California ranks as the 23rd most romantic state in the US, but we think it should be top of the list. California has plenty of wonderful romantic experiences, from watching sunsets over the ocean to hiking in the mountains or getting cosy in some of the world’s most romantic hotels and restaurants. Ready to plan an escape to California with your special someone? Here are some of the best couples getaways in California.
7 of the best couples getaways in California
1. Truckee
Truckee, located 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe, has long been an adventurer’s favourite destination in the West. The charming town has an active art and music community and a great dining scene. In the surrounding area, you can get out into nature and enjoy hikes and walks in Donner Memorial State Park.
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea checks all of the boxes for a charming small beach city. Its fairytale cottages, secret passageways, quirky boutiques, cosy hotels and lovely waterside restaurants are brimming with character and style. It has the perfect ingredients for a wonderful romantic getaway. It is just a short walk from downtown to one of the best beaches in Northern California. Adorned with cypress trees, it’s the perfect spot to sink into the soft sand or splash about in the clear, enjoying salty kisses with your beloved.
3. Solvang
Solvang is a city in southern California’s Santa Ynez Valley. It is a historic Danish Village famous for its many bakeries selling freshly made Danish pastries. If you are a couple who enjoys shopping, there are loads of quirky, old-world-style boutiques. It is a wonderful destination for a heavy dose of Scandinavian charm.
4. San Clemente, California
This slice of SoCal heaven is one of the best beach destinations. It is famous for its brilliant surf and laid-back islander lifestyle. Couples can spend their day filling up at the countless food trucks that dot the shores before going horseback riding at sunset. You can also explore the waters with an afternoon of snorkelling. Aside from the beautiful beaches, you’ll find loads of Mediterranean architecture throughout the city, with orange roofs and Spanish charm galore.
5. Mendocino, California
Mendocino is a coastal community in northern California. It is famous for its dramatic cliffside trails, beaches, and Mendocino Headlands State Park. In the town, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you occupied, from award-winning wine bars and uber-cute shops to restaurants that champion local cuisine to gorgeous boutique accommodations.
6. Newport Beach, California
Newport Beach is famous for its sophisticated, upscale shopping scene, countless fancy restaurants and glitzy local life. But if you are a couple who likes to embrace nature together, it is also known for its breathtaking coast lined with yachts and colourful sunsets. If you are a couple who likes to keep active on holidays but still likes to keep things romantic, you can both hang ten on the 8 miles of sandy beach. You can also spend the day hunting for shells at Crystal Cove State Park before enjoying a picnic on the sand to round out a fabulous day.
7. Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is where Mediterranean charm meets SoCal glam. Framed by stunning mountains and crystal clear waters, the landscape sets an incredibly romantic scene. However, the local culture is just as great, with lots of warehouses-turned-art-galleries. There are lots of lovely wine rooms too, and you’ll find some of California’s best Mexican food. Oh, and make sure you pay a visit to the delightful public market where you can find just about everything under the sun.
