Whether you spend the day showering your loved one with gifts and surprise at-home experiences; clinking Champagne flutes at your favorite local restaurant; or lounging on your couch with chocolate and a bottle (or two) of cabernet—we've got you covered.
Here's our curated list to a perfect Valentine's Day 2020 in San Diego—whatever your plans may be.
When you're done perusing this list, check out how to celebrate Valentine's Day 2021 in our other markets: Aspen, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, NYC, Orange County, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Scottsdale, Silicon Valley, and Washington D.C.
Golden Door
777 Deer Springs Road, San Marcos / Website
Known for its bespoke wellness experiences, this renowned spa destination recently reopened with even more offerings. Enjoy three new Japanese-inspired outdoor venues where guests can indulge in massages, facials, yoga and more. The seven-night stay model allows visitors the time and space to relax and restore. Try the Trainer package for an intense fitness reset, or the Land and Water package to enjoy plenty of hiking and pool time.
Pendry San Diego
550 J St, San Diego / Website
Indulge in a day of bliss with your beloved by booking a Couple’s Suite at Pendry San Diego. You can choose a 90-minute or 120-minute experience, both offering an exquisite array of treatment. Or, if you and your gal pals are celebrating each other this Valentine’s Day, then you should book the spa’s special Queen for the Day treatment to unwind together.
See also: 6 Thoughtful Valentine's Day Gifts For The Man In Your Life
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave., Coronado / Website
A San Diego icon for more than 130 years, this famed hotel recently completed a new on-site neighborhood called The Cabanas. Featuring 97 oceanfront and poolside rooms, it includes a resort-style pool and four new dining spots. Don’t miss the new Babcock & Story Bar patio, where picturesque sunset views await.
La Valencia Hotel
1132 Prospect St., La Jolla / Website
For some cultural respite, head to La Valencia Hotel. This ocean view and old-school charm have delighted elite visitors for over 90 years. Dubbed the “Pink Lady” after its 1928 Spanish maiden tile portrait, the hotel offers pool day passes for the first time in its history alongside a new weekend bubbly brunch featuring Veuve Clicquot, and the opportunity to book a room for the day via its Offices by the Ocean package.
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe / Website
Situated on 45 secluded acres, this Rancho Santa Fe property instantly transports guests from SoCal to the Mediterranean. The Relais & Châteaux resort focuses on a holistic experience through its highly-rated fitness and wellness programs. For the ultimate escape, opt for the all-inclusive Autumn Sanctuary package. It comes with a Valencia suite, private outdoor soaking tub and fireplace, plus three meals per day, a one-hour massage and more.
The Cassara Carlsbad
5805 Armada Drive, Carlsbad / Website
This buzzy Carlsbad spot recently unveiled its Work, Learn & Play package. It’s the perfect way for families working and learning from home to indulge in a weekday staycation—or shall we say workcation? The two-bedroom family suite features a built-in workstation and a private patio or balcony for panoramic ocean views. Accommodations also include access to the hotel’s luxe in-room and property amenities. See you by the outdoor fire pits with a cocktail in hand.
See also: 9 Sweet Valentine's Day Gifts For Her
Nothing says 'I love you' like a charcuterie board...
Venissimo Cheese
Locations vary / Website
With four locations sprinkled throughout San Diego, Venissimo Cheese is always within reach for a prime selection of cheeses imported from all over the world. Try one of their expertly-crafted cheese boards or consult with staff to build your own.
The Lion’s Share
629 Kettner Blvd. / Website
Known for meats you may not see in the grocery store, this rule-breaking restaurant will satisfy carnivorous craving. It's a fun twist on the classic meat and cheese board you ought not to miss.
Platter and Honey
From impressive grazing tables to approachable platters, Kaila Scott knows her way around an Insta-worthy display of crudites, fruit, cheeses, meats and more.
Extraordinary Desserts
2870 Fourth Ave. / Website
While showstopping cakes and sweets are the main attraction, it’s the cheese bar that caught our attention at this Bankers Hill favorite. Every Wednesday night, you can build your own cheese board from its myriad offerings of imported and domestic options.
See also: 7 Gift Ideas For A Fun-Filled Galentine's Day
Tickle your taste buds at one of these newly debuted San Diego eateries—it'll be a night you and your S/O won't forget.
Huntress
376 Fifth Ave. / Website
Huntress brings a unique dining and drinking experience to the Gaslamp Quarter with dishes that wow both the eye and the palate. An RMD Group concept, the upscale steakhouse dishes out exquisite carnivorous cuts from executive chef James Montejano paired with an extensive Japanese whisky selection. Don’t miss the Insta-worthy desserts, like the Magic Mushroom full of peanut butter, chocolate and caramel flavors.
Arlo
500 Hotel Circle N. / Website
Mission Valley welcomes Arlo to the dining scene. Under the guidance of chef Josh Mouzakes, this Baja-inspired restaurant cooks up a variety of grilled and smoked meats and seafood, plus vegetarian and vegan plates that reflect the diverse culinary culture of SoCal. Expect local ingredients utilized in shareable plates, like the California paella and charcuterie de mar. Wash it all down with a wide selection of craft beers from independent local breweries, in addition to regional wines and cocktails, all of which can be enjoyed on an outdoor patio that flows into a retro indoor space.
Fortunate Son
2943 Adams Ave. / Website
Fortunate Son brings traditional American Chinese takeout to a whole new level. Inspired by his Chinese American heritage, chef Tony Guan masters the kitchen with dishes like sweet and sour pork belly, family-style duck and General Tso’s cauliflower made with ginger, garlic, shaoxing wine and dried chiles. Guan’s creations include only the highest-quality ingredients sourced from established purveyors like Ironside Fish & Oyster and Born & Raised. Book a reservation to snag one of 38 seats in the dining room where suspended flowers and a 10-foot-tall dragon bring the wow factor.
Pacific Coast Spirits "Skeleton Kru"
404 S Coast Hwy. / Website
“The Skeleton Kru is inspired by fall in California," says Bartender Rob Harrah. "While the weather is perfect year-round, we can still enjoy something light and refreshing... Savor accordingly.”
Mustangs & Burros' "Baja Spritzer"
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, 9700 N Torrey Pines Rd. / Website
“This vibrant Baja spritz will take you back to sitting next to a bonfire on a fall night," says Food and Beverage Outlet Assistant Manager Pim Berkeley, "listening to the sound of crackling wooden logs with its smoky aroma but refreshing flavor thanks to Aperol and grapefruit soda.”
Puesto's "What Wer'e Having"
1026 Wall St. / Website
“I wanted to keep this cocktail bright and refreshing while anchoring with some darker, amorous notes from the Amaro Nonino and chocolate bitters," says Bar and Spirits Creative Director Beau du Bois. "This Paper Plane variation stands on its own with tequila as opposed to rye.”
The Nolen's "Ought To Be You"
453 Sixth Ave #7007 / Website
“Growing up in the South, tart cherry pie was a staple throughout the summer, while making jam and preserves allowed us to keep enjoying those cherries into the fall," Mixologist Benjamin Burch. "Here in Southern California, October is still one of our warmest months, so I wanted to capture that with the summery flavor of cherry pie as the base, while incorporating it with cherry jam and some warm fall flavors from the whiskey, bitters and vanilla.”
Photography by: Courtesy of the brands
