Travellers' Choice™ Best of the Best
The air in Alpine, California, carries a different kind of music as the sun dips below the mountains. It isn’t the hum of city traffic; it’s the deep, resonant vibration of a lion’s roar and the rhythmic chuffing of tigers. For most, these are sounds heard only on nature documentaries. But at Lions Tigers & Bears, these sounds are the soundtrack to a night spent at the White Oak Wild Nights retreat — San Diego’s only overnight safari experience in an accredited sanctuary.
Whether you are looking for the ultimate first date experience, a meaningful Valentine’s Day surprise, or a luxurious anniversary getaway, White Oak Wild Nights offers an escape that is as "wild" as it is refined.
When searching for the perfect romantic getaway near me, many couples find themselves stuck between predictable dinner dates and crowded city hotels. White Oak Wild Nights offers an alternative that is both meaningful and memorable, especially for animal lovers. Nestled within our 142-acre accredited animal sanctuary, this private two-bedroom retreat allows you to wake up just steps away from some of the world's most beautiful apex predators.
It is more than just a place to sleep; it is an immersive experience where luxury meets unbridled authenticity. By choosing to stay at White Oak, you are directly impacting the lives of the animals that call Lions Tigers & Bears home. The proceeds from your visit contribute to the lifelong care and well-being of our rescued residents.
Let’s be honest, traditional dating can be a bit awkward. Sitting across a table nervously sipping water while trying to find common ground often leads to forced small talk. A date at Lions Tigers & Bears removes that pressure entirely.
When you and your partner are walking side-by-side through the rolling hills of the San Diego countryside, watching a tiger blink slowly at you or a bear enjoy a mid-day snack, the animals become instant conversation starters.
Shared emotional moments like laughing at a grizzly bear slurping watermelon or witnessing the majesty of a lion’s pride in their spacious habitat creates a unique bond that a movie theater simply can’t match. For animal lovers, seeing these survivors living in peace and dignity is a powerful, connecting experience.
The White Oak Wild Nights retreat is designed to offer the comforts of a high-end resort while maintaining the rustic charm of the backcountry. This isn’t "glamping" — it is a fully-equipped, luxurious safari stay featuring:
For those who love to cook under the stars, the outdoor patio is equipped with two state-of-the-art propane BBQ grilling stations, complete with all the utensils, serving bowls, and even wine glasses you’ll need for a five-star meal in the middle of the sanctuary.
A stay at White Oak Wild Nights isn't just about the room; it’s about the access. Your retreat includes a Member-for-a-Day guided visit of our sanctuary and historic ranch.
During this tour, you’ll witness our professional keepers working with the exotic animals. You might want a "Feed a Wild One" experience, where you can stand safely just a few feet away in the secure habitat perimeter as a lion crunches into lunch or a bear devours a piece of fruit.
If you’re the type of couple that loves to "see how things work," our Peek Behind the Scenes perspective allows you to explore the inner workings of the sanctuary — from how meals are prepared in our kitchen to the specialized medical care our residents receive.
As the sun sets, we provide lanterns for your evening walks, allowing you to catch a glimpse of the nocturnal activity of our big cats. There is nothing quite like the sight of a leopard’s eyes catching the light as she settles in for the night.
While Valentine’s Day is a peak time for romance, White Oak Wild Nights is a premier destination year-round for:
Q: Can we interact with the animals during our stay?
A: No. As a GFAS and ASA accredited sanctuary, we strictly prohibit public contact with wild animals. You will, however, have the incredible opportunity to observe them from the safety of the retreat’s perimeter and during your guided tour.
Q: Is the retreat available for families with children?
A: The White Oak Wild Nights Retreat is an adults-only experience (21+ only) to ensure a peaceful environment for both our guests and the animals. However, families are always welcome to join us for our daytime guided visits and seasonal events!
Q: What should we bring to our White Oaks Wild Nights experience?
A: We’ve thought of almost everything! From beach towels for the pool to matches for the fire ring and even a wine opener for your evening toast. Just bring your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of adventure.
Q: How do I book a stay?
A: Reservations can be made by contacting us directly at 619-659-8078 or visiting the White Oak Wild Nights page on our website. Because this is a private, exclusive retreat, dates (especially around Valentine’s Day and weekends) tend to fill up fast!
At Lions Tigers & Bears, we are a no-breed, and no-contact facility. We represent the gold standard of animal care. When you book a stay at White Oak Wild Nights, you aren't just a tourist; you are a partner in our mission to end the cycle of animal abuse and provide a dignified future for these majestic animals.
This year, skip the generic gift card. Give the gift of a "take-your-breath-away" experience that supports a cause worth roaring about!
Ph: 619.659.8078
Fx: 619.659.8841
[email protected]
24402 Martin Way, Alpine, CA 91901
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