Think Outside the Box... of Chocolates
WEB-EXCLUSIVE: This Valentine's Day, plan something with a little mystery or even dolphins and whales. Think beyond routine.
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She says Valentine's Day is no big deal. But if you don't want to end up sleeping on your love seat alone, you'll want to book something. Clock is ticking.
Love a mystery? Spend Valentine’s Day searching for clues at The Gourmet Detective Mystery Dinner Theater in Newport Beach. Couples can choose the Getaway with Murder package or the Dinner and Show package. Both packages include a three-course dinner, show and Godiva chocolates for two, but the Getaway with Murder package sets you up with hotel accommodations at the Balboa Inn as well. Dinner and show run $79 per person (plus tax and gratuity). :: 866.992.5424 :: gourmetdetective.com
Share your romantic day with the whales. Dana Point Harbor is hosting a special Sunset Whale Watching Cruise from 4-6 p.m. on the 14th. This whale and dolphin-watching cruise on the ’95 Dana Pride comes with chocolate and Valentine’s Day treats. Tickets are $29 per adult and $19 per child. :: 949.496.5794 :: danawharf.com
If you like boating but aren’t fond of whale watching, try Hornblower cruises, which sail out of Newport Beach. Couples can choose from a Sweetheart Sunset Cruise, Cupid’s Champagne Brunch or a Romantic Valentine’s Dinner. Enjoy the sunset, have some dinner and dancing or indulge in brunch with free-flowing Champagne. :: 949.646.0155 :: hornblowerholidays.com
The Orange County Performing Arts Center is showcasing the John Alexander Singers, led by Robert Istad, singing a selection of love songs by everyone from The Beatles to Johann Strauss. This event, called A Romantic Affair, runs February 12-13 at 8 p.m. Valentine's Day with Trumpeter Chris Botti runs February 11-13 at 8 p.m. :: 714.556.2787 :: ocpac.org
For those who love the outdoors, there’s a Valentine’s Day hike at the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and in Little Sycamore Canyon/Nix Nature Center. This two-mile hike covers steep and rocky terrain while highlighting canyon views and wildflowers. The hike runs from 9-11:30 a.m. and costs $5 per person, plus $3 parking. Reservations are required. :: 949.923.2235 :: lagunacanyon.org/events
Although not Valentine’s Day-specific, Cirque Du Soleil’s newest show, Kooza, will be performing on the 14th at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine. The body-bending, gravity-defying acts will guarantee a Valentine’s Day not soon forgotten. Shows are at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., the perfect beginning or end to your special night. :: ocgp.org :: cirquedusoleil.com
