Los Angeles is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the world. From glamorous Hollywood to sun-soaked beaches, LA offers countless romantic activities for couples. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous date or a relaxing retreat, LA has something for every style and budget.
| No. | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Santa Monica Pier Stroll | Ocean views, fun activities. |
| 2 | Hollywood Sign Hike | Panoramic views, photo opportunities. |
| 3 | Venice Beach Walk | Lively atmosphere with street performers. |
| 4 | Sunset Cocktails at Perch LA | Rooftop bar with city views. |
| 5 | Griffith Observatory Star Gazing | Nighttime views and stargazing. |
| 6 | Sunset Gondola Rides | Romantic gondola rides in Long Beach. |
| 7 | The Getty Center | Art exhibits and gardens with views. |
| 8 | El Matador Beach | Scenic beach ideal for picnics and sunsets. |
| 9 | Drive-In Movie | Classic entertainment experience. |
| 10 | L.A. Philharmonic at Walt Disney Concert Hall | World-class music in an iconic venue. |
| 11 | Dinner at Yamashiro Hollywood | Historic restaurant with city views. |
| 12 | Horseback Riding at Sunset | Guided tours through scenic trails. |
This article highlights the top 12 most romantic things to do in Los Angeles for couples. From scenic hikes to fine dining to beachfront strolls, these activities are perfect for a romantic getaway or showing your loved one a special time. With year-round sunshine and so many options, LA is one of the best romantic destinations in the world.
1: Take a Stroll on the Santa Monica Pier
Name and Location: Take a Stroll on the Santa Monica Pier, located at 200 Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica.
History and Significance: Built in 1909, this iconic pier with amusement park has stunning sunset views and carnival rides for couples to enjoy.
What to Expect: Couples can play games, ride the Ferris wheel, stroll hand-in-hand, people watch, grab ice cream and take in the Pacific Ocean sunset.
Visitor Information: The pier is open daily, hours vary by season. Admission is free, rides cost extra.
No trip to LA is complete without visiting the historic Santa Monica Pier. Opened in 1909, this iconic pier offers stunning ocean views and countless activities. Take a romantic stroll down the 1,600 foot length of the pier, play games and rides at the amusement park, or simply relax and people watch. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the glittering Pacific Wheel Ferris wheel as the sunset paints the sky orange and pink. End your evening with a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean waves.
2: Hike to the Hollywood Sign
Name and Location: Hike to the Hollywood Sign in Griffith Park or Mount Lee.
History and Significance: The 50-foot Hollywood Sign has been an iconic LA landmark since 1923, visible from various vantage points.
What to Expect: Couples can hike winding trails before glimpsing views of the famous sign and cityscape. It makes an ideal selfie backdrop!
Visitor Information: Hikes allow closer access but cannot reach the sign itself. Trails are open daily.
Get your hearts pumping and take in awe-inspiring views on a hike to the world-famous Hollywood Sign. Located in Griffith Park, this 4-mile roundtrip hike takes you through shady canyons before ascending to the top of Mount Lee. Here you’ll stand next to the 50-foot tall white letters of the iconic Hollywood Sign with panoramic views of LA and the Pacific Ocean. Make sure to snap romantic photos of you two with the sign and cityscape. Afterwards, unwind at the Griffith Observatory to continue soaking in the incredible views.
3: Stroll Hand in Hand Down Venice Beach
Name and Location: Stroll Hand in Hand down Venice Beach Boardwalk in the Venice neighborhood.
History and Significance: This lively oceanfront boardwalk has drawn free-spirited crowds for people watching since 1905.
What to Expect: Couples can soak up the eclectic street performers, shops and people as they walk sides pressed together on this iconic route.
Visitor Information: The Venice Beach Boardwalk stays busy year-round from sunrise to sunset daily.
Venture out west to the lively and colorful Venice Beach neighborhood for a beachfront stroll. Lace your fingers together as you walk past street performers and artists along the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Check out the beautiful marble columns and creative metalwork of the Venice Art Walls, then pick up a custom souvenir together at one of the local shops. As the sun sets, find a bench along the sand to cuddle as you watch the waves gently lap the shore.
4: Sunset Cocktails at Perch LA
Name and Location: Sunset Cocktails at Perch LA, located at 1345 N Broadway downtown.
History and Significance: Situated 12 stories high, this trendy rooftop lounge boasts panoramic views across LA’s skyline.
What to Expect: Couples can cuddle up on the outdoor patio with craft cocktails in hand as the sunset paints the surrounding skyscrapers.
Visitor Information: Perch is open Mon-Fri 5pm–2am, Sat-Sun 4pm–2am. Cover charges sometimes apply.
There’s no better place to watch the sunset over LA than from the rooftop bar Perch in Downtown LA. Sitting 13 stories up with 360 degree views, this trendy hotspot offers craft cocktails and tasty small plates. Sip your drinks as the sky turns pink and the city lights begin to twinkle around you. Take romantic photos together in front of the sprawling views, or get cozy next to one of the fire pits. Perch’s ambiance, coupled with the unbeattable views, make it one of the most romantic spots in the city.
5: Picnic Among the Roses at Exposition Park
Name and Location: Picnic Among the Roses at Exposition Park Rose Garden off Exposition Blvd.
History and Significance: Established in 1928, this sunken garden grew to feature over 15,000 roses across 4 acres in vibrant colors.
What to Expect: Sweethearts can grab takeout food and have an intimate outdoor picnic surrounded by the beautiful aromas and panorama of roses.
Visitor Information: The rose garden is freely accessible from 9am to sunset daily.
Bring your favorite foods, blanket, and lover to Exposition Park for an afternoon picnic surrounded by over 15,000 roses. The Rose Garden contains over 200 flower varieties ranging from pastel pinks to deep crimsons. Wander hand-in-hand along the paths, stopping to take in the sweet floral scents and snap romantic photos amid the flowerbeds. Pick out your favorite blooms and buy a bouquet to take home. Spread your picnic under a shady tree and dine al fresco with your sweetheart.
6: Fine Dining at Spago’s Beverly Hills
Name and Location: Fine Dining at Spago’s Beverly Hills, located at 176 N Canon Dr.
History and Significance: Legendary chef Wolfgang Puck’s flagship eatery sets the standard for special occasions since 1982.
What to Expect: Couples can share an intimate meal with impeccable modern cuisine and service in a romantic setting.
Visitor Information: Spago is open Mon-Thurs 12:00-2:30pm for lunch and 6:00-10:00pm for dinner. Reservations strongly recommended.
For a truly indulgent date night, book a table at the upscale Spago restaurant in Beverly Hills. Helmed by acclaimed chef Wolfgang Puck, Spago offers contemporary American cuisine in an elegant and romantic setting. Treat yourselves to the tasting menu and wine pairings to sample the finest, seasonally inspired dishes like Maine lobster and Wagyu beef. The attentive service and intimate ambiance make Spago the perfect spot for celebrating a special occasion or professing your love. Don’t forget to end the evening with Spago’s signature chocolate soufflé cake for two!
7: Horseback Ride into the Hollywood Hills
Name and Location: Horseback Ride into the Hollywood Hills with rides atop Universal City.
History and Significance: Horse tours through the scenic Hollywood countryside have been popular for decades.
What to Expect: Couples ride gentle horses on trail rides to Hollywood signs while a guide snaps photos capturing the romance.
Visitor Information: Guided 1-2 hour tours start around $50+ per person. Group tours available by reservation.
Saddle up for a romantic horseback ride high above the LA cityscape. Several ranches located in the Hollywood Hills offer guided tours through the sagebrush-dotted trails with panoramic views from Los Feliz to Downtown. Feel your connection deepen as you ride side-by-side, taking in nature’s peace and beauty. Many tours end with incredible sunset views across LA as the sun dips behind the Pacific. Stop for a photo op in a heart-shaped corral or under a tree – horseback riding photos make for romantic mementos.
8: Relax at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs
Name and Location: Relax at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Corona, CA.
History and Significance: These natural geothermal mineral springs have attracted visitors to soak and de-stress since the 1860s.
What to Expect: Couples indulge side-by-side in the red clay mud baths, mineral pools, waterfalls and steam rooms across the spa compound.
Visitor Information: The spa is open weekdays 9am-8pm and until 9pm on weekends. Entry rates start at $89 during the week.
Pamper yourselves and reconnect with nature at Glen Ivy Hot Springs near Anaheim. This spa retreat features natural mineral pools heated between 99-104 degrees Fahrenheit and set amid beautiful landscaping. Unwind together in a private cabana, soak up the heat from a thermal mud pool, or book couples’ massages. The serene setting helps you relax and focus on quality time together. End your day by the Springs restaurant for California cuisine and sunset views.
9: Cruise Along the Coast
Name and Location: Cruise Along the Coast via companies like Hornblower Cruises from Marina del Rey.
History and Significance: Luxury yachts and boats offer romantic sightseeing adventures off the dazzling LA and Orange County shores.
What to Expect: Couples can sip champagne together with stunning sunsets framing the ocean as they sail past celebrity homes and seaside hamlets.
Visitor Information: Public and private cruises are available during daylight hours year-round. Prices and durations vary.
Embark on a romantic sunset dinner cruise along the dazzling LA coastline. Companies like Hornblower Cruises offer evening cruises with live music, dancing, and gourmet dining with panoramic views of the oceanside scenery. Cruise by celebrity homes in Malibu, see whales migrating (in season), and watch the sun sink below the Pacific. As the stars come out, cuddle close with your sweetie at the bow of the boat and enjoy this magical floating date.
10: Explore the Getty Villa
Name and Location: Explore the Getty Villa Museum at 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy.
History and Significance: Modeled after an ancient Roman country house, this museum dedicated to Greek/Roman art overlooks the ocean.
What to Expect: Sweethearts wander beautiful gardens, intricate architecture and antiquities exhibits before picnicking together overlooking the Pacific.
Visitor Information: The Villa is open Wed-Mon 10am-5pm, free with a ticket needed.
For culture and old-world romance, spend an afternoon exploring the Getty Villa museum near Malibu. This replica of an ancient Roman country house features stunning architecture surrounded by idyllic gardens, fountains, and ocean views. Wander through the antiquities exhibits and admire 2,000 year-old sculptures and artifacts. Picnic amongst fragrant rosemary bushes on the manicured grounds. Just before closing, head up to the Outer Peristyle for a 360 degree view of the coast – it’s one of the most romantic spots in all LA.
11: Dance the Night Away
Name and Location: Dance the Night Away at Hollywood clubs like Argyle, Sound Nightclub or Academy LA.
History and Significance: Glitzy Hollywood hotspots pull partygoers with their pulse-pounding music and lively dance floors.
What to Expect: Lovebirds can dress up and descend into LA’s nightlife arm-in-arm, dancing closely and romantically into the early morning.
Visitor Information: Most clubs are open 10pm-2am or later nightly, often with cover charges at the door.
Put on your dancing shoes and spend a lively night on the town at LA’s best nightclubs. Downtown spots like Perch, Upstairs at the Ace Hotel, and Redbird offer swanky bars combined with live music and dancing. Cut loose on the dance floor and show off your moves together! Or head to Hollywood for legendary clubs like Avalon, Sound Nightclub, and Academy LA. Spend a romantic night dancing cheek to cheek, then seek out late night diner fare or street food trucks after you’ve worked up an appetite.
12: Relax at the Four Seasons Westlake Village
Name and Location: Relax at the Four Seasons Westlake Village, located at 2 Dole Dr.
History and Significance: Tucked into the Santa Monica Mountains, this 5-star resort pampers guests with its serene natural setting.
What to Expect: Couples indulge in couples’ massages, soak in private pools, enjoy fine dining and relax in their elegantly furnished suite.
Visitor Information: As a luxury hotel, room rates start around $595 per night. The spa and restaurants welcome outside guests.
For the ultimate romantic escape, head north to the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village near Malibu. This five star property exudes luxury and romance with Spanish-style architecture, flower-filled courtyards, private bungalows, and hilltop pool deck overlooking a tranquil lake. Unwind together side-by-side in a cabana, enjoy gourmet dining, then retreat to your room for an evening in. Book a couples’ massage in the lavish spa, then soak in your marble soaking tub. With unbeatable service and beauty, the Four Seasons is perfect for a secluded and indulgent couples’ getaway.
Conclusion
With its year-round sunshine, diversity, and beauty, Los Angeles offers endless romantic possibilities for couples. From active coastal adventures to sunset cocktails with a view to strolling hand-in-hand on the beach, LA has something special for every lovebird. No matter your style or budget, the City of Angels sets the scene for romance. So bring your special someone and prepare to fall in love all over again in LA.