When you think of Valentine’s Day in Laguna Beach, the picture that comes to mind is a mix of ocean air, colorful art galleries, long walks by the water, and meals where the view is just as good as the food. Staying at Costa Art Hotel puts you in the heart of it all. This boutique property has a creative spirit and a relaxed, coastal vibe that fits perfectly with the town’s personality. If you are looking for a Valentine’s Day that is both fun and romantic without being over the top, Laguna Beach is the right choice. Here is a full-day plan to help you experience the best of it.
Start the Morning by the Water
Mornings in Laguna are calm and inviting. Begin your Valentine’s Day with a walk down to Crescent Bay Beach, a stretch of sand framed by cliffs and tide pools. The waves here crash gently, and the shoreline is often quieter than Main Beach, making it a great place to start your day with some peace. You can bring along coffee and pastries from Laguna Coffee Company, a local favorite that roasts small batches of beans and has a cozy feel that locals love. Watching the sun rise higher while you sip and walk is simple but memorable.
If you want a little more activity in the morning, consider renting paddleboards at Fisherman’s Cove. February mornings can be crisp, but with wetsuits, many locals still enjoy time on the water. Even if you just stick to the shore, the sight of paddleboarders gliding across the water sets the tone for a coastal Valentine’s Day that is active yet laid-back.
Explore the Artistic Side of Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is known for its long history as an artist colony, and Valentine’s morning is a great time to explore the creative side of the city. Start with a visit to the Laguna Art Museum, located right on the waterfront. The museum focuses on California art and often has special exhibits running in February. Walking through the galleries gives you and your partner something to talk about, whether you share the same tastes or find yourselves drawn to completely different works. It’s not about knowing art—it’s about enjoying the experience together.
From there, stroll through Forest Avenue where many of Laguna’s independent galleries and shops are located. You’ll find everything from modern photography to handcrafted jewelry. Even if you don’t buy anything, the experience of browsing side by side makes the morning feel playful and interactive. Some galleries host special Valentine’s showcases, so keep an eye out for those as you walk.
Lunch with a Coastal View
By midday, you’ll probably be ready for lunch. Laguna Beach is filled with restaurants that highlight fresh seafood and California flavors, many with ocean views. For Valentine’s Day in 2026, Splashes at the Surf & Sand Resort is offering a four-course holiday menu that includes locally sourced ingredients and optional wine pairings. The restaurant sits right above the sand, so you can enjoy your meal while waves crash just below the windows.
If you prefer something a little more casual but still lively, head to Skyloft. Their rooftop patio gives you a bird’s-eye view of the town and the ocean, and the menu mixes coastal dishes with American classics. Live music often plays here, so you may find yourself lingering longer than expected. Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be about candlelight—it can also be about sharing good food in a relaxed, fun setting.
Active Adventures and Creative Play
After lunch, you have a choice: get active outdoors or lean into Laguna’s artistic culture. For something adventurous, rent electric bikes and ride along the Pacific Coast Highway. You’ll pass small coves, viewpoints, and the kind of scenery that makes you stop just to take it all in. February in Laguna often brings mild weather, perfect for a comfortable ride.
Another unique option is to book a Valentine’s Day whale watching cruise with Dana Wharf. These cruises include champagne, chocolates, and the chance to see gray whales migrating along the coast in February. It’s both exciting and romantic—something you probably won’t forget.
For couples who enjoy more hands-on experiences, an afternoon art class can be a memorable way to celebrate. ARTime BARRO, a local pottery studio, often hosts Valentine’s-themed workshops where you can try your hand at creating something together. Whether you shape bowls, mugs, or abstract pieces, the fun is in the process. You’ll leave with a keepsake that reminds you of the day.
Relax and Watch the Sunset
As afternoon turns into evening, slow down and make time to watch the sunset. Heisler Park is one of the best spots in Laguna for this. The park stretches along the cliffs with walking paths, gardens, and plenty of benches where you can sit and watch the sun dip into the horizon. Bring a light jacket, sit close, and enjoy the view—it’s a classic Laguna experience that never feels ordinary.
If you’d rather stay closer to Costa Art Hotel, you can enjoy the sunset from the hotel’s pool area or balcony spaces. Sometimes staying put is just as rewarding as going out, especially when the sky lights up in shades of orange and pink.
Dinner to End the Day
Valentine’s Day dinner in Laguna Beach is a highlight. For 2026, The Loft at Montage is offering a special four-course menu with live piano music and sweeping views of the ocean. It’s one of the more upscale options, perfect if you want a refined, elegant end to your day.
If you prefer something smaller and cozier, head to one of Laguna’s downtown spots where many restaurants will also be running Valentine’s specials. Options range from Italian trattorias to California fusion spots, giving you flexibility based on your mood. The atmosphere in town on February 14 is lively, with couples wandering between dinner reservations and beachside strolls.
Evening Strolls and Local Music
After dinner, take a slow walk through the downtown area. The streets are dotted with boutiques, dessert shops, and bars, some of which feature live music. If you’re in the mood, stop in for a glass of wine or a shared dessert. Laguna Beach has a way of feeling festive without being overwhelming, and Valentine’s night captures that balance perfectly.
Return to Costa Art Hotel
When the day winds down, Costa Art Hotel gives you a quiet and comfortable place to return to. You might open a bottle of wine, talk about your favorite parts of the day, or just relax after exploring the city together. The hotel’s creative and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to feel at home.
Why Laguna Beach Works for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day in Laguna Beach works because it blends romance with fun. You can spend the morning by the ocean, the afternoon exploring art or trying something new, and the evening enjoying dinner and sunset views. It’s not about following a strict plan but about making space for moments that feel natural. Whether you keep the day simple or pack it with activities, Laguna Beach offers a mix of scenery and culture that makes the holiday special.
Plan Your Valentine’s Day at Costa Art Hotel
If you are ready to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a place where the ocean meets creativity, Costa Art Hotel is the right base for your trip. From the comfort of your room, you can step out into the heart of Laguna Beach and spend the day making memories that last long after February 14. Book your stay, plan your adventures, and let Laguna Beach take care of the rest.