Rachel NippLove is in the air — Valentine’s Day is almost here! As a local jeweler, we love celebrating couples and recommending our favorite nearby date spots.
Take your sweetheart out for a fun activity or delicious dinner. Or, if it’s a really special year, propose somewhere local (with a gorgeous ring from Shane Co., of course). No matter how you want to spend your day, create the perfect itinerary with our full guide to spending Valentine’s Day in the Bay Area.
Top Valentine’s Day Date Ideas in the Bay Area
Explore the city and enjoy some quality time with your date this Valentine’s Day, whether you want to go on an adventure, try a new experience, or indulge in a relaxing time together. Below are a few of our favorite date ideas in the Bay Area.
Before you get started planning your date, check out our recommendations for getting the perfect gift to make your Valentine’s Day extra special!
Whether you’re planning a cute stroll though the park or making a reservation at a delicious restaurant, top off your date with the perfect gift. Find stunning fine jewelry gifts for every style at Shane Co. Our pieces are beautifully crafted with unique details as if they were specially designed with your sweetheart in mind.
Here are some of our top picks this year, from pieces with their favorite gemstone to heart-shaped jewelry that represents your love.
Black Sands Beach
Looking to enjoy some outdoor time with your date this Valentine’s Day? Check out Black Sands Beach, north of San Francisco, and walk along the breathtaking black sands on this unique beachfront. Pack a picnic and hike along the path with your sweetheart for an unforgettably romantic Valentine’s Day.
Hands on Gourmet
If you love trying new activities together, take a cooking class this Valentine’s Day at Hands on Gourmet. Sign up for a private event or check out their class calendar to make something special. This year, they’re offering both a Valentine’s Day brunch class and a couple’s cooking class in the evening on the 14th. Bon appétit!
Kanna Spa
For a more relaxing Valentine’s Day, book massages at Kanna Spa in San Mateo. Try one of their couples massages, like their “Romance & Recuperate” special, or enjoy another service like a facial or sound therapy. You can also purchase a gift card for your loved one to enjoy future spa services.
Top Valentine’s Day Restaurants in the Bay Area
Treat them to a romantic dinner this Valentine’s Day! Find a restaurant with a warm atmosphere and amazing food to enjoy with your date. Keep in mind that many places have pre-determined menus and require reservations on Valentine’s Day. Check out a few of our top-rated restaurant recommendations below.
All Spice
All Spice, located in San Mateo, is a popular Bay Area dining destination featuring a modern Californian menu. Enjoy seafood, steak, and more in this cozy restaurant. We recommend making a reservation in advance for Valentine’s Day!
Va de Vi Bistro and Wine Bar
For a delicious bistro and wine bar experience, check out Va de Vi Bistro and Wine Bar in Walnut Creek this Valentine’s Day. You have to try their small plates, desserts, artisanal cheese plates, and, of course, wine! Make your reservation today.
Bon Mot Bar and Restaurant
If you’re in the Cupertino area, check out Bon Mot. They’re known for Korean-inspired small plates and delicious cocktails. Their menu and atmosphere are perfect for a romantic night out on Valentine’s Day. Make sure to check their website for any new tasting menus this season.
Romantic Bay Area Proposal Ideas
Looking for the perfect place to propose and make it a Valentine’s Day to remember? We love a beautiful location that speaks to the city, so we dug in and found the best proposal spots around. We also asked local businesses their expert insight, and we’re excited to share these favorite proposal locations with you.
As you’re planning the proposal, make sure you’re prepared with their dream ring. At Shane Co., our expert jewelry consultants are here to help you find a ring you know they’re going to love forever. No matter your budget, we can help you find a beautiful ring design with a sparkling diamond or gemstone at the center.
To build an engagement ring, start with a setting, select a center stone, and personalize it. Or, browse our ready-to-ship engagement rings, specially designed by our in-house team. Even after you find the right ring, we’re here as your friend for life with our free lifetime warranty and unparalleled upgrade program.
Here are some of our favorite rings this season to get you started:
Once you’ve gotten your ring picked out, it’s time to find the perfect location. Try one of these landmarks for a proposal they’re going to love!
Lovers Lane Trail
If you want to propose in a unique outdoor setting, Lovers Lane is the perfect spot to do it! This iconic trail is San Francisco’s oldest footpath. It’s rich with history and full of eucalyptus, cyprus, and pines planted by the Army in the late 19th Century. Walk between the stunning trees and get down on one knee to pop the question this Valentine’s Day!
Top of the Mark at Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
For a stunning rooftop proposal, Top of the Mark at Intercontinental Mark Hopkins is a must. This iconic bar at the top of the Mark Hopkins Hotel offers a gorgeous view of the San Francisco skyline. Enjoy delicious cocktails and appetizers while taking in the incredible view. To make Valentine’s Day even more special this year, pop some champagne and propose in the romantic atmosphere of this rooftop bar.
Palace of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is a breathtaking landmark in the Marina District of San Francisco and a great place to get engaged. Get down on one knee in front of this Greco-Roman inspired structure for a truly memorable proposal this Valentine’s Day. The grounds are open and free to the public throughout the day.To see our selection in person, visit one of our Shane Co. Bay Area stores, including locations in San Mateo, Walnut Creek, and Cupertino. For help finding the perfect piece, book an appointment online or at your store or chat now with an expert jewelry consultant.
Anna Gionet
Rachel Nipp