Romantic 2-Day Couples Escape — Los Angeles
A slow-paced, intimate 2-day itinerary for couples who want art, coastal sunsets, cozy meals and a pampered spa moment. Designed for lingering golden-hour views, rooftop cocktails and quiet spots that feel like your own Los Angeles.
Highlights
- Sunset rooftop cocktails over the Pacific
- Getty Center gardens and galleries at gentle pace
- Private-feel beach and boardwalk strolls in Santa Monica & Venice
- Couples spa in Beverly Hills
- Sunset dinner cruise from Marina del Rey
Itinerary
Day 1
Culture and coastal romance: a relaxed museum morning, oceanfront strolls, a golden-hour rooftop cocktail in Venice and a cozy dinner.
The Getty Center — morning art & gardens
Start the day wandering the Getty's galleries, terraces and gardens with sweeping city views. Take it slow — the architecture and sculpture gardens make for intimate moments and great photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to enjoy quieter galleries and secure a bench with views on the Central Garden — ideal for photos together.
- Bring a light layer: the terraces are breezy in May evenings and mornings even when inland is warm.
- Reserve free timed-entry parking online if available; park close to the tram for an easier, more private arrival.
Lunch at The Restaurant at The Getty Center
Unhurried lunch with museum views — choose a quiet corner table on the terrace when possible.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for an outside table on the terrace to keep the meal feeling light and scenic.
- Keep it simple craft-style here — share a starter and a seasonal entrée so you still have room for a later cocktail.
- If you prefer picnic vibes, the Getty allows you to step out to the gardens with your plates from the restaurant.
Transfer to Santa Monica (drive)
Scenic drive west to the coast — use this time to relax together, play a shared playlist and watch the city give way to ocean air.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect 35–60 minutes depending on traffic; leaving after lunch helps avoid the heaviest downtown rush.
- Park near Palisades Park or a public lot to make your strolls fully walkable for the afternoon.
- If using a rideshare, ask the driver for a drop-off near Ocean Avenue to start at the bluffs.
Palisades Park & Third Street Promenade — oceanfront stroll
Leisurely walk along the bluff at Palisades Park, then meander the shaded streets and boutiques of Third Street Promenade.
Tips from local experts:
- Find a quiet bench on the bluffs for an intimate pause with ocean views — perfect mid-afternoon for a private conversation.
- Browse artisan shops on the Promenade for a small keepsake; choose something to remind you of the trip.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the bluff has gentle elevation and pretty photo spots near the grassy areas.
Coffee break at Urth Caffé — Santa Monica
Relax at a cozy table with artisanal coffee or a shared pastry before heading to Venice for sunset.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a shared dessert (their infamous mille-feuille or croissant) so you can leave room for the evening meal.
- Ask for a window table — people-watching here is charming and low-key for couples.
- If the line is long, ask staff for to-go cups and find a bench in Palisades Park for a quieter moment together.
Transfer to Venice / Hotel Erwin rooftop
Short drive down the coast to Venice Beach — get settled before golden hour at the rooftop lounge.
Tips from local experts:
- Traffic between Santa Monica and Venice can be light in late afternoon; a short drive will put you at sunset comfortably.
- Ask the driver to drop you at the Hotel Erwin valet for easiest rooftop access and fewer stairs.
- If you prefer biking, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a scenic ride between the two neighborhoods.
Golden-hour rooftop cocktails at High Rooftop Lounge
Special moment: watch the sun melt into the Pacific with a crafted cocktail and panoramic views — intimacy amplified by sunset light.
Tips from local experts:
- Aim for a window or corner seat on the west side for the best sunset views — reserve if possible.
- Order a shareable cocktail or two and a small plate to keep the mood relaxed and easygoing.
- Bring a light wrap; coastal wind picks up at sunset and the rooftop can be breezy even in May.
Short transfer to dinner in Venice
Stroll or quick transfer to your reserved dinner spot — a few blocks of Venice charm before your meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Even a short walk through Abbot Kinney adds atmosphere — head there if you want a boutique, lively scene.
- If walking, hold hands and wander the quieter side streets to avoid the busiest boardwalk crowds.
- Reserve tables in advance at popular Venice restaurants to avoid wait times after sunset.
Dinner at Gjelina — intimate, seasonal fare
Unwind over a market-driven, shareable meal in a warm, rustic space — perfect for lingering conversations.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a cozy table away from the door to keep the experience intimate and quieter.
- Share multiple small plates rather than ordering separate mains — it creates a shared, date-night vibe.
- Reserve well in advance and note that a slightly later seating (around 7:15–7:30) often feels more relaxed.
Evening boardwalk stroll (Venice Beach)
Finish with a quieter walk along the boardwalk — watch performers from a respectful distance and enjoy ocean breezes.
Tips from local experts:
- Stick to the northern end of the boardwalk for a slightly calmer, more romantic stretch at night.
- Bring a light jacket—ocean air cools quickly after sunset even on warm days.
- Pause at a bench or the sand for a private moment; street performers thin out after dark, making it more intimate.
Day 2
Los Feliz mornings and Griffith views, a luxurious couples' spa in Beverly Hills, then a sunset harbor cruise to cap the trip.
Breakfast at Alcove Cafe & Bakery — Los Feliz
Cozy neighborhood breakfast in a garden-like setting — perfect for planning a relaxed morning together.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a quiet table in the shaded courtyard for a gentle, private start to the day.
- Share a couple of pastries so you can sample flavors without feeling rushed before your walk.
- Arrive before 9:00 if you prefer an unhurried table and fewer neighbors at nearby tables.
Transfer to Griffith Observatory / parking
Short drive up into Griffith Park; use the Observatory's lots or nearby permitted street parking and then enjoy the views.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra time for parking on weekends; weekdays in May are usually easier but early arrival helps.
- If you prefer to avoid the hill, request a rideshare drop near the Observatory plaza to skip parking.
- Bring a light layer — the Observatory sits above the city and breezes can be cool even at midday.
Griffith Observatory — views, short hike & photos
Explore the terraces, take photos with the Hollywood Sign backdrop, and do a gentle hike on one of the nearby scenic trails.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the short Mt. Hollywood trail for a quieter vista that's especially romantic during the late morning light.
- Sit on the Observatory steps or terrace for a panorama picnic — bring a small snack or coffee to share.
- Avoid the busiest interior exhibits if you want a quieter experience; the outdoor viewpoints are the most intimate.
Transfer to Il Pastaio — Beverly Hills
Drive to Beverly Hills for a classic, cozy Italian lunch in an elegant neighborhood.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 30–45 minutes depending on traffic; leave midday to avoid peak commuting corridors.
- Street parking can be tight — valet or garage parking is usually easiest in the Beverly Hills area.
- Freshen up at a restroom stop on the way so you arrive ready for a relaxed lunch service.
Lunch at Il Pastaio — intimate Italian
A classic Beverly Hills spot for shareable plates and a warm, romantic atmosphere — linger over wine and pasta.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table near a window or a quieter corner for a more intimate vibe.
- Share a pasta and an appetizer rather than each ordering a large entrée — it keeps the meal light and connective.
- Make a reservation and mention the occasion; the staff often offers small touches for couples.
Transfer to The Spa at Four Seasons — Beverly Hills
A short, elegant transfer to your pampering appointment — take a moment to change into comfortable wear.
Tips from local experts:
- Check your spa confirmation for arrival time (arrive 10–15 minutes early) to enjoy the relaxation amenities.
- Bring minimal valuables and a swimsuit if you want to use steam/sauna facilities together before the treatment.
- Ask the receptionist which treatment room is quieter if you want extra privacy during your couples session.
Couples spa treatment at The Spa at Four Seasons
Special moment: a two-hour couples massage and use of spa amenities — deeply relaxing and private.
Tips from local experts:
- Book the couples suite for side-by-side treatments and a private relaxation area to extend the experience.
- Hydrate well before and after the treatment; schedule a quiet hour afterward to savor the calm together.
- Ask for aromatherapy options that you both enjoy — a subtle scent can make the moment feel personalized.
Transfer to Burton Chace Park — Marina del Rey
Drive down to Marina del Rey for a peaceful harbor-side pause before your sunset cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect roughly 25–40 minutes drive time; plan for light traffic but allow a buffer before cruise boarding.
- Park near the park or the marina lots to avoid last-minute walking with luggage or shopping bags.
- Use this transfer time to change into slightly dressier attire if you plan a dinner cruise with a nicer dress code.
Relax at Burton Chace Park — light snack & harbor views
Short break: sit on a bench or grassy slope and watch boats bob in the harbor — a quiet pre-cruise moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small blanket or jacket for the grassy slope; sitting together while boats pass is unexpectedly romantic.
- Pick up a light snack or pastry from a nearby café to share while waiting for boarding time.
- Take a few sunset test-photos here — the light before boarding can be soft and flattering.
Short transfer/board for Hornblower sunset dinner cruise
Boarding time and quick check-in before your harbor cruise — a smooth transition into the evening’s highlight.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at the Hornblower boarding area 15 minutes early for a relaxed check-in and best seating choices.
- Bring a light wrap — evenings on the water are cooler and breezier even after warm inland days.
- If you prefer an intimate table, request a window seat when checking in; balconies are great for sunset photos.
Hornblower sunset dinner cruise — Marina del Rey
Special moment: a romantic sunset dinner cruise with city and coastline views — share a meal while the sky changes color.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a window-side table for unobstructed sunset views; if booking in advance, request a quieter dining section.
- Order one of the wine pairings to toast the sunset — the sommelier can recommend lighter wines that pair well with seafood.
- Plan a brief walk on deck after dessert for private sunset photos and a final coastal breath together.
