7 Valentine’s Day Ideas in Marina del Rey

January 27, 2021

Love isn’t cancelled this year (so far!) so here are 7 Valentine’s Day ideas in Marina del Rey. The Marina offers wide open spaces and plenty of fun romantic things to do in the area. Most of the activities here already allow for social distancing such as kayaking or stand-up paddling. As a waterfront playground with nearly 300 days of sunshine, a Valentine’s Day outing in Marina del Rey will truly feel like a California getaway.

Seeking adventure during the three-day Valentine’s Day weekend? The Marina has plenty of on-the-water and off-the-water adventures. Want something more low-key? A special meal with a waterfront view could be just the ticket. Are you looking to escape for the day with your special someone? The Marina is the gateway for L.A. locals to get on the Pacific Ocean. Set sail on a romantic weekend and read below for some Valentine’s Day ideas.

Whether you celebrate Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day or not, the three-day weekend is a perfect time to discover your backyard. Marina del Rey is just next door to Venice Beach and four miles north of LAX.

Keep in mind that outdoor dining is now open. We recommend you contact restaurants directly to confirm their hours of operation and of course, to make reservations.

Surprise your Valentine with a gift card for a future experience in the Marina. Click here to view a list of local businesses offering gift cards.

Please wear a facial covering and practice social distancing when near others outside of your household. Let’s all do our part together!

Celebrate Valentine's weekend in MDR with waterfront dining at The Ritz Carlton Marina del Rey

Romantic Sunset Dinner for Two Please

Take a load off and eat out or order from your favorite restaurant. Waterfront views with a fabulous meal are definitely the cherry on top here in the Marina. Outdoor dining is open in Los Angeles County as of Friday, Jan. 29 so plan a romantic al fresco brunch, lunch or dinner during Valentine's Day weekend.

P.S. Several restaurants along the water offer outdoor fire pit tables like the one pictured here at Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey.

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Chairs on balcony facing beach and water for Valentine's weekend in MDR

Plan a Weekend Getaway

Sometimes, taking a break from the everyday hustle is a gift in itself. Treat yourself (and your special someone) to a getaway in L.A.'s Marina. Our waterfront hotels include two new properties that opened in the last month: Courtyard by Marriott and Residence Inn by Marriott.

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Movie showtime and list for the new Marina Drive-in movie series in Marina del Rey

Watch a Movie By the Sea

Get cozy in the car and buy tickets to the new Marina Drive-in movie series featuring a fun, romantic film on Valentine’s Day. Showtime is 6:30 p.m. and tickets are $20 per vehicle. Limited number of spots available. Click button for more information.

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Sailboat in the Marina del Rey channel with sunset background

Charter a Private Sunset Sail

A California winter sunset is best seen from the water. Book a private yacht charter for the afternoon to enjoy a special sunset sail along the coast. If you're celebrating "Gal-entine's Day" with some girlfriends, this one makes for a fun Instagram-worthy excursion.

Click button below to see our list of approved yacht charters in Marina del Rey.

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Enjoy a Stand-up Paddling Excursion

For a little out-of-the-box Valentine's Day activity, rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board in the Marina. Lessons are often included. Marina "Mother's" Beach is one of the best places for beginners because of the calm cove. Feeling more adventurous? Book a yoga class on a stand-up paddleboard with YOGAqua.

Rentals are available from any of these outfitters in the Marina:

Paddle Method

ProSUP Shop,

Marina del Rey Boat Rentals.

woman getting massage on her head and face

Indulge in a Spa Treatment

Overlooking the Marina, Sisley Spa located at The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey offers a retreat inspired by the beauty and serenity that encompasses it. Book a future treatment or give your loved one an endless selection of beauty and wellness experiences this year.

Click button below to buy a Sisley Spa gift card.

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Have a Two-Wheel Adventure along the Coast

Did you know the scenic 22-mile Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail wraps around Marina del Rey? Daniel’s Bicycle Rentals in Fisherman’s Village rents by the hour, so you can enjoy an easy breezy bike ride on a segment of the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail, or just pedal around the Marina. Click button to view the bike map.

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