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, romantic restaurants, swoon-worthy hotel stays and unforgettable 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
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Bouchon, Feb. 14-15 from 5-9 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 Five-Course Dinner at Finch & Fork, Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Finch & Fork with a special five-course prix fixe dinner highlighting Santa Barbara’s freshest ingredients. Start with fried brie or smoked mushroom toast, followed by a winter citrus salad or crab bisque. Savor butternut squash agnolotti before choosing between an 8oz 45-day dry-aged ribeye, 6oz California halibut or king oyster mushrooms for the main course.
Cost: $110 per person.
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: $145 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: $285 per person.
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 at Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Feb. 4-15
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 40th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
Cost: Varies by package.
Galentine’s Day at Kimpton Canary Hotel, Feb. 13 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your closest friends at a self-care workshop at Kimpton Canary Hotel! Craft self-love-inspired treats with Trisha Cole, author of Life at the Dumpling, a guide to joyful living filled with recipes, poetry, games and inspiration.
Cost: $65 per person.
Valentine’s Day Sip & Stroll, Feb. 14 from 12-5 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 Bob Sedivy. Enjoy champagne as you explore the garden, creating a romantic setting for the day. 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: $85 per person.
Valentine’s Day Truffle-Making, Feb. 14 from 11-7 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: $34-$69 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
Want more inspiration for a romantic night out in Santa Barbara? Look no further than this nightlife guide.
