We've all seen the cars lined up as tourists clamor to get a glimpse of our glorious city and bay from the Golden Gate Bridge's northern viewing platform. But what if you could get a view just as good (maybe even better) in a place that doesn't have hordes of people? The decommissioned Battery Yates near Cavallo Point in Marin is part one of a two-part romantic rendezvous. Park near the Bay Area Discovery Museum, and follow the very short trail to the abandoned, concrete gun-battery. There's even a free cell-phone audio tour for those whose engines really get revved with a history lesson! Head up the stairs to a spur trail that meanders south along a protected area for the endangered mission blue butterfly. It's a quick stroll to a grassy overlook with a vista that's sure to set hearts afire. Horseshoe Cove sits below as kayakers paddle by, San Francisco beams its breathtaking beauty, Alcatraz and Angel Island appear so close to each other it's as if they could share a dance; and don't forget to look up and wave at all those people sandwiched on the Golden Gate's viewing platform; or just give them a wink, you faraway flirt, you! Later, grab an outdoor table at Cavallo Point's Murray Circle patio; their half-shell oysters are an obvious aphrodisiac, and the house cut truffle fries with Parmesan cheese are worth the breath mint you'll need afterwards for your paramour close-up. Muah!

To reach Battery Yates from northbound Hwy. 101: take the Alexander Ave. exit, just after the Vista Point. Follow the signs to Fort Baker and the Bay Area Discovery Museum. Park by the waterfront next to the museum. The short fire road to Battery Yates can be found at the eastern end of the parking lot. Cavallo Point is next door. Both Battery Yates and Cavallo Point are dog-friendly!