Romance is at the heart of what makes Santa Barbara tick. The American Riviera’s® signature red-tile roofs, white-washed buildings and lush gardens—nestled between a dramatic mountain range and the sparkling sea—evoke the topography and architectural aesthetic of the European Riviera. And it’s not simply about looks —there’s something quite special about how Santa Barbara makes people feel. The buoyant joie de vivre of our laid-back city by the sea is contagious and Santa Barbara’s seductive qualities are no joke. Simultaneously sophisticated and bohemian, easy-going and energetic, Santa Barbara is truly a place to revive.
This Valentine’s Day weekend, day and even post-holiday, Santa Barbara shines with themed offerings like delicious Valentine’s Day activities for all and romantic date night ideas. Celebrate by booking wine tasting and painting classes, or fill your day with mountain hikes and evening with swoon-worthy sunsets, both featuring fresh air and splendid vistas. Need some romantic inspiration? Below is a curated list of the best Valentine’s Day happenings that even Cupid would approve of.
Be sure to check back as more events will be added as details become available. Before arriving, please call and confirm all reservations in advance.
VALENTINE’S DAY MENUS
Pre-Order Valentine’s Day Specials at Bob’s Well Bread Bakery, Feb. 1-12
Bob’s Well Bread Bakery is rolling out a sweet lineup for Valentine’s Day, available for both pre-order and dine-in. Dive into the holiday spirit with heart-themed treats like Linzer cookies shaped like hearts, strawberry pastries and festive loaves of levain and ciabatta adorned with holiday stencils. Don’t miss the chocolate cherry brioche, alongside other beloved café classics. Get your orders in by Feb. 1 to ensure your Valentine’s treats are ready for pickup at our bakeries from Feb.10-12.
Cost: Varies by menu item.
Romance Week Prix Fixe Dinner at El Encanto, Feb. 9-17 from 5:30-9 p.m.
Savor a romantic meal at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, where executive chef Alex Bollinger and pastry chef Too Luna present a special menu during the entire week of Valentine’s Day. Enjoy exquisite cuisine, from fresh seafood to plant-based dishes, in one of the city’s most romantic settings, complete with captivating ocean views and enchanting sunsets, all under a starlit dome with ingredients sourced from local farms, fisheries and the chef’s garden.
Cost: $125 per person.
Three-Course Valentine’s Day Brunch at Scarlett Begonia, Feb. 14 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Scarlett Begonia is offering a unique three-course Valentine’s Day brunch menu, perfect for friends, family or that special someone. Enjoy choices like strawberry mimosa or cranberry Martintinellis, coffee cake, shrimp and grits, eggs benedict or lemon ricotta chocolate chip pancakes. Make the occasion extra special by adding a cuddly alpaca teddy as a gift for your sweetie.
Cost: $45 per person.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at The Set, Feb. 14 from 3-10 p.m.
The Set at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort invites you to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special three-course meal designed for a memorable evening of connection and delicious food. Enhance the occasion with Valentine-themed cocktails such as the Be Mine-Mosa, Cupid’s Arrow or Sweetheart-tini, adding an extra touch of festivity to your night.
Cost: Varies by menu item.
Family-Friendly Valentine’s Day Dinner at Brass Bear Uptown, Feb. 14 from 5-8 p.m.
This Valentine’s Day, Brass Bear Uptown celebrates love and family, offering a customizable four-course menu with entrees like cordon bleu and bourbon-glazed salmon, plus dessert choices like churros or lava cake. The event is family-friendly, featuring a jumpy house and face painting, and includes a la carte menu options for children.
Cost: $60 per adult with the option to purchase menu items a la carte for children.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Bouchon, Feb. 14 from 5-9:30 p.m.
Bouchon sets the stage for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner with rose petals and candlelight, offering a three-course seasonal menu of wine country cuisine. Guests can select from a range of options, including the chef’s specially crafted romantic specials.
Cost: $125 per person.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Cold Spring Tavern, Feb. 14 from 5-9 p.m.
Enjoy the enchanting ambiance of Cold Spring Tavern this Valentine’s Day, where romance flickers in the light of oil lanterns and the warmth of a crackling wood fire in this historic restaurant. Savor a candlelit dinner featuring exquisite dishes like lobster risotto, beef filet or orange duck, and cap off the evening with a sumptuous dessert medley crafted for two. After dinner, experience sounds of live music in the Log Cabin Bar, featuring the world-class talents of vocalist, guitarist and songwriter, Jeffery Pine.
Cost: $120 per person.
Prix Fixe Valentine’s Day Dinner at The Stonehouse, Feb. 14 from 5-9 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch with a special four-course prix fixe menu set in a dreamy, rustic ambiance, ideal for a romantic evening. Optional wine pairings are available for guests over 21, and a children’s menu caters to those 12 and under.
Cost: $260 per adult (before the wine add-on), $95 per child.
Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner at Terra, Feb. 14 from 5-10 p.m.
Enjoy a romantic prix fixe dinner at Terra at The Steward, Santa Barbara, featuring a selection of starters such as a roasted tomato bisque or beet and burrata salad, followed by main dishes like pan roasted branzino or heart-shaped cheese ravioli. Finish with a choice of tiramisu or red velvet cake.
Cost: $120 per person ($165 with wine pairing).
Valentine’s Day Tasting Menu at El Encanto, Feb. 14 from 5:30-9 p.m.
Enjoy one of Santa Barbara’s most romantic views at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, inviting lovebirds to feast under the stars on a variety of elevated dishes this Valentine’s Day. The “Essence of Love” themed evening features a notable tasting menu, including a Vegan option, crafted by executive chef Alex Bollinger and pastry chef Too Luna, with ingredients sourced from local farms, fisheries and the chef’s garden.
Cost: $225 per person.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Vega Vineyard and Farm, Feb. 14 from 6-9 p.m.
Vega Vineyard and Farm invites guests to an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dinner, offering a splendid menu that ranges from seared ahi with caramelized fennel to herb-crusted rack of lamb and potato-wrapped halibut, capped off with a flourless dark chocolate torte. For those over 21, enhance the experience with an optional wine pairing for an additional $35.
Cost: $125 per person.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Angel Oak, Feb. 14 until 10 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner at Angel Oak at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Enjoy a special prix fixe menu inspired by love, against the backdrop of stunning ocean views, live music and delightful surprises for an unforgettable evening.
Cost: $140 per person.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at La Paloma Café, Feb. 14
La Paloma Café invites you to celebrate love with a curated dining experience this Valentine’s Day, featuring a unique a la carte entrée for two: Spice-crusted & oak-smoked Chateaubriand with herbed Amarosa fingerling potatoes, grilled chicory, and red chili-truffle sauce.
Cost: $69.95 per person
Heart-Shaped Pizza Frosé for V-Day, Feb. 14
This Valentine’s Day, express your love uniquely with a heart-shaped pizza (cheese or pepperoni), perfectly paired with refreshing frosé at Lucky Penny. Choose between a romantic evening on their cozy heated patio or a comfortable night in with a takeout order.
Cost: Varies by menu item.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at The Lark, Feb. 14
Enjoy a memorable Valentine’s Day at The Lark with chef Jason Paluska’s special a la carte menu, featuring romantic dishes like West Coast oysters, goat milk ricotta agnolotti pasta and grilled Santa Barbara spiny lobster. Top off the evening with a dark chocolate pot de crème and the exclusive “Call Me Rose” cocktail, blending martin miller’s gin, rose and bonal aperitif.
Cost: Varies by menu item.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Loquita, Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Loquita with a romantic, curated a la carte menu designed to enchant. Indulge in a range of sophisticated Spanish-style dishes like ostión (Kumamoto oyster with sangria granita), mar y tierra (A5 New York steak and Galician style lobster tail) and a spiced Mexican chocolate pavlova with passion fruit curd and charred blood orange.
Cost: Varies by menu item.
“Wild About You” Valentine’s Day Dinner at Finch & Fork, Feb. 14
Finch & Fork at Kimpton Canary Hotel invites you to enjoy a “Wild About You” Valentine’s Day dinner, a three-course menu curated by chef Nathan Lingle for plant- and ocean-lovers. For an additional $58, guests can enhance their experience with the Wildflower Wines option. Each reservation includes a handcrafted ceramic vase with a wildflower bouquet.
Cost: $110 per person.
Three-Course Valentine’s Day Dinner at Opal Restaurant and Bar, Feb. 14
Make Valentine’s Day unforgettable at Opal Restaurant and Bar, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara’s lively ARTS District. Indulge in a romantic three-course dinner starting at just $79. Pick your perfect moment with two seating options—choose an early evening or a later time to suit your style. Every couple receives a rose and a $10 voucher for their next visit, adding a special touch to the evening.
Cost: $79-$89 per person.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Blackbird, Feb. 14
Feel the romance this Valentine’s Day at Blackbird at Hotel Californian. Perfect for a date night or an evening with friends, Blackbird offers an inviting atmosphere for everyone. Come and enjoy your favorite dishes, along with a selection of special creations crafted just for the occasion.
Cost: Varies by menu item.
Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner at The Revere Room, Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an intimate dinner for two at The Revere Room at Rosewood Miramar Beach, featuring a la carte options and a special four-course prix fixe menu. Enhance your dining experience with optional wine pairings for a truly memorable meal.
Cost: $165 per person.
Eight-Course Valentine’s Day Dinner at Caruso’s, Feb. 14
Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two at Caruso’s, Rosewood Miramar Beach, where you’ll be treated to the Chef’s Tasting Menu, an eight-course feast with optional enhancements and wine pairings. Your experience begins with a complimentary champagne greeting and concludes with a specially curated departure gift for each guest, ensuring a memorable evening with an incredible view to boot.
Cost: $275 per person ($345 with wine pairing).
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Ama Sushi, Feb. 14
Ama Sushi at Rosewood Miramar Beach introduces a special omakase menu this Valentine’s Day. Ama’s chefs honor traditional omakase techniques with a menu that highlights clams, scallops and lobster from Ise-Shima. Guests can also enhance their dining experience with an optional sake pairing.
Cost: $185 per person ($225 with wine pairing).
Valentine’s Day Picnic at Rosewood Miramar Beach, Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a Rosewood Romance Picnic at Rosewood Miramar Beach. Enjoy a romantic picnic for two, complete with Champagne and a prix fixe lunch, set among red roses and candlelight. Please note, a minimum of three business days’ advance reservation is required for Miramar picnics.
Cost: Contact the Rosewood Miramar Beach team directly for pricing.
EVENTS & SPECIAL OFFERS
Valentine’s Day Decor & Gifts from The Vintage Fox, through Feb. 14
Love is in the air … and on the shelves at The Vintage Fox. Peruse the shop’s collection of Valentine’s-themed treasures, including vintage cards, Valentine’s décor and fine jewelry. Looking for a gift as unique and enduring as your love? The shop’s multi-themed room offers a wide selection of vintage finds, all hand-selected with expertise and sure to impress your special someone.
Cost: Varies by item.
Heart to Heart Valentine Art Show & Gift Sale, Feb. 3
Dive heart-first into the Heart to Heart Valentine Art Show & Gift Sale, brought to you by the Santa Barbara Arts Collective. This event is a treasure trove of original art, perfect for showing your love this Valentine’s Day. From the playful paintings of Rich Wilkie to Joni Stewart’s mesmerizing shoreline resin pieces and Burt Horowitz’s imaginative sculptures, you’re sure to find something that captures your sweetie’s heart.
Cost: Varies by item.
Valentine’s Day at Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Feb. 7-17
A Valentine’s Day with the stars is certainly one to remember. Partake in a romantic dinner at nearby Bouchon or Olio e Limone before enjoying an extraordinary film at the 39th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
Cost: Varies by package.
Valentine’s Chocolate & Wine Tasting Walk, Feb. 10 from 2-7 p.m.
Spend the afternoon on this unique Santa Barbara chocolate and wine tasting walk, where you can sample Menchaca Chocolates‘ Valentine’s truffles and heart-shaped boxes, along with Loca Vivants’ tasty cookies and more. Then, head to The Good Land Wine Shop & Bar for expertly paired wines.
Cost: $25 per person.
Barbie & Ken’s Disco Love Affair, Feb. 10 at 9 p.m.
Get ready to dance the night away at the most glamorous Valentine’s Day weekend celebration in town: “Barbie & Ken’s Disco Love Affair”! Join Pearl Social for a spectacular evening filled with shimmer, groove and Ken-tastic vibes that will make your heart skip a beat.
Cost: $25 per person.
Succulent Heart Workshop at Vega Vineyard and Farm, Feb. 11 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Vega Vineyard and Farm hosts a delightful DIY succulent heart workshop, perfect for Valentine’s Day, where participants will craft a charming succulent heart, with all materials and a glass of wine included in the ticket.
Cost: $60 per person.
Galentine’s Day at Fox Wine Co., Feb. 13 from 5-8 p.m.
Join Fox Wine Co. in the Funk Zone for a charming Valentine’s pop-up market, brimming with creative activities and painting sessions with Danielle Renee Art perfect for all skill levels, accompanied by lively music and unique face painting experiences. RSVP for an enchanting evening of art, celebration, and fun with your gals this Galentine’s Day!
Cost: $10 per person.
Valentine’s Day Drag Bingo, Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m.
This Valentine’s Day, join the festive Drag Bingo Night at Pearl Social, hosted by the fabulous Vivian Storm. Immerse yourself in an evening of laughter, groovy beats from DJ Party Proper and the chance to win amazing prizes. Open to both bingo aficionados and newcomers, this celebration of love, diversity and inclusivity includes admission to the sensational show and endless bingo fun.
Cost: $25 per person.
Valentine’s Vino Vinyasa, Feb. 13
Join Santa Barbara Wine Collective for an unforgettable evening with your galentines, friends or partner at the Santa Barbara Wine Collective and in collaboration with CorePower Yoga! Experience the ultimate yoga session led by the talented team at CorePower Yoga, followed by a night of relaxation and fun with wine and culinary bites provided by The Lark.
Cost: $25 per person.
Valentine’s Spa Day at Float Luxury Spa, Feb. 14 from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic spa treatment at Float Luxury Spa, accompanied by complimentary champagne and chocolate truffles for you and your loved one. Indulge in any service and enhance the experience with these delightful extras.
Cost: Varies by treatment.
Valentine’s Day Sip & Stroll, Feb. 14 from 2-4 p.m.
Experience a serene evening at Lotusland with a romantic “sip and stroll” through the grounds, enhanced by the soft melodies of live music from Tony Ybarra. Enjoy champagne as you explore the garden, creating a romantic setting for the night. The event includes a photo opportunity for couples, adding a special touch to your visit. This event is intended for guests aged 21 and over.
Cost: $125 per person.
Valentine’s Day Truffle-Making, Feb. 14 from 2-7 p.m. (each reservation is two hours long)
Experience a unique and memorable Valentine’s Day with Menchaca Chocolates‘ truffle-making workshop, where you and your partner will create a heart-shaped wooden chocolate box and fill it with custom truffles. Decorate your boxes and design your truffles using a variety of chocolates and flavors in a cozy setting, complete with personalized hot chocolate and appetizers for dipping. The package includes everything needed for the couple: art supplies, chocolate box, truffles and refreshments.
Cost: $145 per couple.
Ritz Kids Valentine’s Bash, Feb. 14 from 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy a Valentine’s Day date night out at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, while your kids have a blast at our supervised movie night complete with tasty snacks, treats and a delicious dinner menu featuring pasta, pizza and chicken tenders.
Cost: $75 per child.
Paint & Sip at The Painted Cabernet, Feb. 14 at 6 p.m.
Join The Painted Cabernet for an evening of painting and sipping with your Valentine. This Valentine’s Day, you get the chance to paint a couple’s painting called “Loving Trees” with expert instructions from the staff.
Cost: $42 per person.
A Very Special Valentine’s Day with Shawn Theis & Friends, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Experience an evening at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club with Shawn Thies, a versatile vocalist known for her emotive and richly accessible voice, as she performs live, blending influences from Americana to jazz and folk. Often likened to Alison Kraus and Joni Mitchell, Shawn’s diverse musical styles create an intimate and emotionally stirring atmosphere, perfect for making lasting memories with loved ones.
Cost: $20 per person.
Valentine’s Day Mini Funk Zone Food Tour, Feb. 14
Looking for a unique and delicious way to spend Valentine’s Day this year? Join Eat This, Shoot That! Food and Drink Tours for a miniature version of its popular Funk Zone food and photo tour! Taste Santa Barbara’s best food and drinks on this foodie adventure through the city’s most eclectic, art-driven neighborhood. To make your weekend extra sweet, enjoy an extra special treat at the end of every tour.
Cost: $79 per person.
Spa Romance Package at San Ysidro Ranch, Feb. 14
Treat yourself to a romantic day of pampering and relaxation with San Ysidro Ranch’s special romance package at its salon and spa. Reserved for two, guests will have exclusive use of the spa’s Love Birds treatment room, featuring a state-of-the-art chromotherapy soaking tub and steam shower. The experience begins with a full body aromatic exfoliation treatment, followed by a luxurious custom mineral bath with sparkling wine and chocolate covered strawberries.
Cost: $475 per person
Fall in Love with Extreme Facial at Sense Spa, Feb. 14
Treat yourself and a loved one to a rejuvenating Valentine’s Day facial at Sense Spa, Rosewood Miramar Beach. This curated facial targets aging signs, revitalizes tired skin and includes a Japanese lifting technique and bio collagen mask for enhanced firmness and radiance. Enjoy added luxuries with a deluxe extreme eye and lip solution and a glass of sparkling rosé.
Cost: $475 per treatment.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Valentine’s Day Island Adventure, Feb. 14
Create an unforgettable memory with your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a once-in-a-lifetime sea cave kayaking adventure with Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales on the ferry ride over and enjoy a day of kayaking through sea caves, hiking to breathtaking vistas and viewing the abundant wildlife on this bucket list excursion to Channel Islands National Park.
Cost: $186/adult + ferry transportation ($63), $174/child (12 and under) + ferry transportation ($50)
Wine Lover’s Tour with Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours, Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic wine-tasting journey through Santa Barbara’s scenic vineyards and valleys, hosted by Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours Inc. Enjoy intimate tastings with your sweetie at appointment-only wineries and private spots at each location.
Cost: $175 per person.
Valentine’s Day Wine Tour, Feb. 14
What better way to enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day than with a wine tasting excursion in scenic wine country? Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours takes care of all the details while you bask in the beauty of breathtaking sights and sip the distinctive flavors of the Santa Ynez Valley. Experience wine tastings at three local wineries, lunch in the Santa Ynez Valley, door-to-door shuttle service and a knowledgeable guide for the day.
Cost: $215 per person.
Valentine’s Day Sunset Kayak Tour, Feb. 14
What’s more romantic than a serene sunset kayak through the Santa Barbara Harbor and beyond? Enjoy views from the water of our seaside town as you glide along the coast, and take in the gorgeous sunset with your sweetie. Santa Barbara Adventure Company will provide expert guidance on this easy to moderate two-mile tour.
Cost: $89 per person, including gear.
Valentine’s Day Champagne Cruise, Feb. 14 from 4-6 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day by sailing into the sunset with loved ones or friends aboard the Double Dolphin. Tickets include bottomless champagne and serene ocean views galore.
Cost: $110 per person. This cruise is 21+
Private Valentine’s Day Cruise, Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day by sailing into the sunset with loved ones or friends aboard one of Santa Barbara Sailing Center’s yachts (captain included!). Catering and champagne are available for purchase.
Cost: Rates begin at $384 per hour.
Want more inspiration for a romantic night out in Santa Barbara? Look no further than this nightlife guide.
