Romantic Things to Do in San Diego

San Diego is known for its sunshine and surf, but it’s also a great city for romance. Whether you’re a couple who prefers to be on land or in the water, there are plenty of ways to spend a romantic day in San Diego. Here are Romantic Things to Do in San Diego that we want to share with you.

Whale Watching by Cruise

Ocean cruises and whale watching are ideal for a couple’s honeymoon. It’s right to put it at the top of Romantic Things to Do in San Diego.

Even while San Diego is home to numerous whale-watching excursions, only one really sends visitors out to sea on a sailboat. The classic sailing ship moves mainly on the wind which helps it to move close to the sea creatures without scaring them.

The trip will take about 4 hours. Departure from Shelter Island Drive, just a short walk from Shoreline Park. You can see gray whales, dolphins, and other marine life in the Pacific Ocean during the trip.

Throughout the trip, free non-alcoholic snacks and beverages are provided. You are welcome to bring a bottle of wine or a picnic lunch to enjoy while sailing.

Whale Watching by Cruise
Whale Watching by Cruise

There will definitely be whale sightings on your itinerary. You can go on another whale-watching expedition for free that day in the same season if no whales are visible the first time.

One great thing here is that the staff on the boat are very professional. They are not only fully equipped with knowledge about fish species in the area, but they are also attentive and enthusiastic to answer questions from passengers. So don’t be afraid to ask a few questions about your trip, and explore the ocean even more.

Join the San Diego Harbor Cruise

If you don’t have much time and are afraid to go far to the ocean, you can book tickets to join the San Diego Harbor Cruise which is considered one of the Romantic Things to Do in San Diego.

You can freely choose the time frame to make your trip in 1 or 2 hours. You can also find an area that works for you, such as sitting indoors or outdoors, including on the sundeck. On the boat selling snacks and drinks, you can enjoy several dishes.

Join the San Diego Harbor Cruise
Join the San Diego Harbor Cruise

The guide on the boat will fully narrate your journey as the boat moves to each place. This will help you understand the history and landmarks of San Diego. You can see Coronado Bridge, US Naval Base, Star of India, Naval Air Station North Island, Submarine Base, and Cabrillo National Monument. And you might even see local seals and sea lions if you’re lucky.

However, there are a few landmarks you won’t be able to see because of the 1-hour trip. If you have time, join your lover to experience San Diego for a romantic 2 hours on the cruise.

Dine at Bertrand at Mister A’s

Need the perfect place for Valentine’s Day, an upcoming celebration, or simply a special night out with your lover? Be sure to dine at the Bertrand restaurant at Mister A’s.

Bertrand at Mister A’s is a true fine-dining establishment that offers a luxurious meal with a beautiful skyline of downtown and Coronado Island. This is romantic when you’re dining on top of a twelve-story building in the heart of Banker’s Hill.

Dine at Bertrand at Mister A's
Dine at Bertrand at Mister A’s

You can enjoy European cuisine with some of Chef Voitzwinkler’s German, French and California flavors. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of the highest quality meats, fish and side dishes, offering a selection of fresh and mouth-watering dishes.

You can even sip a glass of wine from Bertrand at Mister A’s amazingly extensive wine collection with over 500 bottles. These wines are mostly produced in California and France, giving you the opportunity to delicately pair with Chef Voitzwinkler’s ever-changing dishes.

Stroll at La Jolla Cove

In La Jolla, close to San Diego, there is a little yet charming beach called La Jolla Cave Beach. You can stroll around and take in the scenery while admiring the street cafes, stores, shopping centers, and mansions.

Fur seals and sea lions are only a couple of the numerous aquatic creatures that frequent the coastline. Additionally, diving is possible in this water.

Stroll at La Jolla Cove
Stroll at La Jolla Cove

The center of La Jolla is pedestrian and touristic, and the restaurants here are expensive. You should book a table before you intend to eat at one of these restaurants. Among the best meals is fresh fish, you can also enjoy a delicious cocktail with your lover.

Along the way, you can stop by the Cave Store for a fun adventure as you descend the steps of the man-made tunnel.

It would be great to include a stroll at La Jolla Cove as one of the Romantic Things to Do in San Diego.

Watch movies at South Bay Drive-In

After experiencing and having fun all day long, you can sit in one place to enjoy some movies with your lover in the evening. Outdoor cinema and each of us being in a car gives us a sense of privacy.

The South Bay is one of three drive-in cinemas in the San Diego region, and it has three big screens to pick from. Open seven days a week, showtimes may be earlier in the winter and later in the summer.

Watch movies at South Bay Drive-In
Watch movies at South Bay Drive-In

Yummy snacks and delights including carne asada nachos, chocolates, and popcorn are available at the snack bar. You can also bring your own munchies, though.

Make sure your car’s sound system is up to par because the audio for the movies is broadcast via an FM (radio) transmitter.

You are welcome to bring a seat and relax in your parking place outside the vehicle. Invading the land next to it is not permitted, though, as it might belong to another visitor. Further, while you are outside the car, you must always wear a mask.

Taste Italian Cuisine at Little Italy in San Diego

You can spend 3 hours and 30 minutes on a tour that learns about the culture and food of the locals of San Diego. The stop in Little Italy is a highlight of the journey and something that interests many travelers.

Little Italy is a stylish, pedestrian-friendly area full with hip cocktail bars, brasseries, and eateries that are always busy. The area is filled with upscale apparel retailers, independent music venues, and cute advertising businesses. You can also visit The Amici (Friend) House, a historic house in San Diego’s Little Italy.

Taste Italian Cuisine at Little Italy in San Diego
Taste Italian Cuisine at Little Italy in San Diego

With its assortment of produce, gourmet food, and craft vendors, the monthly Mercato Little Italy Farmers Market draws large audiences. Additionally, you can unwind while seeing Waterfront Park’s lush grounds, fountain, and bay vistas.

This is an ideal place for you to both explore the history and taste the rich cuisine for your trip to San Diego. Isn’t it great when you travel to San Diego but taste Italian food? What dreamy Romantic Things to Do in San Diego!

Wine tasting at Rancho Bernardo

One of the Romantic Things to Do in San Diego is that you must try a few wine flavors at Rancho Bernardo. Imagine you and your lover enjoying a drink together and relaxing at a fancy pub.

You may want to head to  Rancho Bernardo Winery for a glass of wine and a romantic dinner at the on-site coffee shop or restaurant.

We will list a few of the best pubs for you in Rancho Bernardo, you can pick up a name of these and do a closer look. They are Carruth Cellars, Bernardo Winery, Domaine Artefact Vineyard & Winery, Abnormal Wine Company,…

Wine tasting at Rancho Bernardo
Wine tasting at Rancho Bernardo

Romantic Things to Do in San Diego will surely bring you relaxing moments with your partner. If you are wondering about choosing romantic places or things in San Diego, please refer to this article! Wishing you a journey full of joy and experiences.

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