Looking for the perfect way to end your day in San Diego? Our sunset gondola cruise on Lake San Marcos is more than a ride — it’s a romantic reset. Just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego, this peaceful experience is designed for couples who crave connection.
Whether you’re planning a date night, celebrating an anniversary, or surprising someone with a marriage proposal, this private, vibrant experience will leave you both saying, “That was perfect.”
Nestled within the picturesque Lakehouse Resort property, Lake San Marcos is a hidden gem in North County San Diego — the kind of place that feels made for romance.
Your gondola glides past the serene shoreline, where elegant homes, quiet palms, and the soft glow of lakeside lights create a cinematic backdrop. Just steps from your cruise is Amalfi Cucina Italiana, a beloved lakeside restaurant perfect for pre- or post-ride dining. It’s not uncommon to see couples lingering by the water with a glass of wine, soaking in the beauty of the evening.
And of course — the swans. The lake’s iconic Black Swans drift gracefully across the water, adding to the magic. They’ve become a symbol of this place — calm, elegant, rare — just like the experience.
Here, every detail is intentional:
Private, candle-lit gondolas for just the two of you
Soft music and stunning sunsets behind the San Elijo hills
Thoughtfully designed packages for marriage proposals, anniversaries, and once-in-a-lifetime moments
Located just minutes from Carlsbad, Vista, Oceanside, Encinitas, and Escondido
This isn’t a cruise — it’s a love story, written across the water.
As the last light stretches across the lake, your gondolier gently guides you along still waters framed by glowing hills and golden skies. The world quiets. The breeze softens. And time — for just a little while — feels like it pauses.
Soft music plays. Candlelight flickers. Two champagne flutes touch in a quiet toast.
It’s peaceful. It’s cinematic. And it’s deeply personal.
You’ll feel cared for. Surprised. Grounded. Reconnected.
Many couples tell us it’s the most meaningful hour of their entire visit to San Diego — and often, their favorite memory.
Absolutely — if you’re:
Planning a first date that makes an impression
Looking for a meaningful anniversary experience
Creating the perfect marriage proposal (with rose petals + hidden photographer)
Wanting something more intentional than dinner and a movie
Just needing to reconnect
“Honestly, this was better than any harbor cruise we’ve done in San Diego. Private, beautiful, and unforgettable.” — Sarah & Kyle, Carlsbad
“We got engaged right under the bridge on the lake. It felt like a movie.” — Jamie D., Vista
“I booked this thinking it’d be cute. I didn’t expect it to be our favorite date ever.” — Dena R., Oceanside
Our sunset cruises are designed to feel effortless, elevated, and romantic from the moment you step onboard.
Every ride includes:
A private gondola for just the two of you
A professional, experienced gondolier guiding your journey
Ambient lighting and soft music to set the mood
Blankets for comfort on cooler evenings
Looking to make it even more special?
Explore our luxury enrichments, designed to help you create unforgettable moments:
Scattered rose petals throughout the boat
A single long-stem rose or full bouquet of flowers
A custom Message in a Bottle keepsake
Imported Venetian jewelry for an elegant surprise
Professional proposal photography with coordination
Floating signs, floral decor, and special ambiance requests
All cruises begin at 50 minutes, but the fan favorite is our 90-minute ride, allowing for more time, more conversation, and a longer sunset to enjoy.
Every detail is curated — because when it matters, details are everything.
Choose from:
Traditional Sunset Ride – For couples and first-time guests
Proposal Packages – Coordinated, emotional, unforgettable
Anniversary Packages – Includes champagne service, music personalization, and custom requests
We welcome couples from all over San Diego County, including:
All only a few minutes from San Marcos, CA!
Every love story deserves a moment that stands still — a quiet chapter between the chaos, where it’s just the two of you, floating beneath the sky.
At Black Swan Gondola, we don’t just offer a cruise. We create space for connection, beauty, and meaning. With candlelight, music, soft water, and timeless ambiance — it’s more than a date. It’s a memory in motion.
📍 Located on Lake San Marcos, in North County San Diego just off the 78 freeway — easily accessible from Carlsbad, Vista, Encinitas, and Oceanside.
