While the lingering effects of the pandemic may leave you questioning plans for a lovely night with your sweetheart or galentines, these local venues host creative, safe ways to celebrate. We’ve rounded up some of the sweetest events, from a chocolate and wine pairing with Norman Love at Fort Myers’ new Luminary Hotel to a 1920s-themed dinner in Naples to a paddle tour of Sanibel’s waters.
And for those who would rather hunker down and spend the night in, check out the themed virtual cooking classes hosted by Sur La Table or heat-and-eat dinner boxes (bottled cocktails included) through Restaurant SYLA’s Valentine’s Day Box for Two. Whether you’re cuddled up at home, or donning your best matching masks for a night out, we hope your Valentine’s Day is filled with love.
February 12
Ladies’ Tea
Grab your best gals and transport to the days of high tea at the Forever Fiore Tea House Dinner Series with a three-course menu and a truly chic atmosphere. $50 per person.
February 12-13
Live Laugh Love
Pastor and author Mark Gungor takes a comedic approach to exploring marriage dynamics in Laugh Your Way, at Cape Christian in Cape Coral. Come for the jokes, stay for the invaluable advice. $35 per person.
February 13
A Roaring Good Time
Indulge in a six-course dinner from chef Ryan Flood at Community Table Restaurant’s Speakeasy Supper Club. The menu offers local grouper, fruit and grass-fed beef from Circle C Farms. $150 per person.
Sing Your Heart Out
Gulfshore Opera artists perform timeless serenades during its Songs of Love concert, featuring love songs from opera and Broadway hits, in the atrium at the Innovation Hotel in Naples. Tickets include Champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres. $75 per person.
February 14
All You Need is Love—and Chocolate
Nibble on Norman Love’s dark chocolates, paired with fine wines, at the Chocolate and Wine Tasting at Luminary Hotel in Fort Myers. To sweeten the deal, Love also serves three small desserts from his stellar menu of baked goods and chocolate-coated snacks. $79 per person, includes gratuity.
Sailor’s Valentine
All aboard, the Miss Naples. Grab a seat on the new catamaran from the folks that brought the Naples Princess for this Sunset Valentine’s Cruise on the Gulf, complete with Champagne and hors d’oeuvres. $98 per adult, $49 per child (ages 3-11).
The Love Boat
Bring your kayak, canoe or paddle boards and join Ocean Tribe Paddling Club for the Paddle with Love retreat off of Sanibel Island. Meet at the side of Causeway Island for a quiet, socially distanced adventure with your honey. Vessels are provided if you request in advance. Free.
