Unique date ideas, waterfront favorites, and hidden gems from Miami to Boca Raton
Valentine’s Day in Southeast Florida isn’t just dinner reservations and roses, it’s about lifestyle. Sunset views on the water, hidden speakeasies, candlelit concerts, beach walks, and experiences that feel personal, elevated, and unforgettable.
If you’re planning a romantic night out, I put together my favorite “date night like a local” ideas across Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Weston, and Miami. Including some standout waterfront restaurants and unique experiences that make Southeast Florida one of the best places in the country to celebrate.
And if you’re new to the area (or considering a move), this is exactly what I mean when I say: the neighborhood you choose matters just as much as the home.
Riverfront Gondola Tours
If you want something that feels private, romantic, and different from the typical restaurant scene, Riverfront Gondola Tours is one of the most memorable Valentine’s experiences in Fort Lauderdale. You’ll glide through the city’s waterways while the sun sets — and yes, it’s as cinematic as it sounds.
Local tip: You can order food from Casa Sensei and bring it onboard, so you’re essentially combining a waterfront dinner with a sunset cruise — without feeling rushed or stuck at a table all night.
Website: https://riverfrontgondolatours.com/
Water Taxi Date Night
For couples who like a little energy and movement (instead of one long dinner), the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is an underrated Valentine’s Day play. Start with dinner at one stop, then hop back on and head to another area for drinks — especially around Las Olas.
It turns your evening into a mini “date night tour” of the city, and it’s one of the most South Florida ways to experience Fort Lauderdale.
Website: https://watertaxi.com/
Couples Cooking Class at Sur La Table
Dinner is great… but making dinner together is next-level. A couples cooking class at Sur La Table is perfect if you want something interactive, fun, and still romantic.
You’ll learn new skills, enjoy the experience together, and leave with something better than a typical Valentine’s dinner: a shared memory (and a new go-to recipe you’ll actually use again).
Pompano Beach Waterfront + Sunset Walk
Sometimes the best Valentine’s date is the simplest one — waterfront dining, then a romantic walk on the beach at sunset. Pompano Beach is a great option for this because it offers that relaxed coastal vibe while still having plenty of nearby restaurants and places to explore.
If you want a night that feels easy, effortless, and classic South Florida, this is a strong choice.
iPic Boca Raton (Mizner Park) — Dinner + Movie, Upgraded
For a cozy and elevated night out, iPic in Boca Raton is a favorite. It’s not your average movie theater — it’s a full experience where you can pair a film with dinner and drinks in a more upscale setting.
And because it’s in Mizner Park, you can easily turn it into a full evening with a pre-movie cocktail or a post-movie dessert stop.
Website: https://www.ipic.com/boca-raton-fl-mizner-park/location
Eddie V’s
If you want a “no-mistakes” Valentine’s dinner — Eddie V’s delivers. This is a polished, upscale spot that works perfectly for a classic romantic night out, especially if you want a luxury atmosphere without feeling too formal.
After dinner:
- In Boca Raton, take a stroll around Town Center or nearby nightlife spots
- In Fort Lauderdale, keep the night going on Las Olas Boulevard
Website: https://www.eddiev.com/locations/fl/boca-raton/boca-raton/8534
Hidden Speakeasy
Want a date night with mystery and a little “only locals know about this” energy? A speakeasy-style bar is the move. These spots are perfect for couples who want something intimate, stylish, and different from the usual loud nightlife.
If you’re the type who likes hidden entrances, moody lighting, and craft cocktails — add this to your list.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hidden_speakeasy
Candlelight Concerts
If you want romance without the typical dinner-only plan, Candlelight Concerts are one of the best Valentine’s experiences to book. Think live music in a beautiful setting, surrounded by candlelight — it’s elegant, unique, and feels like a special occasion.
Perfect for couples who want something elevated, memorable, and Instagram-worthy (without being over the top).
Waterfront Dining Favorites (Because It’s South Florida So You Have To)
If your Valentine’s Day includes water views, you’re doing it right. These are some of the best waterfront dining spots across Southeast Florida:
GG’s Waterfront (Hollywood)
A classic waterfront choice with that “special night out” feel.
https://www.ggswaterfront.com/
Ocean’s 234 (Deerfield Beach)
Oceanfront dining with a view that always delivers.
https://www.oceans234.com/
Klaw (Miami)
Luxury steak + seafood with a high-end Miami atmosphere.
https://www.klawrestaurant.com/
Oceanic (Pompano Beach)
Perfect for ocean views, cocktails, and a romantic coastal vibe.
https://www.oceanicpompano.com/
Mastro’s Ocean Club (Fort Lauderdale)
A true upscale experience when you want the night to feel big and glamorous.
https://www.mastrosrestaurants.com/location/mastros-ocean-club-fort-lauderdale/
This is what I love about Southeast Florida, every city has its own rhythm, energy, and lifestyle. Whether you’re a beach-walk couple, a fine-dining couple, or the “let’s do something different” couple, you can build a Valentine’s Day that fits you perfectly.
And if you’re thinking about moving to South Florida (or relocating within it), lifestyle is exactly how I help my clients choose the right area because real estate isn’t just about square footage. It’s about how you live.
Want more local recommendations like this?
Visit The South Florida Edit for more lifestyle guides, neighborhood insights, and local favorites across Parkland, Weston, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami
Article Written By:
Maria Rodriguez - Real Estate Advisor
Coldwell Banker Realty
