As a resident of Southern California, you know one thing to be true: there’s also something for you to do in and around the area. And that’s especially true when it comes to Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking to plan a special date with a special person, there’s no better time than now to consider your options.
Before we go any further, keep in mind that you don’t need alcohol to have a good time. You can enjoy many venues in Southern California without ever taking a sip of alcohol. Now, let’s examine some ideas to play around with as the planning process begins.
A dining date
It doesn’t matter if it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, a dining date is one of the best ways to spend Valentine’s Day with that special someone. For instance, Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar are open to the public and taking beachfront dining reservations.
Make a shortlist of restaurants you’ve been wanting to try, research each one, and then decide where to make a Valentine’s Day reservation. Just make sure you take action. Waiting until the last minute could cause you to miss out on an enjoyable experience at your preferred restaurant.
A beach date
Southern California is known for its beautiful beaches. Pack a picnic and spend the day lounging on the beach together, watching the waves roll in. Popular beaches include Venice Beach and Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles and La Jolla Shores in San Diego.
Be sure that you have a contingency plan in place should the weather not cooperate. A beach date is tons of fun when the weather is accommodating, but rain or cold temperatures can ruin the experience.
A comedy show
Laugh together with your favorite person at a comedy club. Southern California has many famous comedy clubs like The Comedy Store in Hollywood, The Laugh Factory in Long Beach, and The Improv in San Jose. And of course, there are just as many smaller clubs that are well worth visiting if it fits into your schedule.
An art museum
It’s not something that everyone will enjoy, but if your date is into the arts you should at least consider this option. Visit one of the many art museums in Southern California. The Getty Center in Los Angeles and the Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego are both great options but don’t stop there. Depending on how much time you have, you may be able to visit several museums on the same day.
A spa day
Treat yourselves to a day of pampering at a spa. Many spas in Southern California offer couples’ packages that include massages and other treatments. You and your partner will leave the spa looking and feeling your best. From there, you can move on with the rest of your day, such as dinner at a local restaurant or a comedy show.
As one of the most popular Valentine’s Day date ideas, be sure that you book your reservation as far in advance as possible. The longer you wait the more difficult it will be to secure a spot. And even if you do, it may not be at an accommodating time.
A gondola ride
Take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. The gondoliers will serenade you as you float along, making for a truly romantic experience that you and your special someone will remember forever.
If you’re seeking a truly unique experience, this is where you want to start. That’s especially true if your date has never experienced a gondola ride.
Final thoughts
Now what do you think? Are you convinced that there are plenty of ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day in Southern California without alcohol?
If none of these ideas work for you, continue your search online. It may take some time to plan the perfect date, and that’s okay. The only thing that matters is that you get it right in the end.
For those who are struggling with alcohol addiction, find a treatment center near Dana Point to provide you with professional guidance. This may be all that you need to regain control of your life and better enjoy Valentine’s Day this year and every year that follows.