California may be the third largest state in the country by area, but it's arguably unparalleled when it comes to romance. Stretching from the Mexican border in the south to Oregon in the north, this golden state is known for its breathtaking coastline, ancient redwood forests, mountains, rolling farmland and desert landscapes. desert. Large cities like sunny Los Angeles and foggy San Francisco attract a lot of couples who come here to enjoy the beautiful scenery, while smaller communities outside the metropolis, including Malibu, Ojai and Sausalito, were irresistible. There are breathtaking national and state parks, world-class wine regions, and endless opportunities for long beach walks. California is home to some of the best and most exciting restaurants in America, allowing you to impress your lover with a special date dinner. With such diversity for every couple, California is ready for a romantic getaway. You just need to decide which attractions to visit first. The following article will list the top 13 most romantic vacation destinations in California! Let's find out together!
1 Big Sur
The turquoise sea water is extremely beautiful at Big Sur - Photo source: Pinterest
An essential stop on any Pacific Coast Highway trip and a guaranteed destination for all visits, Big Sur is defined by its breathtaking scenery. Towering old redwoods give way to coastal cliffs, and a regular mist covers the sky. There are hiking trails for all skill levels, plus some dream-worthy overnight accommodations, from luxury adults-only boutique resorts like Ventana Big Sur and Post Ranch Inns (both with award-winning restaurants) to cozy cabins, ski sites, and rugged campgrounds.
2 Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea - Image source: Pinterest
An alluring destination no different from a movie set, Carmel-by-the-Sea fascinates all who visit. This is the perfect place for travelers to enjoy a relaxing dip by the sea while still enjoying the many things to do. The tiny downtown area feels like a fairy tale village with its atmospheric restaurants, art galleries, and cute shops. Of course, you'll also want to make time for romantic activities like wine tasting and picnic lunches on Carmel Beach.
3 Ojai
The purple color of the sunset at Ojai is ecstatic - Photo source: Pinterest
California is full of great seaside towns, but Ojai is one of the most enchanting inland gems that romance seekers shouldn't miss. Downtown buzzes with shops, farm-to-fork restaurants like The Nest, and breweries. If wine tasting is your thing, it's totally doable, as are walks along the 9.5-mile Ojai Valley Trail.
4 Healdsburg
Bright yellow farms in Healdburd - Photo source: Pinterest
Healdsburg is a vibrant wine country destination where guests can sip, enjoy and spend time at the most professional spas. Marine Layer Wines and Lioco are some of the best places for a stroll downtown. A short drive outside of town, you'll find many excellent wineries in the Dry Creek Valley. Whether you prefer farm-to-table fare with a side of a charming Provence courtyard (like Barndiva) or something stylish and vegan (like Little Saint), a splendid restaurant is never far away. more than a few blocks. Topping the list of the most romantic places to spend the night? Harmon Guest House and Montage Healdsburg are probably the best options.
5 Malibu
Malibu is peaceful and leisurely - Photo source: Pinterest
Malibu isn't just a haven for celebrities trying to escape the flashing camera lights and lavish stares of Hollywood; it's a driveable beach town. Here, you can see classic and luxury cars like motorcycles running along the Pacific Coast Highway. The motel-store-hotel game is strong too, with spots like The Surfrider Malibu and flashy Nobu Ryokan Malibu. It's easy to find a secluded sandy beach to roll up a blanket, uncork a bottle of wine and share a burrito from this longtime local favorite Lily's.
6 Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park possesses a landscape with ecstatic shades - Photo source: Pinterest
Joshua Tree National Park has become a popular spot for photographers and vloggers alike, but at its core, the area is a haven of otherworldly scenery and outdoor adventure that attracts those Nature lover. While nothing can hold a candle in beautiful natural surroundings, the range of vintage Airstreams and uniquely designed cabins. Some properties even have open-air freestanding baths, so couples can enjoy a dip while gazing at the wondrous celestial body above.
7 Palm Springs
Palm trees are the highlight of Palms Springs - Photo source: Pinterest
It's not just the scorching temperatures that make Palm Springs such a hot destination. Since the Golden Age of Hollywood, A-list duos have been running to this desert paradise in search of a bit of R&R and lots of romance. Swinging palm trees and majestic mountains surround a downtown district, where the city center is dotted with vintage shops and restaurants, while stylish boutiques like The Colony Palms and Parker Palm Springs attracts design-conscious couples who want to live a private life for a few days.
8 Vịnh Bodega
Bodega Bay is not noisy, a paradise of wineries - Photo source: Pinterest
Most people know Sonoma County for its vineyards and wineries. Bodega Bay presents an incredibly different and breathtakingly beautiful coastal region. It's a quick and scenic drive from the best wine towns in Northern California, making it a great trip if you want a change of scenery. But the romantic setting is to stay overnight at The Lodge in Bodega Bay. The next morning, start the day with a scenic walk to the sea, followed by an oyster at one of the famous local seafood stalls.
9 Sausalito
Sausalito with clear blue sky and simple beautiful architecture- Image source: Pinterest
Just across the bay from San Francisco, we saw some romantic scenes. It's a leisurely seaside destination where walking along the marina and admiring the bobbing boats is considered a fun afternoon. If you enjoy hiking, biking or simply admiring the majesty of nature, prepare to fall in love with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. As far as accommodation is concerned, you can't help but marvel at the historic atmosphere and unobstructed Golden Gate Bridge views at Cavallo Point.
10 Los Alamos
Los Alamos is a destination for wine lovers - Photo source: Pinterest
Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, not far from Santa Barbara, Los Alamos is an untested wine destination, beautifully landscaped, and not overcrowded with tourists. Despite its coveted wine (terrorist pours at Bedford Winery, Casa Dumetz Wines and Lumen Wines are particularly pleasant) and foodie scene, Los Alamos retains a sense of authenticity. Fans of vintage vibes will head to Skyview Los Alamos, a hilltop hideaway located near Highway 101 that pays homage to its roots as a 1950s motel
11 Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park with unique ancient caves - Photo source: Pinterest
A romantic trip to Death Valley National Park - a beautiful place with a grim-sounding name - is all about observing the dramatic landscape with the person you love most. Visiting the salt flats of the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, is sure to be a beautifully bonding experience. Artists Palette and Zabriskie Point are two must-sees. In addition to witnessing nature's astonishing marvels, couples can rent a tent or sit in one of the sheltered accommodations, toasting marshmallows and cuddling under the stars.
12 Kenwood
Kenwood, which owns luxurious and quiet spas for couples to go to beauty together - Photo source: Pinterest
For a quieter, less important getaway in Sonoma County that scores high on wine and romance, the idyllic town of Kenwood is the perfect choice. It's home to some excellent wineries (not to mention exceptional dining experiences await at Hamel Family Wines just minutes away) and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, and close to the Sonoma Botanical Gardens. Meanwhile, the Kenwood Inn & Spa exudes Italian splendor and a distinctly mature atmosphere that will transport you to Tuscany - experience it all without leaving this golden State.
13 Half Moon Bay
The hotel located on Half Moon Bay is the ideal place to have romantic evenings together - Photo source: Pinterest
If you live in the San Francisco area, chances are you've heard of Half Moon Bay. Aside from riding mavericks, this is a great place for a romantic getaway - as long as you check in to The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. Perched on top, this luxury hotel features exquisite guestrooms with fire pits and sweeping ocean views, as well as a world-class golf course, three freshwater restaurants and a luxury spa. Book a table at The Conservatory for dinner and end the evening with some light and lively food on your private terrace.
