7 Valentine’s Day Date Ideas
Love is in the air! Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with your significant other or a group of your closest friends, Newport Beach has you covered. With our city’s assortment of top-notch restaurants and exciting activities, you’re sure to fall in love in more ways than one. Spend an afternoon cruising the harbor via boat with your galentine’s or enjoy a sunset dinner with your amour at one of Newport Beach’s many bayside restaurants. The options are endless, but here are seven we think you’ll absolutely adore.
Electric Boat Rental + Dinner at Nobu
All aboard! We’re making waves this Valentine’s Day with a sunset cruise on the bay. Reserve your very own electric boat with Lido Marina Village Electric Boat Rental and set sail in style. This local rental company has a unique fleet of boats—some are even pink and can be decorated with a matching balloon garland bouquet! Sip the evening away, then pull up dockside and dine at Nobu Newport Beach to keep the party going. Here, you and your crew can enjoy an assortment of wild-caught seafood, including sushi rolls, shrimp tempura, black cod with miso and more. Pair your pick with a crisp glass of rosé for the ultimate V-Day photo op.
Gondola Cruise + Dinner at Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
For a love-ly dinner with your sweetheart, head to Tavern House Kitchen + Bar! This waterfront hotspot is serving up Valentine’s Day specials all weekend long. Order a pair of Love Bite Martinis crafted with Tito’s vodka, Amaretto, blood orange liqueur, orange, grapefruit and sparkling wine. Then, feast on specials like Baked Crabmeat Stuffed Shrimp, Twin Lobster Tails, Grilled ‘Kona’ Rib Eye Steak or the delicious Surf & Turf with Bearnaise sauce. And once you’ve pleased your palates, make your way over to Gondola Adventures, Inc for a romantic ride through the canals of Newport Harbor. You can even upgrade your cruise with a bottle of champagne or a box of chocolates if you really want to impress!
Sunset Walk on the Pier + Dinner at 21 Oceanfront
There’s nothing more romantic than a sunset stroll with your special someone. This Valentine’s Day, bundle up and take a walk down the Newport Beach Pier during golden hour and watch as the sun dips behind the horizon. Then, walk over to 21 Oceanfront for a decadent meal and more ocean views! This sophisticated, old-world locale is known for its stellar steaks and seafood, and this Valentine’s Day, they’re cheffing up a multi-course meal from 4-9 p.m. Indulge in everything from Lobster Bisque and Coconut Shrimp to Center Cut Filet Mignon and Pan-Seared Duck Breast. A meal here is the way to anyone’s heart.
“A Night in Paris” at Balboa Bay Resort
In need of a getaway? Spend your holiday bayside at the beautiful Balboa Bay Resort and enjoy “A Night in Paris” celebration! This year, the resort is hosting a special dinner show in the Grand Ballroom from 5:30-8:30 p.m. that includes champagne, a decadent French-inspired buffet and live entertainment from Michael Bublé Tribute Singer Scott Keo. You and your date can enjoy everything from caviar, crab and scallops to lobster risotto, prime rib, fondue and crepes! Reserve a private table for two for $250+ or a shared table for $150+.
Dinner at Bayside Restaurant + V-Day Getaway at Newport Dunes
Award-winning Executive Chef Paul Gstrein of Bayside Restaurant is whipping up a spread of delectable dishes that’ll have you smitten. With starters like Beef Tartare and Yellowfin Ahi Tuna Sashimi to entrees like Pan-Roasted Ora King Salmon, Venison Loin Medallions and Wild Mushroom-Crusted Chilean Sea Bass, there’s no shortage of melt-in-your-mouth dishes to devour. Cozy up and enjoy views of the harbor on the wrap-around patio, then surprise your sweetheart with a staycation at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. This weekend (Feb 13-14), guests can enjoy 30% off RV and cottage stays!
Dinner at The Bungalow + Drinks at Under CdM
Not sure where to take your date? Whether it’s the first or the 100th date, The Bungalow is always a good idea. This charming restaurant in the heart of Corona del Mar is offering a three-course, prix-fixe menu from 4-9 p.m. this Sunday! Don’t miss out on decadent offerings like Pasta Primavera, Prime Filet Mignon, Northern Australian Lobster Tail and more. Then, once you’ve had your fill, take your girl or guy down the street to Under CdM for a hand-crafted cocktail. This speakeasy-style bar is the perfect, intimate place for an after-dinner libation.
Rent a Moke + Ride to Billy’s at the Beach
If you want to cruise the streets in style, a Newport Beach Moke rental is a must! These adorable electric cars come in a variety of colors and are street legal with a top speed of 25 mph. Pick up your date and ride on over to Billy’s at the Beach for an aloha-style dinner! Their Valentine’s Day menu will feature a variety of delicious offerings, including Macadamia Nut Crusted Halibut, Grilled Kauai Saltwater Prawns, Beef Tenderloin and Poached Lobster Salad. Don’t forget to order one of their world-famous Mai Tais!
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
