Sometimes, we can forget what’s on our doorstep when looking for the perfect date in Los Angeles. It doesn’t always have to be date night either. With our Mediterranean climate, you can even meet up for a romantic moment in the morning or lunchtime, thanks to the breadth of perfect options available for LA residents. 

There is so much to do in the city. You can’t ever have ‘done it all’. Even the simple things can be made extra special, if you know where to look to add a bit of stardust to your experience. For example, you may be a regular at taking a Sunday morning hike through one of the city’s many trails - but how about finding a waterfall for the most romantic kiss possible? What about adding to a picnic experience by hiring an hour on a pedal boat at Echo Park Lake? Exactly, that’s probably given you some food for thought. So here’s a bit more on those ideas, and a few others too.

Don’t go chasing waterfalls? They can be perfect for a romantic gesture though

How many times have you seen those picture-perfect Instagram posts with a loved-up couple under a waterfall? You don’t even have to leave the city to achieve that for yourselves. Head over to Malibu for a 1 hour hike which rewards you with a 30ft waterfall and natural pools to relax together in. You’re looking for Solstice Canyon and the shaded trail that takes you past two run-down houses and gives you a perfect spot to unwind. Once you reach the end, you can make a loop using the Rising Sun trail back to your start point, and although it can be a bit of a climb, the whole route is only 2.5 miles long and you are rewarded with a perfect view of the Pacific Ocean through the canyon itself. 

Stargaze at Griffith Observatory and get a glimpse of the night sky

Whilst Griffith Observatory is one of the most visited attractions in the city, for both tourists and locals alike, have you considered stopping by for one of their free nighttime star shows? Their monthly Public Star Party is held on a Saturday night and local volunteer groups bring their telescopes and allow you to discover the secrets of our night skies and to talk to amateur astronomers about the sky. You and your partner can take a look at the moon, any visible planets and some of the most well-known constellations, which is truly an unforgettable experience and gives you a date night that most would consider out-of-this-world, pun intended.

Picnic at Echo Park Lake with a $10 pedal boat hire

Echo Park Lake underwent a massive renovation in 2013, but one thing hasn’t changed: the iconic swan boats that you can rent for an hour at the boathouse, giving you and your loved one the perfect pedal boat experience at one of the city’s great parks. With restored lotus gardens, including some brand new lilies and the Lady of the Lake statue reinstated over the fountain, not only are the pedal boats a romantic experience, but also the idea of taking a picnic for two and relaxing in the beautiful grounds after your boating hire is over. There are grills and picnic tables, as well as grassy mounds to lounge upon. When the weather is right, there’s almost nothing that beats this natural haven in Los Angeles. 

Wander the historic canals of the Venice neighborhood

Houses along the Venice Canal Historical District; © RDNE

Venice, CA is well-known not only for its gorgeous beach but also its replica canals, based on the original Italian city. A great way to spend time with your loved one is to have a slow walk, wandering through the old canal routes of the Venice neighborhood. The Venice Canal Historical District was first built in 1905 as man-made waterways of wetland canals. Whilst cars quickly made the canal routes outdated, they were re-opened in 1993 after extensive renovation with new sidewalks and walls throughout. While spending time in the suburb, you can also stroll down the Venice Beach Boardwalk and make the most of the two-mile stretch which is home to a skate-dancing plaza, public tennis courts and numerous beach volleyball courts too.

Not all beaches are made equal, and some are perfect for couples

Of course, Venice Beach isn’t the only coastal destination that can give you a romantic day out, perfect for both a first date and a couple who are going steady. Long Beach is the destination where the temperature is most closely aligned with the city itself, so if you’re worried about it being too cool at the waterfront, Long Beach might be your best bet. 

El Matador in Malibu is, by far, the most beautiful beach in Southern California. You will have to navigate a steep and gravelly path but arriving late in the day will guarantee you a picture perfect sunset for any romantic date night. Just bear in mind, it’s a rocky beach rather than a sandy one, so make sure you don’t take too much along and really lean into the natural experience for the most romantic night out. 

Leo Carrillo State Park offers both sand and seclusion on its beach, another perfect destination for nature lovers. There are mellow waves and tidepools, as well as sea caves, along the mildly rocky seafront, whilst a nearby trail can also get you perfectly ready to relax afterwards on a towel together when the sun is shining down. 

With this small handful of date ideas in Los Angeles, you should feel encouraged that there’s always more to explore on your doorstep than you think there is. So many of our trails, beaches and attractions offer more than is apparent at face value. The only way to find some of these perfect experiences for a couple is to get out there and do it together. Some places just feel different when you’re there romantically instead of with family and friends. Hopefully, your next meet-up can be made extra special with one of our LA date night recommendations. 

Title image: Date night at the beach; © Josh Willink