With February around the corner, there’s only so much time to prep for Valentine’s day. Lucky for you San Diego is the best place to celebrate Valentine’s Day in the world. —Ok, maybe we are exaggerating a bit— But if one thing is true, it is that the city is filled with many romantic plans to woo your significant other on this special day. So, without further ado here are 8 cupid-approved ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in San Diego.
1. Grab a drink at one of San Diego’s unique cocktail bars
Named one of the 50 best bars in North America, Young Blood is the perfect spot to spend your Valentine’s Day in San Diego. This cozy speakeasy is hidden behind East Village’s Neighborhood – where Noble Experiment is also tucked away. With a beautiful vintage decor that’ll transport you to the 1920s, indulge in an interactive cocktail experience in which Youngblood’s crafty bartenders create a series of three drinks tailored to your palate.
2. Revitalize your romance with a spa retreat
Get away from the busy city life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Mediterranean at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa. Experience top-notch service and indulge in the opulent Spanish-Colonial ambiance at The Spa, making it the perfect Valentine’s destination this year. Pamper yourself and your bae with their lavish amenities, including a pool, private outdoor clawfoot tubs, a sauna, and a living room fireplace, ensuring you make the most of your day.
3. Be smitten at a Candlelight concert
On the hunt for charming places to take your date? Don’t worry because Candlelight concerts is the most romantic place to spend Valentines at. Let the enchanting sounds of your favorite music, played by a cupid-approved string quartet, sweep you off your feet in some of San Diego’s coziest venues. Because when words fall short, music speaks volumes.
4. Get lost at San Diego’s intimate wineries
Family-owned and operated, Bernardo Winery is the oldest continuously operating winery in Southern California. This unique and intimate winery offers an exquisite wine-tasting experience for only $30 that will definitely woo your date. Take a stroll through the village shops and artist studios nearby for a truly romantic evening.
5. Go on a mystery picnic date
If you have an appetite for good food and love exploring the city, then this self-guided food adventure is the perfect way to see Coronado, Julian or La Jolla, and skip the crowds! Starting with a picnic basket, have fun solving personally-curated clues and riddles sent to your smartphone that’ll take you on a journey to collect your special gourmet picnic food bit by bit. Each clue you solve will lead you closer to your next picnic food pickup and even closer to your final stunning secret picnic spot. If you like to get creative for date night, there’s no better plan!
6. Catch a flick at a local open-air theater
Indulge in the timeless charm of a classic movie night out! San Diego boasts numerous outdoor theaters, providing locals with a cinematic feast featuring classics, cult favorites, and the latest releases. Grab tickets for The Mission Hills or this vintage drive-in theater in South Bay for fantastic open-air venues for a distinctive and romantic movie experience beneath the stars.
7. Set sail on a Valentine’s cruise
Embark on a luxurious Valentine’s cruise along San Diego’s scenic harbor. For 3 hours, you can Indulge in a gourmet dinner, dance the night away to live music, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline. Best of all is that if you book by January 21 you can save up to 20%on all Valentine’s cruises on February 14th and 17th with promo code VDAY20!
8. DYI the sweetest Valentine’s gift
Just as people speak different languages, love does too. Understanding your significant other’s preferences, such as acts of service or gift-giving, can enhance your connection. Surprise your partner by booking an enchanting crafting class where you can create Valentine’s gifts for each other while enjoying quality time together. San Diego is home to numerous ceramic, paint, tufting, and fiber art studios that host delightful craft workshops, providing a perfect setting for a fun and meaningful Valentine’s celebration.