Is there a better place to live, work, and play than Santa Monica? We don’t think so. Still, when immersed in a place it can become easy to lose track of everything that makes your city so unique. That becomes apparent when you try to find the ideal place for a date.
How about a reminder? Santa Monica and the surrounding area have some fabulous outdoor romantic spots. Here are some that are perfect for your next date.
Palisades Park
Enjoy a relaxing dinner and cocktails at one of the many amazing restaurants on Ocean Avenue. Then, take a walk in Palisades Park. Check the view of the ocean from the cliffs. It’s particularly breathtaking at sunset.
If you prefer to go during the day. Pack a picnic, there are plenty of places to enjoy an amazing spread. Pick up some amazing treats at the Palisades Farmers Market on your way in. After you eat, enjoy the rose gardens, and the view from Camera Obscura.
The Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is the place for live music in Southern California. If you get a chance to take a date there, you will surely have a fantastic time. Just follow these tips:
- Dress warm: It’s cooler at night than many people realize
- Avoid driving: Use the shuttle, park-n-ride, or the metro
- Use a paid lot if you insist on driving
- Bring a picnic lunch: the food at the bowl is pricey
- Know what’s allowed: Some items are banned!
Finally, enjoy the show and your date.
Santa Monica Pier
Celebrate your inner child and enjoy a fun date on the Santa Monica Pier. This choice hits every note if you crave an active, outdoor experience. There’s just so much to do.
Get in on the action at Pacific Park! This amusement park right on the pier is easy to recognize. Just look for the iconic Ferris wheel! You and your date can enjoy hours eating indulgent carnival food, playing games, and riding the rides. When you’re ready for a break, the beach is right there!
That’s not all. If you prefer to skip the crowds at Pacific Park, try your hand at a bit of shore fishing. You don’t need a license to fish at the pier. There’s also a killer arcade. Have you ever dreamt of being a circus performer? Trapeze School New York Los Angeles offers trapeze and aerial silks classes.
Griffith Observatory
There’s nothing more romantic than stargazing. Why not spend an evening under the Southern California sky with the one you love? The Griffith Observatory is open to the public, and viewing the constellations is absolutely free. So is exploring Griffith Park.
If you don’t mind spending a bit of money, there are even more activities. Start with a visit to the Samuel Oschin Planetarium where you can experience the cosmos like never before. Also, check out their daily programs for shows and events at the Leonard Nimoy Theater and Planetarium.
Huntington Botanical Gardens
The Huntington Library, museum, and botanical gardens are a local treasure. If you’re interested in an outdoor date with someone you’ve met on Taimi, the botanical gardens are an ideal spot for a first date.
These expansive gardens cover more than 130 acres. There are 16 themed gardens to explore. More than 80,000 plants to enjoy. This includes several rare or endangered species. And, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, change plans, and head to the world-class art museum.
There’s so Much More to Do!
Santa Monica was made for people who love to be outdoors. This brief list barely scratches the surface. There’s Dodger Stadium, Hollywood Sign, and hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains. The possibilities are almost limitless. All you have to do is grab your p