Romantic Weekend Destinations on the West Coast
This sun-drenched stretch of the U.S. is where rugged coastlines meet dramatic sunsets, world-class wine, and dreamy small towns. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous escape in nature, a wine-soaked weekend, or a seaside stroll with your partner, as a local I found that the West Coast has something for every couple. From years of exploring and our recent four week road trip, these are the spots that truly stood out to me and I hope you enjoy them too.
Big Sur - 2 hours 30 minutes from San Francisco
I thought this is one of the best romantic weekend destinations on the West Coast. Why? Now, first things first, I loved the views of the cliffs along Highway 1. Next, there were the stunning redwoods. Finally, tthere are also great stops for food and places to stay.
Truly, I’m always amazed by how the rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and endless Pacific views create such powerful natural magic.
And besides, there are heaps of things to do here. You should definitely stop at Bixby Bridge in the photo here, which is easily one of the coolest landmarks in the area.
I think the hiking here is exceptional. Follow the trails through redwood forests, coastal bluffs, and quiet coves.
We always make time for Pfeiffer Beach, which incredibly feels unique with its purple sand and dramatic rock formations. I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge with many people stopping here on their road trip!
What I loved best:
This month my most memorable meal was at Nepenthe, a cliffside restaurant with sweeping ocean views. I had their famous Ambrosia Burger ($18.50).
A downside? I have to warn you that finding affordable accommodations in this area can be a big challenge because it's such a popular road trip stop. There is camping at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (from $50/night), however you need to book at least six months in advance, even in the winter, so this is not a last minute-friendly overnight stop.
Ellensburg - 1 hour 45 minutes from Seattle
This is one of my favorite places to visit on the West Coast because of high-desert scenery so close to Seattle. In fact, Chris and I both absolutely love Ellensburg, and have been many times. The historic downtown, local cafés, and rolling valley views make every visit worth it, whether we're here for a day or a weekend.
Ellensburg is best known as the home of Central Washington University. Also, the Kittitas County Historical Museum is a must if you want to understand the area’s pioneer and rodeo history.
For me, Ellensburg is also an ideal base for outdoor adventures. The Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway is only minutes away and is one of the most beautiful drives in the state, especially in the spring and fall. Whether you’re into hiking, fly fishing, rafting, or wildlife watching, this area delivers. You can easily enjoy a full day outdoors and still be back in town for dinner.
Getting to Ellensburg is fairly straightforward, though I have to warn you that winter weather over the pass can slow things down. If you’re driving, I recommend checking pass conditions ahead of time and leaving early on weekends, especially during ski season when there's traffic. Once you’re in town, downtown is very walkable.
There are many different kinds of places to spend the night. My best meal was dinner at The Porch, where I had the short rib mac & cheese ($22), rich and hearty, while my partner enjoyed the smoked brisket sandwich ($18). It felt like comfort food elevated, perfect after a day exploring.
Need a place to stay? There are heaps of options, from budget to luxury, and everything in between.
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was historic downtown, with its 19th-century brick architecture, art galleries, and coffee shops...
Walla Walla
I loved exploring the southeastern corner of Washington on our romantic getaway! The valley feels like a world of its own: quiet, scenic, and I think it’s one of the most delightful wine regions I’ve ever explored.
I learned that Walla Walla was nicknamed "The City So Nice, They Named It Twice". And it really is...There is a downtown with tasting rooms, restaurants, and galleries.
What struck me most was the warmth, not just the sunshine that drenches the valley, but also the friendly locals. Take your time and stroll past art murals on Main. Finish the day with traditional fare at Hattaway's on Alder with local ingredients of the Pacific Northwest. If you are staying the night, the family-run Maple Counter Cafe is the best place for breakfast next morning.
What I loved best:
We stayed at Marcus Whitman Hotel ($195) for three wonderful days over a long weekend. My best meal was at Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen, where I had the lamb kebabs with couscous ($27), while my partner loved the paella ($32). It was cozy and soulful — the kind of dinner that lingers with you long after the weekend ends.
Nevada City
This is one of my favorite places to visit on the West Coast on a romantic vacation because of history, wonderful nature and that crisp Sierra air.
This is one of California’s best-preserved Gold Rush towns It’s also easy to reach from Sacramento. In addition, if you are a history lover like me, exploring Victorian streets feels like visiting into another era. My favorite meal was dinner at New Moon Café, where I had the pork osso buco ($29) and my partner enjoyed the mushroom risotto ($26). It was cozy, fresh, and perfectly in tune with the town’s character.
What I loved best:
We stayed at the National Exchange Hotel ($195) two days, a beautifully restored landmark that captures the spirit of the Gold Rush era with boutique comfort.
Breakfast at South Pine Café was my favorite highlight.
Truckee
Ready for a high-country getaway? Check out Truckee, a real standout on our road trip! There are heaps of unique things to do here! This is a historic mountain town of Old West charm with Sierra Nevada adventure.
Just 20 minutes from Lake Tahoe, it’s the kind of place where you can hike, bike and ski. Truckee has a rustic character, yet a thriving food and arts scene. I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
You'll love visiting the wood-paneled saloons, local coffee shops, and gear shops next to farm-to-table restaurants. In winter, Truckee to me feels like a cozy ski village.
You can stay at the Truckee Hotel, a historic inn dating back to 1873, right in the heart of downtown. My favorite meal was at Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats, where I had their braised short ribs ($34) while my friend enjoyed the seared scallops ($32). With live music and a warm atmosphere, it felt like the perfect mountain evening.
What I loved best:
Coffee and pastries at Coffeebar Truckee.
The Dalles
Ready for a romantic riverside getaway in Oregon? Check out The Dalles, a low-stress escape that instantly slowed our pace.
The town has brick storefronts, local museums, and riverfront paths that invited long walks. Just beyond town, the Gorge is the place to go if you want to see golden hills, dramatic overlooks, and waterfalls.
One of my favorite moments was driving along the Historic Columbia River Highway and pulling over at Rowena Crest, where sweeping curves revealed postcard views of the river below.
Near The Dalles, we also discovered relaxed wineries and cideries.
What I loved best:
Breakfast at Petite Provence, a beloved French café and bakery, was my favorite highlight.
In addition, watching the sun set over the Columbia River from a quiet overlook near Rowena—gold light on the water, the Gorge stretching endlessly in both directions. It felt like our own secret moment, shared with the river and the sky.
We stayed at 3-star Celilo Inn, perched on a a hillside with sweeping views of the Gorge.
Seabrook, WA
Craving a coastal escape with great ocean views? Head to Seabrook, a real standout! You can go surfing, beach combing, biking, and hiking in nearby state parks.
In addition, Seabrook is easy to reach from Seattle, about 2.5 hours by car. I love that in the fall I can enjoy cool ocean breezes while the afternoons stay mild enough for long shoreline walks. The crisp air, coastal cottages, and forested trails make it feel instantly relaxing.
We stayed in one of the Seabrook Cottages, which gave us a cozy fireplace, full kitchen, and easy access to the town square. My favorite meal was at The Stowaway Wine Bar & Cheese Shop, where I had a local crab cake sandwich ($21) and a glass of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Watching the sunset over the Pacific afterward made it unforgettable.
What I loved best:
Coffee and pastries at Frontager’s Pizza Co. & Bakery.
San Luis Obispo, California
SLO is one of those hidden gems on the West Coast that we think makes an amazing romantic weekend getaway. You'll find it halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along Highway 1 near the Central Coast. It felt like a dreamy pause on our West Coast road trip. Since there is so much to take in, we decided to join a guided tour with a local guide on our first visit which was a great idea.
One of our favorite parts was how close everything felt, from beaches like Avila and Pismo to scenic vineyards just minutes away.
The sunsets here are pure magic, and watching them together from a quiet beach is a brilliant idea for romance.
Hiking nearby Bishop Peak will give you spectacular views and felt like a shared adventure we’ll always remember.
Wine tasting in Edna Valley was another highlight, and it’s easily one of the most underrated wine regions in the state.
My favorite meal was at Big Sky Café, where I had their Moroccan Chicken ($25) while my friend loved the vegan Buddha Bowl ($19). Fresh, local, and vibrant — it captured the spirit of SLO perfectly.
What I loved best:
Hiking to Bishop Peak for panoramic views of the city and valley was my favorite highlight.
Healdsburg
When talking about romantic weekend destinations on the West Coast, it feels impossible to skip Healdsburg. Located in Sonoma County at the meeting point of three famous valleys (Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander) it’s a truly unique town.
You can visit tree-lined plazas, family-run tasting rooms, and farm-to-table restaurants in this Northern California town.
Healdsburg has a cosmopolitan energy, with Michelin-level food, yet it’s also deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage.
What I loved best:
Lunch at Healdsburg Shed and Costeaux French Bakery for a farm-fresh bite was my favorite highlight.
We stayed at Hotel Healdsburg ($375), right on the town square. We loved our stylish rooms and complimentary bikes for exploring nearby wineries.
Hood River
Ready for a mountain-meets-river getaway? Check out Hood River, a real standout on our road trip! What I love about visiting Hood River is that it’s compact, easy to explore, and packed with outdoor adventures and great food. All of that, with stunning scenery in every direction. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and getting an early start, especially if you’re visiting in summer, because there’s a lot to see and do in a single day.
Getting to Hood River is straightforward if you’re coming from Portland. The drive takes about an hour along the Columbia River Gorge and is incredibly scenic, making it an experience in itself. If you don’t have a car, you can also take the Columbia Gorge Express bus, which is affordable and drops you right in downtown Hood River. I personally prefer driving since it gives you the flexibility to stop at waterfalls and viewpoints along the way.
Once you’re in Hood River, I think you should spend some time exploring the waterfront and downtown area. Hood River is famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and watching the colorful sails dance across the river is a highlight—even if you don’t plan to get on the water yourself. The waterfront trail is perfect for a relaxed walk with views of Mount Hood on a clear day.
Downtown Hood River is full of character, with locally owned shops, breweries, and cafés lining the streets. There are plenty of places to grab a great meal, sample craft beer or cider, and try local specialties like farm-to-table dishes or fresh pastries. If you’re into outdoor activities, you can also hike nearby trails, visit orchards and wineries in the Hood River Valley, or drive up toward Mount Hood for even more dramatic scenery.
I will say that while Hood River is small, it’s easy to underestimate how much there is to do—especially if you start wandering without a plan. On our first visit, we found that guided tours helped us make the most of our time and learn more about the area beyond what we would’ve discovered on our own.
My favorite meal was at Full Sail Brewing Co., where I had their signature IPA with fish and chips ($22). Sitting on the patio overlooking the river, with Mt. Adams glowing in the distance, it was one of those perfect Pacific Northwest moments.
What I loved best:
For me, Hood River is one of the best romantic weekend destinations on the West Coast.
I think that Hood River is one of the best weekend getaways on the West Coast. Why? Only about a 60-minute drive Portland, staying here feels like stepping into a town where nature and modern life mingle gracefully.
Driving the Fruit Loop — a 35-mile scenic route with orchards, lavender farms, and wineries was my favorite highlight.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
