Whether it’s a first date scenario, or you’re taking out your partner again for the umpteenth Valentine’s Day, we could all use a little help with the planning.

If you’re looking for a wine-and-dine sort of guide, this list isn’t for you (check this one out instead), but if you’re trying to get out and about Long Beach, or maybe do something before the big dinner, here are some options worth considering.

Good luck!

ON A BUDGET WITH A VIEW: HILLTOP PARK
signalhillview
Visitors enjoy beautiful views of Long Beach from Signal Hill’s Hilltop Park. Staff photo.

A popular destination for runners, hikers and tourists, Signal Hill’s Hilltop Park is also a fabulous place for a date, in no small part because of its panoramic views of the city.

Facing south, see unobstructed views of the Port of Long Beach, the THUMS Islands, and even Catalina Island on a clear day. To the northwest, see the Los Angeles skyline and the still snow-capped San Bernardino Mountains.

There are plenty of grassy slopes to lay out a blanket, so picnicking is the way to go. Arrive near sunset for a spectacular view of the setting sun and when it’s dark, the lit-up city skyline is just as lovely. This is top-tier rom-com setting material we’re talking about here, and what’s more, it’s free. We like free.

Hilltop Park is at 2351 Dawson Ave.

SOMETHING TIMELESS: SWAN BOATS
The evening, illuminated version of the nighttime swan boat ride usually starts right after sunset. Photo courtesy Wheel Fun Rentals.

For better or worse, swan boats are one of those quintessential romantic pastimes that we’d be remiss not to recommend on Valentine’s Day. Lucky for you, Long Beach is home to its very own swan boat rental service, which you can find over at the Rainbow Lagoon.

Rentals are available during the day and night, but for maximum swoon effect, we recommend venturing out during the evening since each of the watercraft is lined with LED lights that, when lit, outline the silhouette of the swan. It’s quite pretty.

Aside from the obvious attraction of traversing the Downtown waters inside a boat shaped like the most elegant of flighted creatures, to rent a swan boat with Wheel Fun Rentals is also pretty inexpensive; $11 an hour for adults and $6 for children 17 or younger.

And, as a bonus, finding food after your ride will be a cinch. Both Shoreline Village and the Pike Outlets are just a short walk away.

Rainbow Lagoon Park is at 400 E. Shoreline Drive. Wheel Fun Rentals is located on the corner of Shoreline Drive and Pine Avenue. For most convenient access, park at The Pike Outlets parking garage (65 Cedar Ave.) and walk over.

A SHARED ACTIVITY: TOAST-TO-GHOST POTTERY CLASS
Photo courtesy Clay on First.

The Toast-to-Ghost pottery session at Clay on First recreates the famous sculpting scene between Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore from the 1990 classic film, “Ghost,” where you and your partner can literally cozy up together to create a personal ceramic piece of your own.

The session will start out with a pottery tutorial, then staff will dim the lights, play the Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody” (the music used in that iconic scene), and leave you to the wheel.

Prices for the classes do run a bit steep at $175 per couple on Feb. 12 and 13; and $195 per couple on Valentine’s Day, but each session will also include beer, wine, snacks from Olive’s Gourmet Grocer and dessert from Gusto Bread. Note: To have your ceramics glazed and fired with names engraved on the bottom to take home costs $8.

Click here for more information and to reserve a session.

Clay on First is at 406 E. First Street Suite B.

SOMETHING SCENIC: GONDOLA GETAWAY
Long Beach Gondola (Photo Credit: Long Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau)

The Gondola Getaway, a 40-year institution in the Naples area, is one of the most charming ways to take in the area’s canals and waterways, and for Valentine’s Day, the excursion can feel particularly memorable.

What’s nice about the Gondola Getaway is how committed they are to creating an authentic Venetian gondola experience, from the gondoliers serenading classic Italian tunes and wearing traditional garb, to the boats themselves, which are imported from Venice, Italy, according to the company.

Packages for the 50-minute Valentine’s Day gondola rides start at $220 per couple and include a long-stemmed red rose, complimentary corkage and a commemorative photo.

Click here for more information and to book a ride.

Gondola Getaway is at 5437 E. Ocean Blvd.

PERFORMANCE ART FANS: SMOOTH JAZZ VALENTINE’S CONCERT
Flyer courtesy Long Beach Convention Center and Visitors Bureau.

We’re not sure what it is about jazz that makes for a romantic atmosphere, but whatever its special brand of magic is, it most definitely feels appropriate for Valentine’s Day.

Performing at the Terrace Theater on Saturday, Feb. 12 will be singer Kenny Lattimore joined by renowned saxophonist and flutist Najee. Harpist Mariea Antonette will play with her Soulful Orchestra with singer Erin Stevenson and flutist Althea Rene.

Tickets range from $85-$105 for non-dinner tickets. Those who would like to dine and watch the show can purchase a VIP package ($165-$200) that includes prime seats, a three-course dinner and a rose.

Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.