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co-owner Cary Redfearn . “ Our mezze platter and tinned fish platters are meant to be shared and are a fun and healthy way to begin a meal . Continuing with that theme , share a crab cake salad or roasted beet salad followed by our delightful sea bass over risotto . Finish with bread pudding for dessert . A bottle of Pepe Luis albarino from Spain would complement the meal well .”
After a romantic dinner , walk over to Laguna Playhouse for the 22nd annual Laguna Beach Music Festival with shows Feb . 16-18 . This year , the festival — a collaboration between Laguna Beach Live and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County — highlights the talent of world-class violinist Anne Akiko Meyers as well as other featured performers .
SUNSET PICNIC IN THE PARK Take your main squeeze for a stroll along the landscaped pathway at Heisler Park for expansive , breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean . Watch surfers catching waves or sea lions coming up for air , admire the public art and enjoy postcard-perfect views of Main
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Beach . Go in the late afternoon or early evening for a romantic sunset date .
Before you head out , make a stop at nearby Mercado Laguna to pick up items for the perfect picnic . Known for its seasonal produce , local provisions and ready-to-eat meals , you ’ re sure to find just what you need for a tasty alfresco dinner or snacks .
“ We have everything you could imagine for putting together a great picnic ,” says owner Summer Tarango , “ from ingredients for a charcuterie spread to already prepared meals . We even have a picnic kit in a bag that includes enamel plates , napkins and utensils , including a cheese knife . And we sell great blankets . My tips for a great picnic basket are to know what your partner loves , then keep it simple , so you can enjoy your time together .”
PANCAKES AND PADDLING For a day date , you can ’ t beat breakfast at local favorite Heidelberg Cafe . The casual environment and ocean views are a great way to kick off your morning . Choose from
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freshly made pastries , egg dishes , classic breakfast combos , pancakes and more — always served with a smile from the friendly staff . Add a latte or cold brew to make your meal complete .
Once you ’ re fueled up , catch the free Laguna Beach trolley to Fisherman ’ s Cove in north Laguna for a day out on the water . La Vida Laguna offers an hour-and-a-half guided kayak tour for those age 3 and older who know how to swim . It ’ s the perfect way to explore the offshore Laguna Beach State Marine Reserve , where you ’ ll likely see swaying kelp forests , sunbathing sea lions and the California state fish , the orange Garibaldi .
GOLF AND S ’ MORES BY THE SEA Whisk your Valentine away for a friendly round of golf , surrounded by the scenic canyon environment at The Ranch at Laguna Beach . The nine-hole course — GEO-certified for social and environmental sustainability — offers a private , serene setting that ’ s perfect for spending time with the one you love . Follow your golf game
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MARIELENA VERDUGO |
38 LAGUNABEACHMAGAZINE . COM |