Date Nights (& Overnights!) in San Diego

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and if you don’t have time to research date night hot spots (and who does?), we’ve got the goods on some seriously swoon-worthy rendevous locales. Whether you only have a few hours or you can turn it into a weekend getaway, we’ve included some tried and true faves. Read on to find some of the most romantic spots in San Diego, then call the sitter!

Animae

Make dinner a truly grand affair at San Diego’s “it” restaurant, Animae. The 5.5 million dollar pan-Asian restaurant sprawls across 9,300 square feet and the ambiance is opulent and seductive. If you go on Valentine’s Day, they offer a four-course menu for $128/person. Dining here any day of the year will feel like a romantic retreat. Order up a Yin or Yang martini and let the evening unfold at this luxurious escape.

969 Pacific Hwy.
San Diego CA, 92101
619-432-1225
Online: animaesd.com

Hot Air Balloon Ride

With a mix of man-made and natural beauty, plus the right temps and low winds, San Diego is the perfect spot to float up, up, and away while watching the sunset over the coastline! Hot air balloon rides are a spectacular way to celebrate a special occasion or to see the city from a unique vantage point. Choose to check out the coast or the Temecula wine region and make some memories to last a lifetime! 

Compass Balloons
1969 Villa Cardiff Dr.
Cardiff, CA 92007
760-704-7407
Online: compassballoons.com

Cesarina

That’s amore! If Italian cuisine is your fave, lunch or dinner at Cesarina is a must. Owner Niccolo Angius recently moved to San Diego from Rome, opened this glorious pasta haven, and named it after his wife. Here you’ll find a pasta-making station where you can observe fresh pasta being crafted to perfection all day long. Select your favorite pasta shape and your favorite sauce, dig in, and you’ll feel like you’ve just taken that jaunt to Italy you keep dreaming about.

4161 Voltaire St.
San Diego, CA 92107
619-226-6222
Online: cesarinarestaurant.com

Staycation

We live in a world-class city, so why not enjoy world-class accommodations! If you have a night to yourselves, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is an old Hollywood-type resort that will take your breath away. Enjoy golf or tennis or just relax your day away at one of the four heated pools (the relaxation pool is adults only). Book a luxury suite that includes a private fireplace and incredible views of the resort. This hotel is all about the R&R, so rest, relax and recharge!

Fairmont Grand Del Mar
5300 Grand Del Mar Court
San Diego, CA 92130
858-314-2000
Online: fairmont.com

 

Cusp

Pair breathtaking ocean views with coastal cuisine and you’ll be riding the wave of romance while dining at Cusp in La Jolla. Tables at this romantic eatery are designed for two and perfectly poised to take in the scenic vista while dining on ceviche, the fresh catch of the day, and their decadent Chocolate Crunch Bar dessert. Cusp gives new meaning to the phrase “table for two” with their attention to detail to create an unforgettable dinner out.

7955 La Jolla Shores Dr.
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-551-3620
Online: cusprestaurant.com

Sneaky Speakeasy

Feel like dressing up and listening to some great live music? Prohibition Bar can whet your whistle and bend your ear in a very 1920’s fashion. You can find the bar behind an unassuming law office door and then enter the dark and cozy speakeasy for an unforgettable night out. The dress code is enforced, so leave the flip-flops at home! 

Prohibition Bar
548 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-501-1919
Online: prohibitionsd.com

Veranda Fireside Lounge & Restaurant

Dine under the stars at the gorgeous Veranda Fireside Lounge & Restaurant. The ambiance, complete with olive trees and expansive gardens is reminiscent of the Mediterranean coastline––but it’s right here in Rancho Bernardo. Enjoy tuna tartare and Seared Diver Scallops and share the bread pudding for dessert. Arrive early to warm up your evening with a cocktail by the fire. 

17550 Bernardo Oaks Dr.
San Diego, CA 92128
877-753-8559
Online: ranchobernardoinn.com/veranda

Horseback Riding on the Beach

A horseback ride on the beach isn’t just for the cover of romance novels, at Surfside Ranch, they offer beachside rides on gentle horses. Trot through the waves while watching the sunset and breathing in the fresh ocean air. 

Surfside Ranch
2225 Hollister St.
San Diego, CA 92154
619-443-3517
Online: surfsideranch.com

Coasterra

This Mexican-inspired restaurant sits at the tip of Harbor Island and offers one of the best views of the San Diego skyline anywhere in the city. Modern decor inside and out, with a full menu of cocktails and special margaritas, ensure your evening gets off to the right start. For dinner, start with Ceviche Clasico, featuring local seafood, or oysters on the half shell. Top entrees include the roasted squash tamales and chili agave pork ribs. If you’ve saved room for dessert, indulge in the churros or brownie tres leches.

8800 Harbor Island Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-814-1300
Online: cohnrestaurants.com/coasterra

Sail Away

What’s more romantic than sailing into the sunset? Even if the idea of rockin’ & rollin’ on the high seas doesn’t appeal to you, the San Diego Bay offers a smooth and carefree time on the water. Private sunset sails are available on the Sail San Diego fleet of yachts, so grab your boat shoes and hop on board!

Sail San Diego
2646 Shelter Island Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
619-297-7426
Online: sailsandiego.com

Cordiano Winery

If white linens and valet parking aren’t your thing, but you still want a romantic setting for dinner, Cordiano Winery in North County is a great option. The menu is low-key: wood-fired pizzas, salads, and breadsticks. But it’s a winery, so the romance comes as soon as you pour your first glass of cabernet. Most wines are from California and can be purchased by the glass or bottle. Come at sunset for stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding San Pasqual Valley.

15732 Highland Valley Rd.
Escondido, CA 92025
760-469-9463
Online: cordianowinery.com

––Kimberly Stahl, Michelle Franklin & Beth Shea

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