Romantic Date Ideas for Valentines Day Los Angeles 2026

 
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If you’re planning on having a wonderful Valentines Day Los Angeles, here are a few ideas for you!

Hi, I’m Megan, a Malibu, CA based photographer. I’ve lived in Malibu my entire life, and have spent a good amount of time exploring LA county.

Los Angeles is a huge county and there are so many romantic places to visit, restaurants to eat at, experiences to take hold of. Below is a list of fun and romantic experiences you and your loved one will cherish for years to come.

 
 

Why Los Angeles Is Perfect for Valentine’s Day

February is one of the most comfortable times of year in Los Angeles. The weather is mild, the pace of the city slows slightly after the holidays, and outdoor plans are still enjoyable without the heat, heavy coastal fog, or crowds that come later in the year.

What makes Los Angeles especially appealing for Valentine’s Day is variety. You can spend the morning near the ocean, grab coffee in a neighborhood café, and end the day watching the sun set over the coast, all without leaving the county. That flexibility makes it easy to plan a day that matches your relationship instead of forcing it into a preset idea of romance.

Romantic Things to Do in Los Angeles on Valentine’s Day

A Valentines Day Los Angeles experience offers countless ways to celebrate love through shared experiences.

Below are some of the most memorable Valentines Day experiences for couples in Los Angeles, whether you’re locals or visiting for a romantic getaway.

1. A Romantic Photoshoot in Malibu

If you’re looking for a Valentines Day experience that lasts far beyond February 14th, a romantic photoshoot in Malibu is a beautiful way to celebrate your relationship. Malibu offers a quieter, more natural setting than the city, which allows you to slow down and simply be together in a beautiful location.

Instead of planning around crowded restaurants, a Malibu couples session focuses on connection. Imagine barefoot walks along the shoreline, and images that capture your love.

As a Malibu based photographer, I offer a limited number of sessions in the weeks leading up to Valentines Day.

Here’s what’s included:

  • Guided location planning – I help choose the best Malibu beach or coastal setting based on privacy, light, and tide.

  • 🌊 Golden-hour timing – sessions scheduled around the most flattering winter light for soft, natural images.

  • 🤍 Styling support – outfit guidance focused on neutral tones, texture, and effortless coordination.

  • 📸 Gentle direction & prompts – so nothing feels stiff or forced, just natural connection.

  • 🎞️ Photographed on film and digital – blending the softness of film with the reliability and versatility of digital for a timeless final gallery.

Availability is intentionally limited for January and February sessions, and dates tend to book early. If you’re hoping to celebrate Valentines Day with an experience you’ll treasure for a life time, inquire now to reserve your Valentines Day couples session in Malibu.

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2. Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise in Marina del Rey

For couples looking to combine romance, atmosphere, and an unforgetable experience, a Valentine’s Day dinner cruise with City Cruises offers a beautifully paced evening on the water. Departing from Marina del Rey, this experience pairs a multi-course dinner with panoramic views of the coastline and city lights.

This is an ideal Valentine’s Day experience for couples who want something romantic and memorable without the stress of crowded dining rooms or tight reservation windows. Everything is taken care of, allowing you to focus on being present, enjoying the view, and sharing a meaningful evening together.

3. Rooftop Movie Night Under the Stars

For couples who love a nostalgic, relaxed date, a rooftop movie night is a refreshing alternative to traditional Valentine’s plans. Venues like Rooftop Cinema Club create a cozy atmosphere with skyline views, blankets, and classic films playing overhead. Watching a movie together outdoors feels intimate in a way a crowded theater never does, and it leaves plenty of room for conversation, shared snacks, and quiet moments.

4. Luxury Picnic Designed for Two

A professionally styled picnic turns a simple afternoon into something intentional and romantic. Companies such as Picnic Makers curate setups complete with linens, florals, and thoughtfully arranged details in scenic Los Angeles locations. It’s perfect for couples who want privacy, flexibility, and an experience that is custom to you (especially when paired with a coastal view or peaceful park setting).

5. Romantic Restaurants for Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles

For couples who do want a special dinner, choosing the right atmosphere makes all the difference. These restaurants are known for their romantic settings and Valentine’s-worthy ambiance. Reservations are essential, especially if you’re planning for February 14.

  • 71Above: A dramatic dining experience high above downtown Los Angeles, offering sweeping city views and a refined, intimate atmosphere, ideal for couples wanting a truly special evening.

  • The Little Door: Known for its warm courtyard setting and European feel, this spot is consistently romantic and perfect for an unhurried Valentine’s dinner.

  • Cicada Restaurant and Lounge: A glamorous, old-Hollywood space with live music and a timeless feel, making dinner feel like an event rather than just a meal.

  • Spago: A classic choice for couples who appreciate elevated cuisine, attentive service, and a polished atmosphere.

  • Barton G. The Restaurant Los Angeles: Ideal for couples who want a lively, creative dining experience with visually striking presentations and a fun twist on Valentine’s night.

6. Botanical Garden Stroll

A Valentine’s Day walk through a botanical garden offers a slower pace and a sense of escape from the city. Places like Descanso Gardens or Huntington Library feel especially peaceful in February, with fewer visitors and plenty of space to wander. These settings invite conversation, reflection, and unplanned moments, making them ideal for couples who value calm, shared experiences.

For couples looking for something a little more immersive, Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanical Garden transforms the gardens into a nighttime experience filled with soft lighting, celestial-inspired installations, and a guided walking path under the stars. It’s a beautiful option for an evening Valentine’s date.

7. Romantic Museum Dates for Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles

For couples who enjoy art, culture, and slower-paced experiences, museums offer a thoughtful and intimate way to spend Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles. February is an especially nice time to visit, fewer crowds and plenty of space to explore together.

  • LACMA
    An iconic Los Angeles museum experience, LACMA offers a mix of modern, contemporary, and classic works. Evening visits feel especially romantic, with the outdoor installations and soft lighting creating a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere that’s perfect for lingering conversations.

  • The Getty Museum
    Perched above the city, The Getty combines world-class art with sweeping views of Los Angeles. Walking the gardens and galleries together feels super romantic, making it an ideal Valentine’s Day option for couples who appreciate beauty, architecture, and quiet moments.

  • The Getty Villa
    Inspired by ancient Roman architecture, The Getty Villa feels like stepping into another place entirely. The coastal setting, courtyards, and ocean views create a naturally romantic environment, especially for couples looking to pair art with a scenic drive and a slower pace.

  • Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
    For something a little different, the Natural History Museum offers an engaging and playful date experience. Exploring exhibits together encourages conversation and curiosity, making it a great option for couples who want a relaxed, interactive Valentine’s Day plan.

 

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A picture of the photographer, Megan W Photography, holding a Nikon mirrorless camera while standing in front of the ocean on a foggy day.
 

About Megan W Photography

Megan is a Fine Art Maternity, Couples, and Family photographer who was born, raised, and is still living in Malibu, CA. She is here to capture you and your loved ones in images that you will want to cherish, and pass down to future generations.

Not only is she a photographer, but she is a mother, wife, daughter, and sister.

Maternity, family, and couples hold a special place in her heart because she knows how quickly time flies by. Megan W Photography wants to help you preserve those sweet little smiles, those tender, affectionate moments, and the love you share with each other.

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The image shows the photographer, Megan W Photography, standing in front of the ocean on a cloudy day. She is holding a Nikon mirrorless camera and smiling.

Hi! I’m Megan

I’m a boutique, Malibu, CA based photographer who specializes in Maternity, Couples, and families. I serve Los Angeles and Ventura County, as well as all of California. I value tangible, heirloom art pieces versus digital and I focus on quality over quantity.

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Meganwphotography.org participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs. As an affiliate, I earn commissions on qualifying purchases made through links on this site, at no additional cost to you.

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