The ultimate guide for the perfect romantic escape, featuring intimate dining, cozy hideaways and the best ways to explore California’s fairytale village hand-in-hand
As we head into February, the annual scramble for the perfect romantic getaway begins. Carmel-by-the-Sea, the European-style seaside village located on California’s Central Coast, is redefining the idea of “Romance Month.” Known for its fairytale cottages and hidden courtyards, this village goes beyond just Valentine’s Day, serving as the perfect destination for couples seeking a quiet, intentional escape and the luxury of time spent together.
The best part about a romantic getaway to Carmel-by-the-Sea in February? The slower season offers a cozier, more serene ambiance (and fewer crowds) than peak season, making it ideal for an intimate trip. It also aligns perfectly with the rising “quietcation” trend, allowing couples to prioritize slower, more restorative travel over high-traffic destinations. Plus, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a perfect road trip destination for those in the San Francisco Bay Area and a quick flight into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) for travelers from SoCal, Seattle, Denver and Phoenix.
Unlike many bustling West Coast hotspots, Carmel-by-the-Sea stands out for its rare mix of European architecture, walkability, and truly unrushed pace. We’ve curated a guide to the most intimate and unforgettable experiences for couples—from Michelin-starred dining to finding the village’s hidden secret gardens.
The Ultimate Date Night: For the Foodie Couple
Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel: The ultimate romantic dinner splurge, this intimate, two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined, multi-course tasting menu, impeccable service, and an extensive wine cellar. After dinner, retire to The Salon, the chic bar and lobby lounge, for a sophisticated nightcap.
Casanova: Known for its rustic, old-European ambiance, this beloved spot offers sophisticated French and Italian cuisine. Its private, secluded dining areas will transport you and your partner to midcentury Europe.
La Bicyclette: A charming, candlelit European bistro famous for its wood-fired cuisine and house-made pastas. This spot even gained extra renown recently as the site of a double date for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce!
PortaBella: Located on Ocean Avenue, this elegant restaurant features a picturesque flagstone patio ideal for al fresco dining under the warmth of heat lamps.
For the Ultimate Retreat: Romantic Hideaways
Horizon Inn and Ocean View Lodge: A cozy inn perfect for couples seeking relaxation. Known for its thoughtfully curated Romance Package, the charming rooms feature fireplaces, private balconies, and oversized Jacuzzi tubs.
Carmel Green Lantern Inn: Experience the quintessential Carmel getaway in a classic cottage style. This historic hotel offers a charming atmosphere with tranquil gardens, redwood and cypress trees, and cozy fireplaces.
Stilwell Hotel: Offers a sophisticated, contemporary, and cozy escape for the upscale traveler. With 42 rooms, the focus is on a serene, coastal vibe complemented by lush outdoor courtyards, fire pits, and an on-site pizza oven.
For the Relaxed Pair: Wine & Sips
The Carmel Wine Walk: Download a free self-guided mobile guide to enjoy curated wine flights at over a dozen tasting rooms scattered throughout the walkable village—a wonderful way to explore Carmel’s hidden courtyards hand-in-hand.
Domaine Messier: Tucked inside the elegant Winfield Gallery, this newest Carmel tasting room offers a sophisticated experience. Taste critically acclaimed Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in a bespoke, welcoming setting.
VIN by the Sea: A new, family-owned restaurant at the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, housed in a former art gallery space. This beautiful eatery spotlights curated small-production boutique wines from California, with over 40 selections by the glass and by the bottle, alongside chef-driven coastal cuisine from Culinary Director Paul Corsentino, featuring seasonal ingredients from local foragers, fishermen, and farmers that celebrate Monterey's bounty.
For the Outdoorsy/Adventurous Couple
Go Electric with Mad Dogs & Englishmen: Take a fun, guided e-bike tour and conquer the iconic Carmel coastline’s rolling hills effortlessly. Rent one of their stylish vintage-inspired e-bikes and cruise Scenic Drive together, or opt for a sidecar model if you’re traveling with your pup!
Carmel Beach & The Scenic Pathway: Enjoy a romantic stroll or bring a blanket to cozy up on a bench overlooking the white sands of Carmel Beach (which is dog-friendly!). The Scenic Pathway meanders above the bluff overlooking the beach through sculptured Monterey Cypress trees, offering unparalleled views.
Hidden Charms: For the Art & Culture Lovers
Shop for an Art Keepsake: Carmel is home to more than 50 art galleries within a one-square-mile area. For a special experience, take part in the Carmel Art Walk on the second Saturday of every month from 4-7 pm to tour local artist-owned galleries. Or explore your inner artist with a private art lesson from one of the Village’s local artists.
Hamilton Hat Lounge: Design your own custom couples' hats with a one-of-a-kind experience at Hamilton Hat Lounge, where classic craftsmanship meets contemporary fashion. Perfect for hat lovers, fashion enthusiasts, and those seeking timeless elegance with a modern twist.
The Courtyards & Fairytale Architecture: If one thing defines Carmel, it’s the charm of its 41 secret passageways and courtyards, which began in the 1920s with Hugh Comstock’s iconic fairytale houses. Take a stroll through these unique, winding lanes—many lined by hidden shops and intimate restaurants—and get lost together.
TIP: Many of Carmel's most romantic spots are dog-friendly, so don't hesitate to bring your four-legged third wheel along for the adventure!
