The days are finally getting longer and warmer, and it’s time to get out of the house for some good old-fashioned fun in the sun!
We’ve compiled a list of 30 great date night ideas that’ll ensure you have an amazing summer full of love, laughs, and adventure with your beau. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or indoor activities, we’ve got something to suit your mood!
Table of Contents
1. Go to a local carnival.
There are so many different things to do and see at carnivals, which means that you’ll never be forced into any awkward moments of silence or boredom.
Whether you want the thrill of taking on some crazy rides or just hanging out in one spot for hours, there’s something here for everyone.
Going to a summer carnival is great for having a fun date night that’s not too expensive but still feels like a special day. It’ll also give you an excuse to get some cotton candy!
2. Have drinks at a rooftop bar.
Make the most out of rooftop season while it’s here. Having drinks up high is always a great date because you can take in the view and enjoy time with your crush. Plus, you might even be able to see the sunset!
There’s a reason why going for drinks is the most common type of date. Alcohol will get the conversation flowing and will make you both more relaxed with each other, which is always important during the early stages of dating.
3. Go for a bike ride.
Going for bike rides allows you to explore somewhere new and get some exercise while you’re at it. Bike rides are especially great if the weather is nice outside, but still make for an awesome date at any time of year.
One perfect summer activity is renting bikes for an afternoon. This one could be a little more complicated than others on this list, so make sure that you find out where your nearest bike rental place is beforehand.
Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, buy or borrow some bikes from somewhere nearby, and go and explore the local area together.
4. Check out your local library.
Libraries are perfect dates for bookworms and those wanting to indulge in some of their favorite things. This type of date because is so laid back; you can share some of your favorite reads with each other.
5. Play mini-golf.
Mini golf is great for a date night! Not only do you get to spend time playing together, but there’s also the chance of winning and getting bragging rights.
Once you’re done on the golf course, go for some refreshing ice cream or drinks! This is the perfect moment to freshen up and talk about the day’s events.
6. Go for a picnic.
Pick an outdoor picnic spot, and just be sure to pack a blanket, some sandwiches or salads, and your favorite beverages – because this is one date you’ll want to make comfortable!
A picnic is one of the best dates in the summer because you and your love can dine under the sun, and share a romantic day together.
7. Visit the zoo.
The zoo is one of the best summer dates if you love animals. It’s a really fun way to spend time with your date, while getting the opportunity to see some interesting sights. Make sure you pack plenty of water for this one-of-a-kind outing.
It’s also worth making sure you plan ahead by looking at any events at the zoo that day. If you love penguins, make sure to get there in time for their 2:00PM feed!
Plus, there’s always the chance of funny animal behavior that’ll catch both of you off guard.
8. Visit a theme park.
Theme parks are full of fun and exciting rides, games, snacks, animals, and more. Going on rides really gets the adrenaline pumping! Could you think of a better way to enjoy a summer’s day with your crush?
If you’re looking for something a little less intense or if it’s a really hot day, head over to the nearest waterpark.
9. Go skydiving.
If you’re adventurous, why not try skydiving with your partner? It’ll be an exhilarating experience that the two of you will never forget.
This is the number one way to get the adrenaline pumping, whether you’re afraid of heights or not. Skydiving may not be for everyone, but it’s worth a try if you’re up for the challenge.
10. Do some outdoor yoga together.
If you’re looking for a more low-key date idea, try an outdoor yoga class together on a sunny morning (or afternoon). Watch the seagulls fly by while balancing in tree pose and being thankful for all of life’s blessings!
Yoga is makes for a great date because it helps you focus on being mindful of everything around you, which is important when dating with that special someone.
11. Explore the city together.
Take a walk down Main Street with an ice cream in one hand, and your date’s hand in the other. Wander around the city, admiring all of its culture and beauty.
Check out the city’s impressive buildings and architecture, art galleries, and parks. You’ll find all sorts of people, and so much to do.
12. Go painting outdoors.
Pick up some paint and canvases from the store, and head to the nearest park. You can be as creative or as simple with your paintings as you want to be! This is the best choice of date if the two of you have an artistic side.
If one of you is a professional, this will allow you or your date to become a student for the day! Just make sure to return the favor.
If painting isn’t something that interests one of you, pick a different hobby or skill instead and show your date some more about you!
13. Watch fireworks together.
Watching fireworks on a summer night is hard to beat. Fireworks make for a great date because you can find many places where you and your date can sit back, relax, and watch the sky light up – and maybe even share a kiss, or two!
Have some pre-game snacks to enjoy as the fireworks begin. You could also make s’mores outside by a fire. Either way, get comfy on a blanket while watching the beautiful displays come alive above you.
14. Have a romantic at-home dinner.
Sometimes we just need to keep things simple by getting food for a romantic meal – whether it’s cooking something from scratch or ordering takeout.
Relax afterward by telling each other jokes, putting on music, or playing games like cards or board games. The aim of this date is to enjoy spending time together with no distractions.
Cook for him if you really want to leave a lasting impression – and try out these 30 recipes you can make for your boyfriend at home! If you’re a bit nervous, you can always have a practice run by cooking the same meal earlier in the week.
15. Go canoeing or kayaking in the water.
What’s better than getting out on the cool water during the hot weather? Kayaking is a great date if you’re looking for some physical activity. If you’ve never tried canoeing before, it’s worth a try.
You’ll be close to the water and able to see everything going on around you, which is really nice – and you can get a wicked tan at the same time!
16. Hang up a hammock.
For ultimate relaxation, hang up a hammock in your garden or at a local park. Enjoy each other’s company while swinging back and forth – an amazing trick for summer, because the trees provide shade during those hot days!
This relaxing date will allow the two of you to connect with nature and each other at the same time. You can also bring a few snacks and refreshments to enjoy.
17. Have dinner out in nature.
Having dinner inside a restaurant is great, but enjoying food whilst out in nature is hard to beat. Of course, you need to make sure to find the perfect spot – maybe one with a beautiful view – to eat your dinner and take pictures. This could be by a lake, in the forest, on a hill, or simply a picturesque backyard garden.
Cook something delicious over a fire pit after setting up camp or share s’mores before bedtime. Having dinner in nature is super-romantic and great for a summer date night. One last tip: make sure to bring bug spray!
18. Play board games together.
There are so many different kinds of games out there for any mood or personality! A few we recommend: Jenga, Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Cards, Monopoly Deal Card Game, Uno Moo & Friends Deck-Building Game.
Besides starting some cheeky competition, playing games can also spark some good conversation about life goals and dreams – which could even lead to conversations about a future together!
19. Go fishing together.
Fishing is relatively inexpensive, and easy to do. It’s also be a great opportunity to spend some quality time together.
Be prepared by bringing everything needed, like your rod/reel, bait, hooks, tackle box, cooler, sunscreen, water, and bug spray.
Whether you go fishing at your local lake or in the ocean, fishing will allow the two of you to relax (well, just before the water erupts and you have a huge fish to reel in!).
20. Go for ice cream.
Even though ice cream is a year-round thing, it’s even more special on a hot date in the summer!
Location matters, though. Getting an ice cream while at the beach is hard to beat, but getting an ice cream at an industrial site isn’t so romantic.
Spice things up a bit by getting creative with your cone. Make it a competition by seeing who can make the best ice cream combo – add sprinkles, chocolate chips, cookie dough, and more.
21. Practice your dance moves.
Put on some tunes and go crazy together! There are plenty of dance classes out there to choose from, but swing dancing is a classic.
You don’t even have to go to a paid class. Go to a local nightclub or dance club and get down to some dirty dancing. Dancing is one of the best ways to get close in a physical way, and it’ll really build the sexual tension.
22. Play outdoor games.
Challenge each other to an outdoor game from one of the many summer games for couples. A fan-favorite game is Twister, which might find the two of you getting into some hilarious positions.
Games like frisbee or disc golf are also exciting, especially if you love some friendly competition. Just be sure to have some refreshments on hand.
23. Have karaoke night.
Karaoke is always a great idea, and is a great summer date idea if you’re looking for something to do in the evening. Karaoke bars are all over – so find one in your town and invite some friends to come along!
This isn’t the best idea if your date is shy, so only choose this date if you know your partner can handle the attention. There’s no need to do any investigation work – simply ask if they would be up for a night of singing.
24. Make a night under the stars.
Have a date night outside under the stars while you chat about your deepest hopes & fears. It’s so calming to be out in nature after dark, especially with no distractions around.
This is also a great time for confession. The more open you can be with each other, the closer you’ll feel.
Although your romantic date is during the summer season, you should still check the weather beforehand. The last thing you want is for you and your date to get soaked (although, it kind of sounds romantic!).
25. Take a walk in the park or find a local trail.
Going for a walk is a great way to connect and get to know each other better. If you’re someone who enjoys hikes and exploring, suggesting this date can be a good way to find out if your date is compatible.
We recommend going for a walk in a picturesque place, and then going for some food afterwards or along the way.
You can choose to go on a long hike or just find a local trail to explore together. And if you don’t want the date to end, why not stop off at a local bar or café?
26. Volunteer your time at an animal shelter.
This is a unique date idea, but is fantastic for couples that have a joint passion for animal care. It’ll really show the kind of person you are, which he’ll find really sweet.
Not only will you be giving back, but this activity also has the added benefit of getting some fresh air and exercise! This is one way to get out there with your partner without having to spend money on something like dinner or tickets for a movie.
Recommending this date idea will also show how much of a good person you are – which is sure to impress.
27. Visit the beach.
The ocean is usually where people go for summer vacation, so why not take in the horizon view close to home? Pack your bathing suits and towels, find a spot on the sand to lay out your blanket or picnic basket, and take in the scenery.
The beach makes for a super relaxed date that provides plenty of activities to do, whether that’s walking along the shoreline or doing some surfing.
If you live close enough to a lake, that can be a great summer date night too! The same rules apply: pack swimsuits & towels, grab some food from home for snacking – and head outdoors for an evening of lounging by the water.
28. Have a movie marathon at home.
Although the weather is great, you don’t always have to go outside. Sometimes nothing is better than watching your favorite films with the person you admire.
Pick out some of your favorite films to watch together for hours on end while snuggled up close in bed.
29. Travel somewhere together.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life by jetting off to another city (or country). Going somewhere with your friends is great, but why not experience someplace new with your partner?
This is quite a big commitment, so only go away with someone you can trust. Also, this may seem quite intense for a first or second date, so save this idea until further into your relationship.
Whether it’s a day trip to an upstate beach or two weeks in Italy, you’ll love making memories that will last for years.
Not sure if your relationship is ready for this yet? Check out our guide to What is a Long-Term Relationship: 11 Signs You’re in One and find out!
30. Go for a couple’s massage.
Spending money on a massage is never something to feel bad about, especially when you can do so as a couple! Take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy some relaxation with your partner and soak up the benefits of giving yourselves some much-needed TLC.
After your massage, the two of you will be feeling super relaxed – so continue the date if you can. Go a step further by planning a whole day of relaxation at a local spa. Not only will you get a massage, but you can end the date with a romantic chat in the hot tub.
Tips for a Successful Summer Date
- Take care of your skin and focus on hydration when dating in hot weather. Alcohol causes dehydration, so drink plenty of water if you’re going to be drinking in the sun!
- For date night outfits, think light fabrics and cool colors to avoid overheating faster than necessary.
- Make sure that whatever outfit you choose is comfortable enough for any occasion – especially when it comes to finding the shoes that might be best for the activity.
- If something feels off on your date, talk to your him about it – especially if they’re doing things that make you uncomfortable! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
- To keep things exciting, take turns planning dates – i.e. one person selects an activity they want to do—whether it’s going rock climbing, breakfasting at their favorite diner down town, taking a trip to Niagara Falls. There may be something both people have wanted but never thought about doing before
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a fun, easy way to spend one evening with your significant other this summer, try one of the above ideas. Whether it’s going on a bike ride or eating at that Italian restaurant downtown, there are plenty of options for an unforgettable date in summer.
You can also check out our guide to the Top 30 Unique Date Ideas For Every Stage in the Relationship for some ideas that’ll fit where you are as a couple!