Six Safe, Socially Distanced Dates in Santa Monica

Want to share a memorable morning or romantic evening with someone special? Santa Monica businesses are following L.A. County’s health orders closely, so you’ll find all sorts of safe, fun ways to bond with the object of your affections.

The Movie Buff

Traditional movie theaters are closed, but if you miss watching movies on the big screen, invite your loved one to WE Drive-Ins for a first-run film in the heart of Santa Monica. Instead of a concession stand, they offer a menu with items from Mendocino Farms and Tocaya Organica—pre-order when you buy your tickets, and it’ll be delivered right to your car. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food, and many nearby restaurants offer takeout. Two options: Pick up lobster rolls from Blue Plate Oysterette or street tacos and quesadillas from Lanea and handmade chocolates from John Kelly Chocolates for dessert.

The Hopeless Romantic

If you’d love to surprise your significant other with a date that’s both unforgettable and Instagram-worthy, Santa Monica Picnic Co. will arrange an elegant beach picnic like no other. They take care of the food, furnishings, lighting, wireless speakers, and anything else you might need to set the mood. Make it even more meaningful with a handwritten love note—you’ll find beautiful cards and stationery at Arts and Letters. After the picnic, grab cocktails at Calabra, the rooftop bar at Santa Monica Proper Hotel.

The Health-Conscious Honey

For a date that will get your heart pumping, take a HIIT fitness class together on the Santa Monica Pier. Prefer a more relaxed vibe? Set up side-by-side yoga mats and find your flow with Beach Yoga SoCal. After class, fuel your bodies with a nourishing meal at Curious Palate. Then, take a bike ride around the city… or head back to the beach for a relaxing walk near the waves.

The Girly Girl

Embrace your feminine side and take your sweetheart (or your best gal pal) on a self-care shopping trip to Santa Monica Place. The open-air mall is monitoring occupancy levels to keep shoppers safe, so why not upgrade your loungewear or pick out a stylish new look for socially distanced outings like this one? Plan ahead and make reservations for a post-shopping-trip massage at The Raven Spa, followed by dinner and drinks at Esters Wine Shop & Bar, a woman-owned wine bar.

The Foodie

Treat your favorite foodie to a Sunday morning date that’s a feast for the senses. Start with brunch at Papille Gustative, then walk down to the Main Street Farmers Market to stock up on local farm-fresh produce and prepackaged artisanal foods. Before you head home, make a plan to cook a romantic meal together later in the day. Pick up specialty foods and unique cooking tools at The Gourmandise School to add to the fun!

The Nature Lover

Want to connect with your date and the natural world? Browse the gorgeous greenery and eco-friendly containers at The Leaf & Petal Co., and pick out a plant that will grow and blossom along with your relationship. Then, dine on the open-air patio at Elephante, which aims to transport guests from California to the Southern Mediterranean all whilst staying in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica.

No matter who you are spending time with, an overnight stay gives you an opportunity to recharge at the beach and take your experience to the next level. Choose from one of 41 Santa Monica hotels here.