I’ll never forget the weekend my partner and I escaped LA traffic on a Friday afternoon, wound our way up the coast to Ojai, and watched the sunset paint the Topatopa Mountains in shades of pink and gold from our private balcony. That moment sitting together with glasses of local wine, completely disconnected from our phones and the city’s constant hum—reminded me why weekend getaways from Los Angeles for couples are absolutely essential for keeping romance alive.
After living in Southern California for over twelve years and exploring every corner within driving distance, I’ve discovered that LA sits at the center of an incredible variety of romantic destinations. Within just three hours, you can find yourself stargazing in the desert, wine tasting in charming villages, soaking in natural hot springs, or watching waves crash against dramatic cliffs. This guide shares everything I’ve learned from countless weekend tripsthe romantic hotels that truly deliver, the restaurants where you’ll want to linger over dessert, and the exact itineraries that transform a simple weekend into an experience that strengthens your connection.
Quick Reference: Best Romantic Getaways from LA
| Destination | Drive Time | Budget | Best Season | Romantic Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malibu | 45-60 min | $$$ | Spring/Fall | Sunset dinners overlooking Pacific |
| Ojai | 1.5 hours | $$-$$$ | Year-round | Spa retreats & mountain views |
| Santa Barbara | 1.5-2 hours | $$-$$$ | Spring/Summer | Wine tasting & Spanish architecture |
| Palm Springs | 2-2.5 hours | $$-$$$ | Oct-April | Mid-century pools & desert stars |
| Big Bear Lake | 2-2.5 hours | $$ | Winter/Summer | Cozy cabins & mountain adventures |
| San Diego | 2-2.5 hours | $$-$$$ | Year-round | Coastal luxury & vibrant dining |
| Joshua Tree | 2.5-3 hours | $-$$ | Oct-April | Desert landscapes & starlit nights |
| Santa Ynez Valley | 2.5-3 hours | $$ | Spring/Fall | Wine country romance |
Budget Guide: $ = Under $300/weekend | $$ = $300-700/weekend | $$$ = $700+/weekend
Malibu: Coastal Luxury at Your Doorstep
Drive Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour via PCH
There’s something magical about Malibu that makes it feel worlds away from LA, even though it’s technically still part of Los Angeles County. The moment you round the bend past Topanga and see the coastline stretching endlessly ahead, stress just evaporates. For weekend getaways from Los Angeles for couples, Malibu offers the perfect blend of accessibility and escape—you can leave after work Friday and be watching the sunset from the sand before 7 PM.
Where to Stay
Malibu Beach Inn ($450-$850/night) – Every room faces the ocean directly. You wake up to waves practically lapping at your balcony. The rooms feature deep soaking tubs positioned to face the ocean, gas fireplaces, and French doors opening to private balconies. Book a third-floor room for the best views.
Malibu Proper Hotel ($380-$650/night) – This boutique property feels like staying at an impossibly chic friend’s beach house. The rooftop bar offers sweeping ocean views, and the intimate size means impeccable service.
Top Romantic Experiences
Start mornings with coffee from Malibu Farm Pier Cafe, watching surfers as the marine layer burns off. Spend late morning exploring El Matador State Beach, where dramatic rock formations create private coves. For sunset—and this is non-negotiable—head to Little Dume Beach for what locals consider the best sunset views in Malibu.
Where to Eat
Mastro’s Ocean Club (Entrees $45-$95) – Request a table on the ocean-view patio. The lobster mashed potatoes are legendary, and the butter cake dessert is genuinely worth the calories.
Geoffrey’s Malibu (Entrees $35-$75) – This cliff-side institution features terraced patio descending toward the ocean. Every table has ocean views, but the lower tiers feel most intimate.
Weekend Budget: $700-$1,800 (including accommodation, dining, and activities)
Ojai: Wellness and Romance in the Valley
Drive Time: 1 hour 30 minutes via 101 North
Ojai has been my retreat destination for years. What makes Ojai special is its almost tangible serenity—the moment you descend into the valley from the mountains, there’s a palpable shift. Time slows down. The valley is cradled by the Topatopa Mountains, creating the famous “pink moment” at sunset when the mountains glow rose-gold.
Where to Stay
Ojai Valley Inn ($450-$850/night) – This property sprawls across 220 acres with four pools, a world-class spa, and eight dining options. The Spa Ojai offers couples’ treatments in a treehouse suite overlooking the valley.
The Capri Hotel ($280-$450/night) – Mid-century modern design meets bohemian Ojai. Record players in every room, relaxed pool scene, and complimentary bikes for exploring downtown.
Top Romantic Experiences
Walk the main arcade popping into art galleries and Bart’s Books (an entirely outdoor bookstore, wonderfully romantic for book-loving couples). The Ojai Olive Oil Company offers tastings that are surprisingly romantic—sampling oils and vinegars while nibbling bread and cheese. Hike the Shelf Road Trail—an easy 1.5-mile walk with stunning valley views.
Where to Eat
The Ranch House (Entrees $32-$58) – OpenTable rated this one of America’s most romantic restaurants. Your table is surrounded by fragrant herbs, flowering plants, and ancient sycamores. Make reservations weeks in advance.
Nocciola (Entrees $24-$42) – Exceptional handmade pasta in an intimate Italian setting. The pappardelle with wild boar ragu is outstanding.
Weekend Budget: $650-$2,000 (including accommodation, dining, spa, and activities)
Santa Barbara: The American Riviera
Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours via 101 North
Santa Barbara isn’t just beautiful; it’s cultured, sophisticated, and romantic in a way that feels effortless. The city’s Spanish colonial heritage shapes everything from architecture to ambiance. Walking through downtown feels European—palm-lined boulevards, whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs, wrought-iron balconies dripping with bougainvillea.
Where to Stay
Belmond El Encanto ($650-$1,200/night) – Hillside bungalows with sweeping views across red-tile roofs to the Pacific. The infinity pool seems to float above the city.
Rosewood Miramar Beach ($850-$1,500/night) – Contemporary luxury with direct beach access. Three pools, massive spa, and excellent restaurants make leaving difficult.
Simpson House Inn ($350-$650/night) – Victorian elegance with individually decorated rooms, many with fireplaces and deep soaking tubs. Included breakfast served on fine china.
Top Romantic Experiences
Explore the Funk Zone—Santa Barbara’s arts and wine district housing over twenty wine tasting rooms. Walk between tasting rooms like Municipal Winemakers and Pali Wine Co. Spend afternoons at Butterfly Beach in Montecito (quieter, perfect for couples) or walk State Street through downtown browsing galleries. Head to the wharf for sunset—the light over the Channel Islands is magical.
Where to Eat
The Lark (Small plates $16-$38) – Mediterranean-inspired small plates designed for sharing. Order the wood-grilled octopus and saffron rigatoni. Book 2-3 weeks ahead.
Bouchon (Entrees $32-$58) – Classic French cuisine in intimate, candlelit setting. The bouillabaisse and duck confit are signature dishes.
Weekend Budget: $850-$2,500 (including accommodation, dining, wine tasting, and activities)
Palm Springs: Desert Luxury and Mid-Century Magic
Drive Time: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes via I-10 East
Palm Springs celebrates design, leisure, and the good life without apology. Hundreds of boutique hotels featuring stunning mid-century architecture cater specifically to couples. The desert landscape creates dramatic backdrops—the San Jacinto Mountains rise abruptly from the desert floor. And crucially, Palm Springs knows its seasons—visiting October through April when desert weather is absolute perfection.
Where to Stay
Avalon Hotel Palm Springs ($280-$550/night) – Captures everything magical about Palm Springs mid-century design. The property centers around a spectacular pool with cabanas, fire pits, and mountain views. Adults-only policy ensures peace.
Parker Palm Springs ($450-$900/night) – Jonathan Adler designed this maximalist resort. Bold patterns, vibrant colors, and whimsical details create fun romantic energy. Multiple pools, spa, and excellent restaurants.
Top Romantic Experiences
Take the Aerial Tramway—the rotating gondola climbs 8,500 feet in ten minutes with stunning Coachella Valley views. Explore the Uptown Design District’s vintage furniture stores and mid-century shops. Embrace the Palm Springs mandate: do nothing at your hotel pool. Visit Moorten Botanical Garden at golden hour when light through cacti and palms is magical.
Where to Eat
Workshop Kitchen + Bar (Entrees $28-$48) – Most innovative food in Palm Springs. The outdoor patio is perfect for dinner. Duck breast and wood-grilled octopus are excellent.
Le Vallauris (Entrees $38-$68) – French restaurant in a 1924 estate. The garden patio feels transported from Provence. Traditional French menu executed beautifully.
Weekend Budget: $650-$2,000 (including accommodation, dining, and activities)
CRITICAL: Visit October through April only. Summer temperatures reach 110-120°F.
Big Bear Lake: Mountain Romance and Cabin Getaways
Drive Time: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes via I-10 East and CA-38
Big Bear seven thousand feet in the San Bernardino Mountains offers a completely different romantic escape from LA’s typical beach destinations. In winter, it’s Southern California’s premier snow destination. In summer, it’s a cool alpine refuge from valley heat. The village maintains a small-town mountain vibe with locally owned restaurants and vintage cabins.
Where to Stay
The Pines Lakefront ($180-$350/night) – Individual lakefront cabins with full kitchens, fireplaces, and private decks overlooking the lake. Property provides kayaks and paddleboards in summer.
Apples Bed and Breakfast Inn ($180-$300/night) – Each room features fireplace and whirlpool tub. Multi-course breakfast is exceptional, and afternoon wine creates community.
Top Romantic Experiences
In winter, snowshoeing through pristine forests or being snowed in together creates deep romance. In summer, rent kayaks from Pleasure Point Marina and explore quiet coves. The Skyline Trail offers an easy 2.4-mile hike through pine forests with lake views. Visit Wildhaven Ranch for llama walks—absurd and delightful.
Where to Eat
Peppercorn Grille (Entrees $28-$48) – Most upscale dining in Big Bear. Elk tenderloin and lobster tail are signatures. Reserve ahead for weekend dinners during ski season.
Himalayan Restaurant (Entrees $14-$24) – Authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine. The chicken tikka masala and momos are excellent with outstanding value.
Grizzly Manor Cafe (Breakfast $10-$16) – Enormous portions, legendary pancakes (order the Bear Claw). Arrive at 7 AM or embrace the wait.
Weekend Budget: $550-$1,100 (including accommodation, dining, and activities)
San Diego: Coastal Sophistication and Vibrant Energy
Drive Time: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes via I-5 South
San Diego is large enough to offer world-class dining and cultural attractions, yet maintains a relaxed beach-town vibe. The city’s year-round perfect weather, seventy miles of coastline, and sophisticated-yet-unpretentious attitude make it ideal for couples. The neighborhoods each have distinct personalities, allowing you to customize your weekend.
Where to Stay
Hotel del Coronado ($450-$900/night) – Victorian beach resort built in 1888 is pure romantic history. Book a room in the original Victorian building for maximum charm. Beachfront fire pits are complimentary for guests.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines ($550-$950/night) – Craftsman-style lodge overlooking Torrey Pines Golf Course and Pacific Ocean. Quiet luxury with wood-beamed ceilings and world-class spa.
Top Romantic Experiences
Explore La Jolla—walk through the village browsing boutiques and galleries, then descend to La Jolla Cove to watch sea lions and seals. Kayak the La Jolla Underwater Park’s protected waters. Stroll through Balboa Park’s gardens—the Botanical Building and lily pond are especially romantic. Have sunset cocktails at Altitude Sky Lounge with panoramic city and bay views.
Where to Eat
Addison (Tasting menu $325/person) – San Diego’s only Michelin three-star restaurant. Impeccable service and contemporary French cuisine in elegant setting.
Ironside Fish & Oyster (Entrees $32-$58) – Little Italy gem with oyster bar and fresh seafood. The rooftop deck overlooks the bay. Excellent brunch too.
The Marine Room (Entrees $42-$78) – This La Jolla institution offers high-tide dinners where waves crash against floor-to-ceiling windows. Time your reservation with the tide schedule for dramatic dining.
Weekend Budget: $850-$2,500 (including accommodation, dining, and activities)
Joshua Tree: Desert Landscapes and Starlit Nights
Drive Time: 2.5 to 3 hours via I-10 East
Joshua Tree offers couples seeking solitude and natural beauty an unforgettable escape. The otherworldly landscape of twisted Joshua trees, massive boulder formations, and endless desert vistas creates a backdrop unlike anywhere else. The night skies—with minimal light pollution—reveal the Milky Way in spectacular detail.
Where to Stay
Unique Airbnbs ($150-$400/night) – Joshua Tree has incredible unique properties: glass domes for stargazing, modernist pods, vintage Airstreams, and architect-designed cabins. Having your own space allows for complete privacy.
Sacred Sands ($250-$450/night) – Five uniquely designed suites with private outdoor showers and patios. The location offers direct access to hiking trails.
Top Romantic Experiences
Enter Joshua Tree National Park at sunrise when temperatures are pleasant and light is golden. Hike to Skull Rock or Hidden Valley—both moderate trails with stunning landscapes. Visit Pioneertown, a 1940s Western movie set turned quirky desert town. Have lunch at Pappy & Harriet’s (also great for live music). Return to your accommodation for sunset cocktails with panoramic desert views. After dark, spread a blanket outside for stargazing—the Milky Way stretches brilliantly overhead.
Where to Eat
Pappy & Harriet’s (Entrees $18-$32) – Western roadhouse serving BBQ and comfort food with live music. The atmosphere is lively and fun.
Crossroads Cafe (Breakfast $12-$18) – Local favorite for hearty breakfasts and excellent coffee. The outdoor patio is lovely for morning meals.
Weekend Budget: $350-$800 (including accommodation, dining, park entry, and activities)
CRITICAL: Visit October through April. Summer heat exceeds 110°F.
Santa Ynez Valley: Wine Country Romance
Drive Time: 2.5 to 3 hours via 101 North
Santa Ynez Valley offers California wine country romance without Napa prices or crowds. The valley encompasses charming towns including Solvang (a Danish village), Los Olivos (tasting rooms and galleries), and pastoral vineyard landscapes. The wine tasting is excellent, the pace is relaxed, and the romantic appeal is undeniable.
Where to Stay
Fess Parker Wine Country Inn ($350-$650/night) – French Provincial elegance in Los Olivos. Rooms feature fireplaces, heated bathroom floors, and private patios. Wine and cheese reception each evening.
The Landsby ($280-$500/night) – Danish-modern design in downtown Solvang. Complimentary bikes for exploring, and the on-site restaurant Mad & Vin is excellent.
Top Romantic Experiences
Spend Saturday wine tasting—Los Olivos has twenty tasting rooms within walking distance. Favorites include Carr Winery, Blair Fox Cellars, and Stolpman Vineyards. Have a picnic lunch at Sunstone Vineyards with wine overlooking estate vineyards. Explore Solvang’s Danish architecture, bakeries, and shops. Book a couples’ massage at Coquelicot Estate Vineyard’s spa overlooking the vines.
Where to Eat
The Hitching Post II (Entrees $32-$58) – Featured in the movie Sideways, this Santa Ynez institution serves grilled steaks and local wines. The oak-grilled ribeye is legendary.
Mad & Vin (Small plates $14-$28) – Modern Danish cuisine with California influences. The outdoor courtyard is lovely for dinner.
Weekend Budget: $650-$1,200 (including accommodation, dining, wine tasting, and activities)
Planning Your Perfect Romantic Getaway
Budget Planning by Destination Type
Beach Getaways (Malibu, Santa Barbara, San Diego): $850-$2,500 for mid-range to luxury. Hotels are expensive but dining and activities offer range.
Desert Escapes (Palm Springs, Joshua Tree): $500-$2,000. Wide range depending on accommodation choice. Mid-week visits dramatically reduce costs.
Mountain Retreats (Big Bear, Ojai): $550-$1,500. Cabin rentals offer excellent value. Spa treatments increase costs significantly.
Wine Country (Santa Ynez Valley): $650-$1,200. Tasting room fees add up but accommodations and dining are reasonably priced.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Ideal for most destinations. Wildflowers bloom, weather is perfect, and crowds are manageable. Book Santa Barbara and Ojai for this season.
Summer (June-August): Best for Big Bear and mountain escapes. Beach destinations are crowded and expensive. Avoid Palm Springs and Joshua Tree entirely.
Fall (September-November): Perfect for wine country, desert destinations after October, and beach towns post-Labor Day. September and October offer the best combination of weather and value.
Winter (December-February): Ideal for Big Bear snow romance, Palm Springs desert luxury, and San Diego coastal getaways. Beach towns are quiet and affordable.
Booking Strategy
3 months ahead: Book Santa Barbara, Malibu, and Palm Springs accommodations for peak season weekends.
6-8 weeks ahead: Reserve restaurants at The Lark, Ranch House, Peppercorn Grille, and other popular spots for weekend dinners.
1 month ahead: Book spa treatments, wine tours, and special activities like the Aerial Tramway.
Last minute: Big Bear weekdays, Joshua Tree accommodations, and shoulder season beach getaways offer availability and deals.
Transportation Tips
Your own car: Best for flexibility and stopping at scenic viewpoints. Ensure good maintenance before mountain trips.
Rental car: Useful if your car isn’t reliable for mountain driving. Book ahead for better rates.
Traffic timing: Leave LA before 2 PM or after 7 PM on Fridays. Return before noon or after 6 PM on Sundays to avoid worst traffic.
Chain requirements: Big Bear in winter requires carrying chains. Check Caltrans before departing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest romantic getaways from LA?
Malibu (45 minutes) and Laguna Beach (1-1.5 hours) offer the quickest escapes with maximum romantic impact. Both provide coastal beauty, excellent dining, and luxury accommodations within easy reach.
What is the most romantic place near Los Angeles?
Ojai consistently ranks as Southern California’s most romantic destination. The mountain-valley setting, world-class spas, intimate dining, and famous “pink moment” sunsets create unmatched romantic ambiance.
Where can couples go for a cheap weekend from LA?
Joshua Tree and Big Bear offer the best value. Joshua Tree Airbnbs start at $150/night, and the park entry is only $30. Big Bear cabin rentals provide affordable options, especially midweek, with hiking and lake activities being free.
What is the best time of year for LA weekend getaways?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer ideal weather for most destinations. Avoid summer for desert locations and winter for mountain destinations unless you specifically want snow.
How far in advance should I book romantic getaways from LA?
For weekend trips during peak season (summer for beaches, winter for mountains), book hotels 2-3 months ahead. Restaurants at popular spots require 2-4 weeks notice. Midweek trips and shoulder seasons allow more spontaneity.
Are these destinations good for anniversary trips?
Absolutely. Ojai Valley Inn, Belmond El Encanto, and Montage Laguna Beach specifically cater to celebrations with romance packages. Request champagne, rose petals, and late checkout when booking.
Which destinations are best for proposals?
Malibu’s El Matador Beach at sunset, Ojai’s Meditation Mount during “pink moment,” and La Jolla Cove in San Diego offer stunning backdrops. Consider hiring a photographer to capture the moment.
What’s the most romantic beach town near LA?
Laguna Beach combines natural beauty (dramatic cliffs and coves), cultural sophistication (100+ art galleries), and excellent dining in an intimate village setting. It’s romantic without trying too hard.
Where should we go for a spa weekend from LA?
Ojai is California’s premier spa destination. Ojai Valley Inn’s spa is world-class, and the valley’s wellness culture means multiple excellent options. Palm Springs offers desert spa experiences with dozens of resort spas.
What are the best wine country getaways from LA?
Santa Ynez Valley offers the most accessible wine country romance from LA (2.5-3 hours). For longer trips, Paso Robles (3-3.5 hours) provides excellent wine tasting with hot springs nearby.
Key Takeaways
Southern California offers couples an embarrassment of romantic riches within three hours of Los Angeles. Beach lovers should explore Malibu’s dramatic coastline, Santa Barbara’s sophisticated charm, or San Diego’s vibrant coastal energy. Mountain romantics will find cozy cabin retreats in Big Bear and serene wellness in Ojai’s valley. Desert enthusiasts can indulge in Palm Springs’ mid-century luxury or Joshua Tree’s otherworldly landscapes. Wine country beckons in Santa Ynez Valley with relaxed tasting rooms and pastoral beauty.
The key to perfect weekend getaways from Los Angeles for couples is matching destination to season—visit deserts October through April, mountains year-round with emphasis on winter for snow romance, and beaches during spring and fall for ideal weather without summer crowds. Book accommodations and popular restaurants 2-3 months ahead for peak season weekends, but embrace spontaneity during midweek and shoulder seasons when you’ll find better rates and availability.
Most importantly, remember that the best romantic getaway is the one you actually take. Southern California’s variety means there’s always a perfect escape waiting, whether you have $400 or $2,000 to spend, prefer active adventures or poolside lounging, and want to drive one hour or three. The hardest part is choosing where to go first—everything else is just packing the bag and pointing the car toward romance.
