This Southern California Destination Is A Great Spot For A Beachside Couples Trip

You can spend all the time in the world with your significant other, but what's more important than the quantity of time you two get is the quality of your time together. If you're looking to spend some intentional, one-on-one time, plan a romantic getaway to Laguna Beach, California. Between vibrant sunsets along the coast and the calming coo of ocean waves, beaches are inherently romantic on their own. However, Laguna Beach, in particular, might just be the most romantic place in the state.

Named the top beach in all of California by U.S. News in 2023, this Orange County gem blows away many people who make a visit. Located between San Diego and Los Angeles, the city's moderate weather offers a wonderful retreat for guests all year long. Between its scenic cliffs, quiet shores, and pristine waters, the natural scenery is bound to enchant you and your partner. To boot, this quaint town has plenty of charming local businesses and exciting entertainment to keep you busy.

Laguna Beach is the perfect travel destination if you want to slow down and have a relaxing romantic getaway. Wake up overlooking the expansive Pacific at an oceanfront hotel like the award-winning Montage Laguna Beach. In addition to the seaside view and the hotel's five-star service, the spa offers special couples packages for you and your partner to unwind into vacation mode fully.  

Another great way to calm the nervous system is to get outdoors and move. If any stereotype about Californians is true, it's that they love to be active. Once you experience the beautiful outdoors and moderate weather of Laguna Beach, you'll understand why. Couples who love to hike will enjoy a relatively easy 5.2-mile route via the Reef Point and Crystal Cove Trail. Or, to really immerse yourself in Californian culture, take a yoga class together on the beach and head out front of Montag Resort at Treasure Island Park, where they offer free morning classes five days a week.

While you're staying in this beach town, it's practically essential that you dedicate a day to lounging on one of its magnificent beaches. Snag a bite from the beloved local sandwich shop, Second Reef Deli, and head to the shore with a beach chair or picnic blanket. We recommend you post up at Crystal Cove State Park or 1,000 Steps Beach to ensure you see Laguna's best, which are the highest-rated beaches in Laguna Beach on TripAdvisor. 

Once you've taken in Laguna Beach's natural splendor, you and your loved one have got to head into town. Downtown Laguna Beach is home to an adorable and accessible town center full of dining and entertainment. If either of you take an interest in the arts, make sure to book your stay on a weekend that overlaps with the first Thursday of the month. If you do, you'll be able to catch the city's First Thursday's Art Walk, where all the art galleries open their doors in the evenings for special events and viewings. If you're partial to the performing arts, see a show at the 100-year-old Laguna Playhouse.

As soon as you're looking to wine and dine, you'll find you don't have to go far in Laguna Beach for top-quality options. Enjoy a fun buzz while wine-tasting at McClain Cellars, or find your new favorite beer at Escape Craft Brewery, which is Yelp's top pick. And what would be a couple's getaway without a romantic dinner? Head to an upscale Michelin restaurant like Rebel Omakase. There, you'll share a delectable Japanese meal in a sleek, upscale ambiance with a chef who creates tailor-made tasting menus. For a more casual meal — or for those who prefer vegetarian cuisine — head to Zinc Cafe and Market, which is "a must do for vegetarians!" as noted by a Google reviewer. There, you'll find fresh, modern American cuisine and an adorable, light-strung patio to sit in.