Best Valentine's Day Travel Destinations Near Sacramento
The tiny town of Calistoga, though very modest in size, is a celebrated destination known worldwide. Calistoga's fame comes from geothermal mineral springs, which are used in the area's spas, resorts and mineral pools. The quintessential Calistoga experience is to have a rejuvenating hot mud bath. Stay over for Valentine's Day in a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious resort, and enjoy haute cuisine under twinkling lights at Calistoga Inn & Brewery and other fine restaurants. Hold your loved one's hand as you stroll through the town's shops, galleries and wine bars, for exceptional wines visit Vermeil's tasting room on the main drag. Rent bikes to gambol through town or sign up for an ultra-romantic ride in a hot air balloon.
Tahoe is an exercise in contrasts, offering something for every valentine. There are cozy beach cabins, sleigh rides, romantic dinner cruises, charming bistros and hikes through the pines and winter snow. Tahoe is also perfect for more urban holiday experiences, particularly on the Nevada side of the lake where gambling is legal. Couples can enjoy the bright lights of the casinos, with spectacular entertainers, concerts and elegant dining; other Tahoe delights include luxurious lodgings with jacuzzi suites, boat tours, sailing adventures, ice skating, skiing, museums, art galleries and fine dining of every style and cuisine
Many areas in California are known for world-class wines, but those who love big, "fruit bomb" Zinfandels know Amador County is the place. There are 40+ boutique wineries located in the area, and the roads don't get crammed with limousines even during events. Couples can enjoy wine at Dobra Zemlja; one of the winery's offerings includes stellar red wine in refillable jugs with etched jam jars. White wine lovers can try Vino Noceto's Frivolo, a refreshing and spritzy Moscato. Amador wineries are perfect for weddings; Story Winery even has a very romantic proposal package for anyone wishing to pop the question. Visitors can also go whitewater kayaking, horseback riding and can shop in eclectic places along historic main streets.
Located on State Route 1 along the Pacific coast, Bodega Bay is a sure bet for an amazing experience for Valentine's Day. Take a scenic tour along the bay by boat, bike or horseback, hike through forests with 2,000-year old trees or stay warm with a beach picnic in front of a roaring fire pit. There are many opportunities for fine dining, golfing, sport fishing, whale watching and for shopping at unique art galleries and shops. There are special wine and dine Valentine's Day events at local wineries, and the Valley of the Moon Music Festival comes to Rohnert Park on February 13, 2016. Stay at one of the many scenic hotels, lodges and B&Bs; the Timber Cove Inn in Jenner has incredible views of the ocean, rooms with spa tubs and cozy fireplaces and exquisite dining in the Inn's glass-walled restaurant Alexander's.
Point Reyes is full of lush forests, winding scenic roads, cool coastal towns and more than 10 unspoiled public beaches. Take that special someone on a romantic stroll down the beach on foot or horseback; take time to watch the whales; take a kayak trip on Tomales Bay, or head out for some shopping or play a round of golf. Farmers, grocers and chefs are proud of the area's focus on organic, sustainable food; check out spots for local cheeses, grass-fed beef, fresh vegetables, oysters and other seafood. For a truly romantic adventure, wander through the mist and fog to the Point Reyes Lighthouse and declare your love by the light that has guided mariners for 145 years.
