Whether you’re a new couple, long married, or something in between, the Pacific Surfliner train is your gateway to dates that take romance to the next level. From onboard fun, to strolls in scenic parks, to intimate outdoor movie nights, join us as we explore a few most recommended and most romantic train trips and date ideas for couples in Southern California.
Santa Barbara - Botanic Gardens
Image Source: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Hand-in-hand strolls through enchanting displays of native California plants, trees, and flowers? Yes please! A trip to the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens is a sure way to grow your love in all the right ways. Enjoy 5 miles of easy walking trails as you wander through a living museum of the Golden State’s varying biomes, from inland desert to redwood forests. If the gardens inspire a picnic-y mood, these lush grounds offer plenty of romantic spots to lay out a blanket and share snacks or people watch to your heart’s content.
How to Get There: The Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens are a 15-minute rideshare from the Santa Barbara Station. They are also a 20-minute bike ride or ~1 hour walk (for those looking for adventure!).
San Diego - The Prado at Balboa Park & Cinema Under the Stars
Image Source: iStock
Located in San Diego’s Balboa Park, love is always in the air at The Prado at Balboa Park. There’s something about the Spanish architecture, fragrant flowers, and award-winning menu that’s simply irresistible. Grab a table inside the charming historic building, or dine al fresco on their outdoor patio. Then, get ready to treat your taste buds to a delicious culinary journey, complete with fine wines and signature cocktails. When you’re finishing eating, there’s always plenty more of Balboa Park for you to explore together.
You’ve heard of al fresco dining; now get ready for al fresco film! At Cinema Under the Stars in San Diego, you and your sweetheart can catch a movie in a unique open-air movie theater, complete with a heated patio, comfy seats, and all the blankets, space heaters, and other amenities you need to get cozy.
How to Get There: Balboa Park is a 30-minute walk, 10-minute bike ride, or a 5-minute rideshare from the San Diego Santa Fe Depot; Cinema Under the Stars is around the same timeframes from San Diego’s Old Town Station.
Los Angeles - Hauser & Wirth Downtown Los Angeles
Image Source: Hauser & Wirth
Artsy couples, this one is for you! The Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles sets the stage for a perfect date full of culture and creativity. We highly recommend checking out Hauser & Wirth Downtown Los Angeles, an arts complex housed in a beautifully restored flour mill. Hauser & Wirth connects people through an ever-rotating selection of cutting-edge exhibitions, public gatherings, and immersive galleries designed to spark dialogue and inspire creativity in us all.
From thought-provoking installations to interactive events, there’s plenty to explore and experience together.
When you’re ready for a bite, head over to the on-site restaurant, Manuela (reservations accepted!), for fresh, seasonal dishes and creative cocktails shaken and/or stirred to perfection. Extend the adventure by exploring the myriad breweries, cafes, bars, and arcades of the Arts District, or stop by the Los Angeles Institute of Contemporary Art for even more thought-provoking, art-fueled fun!
How to Get There: The Los Angeles Arts District is less than one mile from Los Angeles Union Station, which is about a 20-minute walk, 7-minute bike ride, or 10-minute rideshare.
Camarillo - Premium Outlets
Image Source: Visit Camarillo
Who says shopping can’t be romantic? At the Camarillo Premium Outlets, you can wander through over 150 brand-name and designer stores, hunting for deals, picking out outfits for each other, or finding the perfect gift to surprise your sweetheart. For a twist, dare to set a shopping challenge—who can find the best outfit under a set budget? You can also test each other’s tastes by picking out something unexpected for your boo, and spending the rest of the day in your new clothes!
Between laughs and fashion choices, kick back, refuel, and enjoy a relaxed lunch or coffee break at one of the many eateries located at the Outlets.
How to Get There: The Camarillo Premium Outlets are about a 40-minute walk, 10-minute bike ride, or 5-10-minute rideshare from the Camarillo Amtrak Station.
San Juan Capistrano - Mission San Juan Capistrano & Los Rios Historic District
Image Source: iStock
If you and your date are history-lovers, look no further than the scenic getaway of San Juan Capistrano for a perfect romantic day out. Start your journey at the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano, known affectionately as the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Explore its beautifully preserved grounds, including abundant gardens, ancient adobe buildings, and the remains of the Great Stone Church, built way back in 1797.
Next, treat yourselves to a stroll through the nearby Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California. Its tree-lined streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops set the perfect scene for a leisurely afternoon exploring the best of this charming city.
Keep the date going just steps away at River Street Marketplace, a new community destination nestled within the Los Rios district. The marketplace blends modern dining, curated retail, local art, a butcher, and a full bar and brewery, all in one beautifully walkable space. The real star of the show is an on-site petting zoo at River Street Ranch, where you and your partner can pet and feed animals like guinea pigs, goats, and sheep! After all, petting some cute critters together is a pretty great litmus test for long-term compatibility.
How to Get There: Both the Mission and the Los Rios Historic District are a short walk (less than 5-minutes!) from the San Juan Capistrano Station.
Anaheim - Day at Disneyland® Resort
Image Source: Pacific Surfliner
There’s nothing more classic than a Disneyland® date, and we would love to get you there. Hold hands with your boo as you stroll down Main Street USA, share a churro (Lady & the Tramp-style, of course), and watch fireworks side-by-side at the end of the day.
As a bonus, did you know you can save on the magic with Pacific Surfliner? Amtrak customers can save 5% on Disneyland® Resort theme park admission, including 1- to 5-day standard tickets. You can also save 20% on train travel to Anaheim with promo code V712—just be sure to select “Adult” as the passenger type when booking. Plus, enjoy a free bus connection between the Anaheim train station and the resort area! Click here to learn more about our magical savings.
How to Get There: Enjoy a free OC Bus connection from the Anaheim Station (ARTIC) to Disneyland® Resort—just show your valid Amtrak Pacific Surfliner ticket to board select routes, with frequent weekday and weekend service.
Oxnard - Channel Islands National Park
Image Source: Getty
For couples who like their romance with a little side of adventure, Channel Islands National Park delivers. Just off the coast of Oxnard, this wild escape feels worlds away from everyday life. Hop on a boat to explore rugged coastlines, sea caves, scenic hiking trails, and more, with endless scenic views of crystal-clear waters as the cherry on top.
After your adventure, wind things down with a cozy, coastal dinner at Ox & Ocean. Located near the harbor, this refined yet relaxed spot is known for fresh, locally inspired seafood, tasty craft cocktails, and a warm, intimate atmosphere that feels tailor-made for date night.
How to Get There: Oxnard Harbor (where boat tours depart) is about a 10–15-minute rideshare from the Oxnard Station.
On Board the Pacific Surfliner
Image Source: Pacific Surfliner
We all know the destination is important, but it doesn’t hurt if the journey is nice too, right? You and your boo will find plenty to do on board the Pacific Surfliner— here are just a few ways you can pass the time together on your way to romantic escapades.
Get Your Game On
A little friendly competition is the cornerstone of all great relationships, don’t you think? Bring your favorite game (please, no Twister!) or load up a 2-player game on your chosen device, and you’ll be on track to pass the hours in style.
Treat Yourselves
Don’t let your sweetheart get hangry! Treat yourselves to a stop at the onboard Market Café for sandwiches, snacks, and beverages, including delicious local products from top California breweries and wineries.
Sometimes, it’s the simple things that mean the most. Start up a shared listening session with your favorite playlist, podcast, or audiobook (or do it the old-fashioned way via shared earbuds), and let those sweet sounds be the backdrop for your romantic journey.
That perfect date you’ve been dreaming of? It’s just a train ride away. From stunning romantic destinations to onboard moments you’ll never forget, the Pacific Surfliner offers a totally unbeatable way to connect with the one you love.
Ready for your romantic getaway? Book your train tickets here!