How to spend Valentine’s Day for couples and singles

Local places and activities to help celebrate the day

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Jeffrey Davis

A sunset hike around Sunset Cliffs in San Diego is one way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Shannon Gallacher, Assistant Arts & Entertainment Editor

It seems like as soon as the holiday season ends, Valentine’s Day preparation beings.

Some stroll the store aisles planning a romantic gesture for their significant other, while others walk past the aisle and scoff with disgust.

Whether you’re single or committed this Valentine’s Day, here are some of the best places to go and things to do this year.

If you’re an artsy couple, why not spend the evening getting creative, painting alongside your significant other? Spiritivity is a paint and wine studio located on 102 West Grand Avenue in Escondido. It offers Valentine’s Day themed classes from Feb. 11 through Feb. 13. Visitors must be at least 21 years old for some events. Admission is $35 per person.

If you’re an active couple, spend time connecting with your significant other and nature at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. The hikes range in intensity and all give a stunning view of the sun rising and setting over the water. This would be a picture­perfect scene to share with that special someone.

If you both love food, The Bellows Gastropub in San Marcos provides an upscale, trendy ambiance and great food with prices ranging from $11 to $30. If you’re looking for the more traditional Valentine’s dinner date, then this would be something you and your significant other are sure to love.

If you’re single and feeling artsy, get out, meet some new people, relax and spend some time pottery painting at “Clay N Latte,” located at 20 Main St. H-­110 in Vista. Painting costs $8 for adults.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the last thing you should be doing on Valentine’s Day is sitting at home, digging into that tub of ice cream in the freezer. Instead, get out into the fresh air and take some time for yourself. While Sunset Cliffs will be filled with couples sharing a kiss in the evening, mid-­day is the time to go challenge yourself on one of the more intense hikes and see the sights for yourself.

If you simply want to grab a bite to eat by yourself, head over to “Cute Cakes” in Escondido and buy yourself a cupcake for dessert to celebrate the end of Valentine’s Day. Enjoy one or two high quality cupcakes for a reasonable price.