Valentine’s Day 2026 in Santa Cruz County
Valentine’s Day 2026 is the perfect time to experience the romance and charm of Santa Cruz County. From oceanfront dining to cozy date nights and unforgettable experiences, this coastal community offers endless ways to celebrate love — whether you’re planning something elegant, adventurous, or low-key.
Here’s a guide to what to do and where to eat in Santa Cruz County this Valentine’s Day.
Romantic Things to Do in Santa Cruz County ❤️
🌊 Sunset Walks & Coastal Views
Enjoy a scenic walk or sunset along West Cliff Drive or at Natural Bridges State Beach — both iconic Santa Cruz locations that offer breathtaking coastal views and a relaxed, romantic atmosphere.
Take a stroll along West Cliff Drive or watch the sunset at Natural Bridges State Beach for a timeless Valentine’s moment.
🍷 Wine Tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Spend the afternoon wine tasting at some of the area’s most loved local wineries. Spots like Soquel Vineyards, Bargetto Winery, and Lester Estate Wines offer a relaxed and intimate setting, perfect for couples looking to enjoy great wine and conversation.
💆♀️ Couples Spa Experiences
Unwind together with a couples massage or spa day. Popular options include Chaminade Resort & Spa for a peaceful getaway or Well Within Spa in Santa Cruz for a cozy and rejuvenating experience.
🎶 Valentine’s Events & Live Entertainment
Valentine’s Day weekend often includes live music, themed dinners, and special events throughout the county. Keep an eye on local event listings like the Santa Cruz Valentine’s Day Guide or check out upcoming shows at the Rio Theatre for a memorable night out.
Where to Eat on Valentine’s Day 2026 🍽️
Santa Cruz County is known for its incredible dining scene, and Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular nights of the year — reservations are highly recommended.
🌹 Romantic & Fine Dining Restaurants
For an elegant and intimate dinner, consider:
Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola, known for its romantic hillside setting
Laili Restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine
Alderwood Santa Cruz for a refined farm-to-table experience
🍝 Cozy & Intimate Date Night Favorites
If you’re looking for something warm and relaxed, these local favorites are perfect:
Mentone for handmade pasta and wood-fired dishes
Oswald for a classic Santa Cruz bistro vibe
Home Soquel for comfort food with a modern twist
🍰 Dessert & Coffee Dates
End the evening on a sweet note with:
The Penny Ice Creamery for artisanal ice cream
Mutari Chocolate House for handcrafted chocolates
Verve Coffee Roasters for a cozy coffee date
Romantic Weekend Getaways 💌
Turn Valentine’s Day into a full weekend by staying local:
Inn at Depot Hill in Capitola
Monarch Cove Inn for a charming coastal stay
Chaminade Resort for scenic views and relaxation