The Best Date Ideas in Los Angeles for an Unforgettable Experience

Los Angeles is a city where romance isn’t just reserved for special occasions. Any day can be unforgettable if you know where to go and what to do. If you’re looking for a date that feels effortless yet deeply personal, a picnic is the way to go. It’s simple, intimate, and lets you slow down in a city that’s always moving.

A Romantic Picnic with a View

Forget crowded restaurants and pricey reservations – some of the best moments happen on a cozy blanket with good food and a beautiful backdrop. A picnic in Los Angeles is about choosing the perfect spot, curating the right menu, and setting the mood for an experience long after the last bite.

Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles

If you love the ocean, head to Point Dume in Malibu. The cliffs give sweeping views of the Pacific, and the golden-hour light is nothing short of cinematic. Want something more tucked away? The gardens at Greystone Mansion feel like a secret escape. Griffith Park is another favorite – find a quiet patch near the Observatory, and you’ll have city lights twinkling as the evening unfolds.

Griffith Park – 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Griffith Park offers stunning city views, rolling green spaces, and shade under towering oak trees. You can plan a picnic near the iconic Griffith Observatory or choose a quiet spot by Amir’s Garden for a more secluded experience. Bring a comfortable blanket, a cooler with your favorite treats, and plenty of water if you plan to hike beforehand.

El Matador Beach – 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset
For a seaside picnic, El Matador Beach is a hidden gem in Malibu. The dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and crashing waves create a breathtaking backdrop. Parking is limited, so arriving early is essential. Pack light, as the walk down the steep stairs to the beach can be tricky, but the oceanfront experience makes it well worth the effort.

Echo Park Lake – 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Echo Park Lake is a perfect spot for a picnic or some adventure. You can set up a meal by the water and watch the swan boats glide by or rent one yourself for a romantic ride. The park is centrally located, making it accessible from Downtown LA. Bring a picnic basket with fresh fruit, sandwiches, and a light blanket for lounging under the palm trees.

Sunset Sailing at Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey – 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Best time to go: Sunset cruises typically depart between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, depending on the season.
A sunset sail through Marina del Rey is ideal for a truly unforgettable date. The calm waters, golden hues reflecting off the ocean, and cool evening breeze create an atmosphere of pure relaxation. Many local companies offer private yacht rentals and dinner cruises, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal while enjoying the view.

How to Get There: Marina del Rey is easily accessible from most parts of Los Angeles. Parking is available near the docks, and rideshare services make getting there hassle-free.

What to Bring: A light jacket, as the temperature drops in the evening, and a bottle of wine if your cruise allows BYOB options.

Stargazing at Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory – 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Open Tuesday–Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
Los Angeles may be known for its city lights, but the real magic happens above them. Griffith Observatory is one of the best places in LA for stargazing and a romantic evening. The observatory provides an unforgettable setting, whether gazing through a telescope or simply taking in the city skyline.

How to Get There: Griffith Observatory is located within Griffith Park, and parking can be challenging. Consider taking the DASH Observatory shuttle from the Vermont/Sunset Metro station for a more effortless experience.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, as the area has steep paths, and a camera to capture the stunning view.

A Stroll Through the Huntington Library and Gardens

Huntington Library and Gardens – 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
For couples who enjoy art, literature, and nature, the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful retreat. With perfectly manicured gardens, rare book collections, and world-class art exhibits, this destination is ideal for a cultured and relaxed date.

How to Get There: Located in San Marino, about 30 minutes from Downtown LA, the Huntington Library has an on-site parking lot.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, as the gardens are vast, and a picnic basket if you plan to enjoy a meal in one of the designated picnic areas.

Horseback Riding Along Malibu’s Coastal Trails

Malibu Riders – 5300 W Mulholland Hwy, Agoura Hills, CA 91301

The best time to go is late afternoon for sunset views; reservations are required.
If you’re looking for adventure with a romantic twist, horseback riding in Malibu is the perfect date idea. Guided trails take you through rolling hills and coastal cliffs, offering stunning ocean views at sunset.

How to Get There: Malibu’s horseback riding tours are located along Mulholland Highway, about an hour’s drive from Los Angeles. Free and paid parking options are available near the ranches.

What to Bring: Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing, as horseback riding requires stability and ease of movement.

Wine Tasting in the Malibu Hills

Malibu Wine Hikes – 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Best time to go: Late afternoon for a golden-hour experience; reservations recommended.
Just a short drive from Los Angeles, the vineyards of Malibu offer a relaxed and elegant setting for a wine-tasting date. Many local wineries provide outdoor seating with panoramic views, making it easy to enjoy a romantic afternoon sipping world-class wines.

How to Get There: Most wineries in Malibu are accessible via Pacific Coast Highway, with parking available on-site. Consider a rideshare service if you plan to indulge in multiple tastings.

What to Bring: A light jacket for cooler temperatures in the evening and a reservation if visiting a popular winery.

Paddle Boating at Echo Park Lake

Echo Park Swan Boats – 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
For a fun and lighthearted date, renting a swan boat at Echo Park Lake is a great option. As you paddle across the lake, you’ll have a stunning view of the Downtown LA skyline and the lush greenery surrounding the water.

How to Get There: Echo Park Lake is located near Downtown LA and is easily accessible via public transit or rideshare.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable clothes for paddling.

Live Music Under the Stars at the Hollywood Bowl

Hollywood Bowl – 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Best time to go: Evening performances, typically starting around 8:00 PM.
There’s something magical about live music beneath the night sky, and the Hollywood Bowl offers an unforgettable open-air concert experience. Whether it’s a legendary rock band, a symphony orchestra, or a film screening accompanied by a live score, this venue is a quintessential part of Los Angeles’ cultural scene.

How to Get There: The Hollywood Bowl is in Hollywood Hills, and parking can be difficult. Consider using the Bowl Shuttle or a rideshare service for a hassle-free experience.

What to Bring: A picnic basket with your favorite food and wine—this venue allows you to bring your refreshments. A light jacket is also recommended for cooler evening temperatures.

Hiking to the Hollywood Sign

Hollywood Sign Trails – Various Trailheads, Los Angeles, CA

Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.
Few things are as iconic as hiking to the Hollywood Sign. The trails leading up to this landmark offer stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles, making for an adventurous and scenic date. Multiple routes vary in difficulty, with the Brush Canyon Trail and the Griffith Observatory route being among the most popular choices.

How to Get There: The most straightforward starting points are from Griffith Park or the Beachwood Canyon Trailhead. Limited parking is available, so arriving early is recommended.

What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, and a flashlight if you plan to descend after sunset.

A Rooftop Cinema Experience

Rooftop Cinema Club – 6121 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Melrose Rooftop Theatre – 603 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Best time to go: Evening screenings, typically starting after sunset.
Watching a movie under the stars with the city skyline as a backdrop adds a romantic touch to an ordinary film night. Los Angeles’ rooftop cinemas blend Hollywood nostalgia and modern luxury, featuring cozy seating, wireless headphones, and gourmet snacks.

How to Get There: Both venues have nearby parking options, though rideshare is recommended for convenience.

What to Bring: A warm layer, as the rooftop breeze can be chilly at night, and a blanket for extra comfort.

Exploring the Arts District Murals and Street Art

Los Angeles Arts District – Near 3rd St & Traction Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Best time to go: Late morning to early evening for the best light and safer walking conditions.
Downtown Los Angeles’ Arts District is an ever-changing outdoor gallery filled with bold murals, hidden graffiti gems, and large-scale public artworks. Walking through the neighborhood offers a vibrant and colorful experience, making it a visually exciting date for art lovers and photographers alike.

How to Get There: The Arts District is accessible via public transit or car, with street parking and paid lots available.

What to Bring: A camera for capturing unique murals and comfortable shoes for exploring the area on foot.

Classic and Adventurous Date Ideas in Los Angeles

Drive-In Movie Experience

Paramount Drive-In – 7770 Rosecrans Ave, Paramount, CA 90723

Electric Dusk Drive-In – 236 N Central Ave, Glendale, CA 91203

Best time to go: Evening screenings, typically starting around 7:00 PM.
A drive-in movie is a perfect choice for a nostalgic and cozy date night. The Paramount Drive-In offers a mix of the latest blockbusters and beloved classics year-round. At the same time, Electric Dusk Drive-In provides a retro experience with cult films and a stunning backdrop of the Los Angeles skyline.

How to Get There: Both drive-ins have parking on-site, but arriving early ensures the best spot. Rideshare is a good option if you want to relax and enjoy the experience.

What to Bring: Blankets, pillows, and homemade snacks for an extra-cozy experience. Portable radios or car audio systems can enhance the sound quality.

Helicopter Tour Over Los Angeles

Orbic Air – 10750 Sherman Way, Burbank, CA 91505

Best time to go: Sunset flights for the most breathtaking views.
Seeing Los Angeles from above offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A helicopter tour takes you soaring over the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and the Pacific Coast, providing unmatched panoramic views.

How to Get There: Most helicopter tours operate outside Burbank Airport or nearby heliports. Parking is available, but rideshare services offer a stress-free option.

What to Bring: A camera for capturing aerial shots and sunglasses to reduce glare.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Temecula

California Dreamin’ Balloon Adventures – 33133 Vista Del Monte Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

The best time to go is sunrise, which is for calm winds and golden light.
Floating above Temecula’s vineyards in a hot air balloon is an experience unlike any other. The serene views of rolling hills and a post-flight champagne toast make this a magical and unforgettable date.

How to Get There: Temecula is about a 90-minute drive from Los Angeles. Parking is available at the launch site.

What to Bring: A light jacket for the early morning chill and comfortable shoes for landing.

A Visit to Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens – 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
This peaceful retreat offers seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to golden foliage in fall. The gardens transform into the Enchanted Forest of Light in winter, featuring illuminated pathways and artistic displays. Descanso Gardens provides a romantic escape from the city whether wandering through the rose garden or enjoying the koi ponds.

How to Get There: Located in La Cañada Flintridge, about 20 minutes from Downtown LA. Parking is free on-site.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a picnic basket, and a camera for capturing the vibrant scenery.

Surfing at Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach Pier – 325 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon for the best waves.
Known as Surf City, USA, Huntington Beach is the ultimate place to catch waves or soak up the coastal vibes. Surf schools offer beginner-friendly lessons, ensuring that even first-timers can ride a wave by the end of the session. If surfing isn’t your thing, the beachfront is perfect for a laid-back date, with coffee and ocean views.

How to Get There: Huntington Beach is about a 45-minute drive from Los Angeles. Public parking is available near the pier.

What to Bring: Swimsuits, sunscreen, and a towel. If taking lessons, wetsuit rentals are usually included.

Sailing Lesson in Long Beach

Long Beach Sailing School – 429 Shoreline Village Dr, Long Beach, CA 90802

The best time to go is in the late afternoon for sunset sailing lessons.
Long Beach is one of the best places near Los Angeles to learn how to sail, offering lessons for complete beginners. Instructors teach the fundamentals of steering, adjusting sails, and reading wind patterns, making it a fun and interactive experience. A sunset sailing lesson adds a layer of romance, allowing couples to enjoy the golden hour on the water.

How to Get There: Long Beach is about a 40-minute drive from Los Angeles. Paid parking is available near Shoreline Village.

What to Bring: Light layers for changing weather, sunglasses, and a small bag for personal items.

Rooftop Cinema Night

Rooftop Cinema Club – 6121 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Melrose Rooftop Theatre – 603 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Best time to go: Evening screenings, typically after sunset.
A rooftop movie experience combines city views with the nostalgia of classic cinema. The Rooftop Cinema Club offers premium lounge seating, wireless headphones, and an intimate ambiance under the stars. The Melrose Rooftop Theatre adds a gourmet dinner-and-a-movie package for an entire evening experience.

How to Get There: Both venues have nearby parking, though rideshare is recommended for convenience.

What to Bring: A warm jacket for the rooftop breeze and a blanket for extra comfort.

Making Every Date in Los Angeles Unforgettable

Los Angeles has a way of turning any date into something special. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed afternoon, a spontaneous adventure, or something truly spectacular, the city is filled with experiences that feel straight out of a movie scene. The key is knowing where to go and how to make the most of it.

Choosing the Right Date Experience

What kind of date are you looking for? If you love quiet, intimate moments, a sunset sail along the coast or a rooftop movie under the stars might be the perfect fit. If you’re after something playful, try a picnic in Griffith Park with homemade treats and a view of the skyline. 

Feeling adventurous? Take a horseback ride through the Malibu hills or book a helicopter tour for an unforgettable city view.

Tips for a Perfect Date in Los Angeles

Plan Ahead – Some of the best experiences require reservations, especially on weekends. Lock in your plans early so you’re not scrambling for a spot.

Check the Weather – LA is warm most of the year, but coastal breezes and chilly nights can sneak up on you. A light sweater or blanket goes a long way, especially if you’re planning a picnic or an outdoor movie night.

Arrive Early – Popular spots like Griffith Observatory, rooftop bars, and drive-in theaters fill up fast. Getting there ahead of time means you’ll have the best views and a stress-free experience.

Pack Thoughtfully – Sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes can make all the difference, especially if you’re exploring outdoor locations. If you’re planning a picnic, bring a cozy blanket, a mix of sweet and savory snacks, and a bottle of wine if the spot allows it.

Stay Open to Spontaneity – Some of the best dates happen when plans shift. Walk through an arts district, discover a hidden coffee shop, or catch a live street performance. LA is full of surprises, and the best moments often come when you least expect them.

Budget Wisely – You don’t have to spend a fortune on a memorable date. Some of the best experiences – hiking to the Hollywood sign, strolling along Venice Canals, or watching the sunset at El Matador Beach – are free. Mix in a few special outings with budget-friendly options to keep things balanced.

Capture the Moment – A quick selfie at the Hollywood Bowl, a snapshot of the sunset in Malibu, or a picture of your picnic setup at a scenic overlook can make the memory last even longer.

A great date is all about how you spend the time together. Whether it’s sharing a meal, trying something new, or simply sitting side by side watching the waves roll in, the best moments happen when you’re fully present. 

Los Angeles gives you the backdrop; all you need to do is make the moment count.