Los Angeles has some of the best places to take a date. They range from spectacularly expensive to completely fun and free.
In this article we share some of the best places in Los Angeles to take a romantic date outdoors and completely free of cost.
At the time of this writing many businesses in LA are still closed due to the pandemic so interest in visiting charming outdoor places, especially close to Valentines Day is at an all time high.
Enjoy all these beautiful places in the outdoors with that special someone, without breaking the bank.
1 – Fern Dell Nature Trail
Description:
Griffith Park is without question one of the best places in Los Angeles, for tourists and locals alike. Everyone can come and enjoy the views from the Observatory, take a peaceful hike or even rent horses to explore the trails.
But Griffith Park also has some of the best spots for an outdoor date.
While there are many places perfect in Griffith Park for this type of thing, one of our top recommendations is the Fern Dell Nature Trail. This is a short walking path, about a quarter mile, but has a beautiful path that borders a stream that nourishes gorgeous tropical plants.
You and your date will be walking along lots of lush and green scenery. This place is so magical, it appeared in a scene in the romantic musical La La Land.
Location: Griffith park, Fern Dell Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Pic Credit: @michellekcoyle
2 – El Matador Beach
Description:
El Matador Beach is a secluded stretch of sand, sea caves, rocky shores, flying birds and rolling waves in breathtakingly beautiful Malibu. Although its still sometime referred to as a secluded beach its one of the worst kept secrets and most people in LA know about it.
For that reason and because of the limited parking you want to make sure you carefully plan your visit to el Matador. Our recommendation is to go on a weekday and as early as possible!
Once you arrive and walk down the steep staircase leading you down, you can’t miss the giant rocks on the beach of el Matador, that have made for so many stunning Instaworthy pictures. Just type in ‘el Matador’ on Instagram to see what we mean.
Pack a picnic so you stay awhile and soak up this magnificent beauty for as long as possible with your significant other.
Location:32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
PIC Credit: @jessicafreyphotography
3 – Santa Monica Pier
Description:
The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most beautiful and iconic landmarks in all of Los Angeles. The perfect place to enjoy a sunset view and a nice long walk on a famous boardwalk with that special someone and its for free.
As of this writing there are fluctuating closures for pandemic precautions so before you go its best to check their website first for the latest news https://pacpark.com/
When the Pier has limited access, usually the first to close and last to open are the amusement rides including the famous Ferris Wheel and Roller Coaster.
But even if just the Pier is open its worth a visit so you can still take in the ocean views, the cool vibes and amazing street performers.
Eventually the Pier will completely open after the pandemic and you can enjoy the full experience of a couple of rides, a beautiful sunset walk on the beach, grabbing a bite to eat and shopping on the nearby Promenade.
Location: Santa Monica, CA 90401
PIC Credit: @eliazarsevill
4 – Lake Hollywood Park
Description:
While this has come to be known as a very dog-friendly park (its not officially a dog park), its still a great place to visit without a furry friend.
Lake Hollywood Park is one of the closest places you can take a picture of the Hollywood Sign without having to hike. In fact there is street parking right next to it but of course its limited so go at a non busy times.
Now if you do have a dog its an even more of a perfect spot to have a double date with your dog lover partner. You can let the pups run like crazy while you take some pictures under the shadow of the world famous Hollywood Sign and also the great view of Lake Hollywood and the city.
Remember that this is not technically a dog park so even though everyone seems to do it you can be fined if your dogs are caught off the leash. Also be sure to pick up after your pooch.
You can also hike around this amazing area and if you walk above the park there is high clearing with an even better view of the Hollywood Sign.
Be sure to time your visit because during the Summer all the Hollywood tour buses come through here and it can get packed!
Location:3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
PIC Credit: @222xx888
5 – Point Vicente in Palos Verdes
Description:
When you and your special someone feel in the mood for nature and spectacular serene views of the cliffs and ocean, make the drive out to Palos Verdes. This area rivals Malibu for the most gorgeous landscape in the Los Angeles area and has hundreds of areas for romantic walks with breathtaking views.
If you are really looking to impress your date, step it up and bring your favorite take out and enjoy a romantic bite al fresco style with an outdoor picnic.
This area is also famous for its incredible hiking trails which have become very popular for couples or dates who like to work out together.
Take your special someone for a fitness walk, while catching a sunset at beautiful Point Vicente or one of the other amazing places in Palos Verdes.
Location: 31550 Palos Verdes Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
PIC Credit: @jose.vision
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!