Romantic Weekend Destinations on the West Coast

1. Big Sur, California

Big Sur’s coastline has long been the inspiration for artists, writers and visionaries from all over the world. Consisting of a few hotels, restaurants, and art galleries, the village of Big Sur, California, is surrounded by vast redwood-filled state parks.

Giant elephant seals bask on the sandy shores, and gray whales migrate past in the deep indigo waters twice a year, while this untouched terrain remains as wild and exhilarating as always.

Where to Stay: Rooms and suites at Ventana Big Sur have wood-burning fireplaces and outdoor decks with forest and ocean views.

Where to Eat: Sierra Mar at the Post Ranch Inn is the ultimate spot for a special celebration. Set high above the cliffs with floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant seems to float above the ocean. Post Ranch Inn Video

Don't Miss: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has a beautiful sandy beach for sunbathing in the summer, and offers great whale watching in December and January.

2. Ellensburg, Washington

Boasting plenty of sunshine and magnificent mountain vistas, Ellensburg is less than two hours away from the hustle and bustle of Seattle, but will have you feeling as if you are worlds away. Brimming with lovely places to stay, a plethora of restaurants and cafés, and an array of fun outdoor activities to enjoy, Ellensburg will not disappoint.

The Downtown Ellensburg Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers a wonderful variety of shops, antique stores, art galleries and spas. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the range of adventures, from world-class fly fishing and white water rafting to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Learn about the history of the area at The Kittitas County Historical Museum, located in the Cadwell Building which dates back to 1889. Take a traditional winery tour to taste some of the region’s finest wines, or go on a scenic drive into one of the surrounding state parks for excellent wildlife and birdwatching. If you are looking for great places to visit out West, don't miss Ellensburg, Washington.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Canyon River Ranch has ten two-bedroom condos with kitchens and a private patio or veranda.

Don't Miss: The Kittitas County Farmers Market is open on Saturdays, May through October, offering farm fresh produce and a selection of hand crafted goods. Here you will find unique items such as handmade soaps, jewelry, and delicious artisan cheese by Tieton Farm & Creamery.

3. Healdsburg, California

Surrounded by some of Northern California's finest wine estates, Healdsburg is a charming town renowned for the finer things in life, from award-winning restaurants to boutique shopping.

Embraced by the rolling vineyards of world-renowned wine growing estates, this beautiful town offers an array of treasures to explore, from beautiful art and sculpture to quaint bookstores and antique shops. Intimate guesthouses provide luxurious overnight stays and cozy cafés serve artisanal breads, cheeses and wines. Take a walking tour of the town’s historic homes, enjoy a pampering massage at one of the spas, or meander along the farm and art trails in the Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys where you can sample delicious food and wine.

The spectacular surroundings make for excellent outdoor fun - adventure-lovers will delight in hiking, biking, canoeing, camping, boating and hot air ballooning.

Where to Stay: Located close to the Healdsburg Plaza, the renovated Bella Luna Inn has lush gardens and a heated pool.

Where to Eat: Baci Cafe & Wine Bar is a family-owned restaurant serving gourmet cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

Don't Miss: Wine Country Walking Tours offer a great way to get to know the area while sampling amazing food and wine.

4. Hood River, Oregon

Home to the cascading waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge and views of the snowy peak of Mt. Hood, Hood River is surrounded by bountiful fruit orchards and jaw-dropping natural scenery. The winds that rush down the valley and the Columbia River Gorge create perfect conditions for windsurfing and kite surfing, as well as other adrenaline-inducing adventures.

Take a scenic rail trip through fruit laden orchards on the Mt. Hood Scenic Railroad for spectacular views of Mt. Hood. Whether you are an adventurous couple, food aficionados, history buffs or wine connoisseurs, this charming little town an hour’s drive from Portland has something for everyone.

Don't Miss: Northwest Rafting Company offers half day trips in the Wind River, the White Salmon River and the Columbia Gorge for beginner and expert paddlers.

5. Walla Walla, Washington

Surrounded by Washington’s wine country, Walla Walla has much to offer in the way of a romantic weekend escape, from breathtaking scenic beauty and award-winning wineries, to elegant restaurants and an array of arts, culture and outdoor adventures. Walla Walla’s tree-lined central boulevard is an eclectic mix of past and present, featuring quirky vintage stores, luxurious boutiques, cozy cafés, art galleries, busy tasting rooms and bustling restaurants.

Walla Walla boasts more than 120 mostly family owned wineries, where you will get a chance to meet the winemakers, vintners and masters of this age-old tradition, and taste their wares along the way. The Walla Walla region offers plenty of outdoor fun in the surrounding mountains and rivers - choose from hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and canoeing.

Where to Stay: The Inn At Blackberry Creek has three guest rooms and a spacious suite set on two acres about two miles from downtown.

Wine Tasting: Visit Walla Walla Vintners for free wine tastings, scenic vineyard views, and special events throughout the year.

Don't Miss: Whitman College offers lovely architecture, art exhibitions at The Donald Sheehan Gallery, and beautiful landscaping.

This video has some incredible information about Pacific Coast tidepools.

6. San Luis Obispo, California

San Luis Obispo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with year-round sunshine, spectacular natural scenery, a bustling college town vibe, charming shops, restaurants and world-class wineries.

The town’s historic downtown area brims with beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture, boutiques, art galleries, museums, and shops while excellent restaurants, buzzing bars and chic cafés create a vibrant atmosphere. The magnificent working parish church of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa stands in the center of the city, and Thursday nights see one of the largest farmers markets in the country come to life.

The Edna and Arroyo Grande Valleys are home to critically acclaimed wineries where some of the world’s best vintages can be sampled. A glorious landscape of lakes, mountains and beaches around the town makes for fantastic outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to horseback riding and sailing.

Where to Stay: Petit Soleil has 15 rooms with an European flair and is close to downtown.

Where to Eat: Novo Restaurant & Lounge serves global cuisine on a romantic patio with views and sounds from the creek below.

Don't Miss: Downtown SLO Farmers' Market on Thursday nights features live music, 120 vendors and delicious each such as ribs, sausage, and BBQ. The market is held on Higuera Street, between Osos and Nipomo streets.

7. Seabrook, Washington

Overlooking Washington's rugged coastline, Seabrook is a beautiful beach town that is making a welcome revival. The area was used by the US Navy and Air Force during the Second World War and was intentionally ‘removed’ from the map, however it is back on the map as one of Washington’s favorite seaside escapes. The town was established in 2004 and features a charming Retail District, new Town Hall, and the Dorothy Anderson Cottage which is one of the oldest cottages on the Washington coast.

Seabrook’s spectacular natural surroundings offer an array of outdoor activities and adventures, ranging from water-based sports such as swimming, sailing, surfing and fishing, to mountain-based adventures like hiking, biking, climbing, and exploring. The South Crescent Pool, a heated indoor pool, provides year-round swimming with a luxurious whirlpool and a sunny terrace.

Don't Miss: On your stroll through Meriwether Square, take photos in the charming gazebo.

8. Astoria, Oregon

Resting on the southern banks of the Columbia River overlooking Young’s Bay, the beautifully scenic Astoria in Oregon is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.

Once a fur trading post, this vibrant port city is a delightful romantic getaway with much to offer in the way of things to see and do. Surrounded by water and tall evergreen trees, Astoria, Oregon is renowned for its scenic beauty, which encompasses miles of endless white sandy beaches and beautiful Pacific Ocean views, where visitors find a wealth of outdoor activities. Parasail and kayak off the beach, fish for salmon in the mighty Columbia River, or hike or bike along the trails in and around the city.

Take in the city’s rich history with a visit to one of the many museums, such as the nationally acclaimed Columbia River Maritime Museum, where you can view dugout canoes and walk on the bridge of a World War II warship. Don’t miss a visit to the famous “Goonies” set, which put Astoria on the map as a filmmaking destination.

Where to Stay: The Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa is a historic riverfront hotel offering stunning views and plush accommodations, each with a fireplace and a private balcony.

Where to Eat: For some of the best views of the bridge and the river, head to The Bridgewater Bistro which serves delicious regional cuisine in an indoor and outdoor setting.

Don't Miss: Astoria Riverfront Trolley will take you on a scenic one-hour ride past Astoria’s most popular attractions, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

9. Coronado, California

Steeped in history and culture, Coronado is a small, easy-going island town that has long been a famous getaway for the rich and famous. Boasting award-winning beaches, exquisite architecture, a vibrant community life and a near-perfect climate, Coronado is undoubtedly one of San Diego County’s gems. The historic downtown area brims with elegant hotels and boutique inns, chic sidewalk cafés, award-winning restaurants, stylish stores, tranquil parks and a beautiful old library.

Watch a show at the vintage state-of-the-art movie house or live theater at the Coronado School of the Arts. Take the time to explore the many historic buildings and museums dotted around town. Coronado’s beaches offer a wealth of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, sailing and scuba diving.

Where to Stay: Loews Coronado Bay and Hotel del Coronado and two iconic hotels in Coronado. Hotel Marisol Coronado offers an intimate setting and 15 guest accommodations close to the beach, shops and entertainment.

Don't Miss: Stop by the Coronado Visitor Center to get a free map and advice from friendly staff.

10. The Dalles, Oregon

Located along the shores of the Columbia River, The Dalles is known as the eastern gateway to the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area and the end of the Oregon Trail. Not far from Mt. Hood National Forest and boasting magnificent natural scenery, this spectacular region offers many things to do for couples. Its unique location in the shadow of Mt. Hood provides visitors with outdoor adventures, including kayaking, white water rafting, windsurfing, fly fishing, hunting, hiking, cycling and skiing in the winter.

For more relaxed recreation, explore the many museums, murals and art centers about town, such as the Wasco County Historical Museum, the Fort Dalles Museum and Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, or check out the second largest Auguste Rodin collection on the West Coast at the Dalles Art Center. Plan your romantic weekend trip around one of the many festivals that happen throughout the year, like the ‘Northwest Cherry Festival’ in April, the ‘Cruise the Gorge Classic Weekend ‘and the ‘Dufur Threshing Bee.’

Where to Stay: The Celilo Inn has an outdoor pool and offers scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge

Where to Eat: Spooky's serves delicious pizza, sandwiches and salads.

Don't Miss: Learn about the history of the area and stroll through 54 acres of ponds and scenic overlooks at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum.