Still trying to figure out what to do for your loved one this Valentine's Day? Maybe expensive jewelry or a trip to Aspen isn't in your budget this year... and going to a restaurant that's cranked up the prices for February 14th isn't exactly original, so what do you do? Perhaps this list of the Top 5 Valentine’s Day Gift/Celebration Ideas in Orange
County might help you score some brownie points with your significant other AND allow YOU to have a blast too. Important tip: get one of these items for your sweetie as a gift, but DON'T schedule it ON Valentine's Day. Too crowded, too pricey and not that special when you're sitting amongst hundreds of others celebrating, simply because the calendar tells us to do so. Make the romance last all year round!!!
5. Laguna Beach Food & Cultural Tour. Take a guided
stroll through The Village as you learn about landmarks and historic sites.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll get the inside scoop on Laguna and
get the chance to visit some cool, hidden spots you might otherwise miss. Enjoy
5-6 food tastings at various venues chosen for their uniqueness, character and
delicious menu items. $55.00 per person. Takes about 3 1/2 to 4 hours. (949)
464-8830
4. Couples Massages. There are a number of places in Laguna
to get couples massages – some at the higher end spas like the Montage and Surf
and Sand… others at less expensive places like Massage Envy and Hand and Stone.
At the chains, often times, you can get a deal, especially if it’s your first
time there. And don’t think it won’t be a good massage if you don’t spend a
fortune. Sometimes, they’re even better. It all depends on who you get. Search
online to find the right couples massage for you and your special someone.
3. Private Surfing Lessons for 2. Really think about whether
your significant other would enjoy something like this as much as you, before
you book it. If you’d both like to hit the waves and take in the ocean air,
this could be a fantastic gift. It depends on which company you go through, but
it generally costs about $150.00 for 1 hour and $250.00 for 2 hours. This can
be done right in Laguna Beach, if you like. Search online for the best options.
2. Hit the Water in Newport! If you’d rather be in some type
of a boat ABOVE the water, Newport Beach offers a number of fun options.
Gondola cruise for 2 through Newport Harbor. It’s romantic, relaxing and
memorable. Prices start at $137.00 for 1 hour. $197.00 for an hour and a half.
You can upgrade a bit by doing a Gondola lunch cruise. $190.00 per couple. If
you don’t mind sharing your experience with other people and you’d like some
live entertainment, try the champagne brunch cruise. $86.00 per person. If
you’d rather sleep in with your sweetie, go for the dinner cruise. $119.00 per
person. Search online to find what’s best for you.
1. Wine Tour in Orange County. Start out at Laguna Canyon
Winery (open 11-6 Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday). Then, YOU decide where
to go next. Believe it or not, Orange County has a few choices when it comes to
wineries. Giracci Vineyards and Farms is a fabulous choice. Ten acres of
beautiful vineyards, vintage historic buildings, trails, streams, oak trees and
riding. It’s off the 241 toll road in Silverado - about 35 minutes from Laguna.
Wine tasting every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Another wonderful option is
Hamilton Oaks in San Juan Capistrano. Gorgeous grounds - located on a historic
landmark. You can also visit Newport Beach Vineyards and Winery, and Rancho
Capistrano Winery. There are various tasting rooms across Orange County, as
well. Be sure to get a sober driver or pay for a tour. Orange County Winery
Tours costs $109.00 per person for 2 wineries and tastings. $139.00 per person
for 3. Ride in style in a luxury SUV or limo. There are plenty of options for
larger parties and some packages include a bottle of champagne to kick off your
day just right. Lunch is arranged for you too, so all you have to do is sit
back, relax and enjoy. OC Winery Tours (949) 203-3891
