No shade on a coffee date (I’ve gone on many great ones!), but you could do that anywhere. When living in a place people select as their proposal destination, the pressure’s on to pick a Valentine’s Day destination that will make you and your sweetie feel like all those twitterpated critters in Bambi. To help you find an extra-special Valentine’s Day outing, we rounded up 20 date spots in San Diego that take advantage of the county’s gorgeous landscapes and fun activities.
Dinner with a View
There’s no shortage of oceanfront dining in San Diego, but a Valentine’s meal deserves an extra-special setting. For a classic La Jolla sunset, head to George’s at the Cove. Prefer a hip rooftop vibe with Italian fare and Aperol spritzes? Garibaldi is your spot. And for a unique experience, book a table at Tom Ham’s Lighthouse for waterfront dining with a touch of novelty.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is chock-full of date possibilities, thanks to its wide variety of museums, gardens, and dining options. Learn something new together at the Nat, take a romantic stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden, or simply lay out a picnic on one of the park’s relaxing grassy knolls.
South Bay Drive-In
All those teens in the 1950s can’t have been wrong: There’s something quite intimate about a drive-in movie theater. South Bay Drive-In shows up to six flicks on three screens, seven days a week. Cuddling up in the comfort of your own car while watching a story unfold is a classic date activity that has stood the test of time.
Belmont Park
Up the adrenaline next date night with a trip to Belmont Park. The iconic Mission Beach amusement park is packed with heart-pounding thrill rides (which science says can turn up the heat in your relationship), plus fair games where you can charm your cutie by winning them a prize.
Get Artsy Together
This Valentine’s Day, channel your inner Patrick Swayze and create something meaningful (and messy) with your partner. Instead of the predictable paint-and-sip classes, opt for a hands-on pottery class at Pinch Pottery Studio downtown. This special Valentine’s Day class is $150 and will leave you each with a handmade piece to cherish as a keepsake.
Wine & Dine
Nothing says romance like a good wine and charcuterie pairing. The Rose in South Park is an adorable spot for sipping cabernet while nibbling on meats, cheeses, and breads from Secret Sister Bakery. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of South Park for a perfect end to the evening. Want more wine bar inspiration? We’ve got you covered here.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Are you and your honey outdoorsy? Then Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve may be right up your alley. The expansive reserve offers breathtaking environs, multiple trails to explore, and access to Torrey Pines State Beach.
Farmers Market
You can find an abundance of farmers markets across the city almost any day of the week. They’re a great place to wander hand-and-hand, scoping local produce and buying ingredients to make a fun, fresh lunch together after.
Liberty Station
Whether it’s a first date or your weekly couples night, the romantic outing options at Liberty Station are endless. You can enjoy a luxury cinema experience at The Lot or have a friendly mini golf competition at Tapper Mini Golf. Round out the evening with dinner at Liberty Public Market.
Indulge in a Spa Day
Treat yourselves this Valentine’s Day with a couples massage at one of San Diego’s most luxurious spas. The Spa at Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers a decadent Restorative Couples Massage for $930, complete with a mineral-rich bath, moisture wrap, and foot massage. Your skin—and your special someone—will thank you.
Take the Leap
Besides marriage, paragliding might just be the ultimate declaration of love. Soar side-by-side from the Torrey Pines Gliderport, where professional instructors will guide you on a tandem flight over La Jolla’s stunning coastline. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and awe for you and your adrenaline-seeking partner. Flights start at $200—commitment optional.
Coin Haus
If your date night takes you to East County, pop by Coin Haus in La Mesa. The arcade bar features self-serve taps and retro games, making it perfect for a cool and nostalgic outing. You can also team up with your main squeeze or double-date with friends at Coin Haus’ weekly trivia night.
Rooftop Cinema Club
A trip to the movies is a quintessential date night activity. Take it to the next level with Rooftop Cinema Club, an open-air experience at the Manchester Grand Hyatt featuring new flicks and older classics. The city views, theater snacks, and personal headphones offer a more immersive viewing opportunity.
Have a Bougie Picnic
Elevate your picnic game with a touch of luxury. If your charcuterie skills are a little lackluster, let the pros at San Diego Picnics handle it. They’ll craft an Insta-worthy glamp for you and your boo in picturesque spots like Sunset Cliffs, Mission Bay, or Kate Sessions Park. Ready to take things to the next level? Opt for their proposal package and pop the question.
Kayaking in La Jolla
If you really want to bond with your boo, try something adventurous that requires a little teamwork. Kayaking around the waters of La Jolla really fits that bill—plus, you’re likely to catch amazing views of sea lions and tiger sharks.
Sip and Stroll at a Winery
Skip the grocery store wine and taste varietals fresh from the vine. Bernardo Winery’s Valentine’s Day festivities, running February 12–16, feature live music, themed cuisine, and specialty drinks. Reserve a tasting or tour the 136-year-old vineyard for a date steeped in history—and wine.
Punch Bowl Social
Gaslamp Quarter hotspot Punch Bowl Social is a great place to bring a date, as endless opportunities for fun are right at your fingertips. Cap off ten frames of bowling at Punch Bowl with a menu full of late-night bites, comfort food, and cocktails.
San Diego Zoo
At the San Diego Zoo, you and your date can spend hours peering at elephants, orangutans, and other fascinating creatures. For a new fling, it offers plenty of time to chat and get to know each other. For those in an established relationship, it’s a great place to spend quality time together and have some wholesome fun.
The Pearl Hotel
Let me grab my swimsuit probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think “movie night”—unless, of course, you’re headed to The Pearl Hotel. The Point Loma lodging’s Wednesday Dive-In movie nights in the pool often include cult classics, as well as the opportunity to dine at the onsite restaurant.
Eco Boat Rentals
Tired of meeting for drinks? Try something new: Eco Boat Rentals in Point Loma offers great day and evening boating opportunities. I personally enjoyed taking their pedal boat for a ride during the afternoon, laughing along with my husband as we tried to keep our pedaling in sync. You can also check out their nighttime “glow ride” option to take in the lights of San Diego’s skyline from the water.
