Cupid on the Coast: Beachside Outings and Eateries for Valentines Day

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, many of us are starting to plan the best ways to celebrate with our loved ones. We are fortunate to be located in one of the most beautiful places in the world, surrounded by breathtaking coastlines and so much to do! This is a great opportunity to go out and enjoy our surroundings with your Valentine. 

We’ve rounded up some of the most picturesque outdoor spots in Carlsbad and beyond, and paired each with local eateries so you can spend this Valentine's Day enjoying great views and delicious food with the one you love!

Carlsbad Beach

This beautiful strip of sand is known for its paved pedestrian path, impressive views & dolphin sightings. Whether you and your loved one are into recreational activities, like surfing or volleyball, or want a coastal stroll or picnic, this local beach is the ideal date spot. 

Located right across from the beach is 264 Fresco. This warm and vibrant beachside eatery offers wood-fired Italian dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. You can stop by for a quick drink or to share a special meal, either way 264 Fresco is the perfect place to celebrate your love!
 
Have a sweet tooth? Located right down the street is The Goods. This small, airy counter-service spot offers donuts in gourmet varieties such as stuffed Nutella & s’mores. Grab a few donuts and make your way to the beach to make your day extra sweet!

Oceanside Pier

The historical Oceanside Pier is an iconic landmark and the ideal location to take a leisurely stroll, go fishing, and watch surfers. From dawn to dusk, the Pier is also a great spot to enjoy our coastline’s natural beauty while taking in views of wildlife, the glistening Pacific Ocean and of course those breathtaking Oceanside sunsets!
 
When you get hungry, head over to Hello Betty, a beachy local hangout that serves SoCal staples such as fish tacos & oysters. Both their outdoor patio and famous rooftop offers lovebirds a cozy place to dine. 

If you are in the mood for lighter fare or need a caffeine pick me up, check out Vigilante Coffee. This coastal roastery and cafe offers a great selection of coffee and bites. They will also be offering a very special Valentines Floral Workshop on February 12th. Co-create, play, imagine and bloom while you learn flowers! 

Sunset Cliffs National Park

Sunset Cliffs National Park is a gorgeous stretch of 68 acres along the Point Loma peninsula. You and your significant other  can hike, explore, or just sit all day and watch the sun go down over the ocean. If you do choose to go for sunset, however, be sure to arrive early, as it’s a rather popular spot.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to The Little Lion Cafe, a bright neighborhood cafe with Belgian favorites and brunch. We recommend picking up a few sandwiches and heading back to the beach to dine with a view. 

Scripps Pier at La Jolla Beach

Located in beautiful La Jolla is Scripps Pier- a romantic and picture-perfect date spot for any couple. Head down to check out the plentiful sea life swimming around and even capture a few photos of the surfers paddling by.
 
When you get hungry, grab a famous wood-fired pizza from Catania, a coastal Italian restaurant. If you arrive before sunset, order a pizza to go and eat it under the pier while taking in the breathtaking views.  Pizza, sunset, and the beach  on Valentines Day… that’s amore! For those looking for a more up-scale dining experience, check out Herringbone. Featuring coastal cuisine in a beautiful, contemporary atmosphere, this spot is sure to delight. 

For more fun date ideas in San Diego for Valentines Day, and throughout the year, visit here and visit our Carlsbad Travel Blog.

Additional Local Experiences