Moss Landing is a small coastal town located in beautiful Monterey County on northern California’s central coast. It’s known for its charming fishing village atmosphere and its abundance of wildlife, from sea lions to shorebirds. With a stunning beach, harbor, and dozens of great restaurants and businesses, Moss Landing is the perfect spot for a first date.
1. Moss Landing parks and places for a walk on a first date
A walk in the park is an old standby for first dates, and Moss Landing has plenty of parks and places to choose from. The Moss Landing Harbor District Park is a great spot, with paved paths that follow the shoreline and afford beautiful views of the harbor and the Elkhorn Slough Nature Reserve. The Moss Landing State Beach has plenty of sand, surf, and shorebirds, and the surrounding Elkhorn Slough Reserve has trails that wind through tidal wetlands. The adjacent Elkhorn Slough National Wildlife Refuge is also great for a nature walk.
2. Places for a coffee date in Moss Landing
Moss Landing has a great coffee culture, and plenty of cafés to choose from for a first date coffee date. Café Aurora serves specialty coffee and espresso drinks, along with a wide range of pastries and sandwiches. The Crab Shack Café is a great spot for a cold brew, with a cozy atmosphere and waterfront views. The Moss Landing Coffee House offers organic kombucha, cold brew coffee and tea, along with sandwiches and salads.
3. Moss Landing galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Moss Landing is home to several great galleries and museums, perfect for a cultural first date. The Gail Rich Gallery is a great spot to see works by local artists, and the Moss Landing Marine Lab has a display of mammals, birds, and reptiles, among other exhibits. The nearby Moss Landing Antique Mall houses vintage finds, and the Elkhorn Slough Research Center & Visitor Center offers interpretive displays and a nature trail.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Moss Landing
Moss Landing is well known for its live music and entertainment. The Moss Landing Music Hall is a great spot for live music, and the Elkhorn Slough Brewing Company often hosts great bands. Tiny’s Bar & Grill has a lively atmosphere and serves great beer and food. And for a truly unique experience, check out Elkhorn Slough Safari, where you can take a quiet, nature-filled boat tour.
5. Moss Landing pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Moss Landing also has plenty of great bars and restaurants for a first date drink or meal. The Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery is a local favorite, serving up fresh seafood and other delicious dishes. The Fisherman’s Grill & Bar has a great atmosphere and serves up craft beer, cocktails and yummy seafood dishes. The Moss Landing Bar & Grill is another great spot, with an impressive selection of craft beers and a menu of American-style dishes.
6. Other date ideas to try in Moss Landing
If you’re looking for something a bit different, there are plenty of other date ideas in Moss Landing. Head to The Clam Basket for a unique dinner experience—they offer a “Clam Bake on the Beach” package that includes dinner, live music, and a bonfire. Take a romantic kayak tour of the Elkhorn Slough. Or take a surfing lesson—Moss Landing is known for its great waves. For a truly unique date, head to the Surfing Madonna Beachfest, which features live music, food, and art.
