Hey there, lovebirds and adventure seekers! February, the month of love and chilly evenings, might just be the perfect excuse to explore the romantic and fun corners of Orange County, California.
As someone who loves to squeeze every drop of joy out of life, I took it upon myself to find the best date ideas around OC this February, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
First Stop: Whale Watching in Newport Beach
Imagine this: You and your significant other, bundled up in cozy jackets, sailing across the Pacific, with the majestic dance of whales right before your eyes.
That’s exactly what we did, and it was magical! Newport Beach offers some of the best whale watching experiences, especially during this time of the year.
We booked a tour with a local company, and not only did we see whales, but dolphins decided to join the party too! The thrill of seeing these magnificent creatures up close was an unforgettable experience that we both cherished. Plus, the backdrop of the endless ocean made it all the more romantic.
Next Up: Strolling Through the Sherman Library and Gardens
For a change of pace, we headed to the Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona del Mar. This hidden gem is a botanical wonderland, filled with an array of plants and flowers that seemed to have bloomed just for us.
Walking hand in hand through the gardens, we admired the vibrant colors and took in the tranquil atmosphere.
It felt like we were miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The café within the gardens offered a delightful spot to sit down, enjoy a warm cup of coffee, and have deep conversations.
Adventurous Spirits: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Irvine
If you’re looking to elevate your date night (quite literally), then a hot air balloon ride in Irvine is a must-do! We took to the skies at sunset, and the view was nothing short of breathtaking.
Floating gently above the landscape, with the world seemingly at our feet, was a moment of pure bliss.
The colors of the setting sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, making it a picture-perfect scene. It was a thrilling yet peaceful experience that bonded us even more.
Foodie Exploration: Anaheim Packing District
After all those adventures, we were starving! The Anaheim Packing District was our next stop. This food hall is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to artisanal ice creams.
We hopped from one stall to another, sampling different cuisines and sharing bites.
Here's a snapshot of current restaurants/bars/dessert places:
American Fare:
Black Sheep GCB: Known for their artisanal grilled cheese.
Chippy’s: Offers fish and chips.
Georgia’s: Satisfies Southern cravings.
Healthy Junk: For pizza and burgers.
Kettlebar: Southern seafood and oysters.
The Kroft: Comfort food like cheese curds and poutine.
International Cuisine:
206 BCE: Famous for their anti-gravity noodles.
ADYA: Award-winning Indian food.
Mangal: Syrian Mediterranean food.
Rolling Boil: A shabu shabu bar.
Urbana: Mexican fare.
White Elephant: Thai cooking.
Desserts:
Crepe Coop: Jumbo crepes.
Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream: Dense ice cream.
Le Parfait Paris: Macarons and coffee.
Mini Monster: Teas, matchas, and boba drinks.
Pie Hole: Pie and ice cream.
Pop Bar: Customizable cream popsicles.
Bars:
The Blind Rabbit: A speakeasy with world-class cocktails.
BXCR: A boxcar fashioned into a bar.
Hammer Bar: Expertly made cocktails.
Iron Press: Local brews and chicken waffle sandwiches.
Sacred Junk: A lively bohemian outdoor bar.
Additionally, the MAKE building and Farmer’s Park offer unique spots like Tacos El Gringo, Pali for wine flights, Unsung Brewing for IPAs, 18 Folds for family-style Chinese food, and Poppy Seed, a farm-to-table restaurant in a greenhouse-inspired building. The Packard Building is home to Monkish Brewing, a popular craft beer spot.
For more information and to plan your visit, check out the Anaheim Packing District's official website.
The lively atmosphere, combined with delicious food and live music, made for a fun and laid-back evening.
It’s a great place to laugh, eat, and just enjoy each other’s company.
Closing Thoughts
February in Orange County is truly a lover’s paradise, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights.
Each date idea brought its own unique flavor to our relationship, allowing us to make new memories and strengthen our bond. So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, I highly encourage you to explore these spots.
Here’s to love, laughter, and a whole lot of fun adventures in OC!
Remember, it’s not about where you go, but who you’re with that makes any date special. Happy dating!
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