Romantic Adventures in California That'll Blow Your Beaux Away

Looking to whisk your partner away on a romantic getaway? You’re in luck—California is the land of colorful exploits. However varied your interests may be, you’ll find a romantic adventure in the Golden State that’ll set the sparks flying right off the bat. From ski trips in NorCal to relaxing weekends in SoCal, we’ve come to you with a list that’s made to inspire. Happy adventuring!

Romantic Adventure Ideas in California That Your Partner Will Love

1. Hike a Coastal Trail in Big Sur

Big Sur is notorious for hosting the most scenic drives in California. However, the most beautiful views in the area can only be reached on foot. On your next romantic getaway to the Central Coast, set aside enough time to hike a trail in Big Sur; you’ll be rewarded with the most breathtaking vistas.

2. Tour Art Galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea

The charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most romantic places in California to visit. If you two are an artsy bunch, you’ll also love popping into as many of the galleries as you can manage to fit into your itinerary.

3. Enjoy a Romantic Weekend on Santa Catalina Island

Looking for an affordable weekend getaway? Feel the island bliss at Catalina Island. Right off the coast of Orange County, a romantic adventurous vacation awaits. You’ll hike to the top of the island's cliffs, enjoy views of the coast, watch for marine life, and explore the coolest snorkeling spots in California—fun, fun, fun!

4. Take a Walking Tour of Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is an awesome area to explore on foot. Follow the Red Tile Walking Tour itinerary and you’ll explore 17 stops and 22 structuresa and learn fun facts about the history and cultural significance of museums, theaters, and passageways. This romantic adventure will make you a Downtown Santa Barbara aficionado through and through.

5. Bike Through the Rolling Hills of Sonoma Valley

Sonoma is rich with beautiful coastlines, delicious food, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see—perfect for a romantic getaway. Rent a pair of bikes and go pedaling through the city and by the Mayacamas, Sonoma Mountains, and Mount Saint Helena. Don’t want to leave this NorCal gem just yet? Here’s a full itinerary of things to do in Sonoma you’ll love.

6. Have a Rafting Adventure on the Russian River

Are you a couple that likes getting active together? You’ll love embarking on a river rafting trip in NorCal. Plan a vacation to the Russian River to unwind, cool down, and make new memories floating down rushing whitewater.

7. Admire the Architecture in the Victorian Village of Ferndale

Also known as "Cream City," Ferndale is a gorgeous small town showcasing dozens of well-preserved Victorian storefronts and homes that date back to the 1880s. Want to take a romantic adventure back in time? Plan a  getaway to Ferndale, revel in the wisdom of the redwood trees, and get a taste of 19th-century California.

8. Treat Yourself to a Weekend in Malibu

Malibu is a perfect choice for a bougie California staycation. With miles of sandy beaches, towering palm trees, cool boutiques, restaurants that never disappoint, and plenty of awesome surf spots, this SoCal escape inspires endless romantic adventure ideas. Stay at a nice coastal hotel or book an idyllic Malibu Airbnb—a weekend of romantic adventures awaits. 

9. Spend a Spiritual Weekend in Ojai

If Malibu is too glitzy for you, then Ojai might be the sort of Southern California staycation you’d enjoy. While it’s known for its spiritual significance, Ojai offers plenty of other activities for people of different interests to enjoy. Enjoy getting lost in the lush rolling hills, stunning landscapes, and refreshing small-town atmosphere, and be prepared to enjoy a romantic getaway in what feels like a faraway land.

10. Party Poolside in Palm Springs

A getaway to Palm Springs is always a good idea. And if you feel like you haven’t had the opportunity to let loose and relax in a while, this might just be the perfect romantic adventure idea for you. Check into a cool and lively hotel, spend endless hours lounging poolside, and party the night away for an enviably fun and romantic getaway in the California desert.

11. Spend a Night Under the Stars in Point Reyes

Sitting pretty along the Northern California coast, Point Reyes is a land of awesome adventures you’ll love exploring on a romantic getaway. Start your trip with a visit to the Point Reyes National Seashore, trek the most beautiful trails, and make sure to spend the night at Point Reyes Lighthouse—it’s one of the best stargazing spots in NorCal.

12. Enjoy a Camping Adventure in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is probably the best national park to go camping in California. Stretching more than a thousand square miles, this park is almost the size of Rhode Island and full of recreational activities. If you two like spending time in nature, you’ll love embarking on endless romantic adventures in this world-famous national park.

13. Watch Movies at a Dive-in Theater in San Diego

If you’ve already been on many drive-in movie theater dates, get ready to go to a dive-in theater. San Diego is home to a few hotels that regularly host movie nights poolside or by the beach—take Hotel Del Coronado and The Pearl Hotel, for example. Pick a spot, order your favorite cinema snacks, and enjoy a flick in great company at a unique and romantic place in California.

14. Plan a Ski Trip to Mount Shasta

Going on ski trips is one of our favorite romantic adventures to enjoy during wintertime in California. The Shasta Cascade hosts a slew of awesome ski parks and resorts you’ll love escaping to for a romantic winter getaway. You’ll also find plenty of cozy Mt. Shasta Airbnb accommodations near the slopes you can book for your apres-ski unwinding. 

15. Rent a Cabin in Big Bear Lake

Speaking of the best places to rent a cabin, Big Bear Lake is another top-notch option on the opposite end of the California map. Beautiful and fun year-round, this lakeside escape warrants romantic adventures for couples of different ages and interests. Cozy cabin rentals, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and pristine lakeshores—what more could you want?