7 Romantic Getaways in Southern California

California ranks as the 23rd most romantic state in the US, but we think it should be top of the list. Southern California in particular has some heartwarming romantic experiences from watching sunsets over the ocean to stargazing in the desert or getting cosy in some of the most romantic hotels in the world. Ready to plan an escape to SoCal with your special someone? Here are some of the most romantic getaways in Southern California.

7 Romantic Getaways in Southern California

1. San Diego

The 1,954-foot-long pier Oceanside Pier in San Diego is the longest wooden pier on the western United States coastline and is the perfect place to watch the sunset with your loved one. The seemingly endless wood pilings stretch to the horizon bridging the gap between the ocean expanse, the fiery orange and purple sky, and the shoreline. But it’s not just the iconic pier that makes San Diego one of the most romantic getaways in Southern California, it also has beautiful beaches, great food and drink scene, and numerous fun activities, for instance, you can stroll through Balboa Park and go hiking in Torrey Pines State Reserve.

2. Newport Beach

If you are a couple who likes to keep active on holidays but still likes to keep things romantic, book a break to Newport Beach. Newport Beach has a thriving surf scene, so you can both hang ten before watching the kaleidoscopic California sunsets from the 8 miles of sandy beach. Bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy mother nature’s greatest show whilst listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing onto the beach. Bliss.

Romantic Getaways in Southern California

3. Catalina Island

Just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California is the paradise setting of Catalina Island. Enjoy the one-hour ferry ride from LA to Catalina and then relax and soak up the sunshine. The island’s main town of Avalon has an incredibly romantic setting and oozes glamour and charm. It’s the perfect place to unwind for the weekend. The beaches have soft sand and gentle surf so are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and strolling. For an unforgettable romantic experience, take a helicopter ride over the island to see its beauty from above.

Romantic Getaways in Southern California

4. Los Angeles

Los Angeles sets the scene for a romantic escape with its mix of sunshine, seaside and sunsets. Start your day with a sunrise walk on the beach, then enjoy a gondola ride through the canals of Naples Island and Alamitos Bay before catching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Then, hike up to the Griffith Observatory to gaze at the stars and into each other’s eyes. The city also has lots of sexy nightclubs, romantic restaurants, romantic hotels and rooftop bars.

5. Joshua Tree National Park

With its heady mix of heat, wilderness, and remoteness, Joshua Tree National Park is incredibly intoxicating. One of the most romantic, and legendary desert landscapes in the USA, this is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Joshua Tree National Park is a wonderful destination to enjoy stunning panoramic vistas, ancient flora and fauna and some of the best stargazing in the country. The serenity, scenery, and stars, it’s all very sexy when shared with someone you love.

6. Coronado

Coronado is a California resort city on a peninsula in San Diego Bay. It is a great destination for those looking to get away from it all, and who like a bit of movie trivia. Coronado Beach was featured in Marilyn Monroe’s 1958 film “Some Like it Hot”.  Coronado’s long sandy beaches are special and literally sparkle as they are rich in mineral mica. Coronado Municipal Beach consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in America. It’s actually four beach areas including Coronado City Beach, Tidelands Park, Glorietta Bay Park and Centennial Park. With warm, calm waters, these beaches are perfect for swimming and surfing and long sunset strolls.

7. Palm Springs

Tucked away in the desert, Palm Springs is a great getaway for those looking for some rest and relaxation. A 2-hour drive from LA, this retro city is the perfect spot for those looking for a truly stylish stay. If you’re feeling active there are plenty of hikes nearby, for instance, Indian Canyons, Palm Canyon,  Andreas Canyon, to Murray Canyon. And, plenty of golf courses too. You can also stay in one of the most romantic hotels in the world, the Desert Riviera. This low-key adults-only resort has cosy fire pits and gorgeous San Jacinto Mountain views.

Melanie May

Melanie is an intrepid solo traveller, endlessly curious about people, places and food. She is a fan of slow travel and loves exploring the world by mouth, discovering a culture through its food. Having backpacked her way around the world she turned her wanderlust into a career and is now a full-time travel writer.

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