Look, your couch has been good to you! But it does not exactly scream “romantic milestone.” If the skyline has been replaced by screen time, it might be time to level up.
With these anniversary date ideas in LA, you will trade sweatpants for sunsets and reheated leftovers for rooftop dinners. Trust us, love looks better in better lighting.
Luxury Anniversary Ideas in LA ✨
1. Luxury Pop-up Picnic at the Beach 🏖️
Our first suggestion is a creative spin on the traditional date idea: a luxury pop-up beach picnic proudly brought to you by us, the Picnic Makers.
Surely, you will enjoy a beautiful day in one of the scenic places across LA, Orange County, or Malibu, with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, and an exquisite picnic setup that magically appears, tailored exclusively for the two of you.
“There’s nothing quite like sharing a romantic moment in a place as breathtaking as Malibu. It means creating a feeling,” shares Olga from Picnic Makers.
This fun anniversary date idea redefines romance by combining the timeless charm of picnics with a touch of luxury. You can dine outdoors and indulge in a curated experience tailored to your tastes and preferences.
Book online today and embark on a memorable anniversary experience with our luxury pop-up picnic.
2. Glamorous Limo Tour of Los Angeles 🌟🥂
This one is a great idea for those who are visiting LA! How about elevating your anniversary celebration with a glamorous limousine tour around Los Angeles? Dress up and sip champagne as you cruise through iconic neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Rodeo Drive. A limo ride offers luxury and the freedom to see the city’s famous landmarks in style.
Details:
- Best time: 6:30 PM for golden hour and sunset views
- Extras: Champagne service, rose petals, personalized music playlist
Remember to book in advance, don’t wait till the last minute!
3. Exclusive Yacht Dinner Cruise 🛥️🌊
Rent a yacht or a private boat for an exclusive dinner cruise off the coast of Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Newport Beach, or Santa Barbara. There’s something undeniably romantic about being out on the water, and a yacht offers a unique vantage point to view the sunset over the Pacific.
Decorate the deck with lights and flowers to add a personal touch, and enjoy a gourmet meal prepared onboard.
Details:
- Best time: Board by 7 PM to catch the sunset
- Add-ons: Private chef, live violinist, custom floral decor
4. Romantic Dinner in a Secluded Garden at The Little Door 🌿
Enjoy a meal at The Little Door, an intimate restaurant with a lush garden setting. Its private ambiance makes it one of LA’s best-kept secrets for a romantic anniversary dinner.
Dine beneath twinkling lights and greenery as you savor French-Mediterranean cuisine in a candlelit courtyard. Request a personalized dessert to make the evening even more special.
Details:
- Best time: Reserve at dusk for full candlelit ambiance
- Add-ons: Garden patio seating, custom dessert message, complimentary on-site valet
Looking for the perfect words to include in a card or toast? Explore our 101 Heartfelt Anniversary Quotes to make your evening even more memorable.
5. Neon Light Painting Class 🎨
Join a creative workshop where you can paint under vibrant neon lights, adding a colorful twist to your anniversary. This artistic experience in the heart of LA offers a unique and memorable way to celebrate your special day together.
Glow-in-the-dark paints, upbeat music, and a lively atmosphere make it a fun, hands-on date night. No experience is needed. Just bring your creativity.
Details:
- Best time: Evening sessions for full glow effect
- Add-ons: BYOB, framed canvas upgrade, private table setup
Learn more at their official website.
Outdoor Anniversary Activities around Los Angeles 🏞️
6. Garden Stroll at the Huntington Library 🌺
Explore the enchanting botanical gardens at The Huntington Library, where art and nature blend seamlessly. Wander through themed areas like the Japanese Garden or the Desert Garden.
For a truly immersive experience, book a private tour that includes a visit to the art collections and historical manuscripts, perfect for couples who treasure culture and history.
Details:
- Best time: Late afternoon for golden light and fewer crowds
- Add-ons: Private docent tour, picnic basket for two, museum access included with admission
7. Tranquil Morning at the Korean Bell of Friendship
Visit the Korean Bell of Friendship at dawn for a tranquil start to your anniversary. The serene environment and stunning ocean views offer peace and reflection.
Arrive early to enjoy soft light over the Pacific and stroll through Angels Gate Park before the city stirs.
Details:
- Best time: Just after sunrise for privacy and coastal views
- Add-ons: Coffee and pastries from a local bakery, bench seating with an ocean view
8. Adventure Chasing Waterfalls in Eaton Canyon 🌲
Hike to the beautiful waterfall at Eaton Canyon. This easy-to-moderate trail leads you through a scenic route filled with native plants and wildlife. Opt for an early morning hike to avoid the crowds and enjoy a serene moment together in nature.
We can arrange for a guided tour that includes a gourmet breakfast at the waterfall, turning a simple hike into a memorable excursion.
Details:
- Best time: Arrive before 8 AM for cooler weather and fewer hikers
- Add-ons: Guided hike, picnic breakfast, keepsake photo session
9. Romantic Road trip to a Stunning SoCal Beach 🚗
Pack a picnic and take a romantic road trip to one of Southern California’s stunning beaches. Whether it’s the secluded sands of El Matador Beach or the bustling Santa Monica Pier, a day at the beach provides a beautiful backdrop for celebrating your love.
Add a curated picnic or time your trip for a sunset view. Nature and uninterrupted time together make this getaway special.
Details:
- Best time: Late morning to sunset for ideal light and comfort
- Add-ons: Luxury picnic setup by Picnic Makers at Point Dume
Planning a trip to Malibu? Check this: Best Beaches in Malibu: Ultimate Coastal Guide.
10. Stargazing at Griffith Observatory 🌌
For couples who appreciate the cosmos, the Griffith Observatory offers one of the best views of the Los Angeles skyline and a portal to the stars above. Plan your visit on a public star party night, where telescopes allow you to glimpse celestial wonders.
Enjoy the added perk of expert commentary from astronomers, making it a uniquely enlightening anniversary date. Arrive early for a golden hour hike or picnic, then enjoy a guided journey through constellations and planets.
Details:
- Best time: Public Star Parties (monthly, check schedule)
- Add-ons: Telescope access, sunset hike from Fern Dell, blanket for skyline viewing
11. Sunrise Yoga on the Beach 🧘♂️
One of the anniversary ideas in LA is to start your day with a sunrise yoga session on the beach. The peaceful morning air and the gentle sound of the waves create a serene setting for connecting and rejuvenating together.
A private session lets you move at your own pace while taking in the beauty of the morning.
Details:
- Best time: 6:00–6:30 AM, depending on season
- Add-ons: Private instructor from Beach Yoga SoCal, mats and towels, smoothie delivery from Rawberri
Wine and Dine Anniversary Ideas near Los Angeles 🍷🍽️
12. Wine Tasting in Malibu 🍷
Visit local vineyards in Malibu and enjoy scenic drives through the hills. The quiet surroundings and peaceful atmosphere create a relaxing setting for wine lovers to celebrate a special day.
Try small-batch varietals at Rosenthal, Cielo, or Malibu Wines. These spots have ocean or canyon views, live music on weekends, and outdoor seating ideal for couples.
Details:
- Best time: Late afternoon for ocean views and golden light
- Add-ons: Private tasting experience, cheese board pairing, vineyard picnic setup
13. Culinary Adventure in Downtown LA 🍴
Dive into a culinary adventure in downtown Los Angeles. With countless dining options, from upscale restaurants to street food markets, you can savor flavors from around the world.
Walk through neighborhoods like the Arts District, Little Tokyo, and Grand Central Market. Sample something new at each stop and enjoy the city’s energy as you go.
Details:
- Best time: Early evening to catch both dinner and dessert spots
- Add-ons: Chef’s tasting menu, rooftop cocktail stop, guided food tour
14. Premier Dinner Cruise in Marina Del Rey 🚤
Board a luxury yacht for a dinner cruise in Marina Del Rey. Enjoy gourmet meals, dancing, and stunning views of the coastline. This moving feast offers a dynamic setting for celebrating your love.
Most cruises include a multi-course meal, live music, and dancing under the stars as the boat glides along the harbor.
Details:
- Best time: Board 30 minutes before sunset
- Add-ons: Private table, champagne service, live acoustic music
15. Explore the Historic San Pedro Fish Market 🐟
For a more laid-back anniversary, visit the historic San Pedro Fish Market. Enjoy fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere, and perhaps catch a ferry for a quick trip around the harbor.
Split a tray of fresh shrimp, snapper, or lobster, then take a short ferry ride around the harbor for a scenic finish.
Details:
- Best time: Late afternoon for easier seating and harbor views
- Add-ons: Seafood combo platter, ferry ride, outdoor table near the water
Creative and Cultural Anniversary Experiences in LA 🎭
16. Candlelit Concert in a Historic Venue 🎻
Los Angeles hosts numerous candlelit concerts featuring classical music in some of the city’s most historic and hidden venues. From old churches to intimate theaters, stunning architecture and live music create a romantic setting ideal for anniversary celebrations.
Experience a night of classical music by candlelight at the historic Orpheum Theatre. Known for its stunning architecture and acoustics, the theatre offers a romantic ambiance perfect for anniversary celebrations.
Details:
- Best time: Evening concerts, usually on weekends
- Add-ons: Front-row seating, wine pairing, VIP entrance at select venues
17. Art Immersion in LA Museums 🎨
Spend your anniversary surrounded by inspiring artworks at museums like The Broad or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). For a more personalized experience, we offer private after-hours tours led by art historians who provide insight into the collections and current exhibitions.
For a more intimate experience, consider arranging a private, after-hours tour with an art historian who can guide you through key pieces and current exhibitions.
Details:
- Best time: Late afternoon or private evening access
- Add-ons: After-hours tour, champagne toast, museum shop gift credit
For those who love museums, we prepared the guide on 21 Best Museums in Los Angeles.
18. Attend a Live Theater Performance 🎭
Catch a live show at one of LA’s famous theaters. Whether it’s a Broadway musical or a unique avant-garde performance, the shared experience of live theater makes for a memorable anniversary.
The shared energy of a live performance brings you closer and turns your evening into a meaningful memory.
Details:
- Best time: Evening shows, Wednesday to Saturday
- Add-ons: Reserved box seats, pre-show dinner, cast meet-and-greet (select productions)
19. Cultural Exploration in Downtown LA’s Art District 🖌️
Spend the day exploring the vibrant street art and galleries in Downtown LA’s Art District. This colorful area offers a mix of creativity and urban charm, providing plenty of conversation starters and photo opportunities.
Stop by Hauser & Wirth, grab coffee at a nearby café, and end the day with dinner under string lights at a local bistro.
Details:
- Best time: Late morning to golden hour
- Add-ons: Street art photo walk, gallery visit, outdoor dining reservation
Fun Anniversary Activities to Laugh Together 🤪
20. Salsa Dancing Lessons 💃
Inject fun and passion into your anniversary ideas in Los Angeles by taking salsa dancing lessons together. Los Angeles has a vibrant Latin dance scene, offering plenty of opportunities to learn and enjoy salsa.
Choose a beginner-friendly group class or schedule a private lesson if you want something more tailored.
Details:
- Best time: Weeknight evenings or weekend socials
- Add-ons: Private session, live DJ event, Latin tapas afterward
21. Cooking Class 👩🍳👨🍳
For a 2-year anniversary date idea, why not try a cooking class? It’s a fun way to strengthen your bond as you learn new recipes together. Plus, you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labor at the end of the class – a delicious meal prepared by the two of you.
Choose a theme you both enjoy, like handmade pasta, sushi rolls, or French desserts.
Details:
- Best time: Evening classes for dinner-style formats
- Add-ons: Wine pairing, custom apron set, printed recipe cards
22. Echo Park Swan Boats at Night 🦢
Glide across Echo Park Lake in beautifully illuminated swan boats, available exclusively after dusk. The city lights reflect off the water, creating a magical atmosphere.
Consider timing your visit during one of the local cultural festivals for live music and performances you can enjoy from the water.
Details:
- Best time: After dusk for full lighting effect
- Add-ons: Festival night visit, shared dessert picnic, pre-reserved boat
23. Picnic and a Movie Under the Stars 🎥
Attend an outdoor movie night, which many parks and outdoor spaces in LA offer. Bring a cozy blanket and a picnic to enjoy a classic film under the stars.
Each anniversary date idea adds a touch of luxury and exclusivity, making your special day even more memorable.
Whether you’re cruising through LA in a limo, dining on a yacht, or enjoying the city lights from a rooftop, Los Angeles provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate your love in style.
At Picnic Makers, we’re thrilled to help orchestrate these moments, ensuring that every detail contributes to an unforgettable anniversary celebration.
Details:
- Best time: Late spring through fall, depending on event schedules
- Add-ons: Curated picnic by Picnic Makers, reserved lawn spot, themed dessert box
Weekend Getaways and 5th Anniversary Ideas from LA 💏
24. Weekend Getaway 🏖️🏔️🌆
Perhaps the most exciting of our anniversary date ideas is a surprise weekend getaway. Whisk your loved one away to a secret destination, whether a beach resort, a cabin in the mountains, or a city you’ve both wanted to explore. It’s an adventurous and romantic way to celebrate your love story.
Beach Retreat in Laguna Beach 🏖️
Stay at a beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach, enjoying ocean views and a sunset dinner at a seafood restaurant.
Experience a personalized beach picnic complete with a bonfire and a professional photo session during sunset.
Mountain Escape in Big Bear Lake 🏔️
Relax in a cozy cabin at Big Bear Lake, surrounded by the beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains.
Enjoy activities like guided hiking, a private spa session, and a gourmet campfire meal. Depending on the season, you can also go zip-lining or snowboarding.
Vineyard Vistas in Temecula Valley 🍇
For wine-loving couples, a weekend in Temecula Valley offers picturesque vineyard settings and exceptional wines.
Stay at a vineyard resort, partake in private wine tastings and vineyard tours, and perhaps catch a live music event at one of the wineries.
Complete your getaway with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, offering stunning views of the rolling hills and vineyards.
Desert Oasis in Palm Springs 🌴
Escape to the serene desert landscape of Palm Springs, where mid-century modern architecture meets stunning natural beauty.
Rent a private villa with a pool, explore local art and history at the Palm Springs Art Museum, and dine al fresco under the stars.
For a bit of adventure, take a scenic hike in the nearby Joshua Tree National Park or ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking desert views.
1-Year Anniversary Date Ideas in Los Angeles 💝
25. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Orange County 🌅
Imagine soaring above Orange County with your loved one as the world unfolds beneath you in a dazzling array of colors. A hot air balloon ride is a breathtaking 1-year anniversary date idea that guarantees an experience you’ll both remember for a lifetime.
This is a gentle and unforgettable way to mark your first year together with height, silence, and shared awe.
Details:
- Best time: Sunrise or sunset flights (based on availability)
- Add-ons: Champagne toast, in-flight photo, post-ride breakfast picnic
26. Sunset Watching at Santa Monica Pier 🎡
End your day with a vibrant sunset at Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, complete with carnival games and street performers. To make it special, we offer a behind-the-scenes tour of the pier and a reserved spot on the Ferris wheel, ensuring you have the perfect view as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Enhance the moment with a reserved Ferris wheel seat and a private tour of the pier’s quiet corners.
Details:
- Best time: One hour before sunset
- Add-ons: Reserved Ferris wheel seat, private tour, cotton candy or dessert box
Learn more: 21 Instagrammable Things to Do in Santa Monica
27. Romantic Walk along Venice Canals 🌅
Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Venice Canals. Inspired by Venice, Italy, this serene neighborhood features charming walkways and beautiful waterways. For an added touch of romance, we can arrange for a private gondola ride complete with serenades—just the thing to make your anniversary unforgettable.
Add a private boat ride with live music and a shared toast to make the experience more personal.
Details:
- Best time: Golden hour for soft light and fewer crowds
- Add-ons: Gondola-style boat, musician, rose bouquet or dessert basket
2nd Anniversary Ideas for Fun and Growth
28. Jazz Night Out 🎷
Spend your evening soaking in the vibrant melodies at a local jazz club. With its rich musical heritage, LA hosts some of the best live jazz in the country. It’s a sophisticated way to enjoy your anniversary, tapping into the rhythm of the city.
A night filled with rhythm and conversation creates a memorable way to celebrate your anniversary.
Details:
- Best time: Late evening sets on Fridays or Saturdays
- Add-ons: Reserved seating, shared dessert, post-show cocktail
29. Discover Hidden Gems in the Venice Canals walk 🚣♂️
Explore the enchanting Venice Canals further by renting a kayak or a paddleboard. Glide through the waterways and discover hidden nooks, adding an element of adventure to your romantic stroll.
As you glide through narrow channels, you’ll pass under bridges and alongside charming homes tucked away from the crowds.
Details:
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Add-ons: Kayak or paddleboard rental, waterproof camera, and a light picnic by the canal
30. Ultimate Spa Day for Two 💆♀️💆
Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of LA’s luxurious spas. A couple’s massage or a full spa treatment can be the perfect way to unwind and reconnect on your anniversary.
This is a calm, comfortable way to recharge and reconnect during your anniversary.
Details:
- Best time: Midday appointment for a slow afternoon
- Add-ons: Couple’s massage, herbal tea lounge, private relaxation suite
Local Anniversary Ideas with Classic LA Charm 💐
31. Sunset Horseback Ride through Griffith Park 🐴
Take a guided horseback ride through Griffith Park as the sun sets over the Hollywood Hills. This tour offers a serene escape with spectacular views of the Griffith Observatory and downtown LA skyline, perfect for thoughtful reflections or renewing commitments.
This peaceful ride is ideal for quiet reflection or sharing something meaningful during your anniversary.
Details:
- Best time: Sunset rides, typically around 5–7 PM, depending on season
- Add-ons: Private guide, post-ride snack table, commemorative photo
32. Dinner on a Rooftop Overlooking the City 🌆🍴
Celebrate your anniversary with a rooftop dinner, boasting panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline. Many rooftop venues in LA offer a combination of exquisite dining experiences and breathtaking scenery.
Choose a downtown terrace for a high-rise vibe or a coastal location in Santa Monica for a softer, ocean-lit backdrop.
Details:
- Best time: Just before sunset through evening
- Add-ons: Reserved corner table, floral arrangement, champagne on arrival
From the chic terraces in Downtown LA to more laid-back settings in Santa Monica, each rooftop has its unique charm.
Things to Do in LA for Your Anniversary Night 🌃
33. Helicopter Tour Over Los Angeles 🚁
Take your anniversary celebration to new heights with a breathtaking helicopter tour over Los Angeles. This exhilarating experience allows you to soar above the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and the shimmering coastline of Santa Monica. Viewing LA from the sky provides a thrilling, romantic, and unforgettable perspective.
You can request a customized flight plan that focuses on your favorite parts of the city. Sunset flights add a dramatic, glowing finish to the ride.
Details:
- Best time: Late afternoon or sunset
- Add-ons: Private flight, in-flight music playlist, city lights tour option
The tour can be customized to highlight specific areas of interest, making it a personalized adventure. You might choose a sunset flight for even more dramatic vistas as the city transitions from day to night, bathing everything in golden light.
34. Cliffside Dining on Catalina Island 🍽️
For a truly spectacular meal, ferry to Catalina Island for dinner at the Bluewater Avalon. Dine on fresh seafood while perched above the azure waters of Avalon Bay—there’s nothing quite like the ocean view from the cliffs as the sun dips below the horizon.
The calm pace of island life and the sound of waves nearby create a relaxed, romantic setting for your meal.
Details:
- Best time: Dinner reservations between 5–7 PM
- Add-ons: Ferry transfer, ocean-view table, pre-set seafood sampler
35. Explore Mulholland Drive’s Scenic Overlooks 🌄
Drive along the iconic Mulholland Drive, stopping at various overlooks like the one near the Hollywood Bowl. Here, you can see breathtaking views of both the Los Angeles Basin and the San Fernando Valley. It’s the perfect spot for a memorable photo, with the city sprawling below you.
Details:
- Best time: Late afternoon into twilight
- Add-ons: Sunset photo stop, picnic basket, route map with key lookout points
Celebrate Your Love with Meaningful Moments
Anniversaries deserve more than just autopilot. They are a crucial milestone in your relationship, a chance to show your love and reignite the spark of those beautiful feelings between the two of you. There are many things you can do in LA for your anniversary, and we hope our guide helped you understand your options and make the right choice that fits the goals of both of you. Cheers!
FAQ
What are some fun anniversary date ideas in LA?
The possibilities for fun anniversary dates are endless. You can opt for a luxury pop-up picnic, a romantic wine tasting, or even a hot air balloon ride. Consider your shared interests and activities you’ve both wanted to try for a day full of fun and celebration.
I’m looking for unique date ideas for our anniversary. Any suggestions?
You might consider a private movie screening, a stargazing night, or a scenic helicopter ride over Los Angeles. For the truly adventurous, a surprise weekend getaway could be the perfect way to mark your special day.
We’re celebrating our 1-year anniversary. Do you have specific date ideas for this milestone?
A 1-year anniversary is indeed a special milestone. A hot air balloon ride can provide a memorable and symbolic experience as you’re lifted high, just as your relationship has lifted you over the past year.
What about 2-year anniversary date ideas?
A cooking class is a fun and intimate idea for a 2nd anniversary date. It allows you to learn new skills together, similar to the continuous learning journey that relationships often entail.
Can you suggest a good 5-year anniversary date idea?
For a 5-year anniversary, a couple’s spa day or a sunset cruise is an excellent idea. These activities allow you to relax and luxuriate in the love and comfort you’ve built over half a decade.
What should we do for our anniversary date in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles offers a myriad of options. You could take a romantic wine-tasting tour, a scenic helicopter ride, explore art galleries, or enjoy a luxury anniversary picnic by Picnic Makers.
