Couples looking for a romantic getaway can find many date ideas in San Diego. With mild temperatures throughout most of the year and pristine beaches, this city is an excellent place for couples to visit. From fine dining experiences to outdoor nature experiences, there is no shortage of things to in San Diego.
Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, you won’t want to miss these best romantic things to do in San Diego. These top-rated romantic spots will help you plan an unforgettable and romantic adventure.
1. Visit San Diego’s Oldest Winery
3330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA 92128
Sit back, relax and enjoy a wine tasting at San Diego’s oldest winery, Bernardo Winery. Since 1889, this winery has been growing and serving its delicious wines. If you’re looking for date locations with a laid-back atmosphere, this winery might be the one for you.
Enjoy a wine tasting with your lover in the tasting room, open from Wednesday through Sunday. Then, take a romantic stroll through the Village Shops to complete the evening. Benardo Winery also hosts many special events and concerts throughout the year, offering even more date-night opportunities.
Benardo Winery Highlights:
- Beautifully landscaped gardens create a relaxing atmosphere
- Shopping opportunities at the Village Shops
- Courtyard, patio and garden seating available
- On-site restaurant
- Top-rated wines
- Great for day or night date plans
2. The Gondola Company
503 Grand Caribe Causeway Suite C, Coronado, CA 92118
If you're looking for a more private date idea in San Diego, consider a romantic gondola ride that takes you and your partner through the canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays. The Gondola Company offers 50-minute gondola rides that are private and romantic. Even better, wines and chocolate truffles are available for purchase during your gondola ride, helping to create the complete romantic atmosphere you're looking for.
Are you planning on proposing? Take the romance of a San Diego gondola ride to the next level with special proposal packages that include photos and champagne for your celebration.
The Gondola Company Highlights:
- Unique, Venetian-style gondola ride
- Perfect for couples looking for something different to do than traditional date night options
- Sunset gondola cruises and proposal cruises are available
- Prices vary depending on the cruise and generally range from $129 to $149 for two people
- Special photo opportunities
- Create an unforgettable date night
3. Walk Along La Jolla Cove
Coast Blvd · San Diego, CA 92037, CA · 92037
La Jolla Cove is a small cove with a beach that is known as one of San Diego's most picture-worthy locations. This beautiful area is free to explore, making it the perfect spot for a romantic walk as a couple. During the summer, the beach area can get crowded, as swimming is allowed from 9 a.m. to sunset every day. If you're looking for a great date night photo spot, you can certainly get some great photos at this popular romantic spot in San Diego.
There are also many restaurants for a great meal located along the La Jolla Cove area. Parking for La Jolla Cove is free on the street but may be difficult to find. You'll also find several paid parking lots around the area, offering day rates for parking if you cannot find street parking.
La Jolla Cove Highlights:
- Free to enter
- Great photo spot
- Known for its sea lions
- Near La Jolla Village with shops and restaurants
- Great for walking and roaming
4. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Couples who love spending time in nature won't want to miss one of the most romantic spots in San Diego, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. This 2000-acre state park is located within the city limits, attracting visitors from all over the world.
This popular state park features stunning peaceful trails, miles of quiet beaches and many guided nature walks. A peaceful sunrise or sunset hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is the perfect outdoor activity for couples, creating a relaxing and romantic environment.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Highlights:
- Free guided nature walks are available at 10 a.m. on Saturdays
- Parking lots available at South Beach and North Beach
- Entry fee from $10 to $25 per vehicle
- Several scenic trails to explore, ranging in difficulty
- The museum shop is located in the visitor center
5. Gaslamp Quarter
Bounded by RR tracks, Broadway, 4th and 6th Aves.
Located in the downtown region of San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter is a popular region that is full of date-nate opportunities, including bars, restaurants and nightlife entertainment. Throughout Gaslamp Quarter, there is so much to do such as night clubs, comedy clubs, sky lounges and more.
What's great about this region is that there is something for every type of couple, whether you're looking for a more thrilling evening or a laid-back, romantic dinner. For parking, look for one of several parking garages throughout the city or reserve a space online ahead of your date night. Pricing varies depending on the duration of stay and the location of the parking garage.
Gaslamp Quarter Highlights:
- Live entertainment, concerts and comedy shows available
- Big selection of bars and restaurants
- Theatre Box deluxe cinema
- Wide selection of cuisine from Spanish tapas bars to fine Meditierian cuisine
- Options to create unique date nights during every visit
- End the night with a sweet treat
San Diego Romantic Date Spots for Every Couple
Couples of all ages and interests can find something exciting to do during a visit to San Diego. Throughout the city, many romantic spots create the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable date night with your partner. Try a complete evening at the Gaslamp Quarter, with a meal, show and dessert to end the night, or opt for a more relaxed date at the popular Bernardo Winery.
What are you waiting for? Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning romantic date nights on your trip to San Diego today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets. Not only will you plan an amazing date at these romantic spots in San Diego, but you'll save as an AAA member too.