At sunrise, you’ll likely have the overlook nearly to yourselves. Imagine settling on a bench as the first rays of sun peek over the mountains behind you, painting the ocean in pastel hues. Morning mist clings to the shoreline, and Catalina Island might appear as a purple silhouette on the horizon.
It’s a quiet, soulful moment to share, with just the breeze and some birds for company. At sunset, the scene is equally magical: the sky ignites in oranges and reds over the water, city lights start to flicker on, and there’s a peaceful hush as day turns to night.
Just be sure to start back down before it’s pitch dark (bring a flashlight or headlamp if needed). Whether you hike at dawn or dusk, you’ll both carry the memory of that view – and the sense of accomplishment – long after you’ve returned to the city below.
Couples Spa Experience in Beverly Hills
Indulging in a couples spa day is the ultimate way to relax and reconnect, and in Beverly Hills you can do it in true luxury. This is a city known for pampering, after all, and its high-end spas do not disappoint. Picture this: you and your partner slip into plush robes and step into a private suite adorned with candles and calming music.
Perhaps you’ve booked the signature couples treatment at the famed Tomoko Spa – a Japanese oasis tucked just off Rodeo Drive. Your experience might begin with an Ashiyu foot bath ceremony, where warm water and herbs soothe your feet while you sip fragrant tea.
Tension already melting away, you then lie down side by side for a synchronized massage. Skilled therapists work out every knot with aromatic oils; you glance over and see your partner’s contented, half-asleep smile and know you’re in the same blissful state.
What sets some Beverly Hills spa packages apart are the extravagant extras. At Tomoko, for example, after the massage you’re invited to soak together in an Ofuro, a deep Japanese hinoki wood tub filled with steaming, soothing water.
As if that weren’t heavenly enough, the experience can culminate in a private sushi lunch served in your suite – yes, sushi for two in a candlelit spa room, wrapped in fluffy robes, completely at ease. Other five-star hotels in the area (Peninsula, Beverly Wilshire, etc.) offer their own couples rituals: think rose-petal-strewn baths, champagne toasts, or side-by-side facials that leave you both glowing.
Whichever you choose, a couples spa date in Beverly Hills lets you shut out the world and focus on pure relaxation together. You’ll emerge holding hands, utterly refreshed, and perhaps ready for a quiet evening in – the perfect gentle end to a day of indulgence.
Night Walk at Santa Monica Pier
When the sun goes down, the energy at the Santa Monica Pier turns decidedly dreamy. By day the pier is lively and fun, but at night it transforms into a nostalgic carnival of lights stretching over the dark ocean. Start with a simple stroll, hand in hand, under the iconic arch that marks the pier’s entrance.
The air smells of saltwater and cotton candy. Street performers might be playing a soulful tune on a guitar or violin, adding a romantic soundtrack as you make your way past the game booths and food stands.
Above you, the Ferris wheel – the famous Pacific Wheel – comes alive in a rainbow of LED patterns, reflecting off the water. (Fun fact: it’s the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel !) The colorful lights of the wheel and the old-fashioned carousel pavilion give the pier a whimsical glow, like something out of an old movie.
Challenge your partner to win a prize at a ring toss or water gun game; even if you don’t succeed, you’ll be laughing the whole way through. Share a treat like a funnel cake or a drippy ice cream cone. Then make your way to Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel for the best view in town.
As your gondola rises above the pier, the sounds of the arcade below fade, replaced by the gentle whoosh of the sea. At the top, pause and take in the 360° view: the coastline dotted with lights, the Santa Monica Mountains silhouette, and the vast black Pacific stretching to the horizon. It’s a perfect moment to steal a kiss with no one watching except maybe the moon.
Back on the pier, you might sit on a bench and listen to the waves or slow-dance to a busker’s song. The Santa Monica Pier at night manages to be both lively and intimately romantic — a place where you can feel like kids again, and yet also deeply connected in your own little world.
Rooftop Movie Night in Downtown LA
There’s something undeniably romantic about watching a movie under the open sky, and in Downtown LA you can do just that in style. Rooftop Cinema Club hosts outdoor movie nights atop high-rise buildings, turning a regular film screening into a memorable date.
When you arrive at the rooftop venue, you’re greeted by a panorama of the city’s neon-lit skyline. Rows of deck chairs or cozy loveseats are arranged facing the big screen, each equipped with blankets and wireless headphones for an immersive experience.
As you settle in, perhaps with a bucket of popcorn in your lap and a cocktail from the rooftop bar in hand, the sun is just finishing its descent. The first stars pop out above, and the buildings around you glow – a stunning backdrop for whatever classic or cult favorite film is on the bill that night.
We love the little touches that make this experience special. Comfy deck chairs where you can lean back together, snuggling under a blanket. Personal headphones ensure you catch every word of dialogue despite any city noise (and it somehow makes it feel like it’s just the two of you in your own world).
Some screenings even offer love-seat bean bags for two and waiter service so you don’t have to move an inch. It’s the ultimate mix of urban chic and cozy comfort. During the movie, you might glance over not at the screen, but at your partner’s face illuminated by the film’s light, and feel that warm contentment of a simple night done right.
After the credits roll, linger a bit to enjoy the view – downtown’s lights stretching out in every direction – and you’ll understand why a rooftop movie is often touted as one of the most unique and romantic date ideas in Los Angeles. It’s movie magic, literally elevated.
Drive the Mulholland Scenic Route
Sometimes the simplest adventures are the most romantic. Case in point: a twilight drive along Mulholland Drive, LA’s legendary winding road that snakes along the ridgeline of the Hollywood Hills. This scenic route has almost as many breathtaking overlooks as it has miles.
As you navigate the gentle curves, windows down, you’ll catch glimpses of glittering city on one side and the vast San Fernando Valley on the other. It’s the kind of drive made for music – perhaps you have a special playlist or song that’s “yours” as a couple. Cue it up, let the warm evening air flow in, and feel the mood set in motion. For a classic LA date night, driving Mulholland at sunset is hard to beat: you get the golden hour hues fading to a blanket of city lights.
Be sure to pull off at the designated scenic overlooks (the Mulholland Scenic Overlook near Hollywood Bowl or the Universal City Overlook are favorites). There, you can step out and watch the panoramic spectacle together. If you timed it right, you’ll see the last burst of color in the sky as the sun slips away, and then gradually the entire Los Angeles basin lights up like a sea of stars.
Standing at the railing of the overlook, arm around your partner’s waist, you have a front-row view of the city’s romance: twinkling lights, distant sounds of life carrying up from below, and overhead a big moon if you’re lucky. You might feel a world away from the traffic and noise – Mulholland’s peaceful, winding path truly does transport city dwellers to the mountains, just as its designer intended back in the 1920s.
Continue your drive a bit further for a look at the Valley side; maybe even catch sight of a deer or two by the road. By the time you descend back into civilization, you’ll have shared an experience that costs nothing but creates an indelible LA memory.
Day Trip to Catalina Island
For a couples’ escape that feels like a mini vacation, consider a day trip to Catalina Island. Just 22 miles off the Southern California coast (and about a one-hour ferry ride from Long Beach or San Pedro), Catalina offers an idyllic change of pace that’s perfect for romance.
The moment you step off the boat in Avalon – the island’s main town – you’re greeted by a postcard scene: a curve of sand, gentle waves lapping at colorful boats in the harbor, and charming Mediterranean-style buildings climbing the hillside. There are no freeways or high-rises here, just golf carts puttering down the street and the sound of seagulls. Catalina’s stunning natural beauty and quaint village vibe create a magical atmosphere for couples.
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along Avalon’s waterfront, known as Crescent Avenue, lined with palm trees and tiled murals. You can grab a coffee and a pastry at a local cafe and sit by the water watching schools of tiny fish dart around. For a bit of adventure, rent a tandem kayak or paddleboard and explore Lovers Cove – the clear waters mean you’ll likely spot garibaldi fish (bright orange and hard to miss) below you.
If staying dry is more your thing, rent a golf cart (the preferred mode of transport here) and drive up into the hills to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden or to the vista point above town for a breathtaking panoramic view of Avalon Bay. The two of you bumping along in a little cart, discovering hidden streets and scenic overlooks, is silly and fun in the best way.
As afternoon rolls around, consider a couples’ activity like snorkeling or even a zipline tour through Descanso Canyon for a shot of adrenaline. By late day, unwind with a couples’ massage at a local spa or simply relax on the small beach.
Many day-trippers cap off their visit with an early dinner at a waterfront restaurant, toasting with a glass of wine as the sun begins to set over the ocean. When dusk falls, the harbor lights up and the historic Catalina Casino (an Art Deco landmark from the 1920s) stands majestically at the end of the bay, often illuminated against the night sky.
Heading back to the ferry, you’ll likely already be talking about “next time,” perhaps to stay overnight. Catalina Island’s blend of adventure and relaxation packs a lot of romance into one day — it truly feels like a world away, making it an ideal getaway for two.
Evening at the Getty Villa Gardens
Tucked along the Pacific Coast Highway in the Pacific Palisades, the Getty Villa offers a romantic step back in time – and it’s often delightfully less crowded in the late afternoon and early evening.
Modeled after an ancient Roman country house, the villa is home to Greek and Roman antiquities, but it’s the atmosphere that enchants couples. Stroll through its elegant courtyard gardens and you’ll find yourself surrounded by columns, statues of mythic gods, and reflecting pools ringed by ivy and roses.
The air carries the light scent of Mediterranean herbs from the herb garden – lavender, thyme, maybe a hint of lemon verbena. It’s easy to feel as though you’ve wandered into a secluded European estate. In fact, locals often suggest the Villa as a date spot for its intimate scale and romantic vibe.
As golden hour approaches, the Getty Villa takes on a special glow. The sun starts to dip toward the ocean, and the villa’s Inner Peristyle garden – with its long reflecting pool – is bathed in honeyed light. Statues cast long reflections on the water’s surface.
You might find a quiet bench beneath a cypress or at the edge of the small amphitheater and just soak in the tranquility together. Over the walls, you catch glimpses of the ocean and feel a gentle breeze reminding you the beach is just down the hill. Even at closing time, the gardens remain brilliant, framing the villa against a cerulean sky in the late-day light. It’s a sight that urges you to linger.
Before you leave, peek into the museum galleries if you have time – holding hands while browsing ancient jewelry or pottery can spark fun conversations (“Which mythical figure would you be?”). But if not, no worries. The highlight here is truly the ambience.
As you walk back to your car, you might see the sky turning pink over the Pacific and realize the Villa has given you a rare LA gift: a peaceful, romantic retreat that didn’t cost a thing (admission is free with a reservation). Pro tip: plan to pair your visit with a dinner in nearby Malibu or Brentwood, so the romantic evening seamlessly continues after the Villa’s gates close.
Art Date at The Broad or LACMA
For couples who bond over art and culture, an art museum date in LA can be both inspiring and romantic. Two standout choices are The Broad downtown and LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) in Mid-Wilshire – and each offers its own style of magic.
At The Broad, you’ll first be struck by the museum’s architecture: a sleek white honeycomb-like exterior that is itself a work of art. Inside, you wander through airy galleries featuring some of the most significant contemporary artworks of our time – we’re talking giant pop art pieces and thought-provoking installations.
You and your partner might find yourselves chuckling at a whimsical Jeff Koons sculpture one moment, then pondering a powerful Basquiat painting the next. Make sure to (figuratively) lose yourselves in the Infinity Mirrored Room by Yayoi Kusama if available – only a couple people enter at a time, so it’s like a private cosmic universe of endless reflections, perfect for a duo.
The Broad is also wonderfully accessible: general admission is free (just reserve ahead), which means you can save your pennies for a nice coffee or meal afterward. Discussing your interpretations of abstract pieces or snapping a cute picture together in front of a mural can spark connection and some deep conversations.
Meanwhile, over at LACMA, you get a blend of art and the outdoors. This sprawling museum campus invites a slower pace. Stroll through diverse collections – from impressionist paintings to striking modern art – and notice what pieces each of you gravitates towards.
One of LACMA’s most romantic features actually awaits outside the museum: “Urban Light,” the famous installation of 202 cast-iron antique street lamps that glow warmly come evening. Walking among these lamps at dusk, you’re bathed in a soft light that feels straight out of a fairytale; it’s no wonder this spot is a photographer’s (and Instagrammer’s) dream for couple shots.
Maybe take that quintessential photo of you two beneath the labyrinth of lampposts. As night falls, the museum’s exterior and sculpture garden are beautifully lit, and sometimes live jazz music wafts over from the adjacent cafe on a summer night.
Pro tip: LACMA is free for LA County residents after 3 p.m. on weekdays, so you can time an afternoon date to take advantage of that and catch the sunset among the art.
Whichever museum you choose (why not both on different days?), an art date encourages holding hands, hushed whispers, and seeing the world through each other’s eyes just a bit. It’s both enlightening and romantic to discover new favorites together – and realize that the way your partner sees a painting gives you another beautiful perspective on who they are.
Local Tips for Couples
Planning a romantic outing in LA is part of the fun. Here are some local tips to help you and your sweetheart make the most of the city’s amorous offerings:
- Best Time for Outdoor Dates: Los Angeles is blessed with generally mild weather year-round, but certain seasons shine for romance. Winter and early spring often bring crystal-clear skies (after a rain, the views from places like Griffith Observatory or Mulholland Drive can be unbelievably sharp).
Spring (March–May) is green and blooming – perfect for garden strolls and hikes. Summer has endless sunny days and warm nights, ideal for beach dates and outdoor movies, though popular spots can be crowded. Fall is a sweet spot: still warm, but with thinner crowds and golden light.
Whenever you go out, remember that LA evenings near the ocean can turn cool fast – even in August. If your date involves the beach, a rooftop, or waterfront (Santa Monica, Malibu, etc.), bring an extra layer.
- Avoiding Crowds: A romantic moment can be even better with a little privacy. To dodge crowds, consider visiting famous spots on weekdays or during off-peak hours. For example, try a sunrise hike instead of sunset, a Monday night dinner instead of Saturday, or a museum right when it opens.
Many iconic places (Griffith Observatory, popular beaches, the Getty Center) are much quieter in the mornings. Also, Los Angeles is vast – sometimes an alternative location is just as magical with half the people.
Can’t find a table at that well-known viewpoint restaurant? Maybe a picnic at a lesser-known scenic overlook is just as lovely. And don’t underestimate winter for tourism-heavy areas: a January sunset at Santa Monica Pier can be serenely uncrowded and beautiful.
- Free or Low-Cost Romance: You don’t need a big budget to impress in LA. Some of the best romantic things to do in Los Angeles are completely free. Watch the sun set from a beach (El Matador in Malibu or Abalone Cove in Palos Verdes offer dramatic backdrops), wander the lights at Urban Light or the Griffith Observatory lawn after dark, or drive up to the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook on Mulholland for a sparkling city view (totally free and open until 9pm).
Many museums have free admission days or evenings – for instance, LACMA is free after 3 pm for LA County residents on weekdays , and The Broad is free with reservation. Pack your own picnic; there are lovely public gardens (like Beverly Gardens Park or the grounds of the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round) where you can unfurl a blanket.
The trick is to add a little personal touch: a handwritten note, a playlist you made for them, or their favorite snack, and even a simple outing becomes heartfelt.
- Exploring the City: Traffic is the not-so-romantic part of LA, so plan dates with geography in mind. Try to cluster activities by area to avoid long drives (e.g., dinner in Malibu goes well with an afternoon at a Malibu beach or hike, whereas pairing Malibu dinner with an Arts District gallery visit… not so much).
If you have to traverse the city, consider doing so at off-peak times (late at night, or late morning after rush hour) to spend more time with each other and less in the car. Or turn the drive into part of the date: play road trip games, admire fancy neighborhoods en route, or even hire a rideshare so you can both relax.
Finally, stay open to a bit of spontaneity. Some of LA’s most romantic moments happen unplanned. With a little savvy prep and a spirit of adventure, you’ll be ready to enjoy the city’s romantic side to the fullest.
Planning Your Romantic Getaway
Los Angeles is an amazing place to craft a 1- or 2-day romantic itinerary because you can mix and match themes to suit any couple’s personality. Here are a few dreamy getaway ideas:
Beach & Wine Escape: Start your day with a morning walk on Santa Monica Beach, when it’s quiet and the shoreline is yours to enjoy. Grab a casual brunch at an ocean-view café (blueberry pancakes taste better with a sea breeze!). Around midday, drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu.
You could stop at El Matador State Beach for a scenic picnic among the sea cliffs or head straight to a Malibu winery. Spend the afternoon sipping wine amid vineyard-covered hills – perhaps on the Malibu Wine Safari, where you’ll toast with giraffes and zebras in view. As the sun begins to dip, make your way to the Malibu Pier or a seaside restaurant like Malibu Farm, where you can watch a spectacular sunset over the water during dinner.
End the night snuggled up by a beach bonfire (certain beaches like Dockweiler allow fire pits) or simply stargazing on the sand, the waves providing a soothing soundtrack.
Culture & City Views: For couples who love the arts, spend Day 1 exploring Downtown LA. Visit The Broad in the late morning (it’s free and filled with conversation-starting contemporary art ). Next, wander across Grand Park or historic Olvera Street for a glimpse of LA’s heritage, and perhaps have lunch in the lively Grand Central Market (tacos, anyone?).
In the afternoon, drive up to Griffith Park. Hike a short trail for views or head straight to the Griffith Observatory to tour the exhibits and catch a planetarium show. Time it so you’re there at sunset to witness the city’s lights twinkling on. For dinner, go Hollywood classic at nearby Yamashiro – enjoy sushi and panoramic skyline views from this hilltop gem.
If you have energy, end the night back downtown with a nightcap at a rooftop bar like Perch, gazing at the illuminated skyscrapers, or even a moonlit rooftop movie screening if schedules align.
Classic Hollywood Romance: Immerse yourselves in old-school glamour. Check into a storied hotel like the Hollywood Roosevelt or Beverly Hills Hotel for a dose of vintage elegance (even if you don’t stay, you could stop by the Roosevelt’s historic lobby bar for atmosphere).
Start the day with a Hollywood sign hike (behind the Hollywood sign via the Hollyridge Trail is iconic and not too hard) or a guided tour of one of the classic movie studios to get those Hollywood vibes. Later, dolled up in your evening best, have an early dinner at Musso & Frank Grill – Hollywood’s oldest restaurant – where generations of movie stars dined; the leather booths and martinis will make you feel like you’re in the 1940s.
After dinner, catch a show at the opulent Pantages Theater (maybe a hit musical) or the Hollywood Bowl if it’s summer – the Bowl at night, picnic basket in tow, under the stars, listening to live music is pure magic. Finally, stroll through the glowing Urban Light installation at LACMA or along the Walk of Fame when the crowds have gone (it can actually be peaceful late at night). Driving back along Mulholland Drive with a Frank Sinatra tune playing would be the cherry on top of this classic Hollywood day.
Each of these itineraries balances activity and relaxation, city excitement and quiet moments. Feel free to mix elements from each to create your perfect couple’s getaway.
The Takeaway
Romance in Los Angeles is all about contrasts coming together in harmony: the freedom to enjoy both city and nature, often in the same day, and the spontaneity that the pleasant climate and diverse settings encourage. Where else can you watch the sunrise from a mountain trail, share a kiss under vintage streetlights by an art museum, and toast to the sunset on a sailboat, all within a couple of days?
It’s a city where an unplanned detour can lead to a hidden vista or a late-night taco truck feast can become a fond memory.
In LA, you’ll find that the backdrop might be grand, but the moments are your own: genuine, unscripted, and filled with the easy joy of being together. Whether it’s a first date with butterflies on the Santa Monica Pier or a 20th anniversary celebrated with a drive down memory lane (and Mulholland Drive), the City of Angels welcomes you to fall in love all over again.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the single best sunset spot for couples?
A: Griffith Observatory terraces—panoramic city-to-ocean views, easy ambiance, and telescopes after dark.
Q2: Most romantic beach experience without crowds?
A: Weeknight Santa Monica/Palisades bluffs or Malibu’s El Matador in shoulder seasons; bring layers and a picnic.
Q3: Wine date without a long drive?
A: Malibu tasting rooms and vineyard patios along PCH can be done as a half-day (reserve ahead on weekends).
Q4: Affordable art-forward date?
A: The Broad (free timed entry) + DTLA stroll; or LACMA at dusk to wander “Urban Light” and the sculpture garden.
Q5: Is a gondola ride in Long Beach really worth it?
A: Yes—BYO treats, twilight departures, and serene canals make it a surprisingly intimate hour.
Q6: Best hike for a romantic payoff view?
A: Los Liones to Parker Mesa Overlook—go for sunrise/sunset; allow 3–4 hours, bring water and a headlamp if late.
Q7: How far in advance should I book spa or rooftop movie?
A: Popular weekends fill 1–2 weeks out; weekdays offer easier bookings and a quieter vibe.
Q8: Any easy day trip for two?
A: Catalina Island—early ferry, kayak or golf cart up to views, sunset dinner on the waterfront before returning.