Two guests enjoying bike riding next to shelter island

01 Jan 2026

Why San Diego is the Perfect City For Your Romantic Getaway

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Looking for the perfect romantic getaway this winter? Escape to San Diego and treat your sweetheart to an exciting winter vacation and the amazing Valentine’s Day celebration they deserve here at the Best Western PLUS Islands Palms Hotel & Marina.

Not only does our Shelter Island hotel offer comfortable rooms with water and marina views, but our resort-style amenities and idyllic location put you conveniently close to all the best romantic things to do in San Diego! From a fun champagne toast in a waterfront Jacuzzi to a romantic sunset dinner with a view, the possibilities for a romantic winter getaway to San Diego are endless and begin at the Best Western Island Palms!

Spend Valentine’s Day in San Diego for a Special Weekend You Won’t Forget

Whether you are looking for an intimate Valentine's Day weekend getaway and evening for two under the stars at our waterfront resort or are looking for a romantic evening out with a date night at one of San Diego’s best attractions – love is definitely in the air at our bayfront hotel, and we can’t wait to spoil you and your special someone this Valentine’s Day in San Diego.

Slip Away to A Romantic Island Paradise

Treat your sweetie to a special romantic getaway this February with a stay here at Island Palms in San Diego. We have the perfect escape for romance at our Shelter Island hotel, from our amazing waterfront suites with a private balcony or patio to our onsite marina, waterfront Jacuzzis, and delicious options for dinner and drinks, you and your Valentine will enjoy our beautiful property and this special occasion for you both. Plus, our Simple Pleasures Romance Package helps you plan a romantic island getaway and indulge in life’s simple and best pleasures.

Island Palms Romance Packages Includes:

Spacious Guestroom or Suite
Bottle of Champagne
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Breakfast for Two
Late 1pm Check-Out

Winter Date Nights & Romantic Things to Do in San Diego for Valentine’s Day

A Romantic Dinner with a Water View (Onsite at Hotel)

Enjoy a romantic evening at Blue Wave Bar & Grill, onsite here at the Island Palms Hotel & Marina. Just a leisurely stroll from your waterfront suite, Blue Wave offers an intimate setting for dinner and drinks with delicious tropically-inspired coastal cuisine, including the incredible Salmon Wellington and the ever-popular Smoke Dome Ribeye! Enjoy a romantic fine dining experience in San Diego at Blue Wave with incredible marina and Point Loma views from your waterside table. Considered to be among the best San Diego restaurants with a view, Best Western Island Palms is proud to have the Blue Wave Bar & Grill onsite to serve our guests. If you are planning a San Diego Valentine's getaway for your favorite person, be sure to include a reservation for the special Valentine’s Day Dinner our culinary team has planned for you!

Set Sail on Love (Onsite at Hotel)

a whale's tail breaching the water with the San Diego skyline in the backgorund

For a Valentine’s Day date that feels truly unforgettable, head out on the open water for a whale watching adventure with Next Level Sailing. Departing directly from the marina at Island Palms Hotel & Marina, these intimate sailing excursions offer couples a front-row seat to San Diego’s incredible marine life. As you glide across the bay and into the Pacific, keep an eye out for migrating whales, dolphins, and sea lions — all while enjoying ocean views and fresh coastal air. There’s something undeniably romantic about being out on the water together, sharing the excitement of a surprise sighting and the quiet moments in between. It’s an adventurous, awe-inspiring way to experience Valentine’s Day, San Diego-style.

Discover a Hidden Hideaway Together (Miles From Hotel Varies)

San Diego is known for our moody, secret, and sexy speakeasies, and we think this makes the perfect romantic date night in San Diego. If you agree, you are in luck, as there are a variety of popular speakeasys near the Island Palms Hotel & Marina. Enjoy an evening in a mysterious and enchanting San Diego speakeasy…that is, if you can find the secret locations and unique entrances that may be hidden behind a wall of kegs or even the phone number to call for the special entrance code!

Take a Scenic Hike by the Beach (Miles From Hotel Varies)

For couples who love fresh air and meaningful moments, a Valentine’s Day hike is a simple and rewarding way to spend time together. San Diego’s diverse landscapes offer plenty of scenic trails where you can walk, talk, and take in beautiful views at your own pace. Nearby favorites include Cabrillo National Monument, where coastal trails offer sweeping ocean views and a dramatic backdrop that feels especially romantic at sunset. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is another classic choice, featuring breathtaking cliffs above the Pacific and well-maintained trails perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike. For something closer and more relaxed, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park offers shorter paths with stunning ocean scenery — ideal for a low-key walk that still feels special.

Sunset Cliffs Romantic Picnic with a View (2.4 Miles from Hotel)

a couple reclining on the cliffs over the water

Plan the perfect romantic date with a sunset picnic at beautiful Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. This popular park is one of the most scenic places in San Diego and offers unmatched views of scenic caves, panoramic cliff formations, and rugged coastlines. It also offers some of the best sunsets in San Diego, which makes it wildly popular with locals and visitors of the area. Grab some delicious fish tacos and key lime pie to-go from Blue Wave, our onsite restaurant at the Island Palms, and enjoy the company and the views from Sunset Cliffs this Valentine’s Day in San Diego.

A Perfect Date Day in Liberty Station (2.5 Miles from Hotel)

Just minutes from Island Palms, Liberty Station is ideal for couples who want a little variety without a lot of planning. Start with lunch at one of the many restaurants, then wander through local shops and galleries at your own pace. Catch a movie at THE LOT Luxury Cinema for a cozy afternoon break, or add a bit of friendly competition with a round of mini golf. With its walkable layout and vibrant energy, Liberty Station makes it easy to turn a simple outing into a full date day.

Float On A Hot Tub Boat (5.3 Miles from Hotel)

Share a romantic experience on Mission Bay with a unique and fun hot tub boat rental in San Diego. Hot Tub Cruisin’ offers a one-of-a-kind hot tub boat rental experience that you won’t soon forget. Perfect for a romantic cruise along the California coast, you will drive the user-friendly boat at a leisurely 5mph pace and enjoy a comfortable soak with a nice sound system on board that connects with your favorite devices, a cooler, extra seating, a swim ladder, and dry storage for personal belongings.

Cozy Up at an Outdoor Movie Theater

For a relaxed Valentine’s Day date with a classic feel, an outdoor movie night is always a crowd-pleaser. San Diego’s mild evenings make it easy to cuddle up under the stars and enjoy a film together in a laid-back, open-air setting. Liberty Station often hosts outdoor movie nights along the North Promenade, where couples can settle in with blankets and snacks just steps from the water. During warmer months, Waterfront Park also screens movies downtown, pairing city views with a picnic-style atmosphere. For something a little more retro, the South Bay Drive-In offers a nostalgic take on movie night — perfect for couples who want to enjoy a film from the comfort of their car.

Take a Romantic Gondola Ride (15.8 Miles from Hotel)

For a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience, head to Coronado and step aboard a private gondola with The Gondola Company. As you drift through the quiet canals, surrounded by waterfront homes and shimmering reflections, the pace instantly slows and the moment feels intimate and timeless. With cozy seating, soft music, and optional romantic touches like chocolates or wine, a gondola ride offers a unique way to celebrate love. It’s perfect for couples looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, romantic setting that feels worlds away — without ever leaving San Diego.

Plan The Perfect Winter Date Night This February at the Best Western Island Palms on Shelter Island

Romance is in the air at our San Diego waterfront hotel. From delicious onsite dinner and drinks and romantic evenings in the seaside Jacuzzi to sunset beach picnics and romantic boat rides – there is nothing like Valentine’s Day in San Diego!Take advantage of our Simple Pleasures Package at the Island Palms and treat yourself and your sweetheart to a romantic weekend in San Diego this winter. What are you waiting for? Book your romantic trip to San Diego today!

09 Jul 2025

Summer Sips & Sunset Spots: San Diego’s Best Speakeasies and Waterfront Bars

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Nothing says summer like a sip of your favorite concoction at a cool bar on the San Diego waterfront! From our favorite local beach bars to cool, secret San Diego speakeasies with a fun vibe, and other popular waterfront establishments with the best sunset views – summer along the San Diego waterfront is definitely the place to be for the best summer sips and sunset spots!

As a guest of the Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel, you'll be close to all the best spots in San Diego to enjoy the best summer sips, speakeasies, and sunsets in SoCal.

Best Bars in San Diego with Water Views

Blue Wave Bar & Grill (Onsite at the Hotel)

Located onsite here at the Best Western Island Palms Hotel; the Blue Wave Bar & Grill is a great (and convenient) place to relax and catch a beautiful West Coast sunset. Located next to the Shelter Island Marina, our Blue Wave Bar & Grill offers a selection of tropically-inspired dishes and signature cocktails, with breathtaking sunset views of Point Loma.

Humphreys Backstage LIVE (0.3 Miles to Hotel)

Just across the bay at our sister property, Humphreys Half Moon Inn, you’ll find the lively Backstage LIVE— a waterfront bar and lounge serving up great drinks and even better vibes. Sip on a handcrafted cocktail while enjoying live music from local and touring artists, all set against the scenic backdrop of the marina. It’s the perfect spot to wind down and soak up the San Diego spirit.

South Beach Bar & Grill (3.8 Miles to Hotel)

Sunset views are the best at this popular Ocean Beach bar and grill. Known for their amazing Mahi fish tacos, 40 beers, and 22 tequilas, grab a seat at the wooden bar and watch the sun set behind the view of ocean waves at South Beach Bar & Grill. It’s also a great place to check out your favorite college and pro sports teams with 10 TVs and plenty of food and drink specials.

Wonderland Ocean Pub (3.9 Miles to Hotel)

Building on the unique culture and history of Ocean Beach, Wonderland Ocean Pub is a laid-back beach bar where you'll always be treated like family. Enjoy a coastal-inspired menu with unparalleled ocean and sunset views, plus the best cold local craft brews, cocktails, and fresh seafood.

Best San Diego Speakeasies Near the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina

False Idol (5.2 Miles to Hotel)

Enter through a secret door at Craft & Commerce for an evening at one of the most fun and unique Polynesian tiki experiences you won’t soon forget. Relax at this hidden San Diego speakeasy amongst the tropical décor that includes a volcano and indoor waterfall! Get island-inspired tiki-bar drinks that include rum-based bar options that range from a classic MaiTai to flaming sharable cocktails in festive tiki bowls, and don’t forget your tiki souvenir glass from False Idol to take home!

The Grass Skirt (7.8 Miles to Hotel)

You have to be a smart one to find the entrance through the refrigerator door to the foggy tunnel made from lava rock that leads you to this popular tropical-themed speakeasy in San Diego! Grab a booth or fire pit table at the Grass Skirt and order a boat drink that includes all of your favorite tropical libations or a gigantic, spiked punch bowl to share with friends. Nosh on an Asian-inspired menu including dishes like bao and poke bowls. Reservations are suggested since this is one of the most popular San Diego speakeasies.

Raised by Wolves (13.7 Miles to Hotel)

One of the most popular speakeasies in San Diego, Raised by Wolves is hidden behind a bottle shop at an outdoor mall and is so much fun to find and visit! The award-winning San Diego speakeasy offers an intimate atmosphere with a dark, brooding décor that we are definitely here for! Enjoy an evening of handcrafted cocktails from the bar’s exquisite reserve list of rare spirits while relaxing on a velvet chair under the intoxicating emerald glass dome.

Nearby Beach Bars in San Diego

Cannonball (5.6 Miles from Hotel)

Cannonball next to Belmont Park is a fun place to grab a cool craft cocktail at their amazing rooftop bar, the largest in San Diego. This Mission Beach oceanfront beach bar also offers a fresh selection of sushi and sashimi, and a variety of unique cocktails served with some of the best ocean views in San Diego.

Miss B’s Coconut Club (6.8 Miles to Hotel)

This Havana-themed Mission Beach establishment is the place to be along the San Diego waterfront for happy hour this summer! Choose from over 20 local and microbrews on tap, and plenty of rum concoctions that range from tropical punch to Chester Copperpot, a fun, shareable treasure chest drink. Enjoy happy daily hour and delicious snacks including Cuban sandwiches and jerk wings.

World Famous (7.6 Miles to Hotel)

Best happy hour around from 4pm to close every Monday – Thursday at this popular Pacific Beach establishment. Enjoy award-winning coastal cuisine and unique handcrafted cocktails served with one of the most amazing views in San Diego. This iconic beachfront restaurant along the San Diego waterfront is a long-time favorite beach bar of locals and visitors!

Are You Ready to Have the Best Room in Town for Summer Sips and Sunset Spots at the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel?

Plan an exciting stay at the Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel in San Diego and be close to all the popular San Diego speakeasies, beach bars, and sunset views the area has to offer! Our Shelter Island hotel offers the best accommodations with resort-style amenities, an onsite marina, and planned activities for guests. And don’t forget to explore our Packages and Special Offers, designed to help you book now and enjoy more…for less!

a couple standing on a cliff above the ocean with a parasailer in the background

01 Feb 2024

Fun and Wallet-Friendly San Diego Date Ideas

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Planning to spend some quality time with your sweetie in San Diego? Great choice! Our warm weather, miles of beaches, and breathtaking sunsets make this a dreamy place to do just that. And since much of what makes our stunning seaside city so spectacular comes without much of a price tag attached (if any at all!), San Diego is also a particularly easy place to enjoy yourself without emptying your bank account. So if you’re on the hunt for some fun and affordable San Diego date ideas that won’t break the bank? You’ve come to the right place.

Plan a Picnic at Sunset Cliffs

(Photo: @michelledudleyphotography)

There’s just something about putting down a blanket and laying out a spread of delicious food that really makes any date one to remember. Given San Diego’s abundant public park space and endless stretches of beach, there are plenty of places to do just that completely free. However, we suggest the absolutely stunning Sunset Cliffs, a natural oceanfront sandstone formation that provides gorgeous Pacific views, and — of course — breathtaking sunsets.

Do the Dipper

(Photo: @belmontparksd)

Belmont Park is a timeless boardwalk-style waterfront rides-and-games destination located in picturesque Mission Beach, and it features a can’t-miss experience: the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. The Dipper is a classic wooden coaster with more twists and turns than a mystery novel, and it’s a bucket-lister for any coaster enthusiast. Belmont Park is also home to mini-golf, rock climbing, and classic oceanside dining. Not to mention that it’s all right on the beach, which is always a romantic spot to bring a date!

Visit Our Beautiful Beaches

(Photo: @terrin.anne)

San Diego is world-renowned for its eternally beautiful beaches, and for good reason. With over 70 miles of coastline of varying types (cliffs, beaches, rocky shores, tide pools, etc.), there’s truly a beach for everyone. And since the vast majority are public, the two of you are always welcome to simply take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the warm sea breezes to your heart’s content free of charge. Not sure where to start? This handy guide from our sister property Humphreys Half Moon Inn is a good resource to help you decide.

Mini Golf at The Loma Club

(Photo: @lilyjava)

Looking for a fun date activity and a little friendly competition? The Loma Club’s nine-hole golf course draws duffers from all over the area. But locals know the club is also home to Tappers Mini Golf & Cocktails, a great place to practice your putting even if you aren’t in the mood for a round of full-sized fairways. Best of all, The Loma Club is located within Liberty Station — just a short trip away.

Hop on the Ferry

(Photo: @coronadoferrylandingshops)

Take a quick trip on the Coronado Ferry to visit one of the most scenic spots in the city: Coronado Island. It’s a speedy jaunt that offers a visually spectacular and economical option for getting across the bay. You’ll be able to enjoy panoramic water views while you experience one of the city’s most visited areas. For the best eyeful of the water and skyline, locals know to grab a seat on the roof of the ferry during the trek.

Explore Balboa Park

a couple sitting on the bridge over the pond at Balboa Park

(Photo: @anna_lev_95)

Balboa Park isn’t just a crown jewel of San Diego — it’s one of the largest urban park spaces in the country. In fact, at 842 acres, Balboa Park is even bigger than Central Park in New York! In addition to representing a lushly gorgeous slice of green space, Balboa is home to some of San Diego’s most acclaimed museums, restaurants, and public art — making it the ideal place to enjoy a lovely and leisurely low-cost date for two without having to spend a single cent.

The Carlsbad Flower Fields

(Photo: @the_flower_fields)

Head just a bit up the coast to Carlsbad, and you’ll be able to take in one of the most jaw-dropping views southern California has to offer: the Carlsbad Flower Fields. The lovely landscape here is home to the sweeping beauty of 50-plus acres of vibrantly colorful Tecolote Ranunculus blooms stretching out as far as the eye can see. The Carlsbad Flower Fields are a popular destination for visitors due to their incredible beauty, as well as some engaging on-site activities, perfect for couples. The Flower Fields open to the public on March 1st.

Visit the La Jolla Seals

(Photo: @abstractseagull)

SeaWorld is always a great place to go if you want to check out some marine life. But if you’d like to get even closer to nature, a famous colony of seals and sea lions lives near the Children’s Pool in La Jolla. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these playful animals and special someone to enjoy the views with!

Mount Soledad

woman standing on top of a mountain overlooking the ocean

(Photo: @danivwc)

If you’re looking for an elevated perspective, you’ll want to head to the peak of Mount Soledad, more than 800 feet above the city. From there, together you’ll enjoy an unobstructed view of the entire area, including cityscapes, lush vegetation, and a sweeping look at miles of coastline stretching out to the edge of the world. It’s also a fantastic place to catch one of our world-famous sunsets.

San Diego Museum Month

(Photo: @thejoshramirez)

Our fair city is home to more than its fair share of truly excellent, world-class museums. And while most usually charge a nominal admission fee, every February here is San Diego Museum Month. During this month, many of our most notable institutions lower the ticket price significantly, and more than a few are completely free. It’s the perfect wallet-friendly date!

Visit Torrey Pines State Reserve

(Photo: @mariadavisphoto)

For a truly unique San Diego experience you simply can’t get anywhere else, head to Torrey Pines State Reserve. The area is beautiful, the ocean views are spectacular, and there’s lots to check out — including the extremely rare tree from which the park draws its name. The area is criss-crossed with low-impact hiking trails, so there’s absolutely no better spot to take one of those classic, starry-eyed sunset strolls along the waterfront. So why not bring a picnic, a blanket for a little post-sunset stargazing, and your camera to catch the paragliders at the gliderport?

Grab Some Souvenir Snapshots

a couple standing in front of a San Diego bilboard

(Photo: @odysseyoftwo)

Looking for some cost-free souvenirs? We’re sure happy couples will find that San Diego is chock-full of great places to take some “I was there” photos — both to remember their trip, and impress their friends. From lauded local landmarks to uniquely fashionable shops and restaurants, there are vivid vistas around every corner. If you’d like to hit some of the highlights, check out this post (from our sister property Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle) and get up to speed on where to find San Diego’s Most Instagrammable Spots.

Enjoy Shelter Island at Best Western Island Palms

a couple kissing under an archway near the marina

Island Palms makes our home on Shelter Island, one of the most picturesque areas in the city. Unique points of interest such as our fishing pier, marina, art installations, sailing charters and waterfront walking path all make our little oasis an undeniably fantastic place to enjoy San Diego together. When you’re ready to check it out, be sure to take a look at our comfortable accommodations and exclusive offers (including our Valentine’s Day Dining Package at Blue Wave Bar & Grill!

Why San Diego is the Perfect City For Your Romantic Getaway

Spend Valentine’s Day in San Diego for a Special Weekend You Won’t Forget

Slip Away to A Romantic Island Paradise

Island Palms Romance Packages Includes:

Winter Date Nights & Romantic Things to Do in San Diego for Valentine’s Day

A Romantic Dinner with a Water View (Onsite at Hotel)

Set Sail on Love (Onsite at Hotel)

Discover a Hidden Hideaway Together (Miles From Hotel Varies)

Take a Scenic Hike by the Beach (Miles From Hotel Varies)

Sunset Cliffs Romantic Picnic with a View (2.4 Miles from Hotel)

A Perfect Date Day in Liberty Station (2.5 Miles from Hotel)

Float On A Hot Tub Boat (5.3 Miles from Hotel)

Cozy Up at an Outdoor Movie Theater

Take a Romantic Gondola Ride (15.8 Miles from Hotel)

Plan The Perfect Winter Date Night This February at the Best Western Island Palms on Shelter Island

Summer Sips & Sunset Spots: San Diego’s Best Speakeasies and Waterfront Bars

Best Bars in San Diego with Water Views

Blue Wave Bar & Grill (Onsite at the Hotel)

Humphreys Backstage LIVE (0.3 Miles to Hotel)

South Beach Bar & Grill (3.8 Miles to Hotel)

Wonderland Ocean Pub (3.9 Miles to Hotel)

Best San Diego Speakeasies Near the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina

False Idol (5.2 Miles to Hotel)

The Grass Skirt (7.8 Miles to Hotel)

Raised by Wolves (13.7 Miles to Hotel)

Nearby Beach Bars in San Diego

Cannonball (5.6 Miles from Hotel)

Miss B’s Coconut Club (6.8 Miles to Hotel)

World Famous (7.6 Miles to Hotel)

Are You Ready to Have the Best Room in Town for Summer Sips and Sunset Spots at the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel?

Fun and Wallet-Friendly San Diego Date Ideas

Plan a Picnic at Sunset Cliffs

Do the Dipper

Visit Our Beautiful Beaches

Mini Golf at The Loma Club

Hop on the Ferry

Explore Balboa Park

The Carlsbad Flower Fields

Visit the La Jolla Seals

Mount Soledad

San Diego Museum Month

Visit Torrey Pines State Reserve

Grab Some Souvenir Snapshots

Enjoy Shelter Island at Best Western Island Palms

Get Out on the Water in San Diego this Spring

Fun and Wallet Friendly San Diego Date Ideas

Why San Diego is the Perfect City For Your Romantic Getaway