Southern California is thrilling yet serene, laid-back yet upscale. It's a place of escape and adventure, where you can tailor your vacation to your desired ambiance. That's why Southern California is a beloved destination for couples searching for a romantic holiday.
Couples activities help you share laughs as you chat, scream as you soar on a roller coaster, and grab photo ops as you round every corner. Are you ready to discover fun things to do in Southern California for couples? Let's go.
5 Fun Things To Do in Southern California for Couples
If you're searching for places to visit in Southern California for couples, you want plenty of choices to make your own. Here are five options sure to inspire joyful moments that bring you closer to your partner.
1. Satisfy Your Inner Disney Fan at the Disneyland® Resort
First up on our list of things to do in California for couples: Disneyland® Resort. If you and your partner love all things Disney, you'll want to make a day trip to the iconic amusement park. The resort comprises two theme parks, several hotels, and the Downtown Disney shopping and dining district.
Disneyland California, the original theme park from 1955, overflows with nostalgia and popular attractions like Main Street USA, Sleeping Beauty's Castle, and Tomorrowland. Beside it is Disney California Adventure® Park, where you'll find plenty of rides and themed lands that blend fast-paced adventures with the magic of Disney.
For couples head over heels with each other and Disney, there's no limit on the options available. Stroll hand in hand, share an ice cream or romantic dinner, laugh and scream together on a roller coaster or spooky ride, or try to beat some midway games. The magic is real.
2. Hang Out With the Animals at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
The San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park is world-famous for its wildlife exhibits, botanical variability, and species conservation. About 35 miles to the north in Escondido, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a wildlife adventure land for larger Asian and African animals spaced out over 1,800 acres of California habitat. Both attractions are some of the top fun things to do in California for couples who love animals and nature.
At the San Diego Zoo, you might cozy up on the bus tour or get a thrill on the Skyfari® aerial tram that soars across the treetops. You could also bond at one of the special add-on activities or wander the park snapping photos and capturing memories.
At the Safari Park, you'll have your pick of numerous Safari adventures. From Wildlife Safari to the Behind-the-Scenes Safari, there are many ways to bond over your love of wildlife roaming freely. If you're more of a daredevil duo, hop on the Flightline Safari, which takes you above several animal habitats.
3. Enjoy the Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood™
There's nothing like the excitement of movies and shows while you enjoy Southern California getaways for couples. Located in Universal City just north of Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood™ is the ultimate destination if you want to share thrills, chills, and plenty of laughs.
Universal is a popular theme park with rides, special events, shows, and a well-known back-lot studio tour. If you're both die-hard movie and television fans, get in line for this hour-long tour that takes you through 13 blocks of sets from famous films and shows and several thrilling 3D segments.
This theme park has different lands dedicated to Hollywood productions, perfect for whether you and your partner love fantasy, science fiction, romance, horror, action, or all of the above. Hop on the rides and cuddle up as you step into the world of Harry Potter™, Jurassic Park™, Super Nintendo World™, Transformers™, and other Universal partner productions. Get ready to share the thrills at the WaterWorld live show, where the pyrotechnics and fireballs will have your heart pumping. When ready for a break, wander CityWalk to refuel and explore the shops.
4. Go on a City Cruise in San Diego Bay
For a low-key outing full of romance, head to downtown San Diego for a City Cruise. These hour-long harbor cruises have staggered departure times, taking you on a 12-mile journey past local landmarks like Shelter Island, the Star of India, Seaport Village, and Cabrillo National Monument.
Enjoy the stunning views from atop the ferry, or snuggle up on a bench as you watch the shoreline slide by. You may even see some sea lions and pups near the bait barges, and keep an eye out for sea birds soaring above or wading along the water's edge.
San Diego City Cruises are popular activities, so you'll want to arrive early to snag your spot. And if you and your partner get the munchies, head to the on-board snack and beverage bar.
5. Marvel at Marine Life at SeaWorld® San Diego
SeaWorld® San Diego has incredible shows and close encounters with large sea mammals. It's another popular spot to visit and makes a fun romantic outing for two.
If you're both more into the thrills, take your place for soaring roller coasters like the Emperor, Manta, or Electric Eel. For low-key fun, ascend the SkyTower for romantic views of Mission Bay, or head to the Bayside Gondola to cuddle up and watch the sunset over the water.
For couples who love to get close to wildlife, check out the various Close-Up Encounter programs or the Dolphin and Beluga Interactions. Since admission to SeaWorld supports rescue missions, you'll love the separate Rescue Tour of the SeaWorld rescue facilities that shows you how they care for injured animals.
Save Money on Your Couple's Trip to Southern California
Whether taking a road trip or a jet-setting couple's vacation, you'll bring home many treasured memories from Southern California. Get Southern California CityPASS® tickets for discounted admission fees to the region's hottest attractions. When you save money, you'll have more ways to enjoy romantic activities while on vacation.
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