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You, Me & the Sea

Romance by the Coast: Valentine's Day in Dana Point

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Romance by the Coast: Valentine’s Day in Dana Point

January 31, 2025

When you think of a perfect Valentine’s Day escape, imagine a charming coastal town where the ocean meets breathtaking views, fine dining, and opportunities for intimate moments with your loved one. Dana Point, located in Orange County, California, is the ideal destination for couples looking to celebrate their love in a picturesque and serene setting. Explore overnight stays in Dana Point.

Best Lookout Spots for Watching the Sunset or Taking in the View

One of the most romantic things you can do in Dana Point is watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. With its gentle waves and colorful sky as the backdrop, the scene is nothing short of magical. Here are our picks for best lookout spots: Palisades Gazebo Park, Salt Creek Beach Park, South Strands Conservation Park at Strands Beach, Harbor Point Conservation Park, Marine Conservation Area behind the Ocean Institute.

Palisades Gazebo Park

Salt Creek Beach Park

Harbor Point Conservation Park

Dinner for Two and Maybe a View

Dana Point boasts some incredible dining options that make the most of its coastal location. For a view of all of Dana Point Harbor, head to Chart House for breathtaking ocean views paired with fresh seafood and steaks. Located in a former historical home in the Dana Point Lantern District, visit Luciana’s Ristorante for a truly romantic Italian dinner. Indulge in a steak and lobster tail dinner for two at Salt Creek Grille Orange County. Enjoy a night cap at Hilton Garden Inn’s Longboards Rooftop Lounge or head to Wind & Sea Restaurant known for their house specialty Mai Tai.  Looking for something more casual? Head to Young’s Beach Shack at Salt Creek Beach for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at the beach.

The table is set at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort. Dine in elegance and enjoy sunset views during a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner at Bourbon Steak Orange County. Savor three courses of culinary excellence with a prix fixe menu, showcasing a selection of artisan starters; specialty entrees including fresh seafood and prime cuts; as well as luscious desserts to end on a sweet note. Treat your valentine to a picturesque dinner with oceanfront views at Monarch Bay Beach Club. Celebrate your sweetheart with a romantic sunset dinner at AVEO Table + Bar. Chef Nicole Encarnacion is preparing a specialty Valentine’s dinner menu showcasing a seasonal bounty in dishes

At The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, elevate your celebration of love with an enchanting evening for two at RAYA. Delight in a masterfully curated three-course pre-fixe menu, showcasing the finest Latin-inspired flavors. Celebrate the season of love with Heart Tea and enjoy a lovely afternoon tea, featuring a curated loose tea collection from Palais des Thés, savory canapés, sweet treats, and tea-infused cocktails.

On Valentine’s Day, the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa‘s brand-new signature restaurant Lantern’s Edge overlooking the harbor is offering a 5-course prefix menu including duck confit, branzino, truffle mushroom risotto, and more. Reserve Now

RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Lantern’s Edge at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

AVEO Table + Bar at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort

Couple’s Spa Day

Indulge in some relaxation and pampering at one of Dana Point’s luxurious spas. Treat yourselves to a couples’ massage or a full spa package for a day of pure relaxation.

At Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, couples can book the Seaside Sweetheart Spa Package February 7-16 2025. Enjoy a side by side 60-minute Healing Touch Massage followed by 30 minutes in the outdoor private jacuzzi with chocolate truffles, champagne, and an Alluminate Life Candle to take home.

Using elements of the ocean to restore balance, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Spa offers a comprehensive wellness journey. Reserve the Salt Creek Couples Massage holistically designed for you and your companion, enjoyed side by side in the spa’s couples’ room.

At Waldorf Astoria Spa, relax and unwind with a massage, facial, or body treatment. The invigorating, full body Earth & Sea Body Scrub uses algae and sea salt to exfoliate and soften the skin.

Oh So Sweet Events & Experiences

Dana Point offers the perfect setting to create lasting memories with the one you love – including your dog. Join Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa on February 13 from 3:30-5:30pm for their Puppy Love event, the most paws-itively adorable event of the season, where cupid is shooting his shot for humans and four-legged friends alike. Whether you’re a dog lover or just here for the adorable pups, come celebrate unconditional love and wagging tails at Puppy Love. Don’t miss the chance to make this Valentine’s Day even more special with your four-legged bestie! RSVP here

Join The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel for Galentine’s Day on February 13, 2025 from 4-7pm for Amigas and Agave at 180blu. Toast to friendship as you enjoy culinary delights, photobooth with friends, and a golden California sunset. Reserve Now

Want to get on the water this Valentine’s Day? A sunset cruise is a magical experience for couples, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with the sun sinking below the horizon.

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari invites guests to their special Hearts Afloat Valentine’s Day Sunset Harbor Cruise on Valentine’s Day from 5:30-7:30pm.

Whale watch with your Valentine out on the water with Dana Wharf Whale Watching! Enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne and chocolate wrapped treats while you sail towards a pink sunset and look for marine life. Continue the celebrations February 14-16, 2025 with a Sunset Cruise or Wine Cruise.

A Sweet Ending to the Day

Dana Point is home to local ice cream shops, bakeries, and cafes – all of which have something special to offer. From decadent chocolates to beautifully crafted pastries, you can treat your Valentine to something delicious while soaking in the charm of our coastal town.

We have the scoop on delicious ice cream in town. Visit these local ice cream shops and choose from dozens of flavors: Coffee Importers Scoop Deck, Bruster’s Ice Cream, or Orange County Creamery. Killer Dana Surf Shop serves Thrifty Ice Cream – a nostalgic treat that brings a smile with every scoop. Looking for cookies? You won’t find a thicker, softer, more gooey or flavorful cookie than the ones from Dirty Dough Cookies. Find homemade pastries, tarts, and petite desserts at It’s All About the Cake or Le Saint Honoré. No Valentine’s Day is complete without a box of chocolates. Create your own special assortment or choose from a freshly made box at The Chocolate Soldier.