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5 Drivable Valentine’s Day Destinations in California

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And just like that, it’s already February. That means Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. If you’re wondering how to spend the holiday with your loved ones, consider whisking them away on a weekend escape. Whether it’s relaxing at a wine country retreat or spending time together by the water, here are some suggestions for the perfect Valentine’s getaway in California.

Farmhouse Inn, Sonoma County

If a weekend of wine tasting, delicious dining, relaxing, and more wine tasting sounds like your type of weekend, why not make the trek to Farmhouse Inn? The luxe boutique hotel in California’s wine country offers everything you and your other half could want from a weekend getaway. From a sommelier-led tour to a full-service spa to an unforgettable meal at the inn’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Farmhouse Inn has it all. If you’re up for a nearby adventure, consider going on a hot air balloon ride or taking a helicopter tour.

When you need a moment to rest, retreat to your private room, where you’re welcomed with European bed linens, oversized fireplaces, and fresh seasonal flowers. If you’d like to turn up the romance, feel free to contact the property’s concierge and request the “Candlelight Tub Turndown” — think candlelight, champagne on ice, and scattered rose petals.

7871 River Rd, Forestville; 707-887-3300; farmhouseinn.com

Hotel Metropole, Catalina Island

This destination might require a short ferry ride, but what better way to celebrate love than to travel to “the island of romance”? Whether traveling by boat or helicopter, you and your significant other will be welcomed by the resort town’s beautiful shores. Check into Hotel Metropole, located in the island’s main town of Avalon, where you’ll be near all the top attractions. There are endless activities to explore: parasailing, kayaking, bike riding, whale watching, hiking and more.

If you both need a brief break from your outdoor adventures, enjoy a couples massage at the hotel or the town’s various day spas. Complete your day with waterfront dining at Bluewater Avalon, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and specialty cocktails.

205 Crescent Ave, Avalon; 310-510-1884; hotel-metropole.com

Hotel Joaquin, Laguna Beach

Have a laid-back weekend at Hotel Joaquin, an adults-only accommodation nestled above Shaw’s Cove in Laguna Beach. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, book the Soleil room. It’s described as the “quietest room on the property” with a private balcony that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Take in the ocean breeze at the cove, where you and your sweetheart can have a nice picnic while lounging on beach chairs provided by the boutique hotel.

You can also hang out at the outdoor pool area, where you can take a dip or relax on a double daybed while sipping on a low-alcohol cocktail like the “north coast old fashioned” (coconut fat-washed bourbon allspice, demerara sugar, bitters). If you’re looking for some fun activities, the property provides free gears, including boogie boards, kayaks, snorkels, and city bikes, for guests to enjoy. Before heading out for a day of adventure, don’t forget to savor the hotel’s free breakfast. Croque Monsieur, anyone?

985 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach; 949-494-5294; hoteljoaquin.com

La Serena Villas, Palm Springs

Looking for total peace and quiet? Head to the desert and check into La Serena Villas in Palm Springs. The location, which was originally built in 1933 and redeveloped into a luxury hotel in 2016, offers rooms with a private patio, fire pit, and an outdoor clawfoot tub. You and your boo can book a couples massage in your room or at the hotel’s Whispers Spa, where you can also schedule additional treatments.

Enjoy happy hour at the property’s Sugar High rooftop lounge, above Azucar restaurant, and nibble on beef sliders and cauliflower street tacos, while sipping on a boozy drink (or three). Not only does the hotel have plenty to offer, but it’s also situated in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, so there’s no need to venture too far for some of the best dining, shopping and sightseeing experiences the desert has to offer.

339 South Belardo Road, Palm Springs; 844-932-8044; laserenavillas.com

El Capitan Canyon, Santa Barbara

Camp in style at El Capitan Canyon, a glamping experience located along the Pacific Coast in Santa Barbara. The luxury lodge offers three types of accommodations: cedar cabins, which include a private picnic table and fire pit with a removable grill; adventure yurts that feature a domed skylight; and lastly, canvas tents that are furnished with a queen bed or two double beds, as well as a small heater and electric lamps. Whatever you decide to book, you can’t go wrong.

Walk over to El Capitán State Beach, which is roughly 10 minutes from the campground, or cruise along the beach with the property’s complimentary bikes for guests. You can also swim in the heated pool or hike on nearby trails that offer mesmerizing views of the coast. When you need to fuel up on food, stop by Canyon Market for sandwiches, salads and more. Don’t forget to grab the graham crackers, chocolates, and marshmallows for some late-night s’mores by the campfire.

11560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara; 805-685-3887; elcapitancanyon.com