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Seven-Day Romantic & Relaxing Itinerary

Sunday, August 13: Beach Day in Malibu

Start your trip with a relaxing day at the beautiful beaches of Malibu. Spend the morning at Zuma Beach, known for its long sandy shores and great waves for surfing. In the afternoon, head to El Matador State Beach, a hidden gem with stunning rock formations and caves. Catch the breathtaking sunset at Point Dume State Beach and enjoy a romantic beachside picnic.

  • Zuma Beach: $10 parking fee, 3 hours
  • El Matador State Beach: Free parking, 2 hours
  • Point Dume State Beach: Free parking, 1 hour
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Malibu Farm Cafe. This beachfront eatery offers fresh and organic dishes, such as avocado toast and açai bowls. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
  • For lunch, head to Neptune's Net, a local seafood joint famous for its fresh fish and stunning ocean views. Try their fish and chips or seafood tacos. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • End your day with a romantic dinner at Geoffrey's Malibu. Enjoy a waterfront dining experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Indulge in dishes like lobster risotto or filet mignon. The average cost for a meal is about $60 per person.
Monday, August 14: Wine Tasting in Santa Ynez Valley

Escape to the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, known for its vineyards and wineries. Start your day with a visit to Sunstone Vineyards & Winery, where you can take a guided tour of the vineyard and indulge in wine tasting. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Los Olivos and visit tasting rooms like Saarloos & Sons for unique wine varieties. End the day with a romantic dinner at The Ballard Inn & Restaurant.

  • Sunstone Vineyards & Winery: $20 wine tasting fee, 2 hours
  • Los Olivos: Free, 2 hours
  • The Ballard Inn & Restaurant: $50 per person for dinner, 2 hours
Tuesday, August 15: Scenic Drive along Pacific Coast Highway

Embark on a breathtaking road trip along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. Start your day in Santa Barbara and drive south, stopping at picturesque spots like Butterfly Beach, El Capitan State Beach, and Refugio State Beach. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at Gaviota State Park before continuing the drive to the charming Danish village of Solvang. Spend the evening exploring Solvang's quaint streets and enjoying Danish pastries.

  • Butterfly Beach: Free, 1 hour
  • El Capitan State Beach: $10 parking fee, 1 hour
  • Refugio State Beach: $10 parking fee, 1 hour
  • Gaviota State Park: $10 parking fee, 1.5 hours
  • Solvang: Free, 2 hours
Wednesday, August 16: Hiking in Big Sur

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Big Sur with a day of hiking. Start your morning with a moderate hike along the McWay Falls Trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where you can witness the stunning waterfall cascading onto the beach. In the afternoon, challenge yourself with the strenuous but rewarding hike to the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge. End the day by relaxing at the soothing Esalen Hot Springs.

  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: $10 parking fee, 3 hours
  • Bixby Creek Bridge: Free, 2 hours
  • Esalen Hot Springs: $35 per person, 2 hours
Thursday, August 17: Explore Santa Cruz

Discover the laid-back coastal city of Santa Cruz. Start your day with a visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can ride thrilling roller coasters and enjoy classic boardwalk snacks. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Natural Bridges State Beach, known for its unique rock formations and tide pools. End the day with a romantic sunset walk along West Cliff Drive, enjoying panoramic ocean views.

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: $45 unlimited rides pass, 4 hours
  • Natural Bridges State Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • West Cliff Drive: Free, 1 hour
Friday, August 18: Relaxation in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Indulge in a day of relaxation in the charming seaside village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Start your morning with a leisurely stroll along Carmel Beach, known for its pristine white sands and breathtaking views. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a couples' spa treatment at the award-winning Refuge Carmel. Enjoy a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant and savor the fresh seafood.

  • Carmel Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Refuge Carmel Spa: $200 per couple, 2 hours
  • Waterfront restaurant dinner: $100 per person, 2 hours
Saturday, August 19: Romantic Sunset Cruise in Monterey

End your trip with a romantic sunset cruise in Monterey. Board a luxury yacht and sail along the stunning coastline, enjoying breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Raise a glass of champagne as the sun sets, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Indulge in a gourmet dinner on board and create lifelong memories with your loved one.

  • Sunset Cruise in Monterey: $150 per person, 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring the Central Coast, make sure to visit the charming town of Pismo Beach. Enjoy a romantic horseback ride along the shoreline and indulge in delicious clam chowder at Splash Café. Another hidden gem is the serene Avila Hot Springs, where you can relax in natural mineral hot spring pools surrounded by lush scenery.

For a unique experience, consider visiting the enchanting Ojai Valley. Explore the local art scene, take a scenic hike to the stunning Matilija Falls, and enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa.

Don't forget to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak for the best deals on accommodations and flights.

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