Coastal Loving: Cozy up at the Jenner Inn on California's Sonoma Coast and your sweet talk will be interrupted only by barking sea lions and the sound of waves crashing on the spit of sand where the Russian River meets the Pacific. As a weekend getaway, Jenner offers a combination of seclusion (if that's all you're looking for) and location--an unspoiled stretch of the Pacific coast and estuary that is home to more than 150 bird species. Located 90 miles north of San Francisco, the tiny town of Jenner is so small there's not even a traffic signal or a stop sign. Just take your pick from any of the inn's charming one-of-a-kind bungalows, including Rosewater Cottage (a favorite for honeymoons and weddings), and it would be easy to spend a weekend indoors. But don't miss the full breakfast served in the inn's main building, included in the price. If you're looking for more than peace and privacy, there's plenty to do here--horseback riding on the beach, hiking in the Redwoods, kayaking on the river and whale watching (January through April) out of Bodega Bay. And within a 30- to 90-minute drive, you can visit celebrated Russian River and Sonoma County wineries, small towns and villages with antique stores and tasty eateries, and remnants of California history, including the film locations for Alfred Hitchcock's 1963 film, "The Birds," and Fort Ross Historic Park, built in 1812 as the easternmost outpost of Czarist Russia. Enjoy the spectacular, rugged coastline, wildlife and highlights of the Russian River region, but take advantage of the solitude--it creates time and space for experiencing your partner in a whole new way.

River Dancing: There was no fancy footwork, just slow, close dancing on the deck of Rosewater Cottage overlooking the Russian River. My guy was doing his best to lift my spirits after the death of my Mom a few months earlier, and on this night all was right with the world as we danced in the moonlight. We'd spent the morning horseback riding on the beach, the sound of crashing waves overpowered by the desperate cries of horny sea lions seeking mates. After lunch we kayaked upriver through the middle of a wildlife show, spotting ospreys diving for fish, and river otters floating like logs then playfully coming to life. Later as the sun went down, we had side-by-side massages in the living room at Rosewater, a beautiful cottage with weathered wood floors, high open-beam ceiling, a massive stone fireplace, a full kitchen, large bedroom, and picture windows facing the river and the sea. With votive candles flickering around the room, we dined on fresh salmon and Dungeness crab bought in Bodega Bay, fresh salad greens and asparagus from a farmers' market and a bottle of Sonoma chardonnay. Facing change and loss is always difficult, but sharing special times like this reminded me: appreciate today.

Privacy Quotient: Very high. And from Rosewater Cottage, the only signs of life you'll see are sea lions, otters, ospreys and herons.

Mind/Body/Spirit:: Find your balance. Take a yoga class ($10), taught three times a week at the Jenner Inn's Sanctuary. Join innkeeper Richard Murphy on a walking meditation ($15) along a maze-like path above the ocean, say your mantra and spend some solo time before reconnecting with partner and hiking through the redwoods.

Must Bring: Rosewater has all the comforts of home, but stop for provisions in Bodega Bay, just 12 miles south on Highway 1. You'll find fresh seafood at the Tides Wharf Restaurant and Fish Market and a great selection of California wines at Gourmet au Bay.

Dear Diary: Read the comments of previous Rosewater guests who have recorded their favorite moments in a desktop diary. You'll find touching entries from couples who were married in front of Rosewater's fireplace, and from others who've returned regularly to this special hideaway.

The Love Ride: The Love Ride: Chanslor Stables offers a guided beach horseback ride for two. Cost is $60 per person, or $95 each with picnic lunch.