6 Romantic Getaways in California That Feel Straight Out of a Movie

If you’re looking for a romantic escape that feels like it belongs in a movie, California has plenty of options to offer. From stunning coastlines to charming small towns, the state is packed with destinations that set the perfect mood for quality time with someone special.

These 6 romantic getaways in California stand out because they combine beautiful settings with memorable experiences that can make your trip feel truly cinematic. Whether it’s a quiet retreat or an adventurous break, you’ll find spots that make it easy to relax and connect.

Montage Laguna Beach

If you’re looking for a romantic spot right on the Pacific coast, Montage Laguna Beach offers a beautiful Craftsman-style resort perched on a bluff with stunning ocean views. You can stay in rooms, suites, bungalows, or even villas, all designed with a modern coastal vibe that feels both cozy and upscale.

Dining here is a highlight, especially at Studio Mediterranean. You’ll enjoy coastal Mediterranean dishes with a California twist, all while taking in endless views of the ocean. The resort also offers other dining options like The Loft for creative American flavors and the casual Mosaic Bar and Grille by the pool.

For some downtime, Spa Montage is a peaceful retreat. It taps into the healing power of the sea, giving you a relaxing experience along the coastline. Plus, you can join seasonal activities and events, making your getaway memorable with both excitement and relaxation combined.

Rating: 4.7 (5783 reviews)
Location: 30801 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Contact: (866) 271-6953
Website: Visit Website

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

If you’re seeking a romantic spot with a warm Southern California vibe, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa is a great pick. Its Spanish Colonial style sets a relaxing, elegant mood across 45 acres of gardens and citrus groves. You’ll find casitas and private residences with cozy patios and fireplaces.

The resort offers plenty to do, from world-renowned tennis programs to spa treatments that help you unwind and recharge. When dinner time comes, The Pony Room offers fresh, sustainable Coastal Ranch cuisine, served mostly outdoors in a charming setting. It’s perfect for intimate dining experiences.

Your room feels like a home away from home with plush linens, down bedding, and high-end espresso machines. If you stay in one of the private residences, you get even more space, a full kitchen, and an outdoor area perfect for relaxing or celebrating special moments.

Whether you want fitness, wellness, or just some quiet luxury, Rancho Valencia makes it easy to tailor your stay. You get privacy and comfort while enjoying all the benefits of a well-appointed resort.

Rating: 4.8 (711 reviews)
Location: 5921 Valencia Cir, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Contact: (858) 756-1123
Website: Visit Website

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach

When you want a romantic escape that blends luxury with laid-back California vibes, this resort is a solid pick. You’ll find yourself perched on a bluff with sweeping ocean views and a private beach just steps away. The setting is calm, perfect for relaxing moments together.

Inside, the rooms and suites are stylish and spacious. Think cool coastal colors, plush bedding, and terraces that invite you to breathe in the sea air. Dining here is an experience with several high-quality restaurants, including options by famed chefs, offering fresh seafood and oceanfront vibes.

If you want to add some activity to your getaway, you can hit the nearby oceanfront golf course or chill at the beach club. The beach club’s atmosphere, with its surf and sand, makes it easy to unwind. Whether you’re paddling on a SUP or sipping cocktails, it’s all about the view and the moment with your partner.

The spa offers wellness treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. You’ll find it’s easy to get swept up in the serenity after a day of exploring or lounging by one of the pools.

Rating: 4.6 (3005 reviews)
Location: 1 Monarch Beach Resort N, Dana Point, CA 92629
Contact: (949) 234-3200
Website: Visit Website

Terranea Resort

If you’re looking for a romantic oceanfront escape, Terranea Resort offers a beautiful Mediterranean-style setting right on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. You can choose from spacious guestrooms with private balconies or upgrade to suites and bungalows that come with living areas, kitchens, and stunning ocean views.

This resort is perfect if you want to relax with multiple pools, a full-service spa, and nine dining options serving coastal cuisine with breathtaking Pacific views. Whether you prefer a cozy dinner at mar’sel or casual drinks by the fire pit at Nelson’s, there’s something for every mood.

Golf lovers will enjoy The Links at Terranea, a scenic nine-hole oceanfront golf course. For extended stays, the villas and casitas provide a homey feel with full kitchens and plenty of space. You’re also close to Los Angeles attractions, just about 30 minutes from LAX or Long Beach airports.

Rating: 4.7 (6815 reviews)
Location: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Contact: (310) 494-7891
Website: Visit Website

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

When you step into The Ranch at Laguna Beach, you’ll find a peaceful canyon retreat that’s perfect for a romantic escape. Whether you prefer lounging by the pool or exploring the golf course, there’s a laid-back vibe that lets you unwind.

You can choose from cozy rooms like the Canyon Room with its beautiful views or go for extra space in the Creekside Suite, which comes with a private patio. If you want something unique, the two-bedroom cottages offer plenty of room and outdoor space for you and your partner.

For a special experience, consider staying in The Treehouse. It’s a spacious, light-filled suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wraparound deck that feels like your own private hideaway. The full kitchen and three bathrooms make it feel more like a home than a hotel.

Dining options at the resort include fine dining and a pool bar where you can enjoy drinks with a view. Plus, the spa and live music bar add to the relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

Rating: 4.6 (931 reviews)
Location: 31106 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Contact: (949) 499-2271
Website: Visit Website

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa

If you want a peaceful escape not far from Los Angeles, Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa fits the bill. Set among tall trees at over 5,000 feet, you get fresh mountain air and beautiful views of the San Bernardino National Forest. It’s perfect if you want to unplug and enjoy nature without a long drive.

The resort offers cozy rooms with natural wood accents and lake views that make it easy to relax. You can hang out by the heated outdoor pool, soak in hot tubs, or stroll along the private lake beach and dock. There’s also a casual restaurant and a cocktail lounge where you can unwind with a drink by the fireplace.

For some self-care, the Spa of the Pines provides a variety of organic treatments. Whether you’re looking to recharge after outdoor activities like hiking or skiing, or just want to pamper yourself, the spa offers a calming retreat.

You can also enjoy the nearby Lake Arrowhead Village, along with hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. At night, there’s stargazing with blankets and handcrafted cocktails, making it a romantic spot to cozy up under the stars.

Rating: 4.1 (2085 reviews)
Location: 27984 CA-189, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352
Contact: (909) 336-1511
Website: Visit Website

Sharing is caring!