Temecula is at the top of the best romantic getaways from L.A. since it is the only location with essentially all romantic gestures. And if none of that appeals to you, just book a room at one of the many lovely hotels, whether it's a vineyard hotel or a modest bed and breakfast, and spend quality time gazing at the stunning scenery with your significant other.

Wine tasting, vineyard tours, eating, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, golfing, biking, hiking, exotic animals, swimming and sunbathing, gambling, spa services, shopping, live music, and special events are among the things to do in Temecula Valley. A meadery, two distilleries, close to 50 wineries, and 12 breweries all have tasting rooms.

The historical center of Temecula Valley, Old Town Temecula, must be seen as part of any vacation. Popular restaurants, quaint boutiques, beer and wine tasting rooms, museums, speakeasies, outdoor art, a performance theater, and a bustling nightlife can all be found in this charming walking neighborhood. A sky full with hot air balloons is a sight to behold, whether you're traveling in one of the enormous balloons or taking in the scenery while curled up beneath a blanket.

Location: southwestern Riverside County, California, United States

Outstanding place: Doffo Winery, Thornton Winery, Pechanga Resort Casino

Best time to visit: during any season

One of the most romantic restaurants in the country is located in Ojai; the Ranch House actually made an all-country list from OpenTable. The verdant, garden-like setting is the icing on top of a mouthwatering cuisine. But it's not the only factor that makes Ojai such a wonderful romantic getaway. Couples can enjoy relaxing stays at quaint lodgings like the Hummingbird Inn.

Whatever you decide, Ojai is the perfect place for romance. Go on a hike, spend the day at the spa, stroll through an orange orchard, or go wine tasting. With a unique blend of old-school, hippy healers and artists and the new-school people who are attempting to make that culture trendy again, the quiet, pastoral town of Ojai is a wonderful choice for visitors wishing to get away from LA or explore California.

There are many activities available in Ojai and the surrounding region for both groups. In addition to being locally produced, the wine is also delivered directly to you, with tasting rooms dotted around the downtown area, saving you the trouble of traveling to a vineyard. If you like the vast outdoors, Ojai is a terrific place to stop before or after seeing the nearby Los Padres National Forest.

Location: Ventura County, California
Outstanding place: Downtown Ojai, The Ojai Valley Inn, Olivella Restaurant at the Ojai Valley Inn
Transport: Ojai Limousine Service offers a private, more luxurious transportation option
Best time to visit: September and October or April and May

Big Sur is one of the best romantic getaways from L.A. Even while the six-hour trip to Big Sur through Southern California's stunning coast is gorgeous in and of itself, the romance really picks up once you arrive. In Big Sur, you may completely disconnect while staying in a cliffside yurt, or you can rough it even more at one of the many beautiful campgrounds nearby. Kirk Creek Campground is the top pick.

You can take a day trip to Carmel, stay put and enjoy a very late-night soak at the oceanfront Esalen Institute (their hot spring baths used to be open to the public from 1-3am with a reservation, but that has currently been suspended), or set out on one of the many hikes with breathtaking outlooks offering a view of the entire coastline. Following in the footsteps of beatniks and literary greats like Henry Miller and Jack Kerouac, several tourists enjoying a California road trip have made the trek to Big Sur to experience its bohemian culture.

These Big Sur Inns and resorts have managed to keep that atmosphere alive by coming up with inventive methods to introduce guests to nature and promote total relaxation. These lodging options will let you fully experience the breathtaking scenery and ocean views that Big Sur has to offer, whether you opt for a luxurious glamping experience or a rustic getaway.

Location: Scenic Highway approximately 150 miles south of San Francisco and 300 miles north of Los Angeles
Outstanding place: Pfeiffer Beach, Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Best time to visit: between April to October

Palm Springs is a top choice for a little desert romance, with its jet-set homes with pools, fire-lit patios, and landscape dotted with palm trees. If you want the greatest solitude, stay at an Airbnb, while Korakia Pensione is a particularly romantic option among the local hotels. While you're there, be sure to take the gondola up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, and think about making the hour-or-so hike to Joshua Tree (particularly for some nighttime stargazing).

The top activities to do in Palm Springs often focus on leisure given that it first emerged as a resort area in the early 20th century—with much of Hollywood vacationing here for a fast break from Los Angeles. Arid landscapes, golf courses, attractive holiday houses from the mid-20th century, and a fantastic restaurant scene all draw tourists to the city.

The desert city is lively all year round, but between December and April, when the notoriously dry heat subsides, it becomes exceptionally busy (no matter what, plan to pack plenty of water and sunscreen, and be sure to arrange accommodations with a pool). The best way to get the most of your trip to Palm Springs, regardless of when you go, is to use the guide. Activities can include entertaining home tours, botanical gardens, and unique mountaintop tram excursions.

Location: Riverside County, California, United States
Activities: Stay at a quiet boutique resort, Dine al fresco under the desert sky, Explore the Palm Springs vintage scene
Best time to visit: October - December

What more could you want for than Spanish architecture, top-notch dining options, and gorgeous beaches? Santa Barbara may be as pricey and romantic as you want it to be. Stay at the Hotel Santa Barbara on State Street, a posh beachfront resort, or a remote ranch in the mountains. Rent bikes on the beach, visit the zoo, go wine tasting at one of the many nearby vineyards or tasting establishments, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

Your significant other will swoon no matter what you do. The topic of the beaches often comes up while discussing the top things to do in Santa Barbara. How is that possible? With miles of sandy shoreline available for enjoyment, the so-called American Riviera is a paradise for anybody who love the ocean. Santa Barbara has a lot to offer guests of all ideologies, so don't make the mistake of believing that it is all about the ocean and the beach. Santa Barbara excels in many areas, and the Santa Ynez mountains provide as a stunningly dramatic backdrop to it all.

The hotels and restaurants are both first-rate, and the city's most famous historical sites also serve as picturesque locations that stay in the mind for a very long time. While the city's exciting nightlife offers a different type of energy, energetic tourists will love the scenic hiking paths. Why are you holding out? For you, Santa Barbara is prepared.

Location: Santa Barbara county, southwestern California, U.S
Activities: Wine tasting, Enjoy dinner and a show, Watch the sunset together, Picnic at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Best time to visit: March to May or from September to November

Yes, properly speaking, it is more of a staycation. However, Terranea comes to mind when you mention Rancho Palos Verdes as a prominent destination for couples. The scenic resort is an oceanfront heaven of leisure and resort life, with a nine-hole golf course, spa, four pools (one of which is adult-only), and eight restaurants. It is located on an oceanside cliff.

There's a decent possibility you'll spot a whale or two in the distance if you take a romantic stroll along the bluffs. There are many different types of lodging, from standard rooms and suites to bigger, more opulent bungalows, casitas, and villas. The scenic resort, located in exclusive Rancho Palos Verdes on an oceanfront cliff, is a Mecca for leisure and resort living.

There is also horseback riding, snorkeling, and paddle boarding if that isn't enough to keep you occupied. The variety of accommodations includes anything from standard rooms and suites to bigger, more opulent bungalows, casitas, and villas. Show your best side when relaxing by the pool since there are rumors that even a few Hollywood movies were made here.

Location: Los Angeles
Romantic place: Wayfarers Chapel. 399. Architectural Buildings, The Point Vicente Interpretive Center, Terranea Discovery Trail, Trump National Golf Club
Best time to visit: March 12th to December 2nd

Big Bear is your best option if your notion of romance consists of snuggling up by a fire in a lodge in the woods as snowflakes fall outside. This is also one of the best romantic getaways from L.A. You can try Airbnb or regional vacation rental companies like Big Bear Cabins if you're wanting to rent a cabin. If you're searching for things to do, put on your hiking boots or hit the slopes (depending on the time of year you travel).

In the spring, summer, and fall, there's also horseback riding and a wide range of water activities. The various hiking, biking, and kayaking paths around Big Bear Lake make the region ideal for Southern California's extended warm-weather seasons. Your trip there will be full of sharp bends and gentle inclines given the height of 6,000 feet.

If you frequently get car sick or if you drive an electric vehicle that will rapidly lose mileage as you start the steep ascent, make appropriate plans. You can divert your attention with the beautiful scenery along the way, but don't be shocked if the valley below is shrouded in fog. There aren't many stops along the way, so bring snacks and beverages for the journey!

Location: San Bernardino County, California, US
Outstanding place: Big Bear Jeep Experience, Cougar Crest Trail, Boulder Bay Park
Best time to visit: Spring and Fall

What could be more romantic than traveling to a remote island? Okay, so Catalina isn't quite a private island retreat in the Pacific, but the island's wild mountains and rocky coastline scream romance. Catalina Island is the nearest vacation option, and it's also reasonably priced thanks to its abundance of bed and breakfasts, kayaking, and hikes with ocean views.

The finest activities on Catalina Island continue to lean toward being very low-key. The island was once a retreat for Hollywood elites looking to avoid paparazzi. That doesn't mean Catalina isn't popular; in recent years, locals and tourists seeking a straightforward, uncomplicated holiday have started to learn more about it. On the island, there aren't many cars, so almost everything is within walking distance or is accessible by golf cart taxi. Catalina has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family atmosphere, an outdoor sports adventure, or simply a laid-back hang.

The majority of the action takes place in Avalon and the unassuming town of Two Harbors, but there are also opportunities for adventure in the interior of the island. There is a daily boat service from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point; however, a quicker helicopter alternative is also available. Ready to delve deeper? The top activities in Catalina Island are listed below.

Location: south-southwest of Long Beach, California, US
Romantic things to do: See a movie at the Casino Movie Theater, Couple's Massage at the Island Breeze Spa, Take in ocean views from your suite, Take a bike ride together
Transport: taxi/shuttle service, Specialty vehicle rentals
Best time to visit: spring and fall

San Diego is the ideal retreat for couples because it's only 2.5 hours from Los Angeles. If you're thinking of taking a romantic weekend trip to San Diego, consider using this comprehensive weekend itinerary. One of the biggest urban parks in the US is Balboa Park, so be sure to visit it!

Before visiting the many museums in the vicinity or even the San Diego Zoo, take a stroll through the park. If you and/or your spouse are into the beer scene, San Diego is a beer lover's heaven, so be sure to check out the local breweries and beer bars. And lastly, a trip to San Diego for two wouldn't be complete without watching the sunset at Sunset Cliffs.

The well-known cliffs are the ideal location to watch the sunset while elevated above the raging seas below. Just pack a blanket and a cheese platter. It's one of the most romantic San Diego activities and a must-see San Diego picture location!

Location: Los Angeles
Outstanding place: Balboa Park, Coronado Beach, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
Best time to visit: March through May and September through November

There are a ton of fantastic desert vacation spots all around Los Angeles. The town of Joshua Tree is well-known for housing the corresponding national park. There is a lot more to Joshua Tree than that. You may organize an unplanned picnic for you and your significant other in the park thanks to the town's broad selection of delectable dining establishments and takeout goods.

There are several sound bath options in this town of desert retreat if you and your significant other enjoy them. Check out Desert Hot Springs if you want a little more spa and relaxation but still want to explore the National Park. The hamlet, which is near to Joshua Tree, has hot springs, as well as a number of spas with pools filled with therapeutic mineral water.

The Castle House Estate in Joshua Tree is the best option for a special location to stay. You have a choice of lodgings, including container homes, castle towers, and glamping tents! You may take use of a variety of facilities, including room service, an outdoor fire pit, and an outdoor pool. The two-bedroom, two-bath Marbella Lane vacation rental, which is situated on 10 acres of gorgeous desert property, is another fantastic choice! In Joshua Tree, it's the ideal option for a solitary getaway.

Location: southeastern California, east of San Bernardino and Los Angeles and north of Palm Springs
Activities: Find an Idyllic Stay, Explore the Peculiar Pioneertown, Taste Your Way Around Joshua Tree, Live Music in Joshua Park
Best time to visit: March to May