Romantic Date Night

You’ve done coffee or drinks for the first date, you’ve gone out to dinner on the second date, and now it’s time to step it up a notch. Here are our ideas for a romantic date night in Long Beach, whether you’re ready to get more serious or you’ve been coupled up for years.

GONDOLA GETAWAY

Nothing says romance like transporting the object of your affection to the canals of Venice aboard a traditional Italian gondola. Or, in this case, the canals of Naples Island, where Gondola Getaway (5437 E Ocean Blvd) offers private gondola cruises for two, with the option to add a bouquet of roses, a charcuterie plate or cannoli. Cuddle under a blanket as you quietly glide through the calm waters of the canals, then later you can stroll nearby 2nd Street.

A ROMANTIC MEAL

Low lights, soft music, a bottle of wine and a plate of pasta–you can find all the makings of a classic romantic dinner at Italian restaurants in Long Beach. L’Opera Ristorante (101 Pine Ave) offers the perfect setting, with white tablecloths, elegant marble columns, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering a view of the chefs at work. Dine under the sparkling chandeliers at La Traviata (301 N Cedar Ave) while a pianist plays in the lounge. Try the lobster tortelli with porcini mushrooms and truffle parmesan cream sauce.

QUEEN MARY

With its storied history as a 1930s luxury ocean liner and service as a troop transport during World War II, the Queen Mary (1126 Queens Hwy) is steeped in romance. Bring your date on board for dinner at the Chelsea Chowder House or drinks in the Observation Bar. The ship hosts weekly happy hours called Meet Me at the Mary on Tuesdays from 4 to 8PM with live music, free admission, and discounted parking. Check their online calendar for other happenings, from karaoke to concerts.

LONG BEACH TERRACE THEATER

Downtown Long Beach is a great place for a special night out. See a show at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center (300 E Ocean Blvd)–home to the Terrace Theater, Long Beach Arena, and Beverly O’Neill Theater–then grab dinner or drinks within walking distance after the show. The Center is home to the Long Beach Symphony, whose season includes both classical and pops concerts, as well as the International City Theater, and starting in the fall of 2024, a new Broadway at the Beach series, featuring shows like The Book of Mormon.

ART THEATRE OF LONG BEACH

Bask in the romantic light of the silver screen at the historic Art Theatre (2025 E 4th St) on 4th Street’s Retro Row, which offers screenings of both new releases and classic films. Then extend your date with the abundant options nearby, like wine tasting at Art du Vin Wine Bar (2027 E 4th St) next door to the theater, dinner at Alder & Sage (366 Cherry Ave), or simply strolling under the string lights that light up Retro Row at night. Visit during Fourth Fridays to add even more to your evening, with live music and sidewalk sales lining 4th Street from Cherry to Temple Avenue.

About the Author

Claire Atkinson

Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for nearly 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.