There's one question that inspires fear in every significant other. OK, two questions, actually.
First, of course, is "Does this make me look bad?" But the one that's gnawing at you right now is, "What are we doing for Valentine's Day?"
A wise friend of mine is known for saying, "Fear is for people who don't have a plan." You, my friend, can leave fear behind. No last-minute scramble this year that leads to something predictable, or worse yet, lame. Just keep reading, and you'll have a solid plan for a weekend in Ventura.
Why Ventura? It's close, so you won't waste a ton of time on the freeway getting there. It's on the beach, which is Cupid's playground. And it offers such a wide range of options that you can count on doing exactly what your honey wants.
The critical first step is booking a hotel. Go with the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach. That last word is the key. The high-rise hotel is steps from the beach and the pier, so chances are good you can snag a room that will let you watch the sun set over the Pacific. Plus you're in position for a romantic stroll along the sand at a moment's notice. It's also near Main Street, putting Downtown Ventura's abundant shops and restaurants within walking distance. Bonus, it's recently renovated, so you'll score points for booking a place that's stylish.
Your plan needs to include a twist. Nothing demonstrates thoughtfulness more than pulling off something unexpected, like gliding across Channel Islands Harbor in an authentic Venetian gondola. That's what Gondola Paradiso has in store for you on their one-hour cruise. Bring a bottle of wine and some snacks, and settle in while owner, vocalist and gondolier Mark paddles you around in his 30-foot craft hand-built from plans based on Venice's famous gondolas. Yes, an a capella serenade from Mark really dials up the romance.
Your plan should be adaptable to their whims, and with so many things to do in and around Ventura, you'll be prepared to honor any request.
Shopping? Wander the boutiques along Main Street, or head down the 101 to Camarillo and its famous outlets with dozens of top name brands offering serious discounts.
Hidden gem restaurant? Cafe Nouveau is your ticket. A 1920s-era Spanish bungalow is now a charming restaurant serving an eclectic menu at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tables are tucked into rooms throughout the house, while a heated patio lets you enjoy the Mediterranean garden.
Leisurely brunch? Land at the Camarillo Airport's Waypoint Cafe. Sip mimosas on the sunny patio while waiting for your table and watch planes touch down and take off. Choose between tasty breakfast and lunch classics, but save room for dessert, especially the creamy coffee milkshake - vanilla ice cream and espresso served in a chocolate-rimmed glass. Share one if you're confident about the strength of your relationship. Otherwise, order two.
Fresh air? From downtown, take a 25-minute walk to the Father Serra Cross lookout at Grand Park for sweeping views of the coastline. Or, drive over to Ventura Harbor Village with its myriad shops and lively harbor where boats ferry visitors to the Channel Islands and back.
Still need help filling out your plan? Check out venturacountycoast.com for more ideas to create the perfect weekend for your honey. The website is a rich resource for restaurants, activities and sights along the coast between Ventura on the north and Port Hueneme to the south. It covers everything. Well, almost.
You won't find an answer for "Does this make me look bad?" You're still on your own for that one.
Eric Harnish lives in Castaic, which has a lake, but no gondolas.

Do It!
Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach
crowneplaza.com
Gondola Paradiso
gondolaparadiso.com
Cafe Nouveau
cafenouveau.net
The Waypoint Cafe
thewaypointcafe.com
More Ventura Ideas
venturacountycoast.com