Most Romantic Places to Visit in Southern California
Take a deep breath. Close your eyes. Quiet your thoughts and let the sound of the waves crashing take over. Now open them to reveal the sun peaking over the horizon, casting its vibrant hue across the ocean. You look over your shoulder and smile at your partner, as you both take in the most romantic views in Southern California.
Southern California is known for its pristine beaches, winding coastal highways,, expansive deserts, and rugged mountains. All of which make it on this list of top romantic places to visit in Southern California.
Book a Photography Session at the Imperial Sand Dunes
Near the border of Mexi-Cali, the iconic Imperial Sand Dunes stretch as far as the eye can see and occupy a total of 40-acres. Completely isolated, this location is known for off-roading and ATVing. There are no nearby gas stations, restaurants, or hotels, but for the adventurous at heart, that crave isolation, the beauty of this Southern California destination is unmatched. If you are dreaming up a proposal, anniversary, or engagement session there are a few things to keep in mind to make your time in the dunes unforgettable.
Time of Year, Weather. and Permits
The best piece of advice for experiencing the Dunes has to offer is planning your trip far in advance. The best time of year to visit the Imperial Sand Dunes is October-April, when the weather is temperate. Avoiding late Spring and Summer months is crucial, as the temperatures climb to the triple digits. Whether you have scheduled a photoshoot or plan to explore the dunes just the two of you, keep an eye on the wind and weathe. 5-10 mph is typical for the region, but anything over that could lead to sand in places you’d never want sand and it’s best to reschedule your plans.
If you are planning on taking pictures, sunrise and sunset are the best times of day when the light is beautiful and doesn’t cast harsh shadows on your subjects. Most people prefer to go barefoot for photos, but shooting during mid day the sand would be far too hot. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, which will make your time together more romantic and your pictures more epic as you won’t have ATVs, people, or footprints distracting from your photos.
Permits are required from October - April, whether you’re operating an ATV or not and will cost $35/vehicle. You can purchase your permit here and read more about the rules and regulations of the dunes here.
Location, Where to Stay and Preparation
Depending on traffic, the Imperial Sand Dunes are about 3.5-4 hour drive from Los Angeles and Orange County, 2.5-3 hours from San Diego, and right under 2 hours from Joshua Tree/Palm Desert.
Due to the distance, staying in Joshua Tree or Palm Desert will allow you the freedom to explore the wonder of the national park while still allowing time for your epic photoshoot. There are a number of amazing hotels, Airbnbs, and Vrbos in these two areas.
The sand dunes are not near any restaurants, gas stations, or bars, so preparing in advance will make your trip is essential. Up the romance by packing a picnic and your favorite wine for your trip and make sure to stop for gas in or before Brawley to make your drive as smooth as possible.Keeping all these tips in mind you are sure to have an unforgettable time in the Dunes.
Enjoy a cup of coffee at Sunset Cliffs
Heading down the coast to San Diego? Grab a cup of coffee and roll out a blanket while you take in this natural wonder. This one and a half mile stretch of pristine California coast offers a few easy cliff trails and some of the most beautiful look out points in all of Southern California. Depending on how high the tide is, you may luck out and get a chance to see the sea cave with an open ceiling, caution is advised and be sure to check the tides before exploring.
Although this location is stunning any time of day, arriving at sunrise or sunset during the spring, summer, and early fall months will take your breath away. Before getting back on the road, order a cup of joe or two from The Template or stop for breakfast at this quaint, local gem, The Little Lion Cafe.
Sunset Jeep Tour on Catalina Island
Just about an hour ferry ride from Long Beach or San Pedro you will arrive at one of Southern California’s hidden gems, Catalina Island. As soon as you reach the island, a sense of calm rushes over you as you take in the charming beachside community of Avalon. To this day, the island remains mostly uninhabited.
Take advantage of the remote beauty of the island by taking an Eco Jeep Tour at sunset. What can you expect to see on your tour? American Bison that were brought to the island for a movie and became permanent residents after reproducing thereafter, some of the island’s most stunning vistas and scenic points, deer, foxes and bald eagles to name a few. Remember to bring warm layers as it can get windy on the way back.
Just a short, 8 minute drive from downtown Laguna Beach, is Victoria Beach, one of the most romantic beaches in all of Southern California. Victoria Beach is tucked away, off the beaten path, in a residential community. If you do choose to visit with your partner, make sure to treat it with care as you would your own neighborhood, so that the community can continue to enjoy this pristine beach the way it was intended, without massive crowds. Victoria Beach is known for its iconic pirate tower, that looms over a man-made pool. In order to get there you’ll need to park on the PCH and follow Victoria Drive until you reach the steps. Make sure to visit during low tide, pack a picnic, and bring a towel with you.
Bike from Marina del Rey to Manhattan Beach
There is no better way to clear your mind than popping in your air pods, grabbing your partner, and biking from Marina del Rey to Manhattan Beach. Often overlooked by the more popular path, Venice to Santa Monica Pier, this bike ride is a favorite among the locals and is far less crowded and touristy than the former. This 15-25 mile bike ride (depending on how far you’d like to take it--it can go all the way to Redondo Beach Pier) is gorgeous, placing you right next to the pristine coastal views the entire way.
The path starts in Marina del Rey and you can conveniently park your car in the Fisherman’s Village if you’re visiting from out of town. Don’t have your own bike with you? You can rent from Daniel’s Bicycle Rentals & Sales, which is located in the village as well.
From there, just keep going down Fiji Way until you see a roundabout near the last apartment complex. You’ll take Marvin Braude Bike Path all the way to Manhattan Beach where you can lock your bike and walk the streets or path of this beloved coastal town. Make sure to stop for a grab and go coffee at Two Guns Espresso or brunch at Manhattan Beach Post (reservation always recommended).
Coastal Stroll in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, where the mountains meet the sea, is the European gem of the central coast. The striking Santa Ynez mountains add to the scenery of this already gorgeous coastal community and immediately transport you to another world. Strolling down State Street your eyes will be met with Mediterranean white stucco buildings with red tile rooftops, drawing inspiration from the city’s Spanish Colonial heritage.
If you start at the top of State Street, stop by Caje Coffee Roasters on Arlington Street (there are multiple locations but this one has the best ambiance) or the most stunning craft roasts in all of Santa Barbara. You’ll want to order in house to take advantage of their beautifully landscaped, mediterranean coffee oasis.
As you make your way down to the bottom of State, by foot or bike, you’ll find the most gorgeous coastal path by the Pier. Thirsty along the way? The Funk Zone, a group of urban wineries in Santa Barbara’s quaint, downtown art district, awaits you.
Photographer: @alisonraephotography
Couple: @skyecoyne @iceman1221
Planner: @sparklingsoirees
Florals: @truenorthfloralco
Design: @catjafreeman
Dress: @daughtersofsimone
Tux: @friartux
Hosts: @amandagillian @mckennaekleiner